3-Day Erg Chegaga Dunes Tour from Marrakech

Embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Morocco’s desert, exploring ancient kasbahs, palm-lined valleys, and the majestic Erg Chegaga dunes. This private tour offers a blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and authentic desert experiences.

Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Benhaddou – Ouarzazate – Draa Valley – Zagora

• Morning Departure: Start your adventure from Marrakech, traveling through the scenic Atlas Mountains and charming Berber villages.
• Ait Benhaddou Kasbah: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, an 11th-century fortified village renowned for its historical significance and stunning architecture.
• Ouarzazate: Stop by Africa’s Hollywood to visit famous film studios.
• Draa Valley: Drive through Morocco’s longest valley and largest palm tree oasis.
• Zagora: Arrive in this historic town, home to remnants of an Almoravid fortress. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at a local hotel.

Day 2: Zagora – Tamgrout – Mhamid – Erg Chegaga Desert

• Morning Exploration: Visit Tamgrout, famous for its ancient Koranic Library and Islamic learning center.
• Mhamid Village: Continue through the Draa Valley to the gateway of the desert.
• Erg Chegaga: Begin your desert adventure with a camel trek to the towering Erg Chegaga dunes. Witness a mesmerizing sunset and enjoy a traditional dinner under the stars. Overnight stay in a tented camp surrounded by the vast Sahara.

Day 3: Erg Chegaga – Lake Iriqui – Foum Zguid – Marrakech

• Sunrise Experience: Wake up early to witness the magical sunrise over the dunes.
• Lake Iriqui: Stop for stunning photos at this serene desert lake.
• Rally Dakar Route: Follow the historic track of the Rally Paris Dakar to Foum Zguid, the first village after the desert.
• Berber Villages: Pass through traditional villages like Taznakt, known for its Berber rugs.
• Return to Marrakech: Arrive back in Marrakech by evening, concluding your desert adventure.

Tour Highlights

• Explore the iconic Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate film studios.
• Discover the Draa Valley, filled with lush palms and picturesque landscapes.
• Experience camel trekking, a desert sunset, and stargazing at Erg Chegaga.
• Visit historical sites like Tamgrout’s Koranic Library.

Tour Details

• Inclusions:
  • Private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Experienced English-speaking driver/guide.
  • Accommodation in a Zagora hotel (Day 1) and a desert camp (Day 2).
  • Camel trekking and sunset experience.
  • Breakfasts and dinners (Days 1 & 2).
• Exclusions: Lunches, drinks, and personal expenses.