4-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Erg Chegaga

Embark on a breathtaking journey through the Moroccan desert, exploring ancient kasbahs, picturesque valleys, and the majestic Erg Chegaga dunes. This private tour offers an authentic experience of Morocco’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes.

Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas – Draa Valley – Zagora

• Morning Departure: Begin your adventure from Marrakech, traveling through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tichka Pass (2,260 m), offering spectacular views of valleys, mountains, and Berber villages.
• Kasbahs & Villages: Visit Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and filming location for movies like Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia.
• Draa Valley: Continue along the palm-lined Draa River valley, arriving in Zagora for the night. Dinner and overnight stay in a local hotel.

Day 2: Zagora – Mhamid – Off-Road – Erg Chegaga Desert

• Zagora Exploration: Visit Amzerou’s Jewish district and palm orchards.
• Tamgroute: Stop at this historic town to explore its ancient Koranic library and underground kasbah.
• Mhamid: The Sahara’s gateway. Enjoy lunch at a traditional Moroccan restaurant.
• Erg Chegaga Dunes: Travel off-road to the desert, arriving at Erg Chegaga. Experience a camel trek, watch the sunset over the dunes, and enjoy dinner under the stars. Overnight in a desert camp.

Day 3: Erg Chegaga – Iriki Lake – Foum Zguid – Taznakht – Ait Benhaddou

• Lake Iriki: Pass through the dried lake and black stone plains before reaching Foum Zguid.
• Taznakht: Explore this renowned Berber carpet center and visit a cooperative showcasing handcrafted rugs by local women.
• Ait Benhaddou: Return to this iconic kasbah for the night. Dinner and accommodation in a local guesthouse.

Day 4: Ait Benhaddou – Ounilla Valley – Telouet Kasbah – Marrakech

• Morning Visit: Explore Ait Benhaddou, known for its historic architecture and use as a film set.
• Telouet Kasbah: Travel through the scenic Ounilla Valley to visit this stunning kasbah.
• Return to Marrakech: Drive through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, enjoying a scenic lunch en route. Arrive in Marrakech in the evening.

Tour Highlights

• Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Ait Benhaddou and Telouet Kasbah.
• Experience camel trekking and a desert sunset at Erg Chegaga.
• Discover historic sites, including Tamgroute’s Koranic library and underground kasbah.
• Visit traditional Berber carpet cooperatives in Taznakht.

Tour Details

• Inclusions:
  • Private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Experienced English-speaking guide/driver.
  • Accommodation in hotels, guesthouses, and a desert camp.
  • Meals: Breakfasts and dinners (Days 1–3).
  • Camel trekking experience.
• Exclusions: Lunches, drinks, and personal expenses.