Marrakech to Erg Chigaga Dunes: 3-Day Desert Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable 3-day desert adventure from Marrakech to the captivating Erg Chigaga Dunes. Traversing the scenic Tizi-n-Tichka Pass and visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Benhaddou, this journey promises breathtaking landscapes and immersive cultural experiences. Enjoy the rich Berber culture with an overnight stay in a traditional tent, and witness the serene beauty of the Sahara Desert. But the true allure lies in what awaits you at the dunes – a spellbinding camel trek that’ll leave you forever enchanted by the mystique of the desert.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best 3 Day Tours In Mhamid.

Key Points

• This 3-day desert tour from Marrakech takes you through the High Atlas Mountains, UNESCO site Ait Benhaddou, and the stunning Erg Chigaga dunes.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation, accommodations, camel trek, and daily meals, starting at £497.21 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Highlights include scenic drives, exploring the Draa Valley palm groves, and an overnight stay in a traditional Berber tent camp for a culture experience.
• The journey features a mix of guided activities and free time to allow guests to fully enjoy the desert’s natural beauty and Berber traditions.
• The tour is not recommended for pregnant women due to its rigorous nature, but it offers ample opportunities for outdoor exploration and breathtaking photography.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The Marrakech to Erg Chigaga Dunes: 3-Day Desert Adventure tour is priced from £497.21 per person and includes round-trip transportation, accommodations, camel trek, and daily meals.

Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour is available in French, English, and Spanish, and lasts for 3 days.

Highlights include exploring the UNESCO site of Ait Benhaddou, traversing the High Atlas Mountains, and spending a night in a Berber tent camp amidst the stunning Erg Chigaga dunes.

With an experienced driver and local guide, this adventure offers a comprehensive cultural and scenic experience.

Marrakech to Zagora

The tour departs Marrakech at 8:00 am, beginning the journey through the stunning High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass. This scenic route offers breathtaking vistas as the road winds through the rugged terrain.

The first stop is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Benhaddou, a well-preserved fortified village that has been featured in numerous films. After exploring this ancient kasbah, the group will continue onward to Ouarzazate or Agdez for a lunch break.

The afternoon is spent traversing the lush Draa Valley, known for its sprawling palm groves, before arriving in the town of Zagora, where the group will spend the night in either a traditional hotel or under the stars in a Bedouin tent.

Zagora to Erg Chigaga Dunes

On the second day, the group typically visits the lush Draa Valley palm groves and the historic Tamgroutes Coranic library before exploring an underground Kasbah.

Then, they embark on an off-road journey of approximately 60 km to reach the stunning Erg Chegaga dunes. Here, they enjoy a memorable camel trek and witness the breathtaking desert sunset.

The Berber tent camp provides a unique opportunity to enjoy the local culture and experience the tranquility of the desert under the stars.

With the challenging terrain and awe-inspiring landscapes, this portion of the adventure offers a true taste of the Sahara Desert’s raw beauty and grandeur.

Erg Chigaga Dunes to Marrakech

Upon departing the tranquil Berber tent camp at Erg Chigaga, the group embarks on a thrilling 4×4 adventure along the Paris-Dakar race road. They pass through the remote Foum Zguid and the dry Iriqui lake before stopping for lunch in the Berber village of Taznakht.

The journey back to Marrakech is filled with breathtaking scenery, including:

• Dramatic landscapes of the desert, with towering dunes and rugged rock formations

• Glimpses of traditional Berber life, as the road winds through remote villages

• The awe-inspiring sight of the High Atlas Mountains, looming in the distance

After a full day of exploration, the group arrives back in Marrakech around 6 pm, with memories of their desert adventure to cherish.

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Included Services

This desert adventure from Marrakech to Erg Chigaga Dunes includes an array of services to ensure a seamless and immersive experience.

Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned 4×4 or minivan, with an English/French/Spanish-speaking driver to guide the journey.

Accommodations range from a traditional hotel in Zagora to a cozy Berber tent camp nestled amidst the Erg Chigaga dunes.

Meals, including dinner and breakfast, are included daily, and a local guide will lead the exploration of the UNESCO site Ait Benhaddou.

Entrance fees and no forced shopping ensure a hassle-free adventure.

From scenic drives to culture, this tour offers a comprehensive package to make the most of the Moroccan desert.

Experience Highlights

Scenic views of the majestic High Atlas Mountains and the winding Tizi n’Tichka Pass captivate travelers from the outset, setting the stage for an unforgettable desert adventure.

Exploration of the UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou village provides a glimpse into Morocco’s rich cultural heritage, while the camel ride across the sweeping Erg Chigaga dunes offers a quintessential desert experience.

Spending a night in a cozy Bedouin tent, surrounded by the mesmerizing dunes, allows for a truly immersive cultural encounter.

From traversing local Berber villages to capturing breathtaking photographs, this desert excursion promises an array of memorable experiences that will leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Additional Information

Travelers often enjoy free time during the tour to explore the iconic Ait Ben Haddou kasbah, go for invigorating walks, discover nearby canyons, and capture breathtaking photos.

Typical lunch options range from full menus, which average around €10, to à la carte selections.

Gratuities for the guide and driver are optional, allowing guests to show appreciation at their own discretion.

Lastly, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women due to the rigorous nature of the desert journey.

With ample opportunities for culture and outdoor exploration, this 3-day desert adventure from Marrakech to the Erg Chigaga Dunes promises an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a taste of Morocco’s captivating landscape and Berber heritage.

Reservation and Cancellation

Customers can reserve their spot on the Marrakech to Erg Chigaga Dunes tour now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This flexible booking policy makes it easy to secure your desert adventure.

The tour includes:

• Pick-up and drop-off at your Marrakech accommodation

• Camel trek into the Erg Chigaga dunes

• Overnight stay in a traditional Berber tent camp

With this worry-free reservation, you can focus on anticipating the stunning landscapes, culture, and unforgettable experiences that await on your 3-day desert excursion from Marrakech to the Erg Chigaga dunes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Items Should I Bring for the Desert Trek?

When trekking in the desert, one should pack sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket for cooler evenings, plenty of water, snacks, and any necessary medications. Bringing a camera is also recommended to capture the stunning desert landscapes.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks for the Trip?

You’re generally allowed to bring your own food and drinks for the trip, but the provided meals are included in the tour price. Check with the tour operator about any restrictions on outside food and drink to ensure a smooth experience.

Is There a Weight Limit for the Camel Ride?

The tour operator doesn’t specify a strict weight limit for the camel ride. However, they recommend checking with them beforehand to ensure the camels can safely accommodate any guests with special needs or larger builds.

Can I Extend or Shorten the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended or shortened based on your preferences. The tour operator is generally flexible and can accommodate changes to the itinerary if requested in advance, subject to availability.

Are There Any Medical Facilities Available During the Tour?

The tour operator does not mention any medical facilities along the route. However, they advise the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, suggesting caution should be exercised. Travelers with medical conditions should consult the operator for guidance.

The Sum Up

This 3-day desert adventure from Marrakech to the stunning Erg Chigaga Dunes offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and culture.

Travelers can expect to witness breathtaking landscapes, embark on a camel trek, and experience Berber hospitality during an overnight stay in a traditional tent.

An unforgettable journey that promises to leave a lasting impression on all who embark on it.

You can check if your dates are available here: