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Deep Sahara: 7-Day Erg Chegaga Adventure

Deep Sahara: 7-Day Erg Chegaga Adventure

Embark on an epic journey into the heart of Morocco’s Sahara Desert, exploring the remote and pristine dunes of Erg Chegaga. This 7-day adventure combines off-road exploration, cultural immersion, and breathtaking landscapes, offering a true desert escape.

Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou & Ouarzazate

Our driver will pick you up from your riad/hotel or Marrakech Airport after breakfast.

  • Drive through the High Atlas Mountains , crossing the stunning Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m).
  • Stop at the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah , famous for films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones .
  • Visit Ouarzazate , known as the "Hollywood of Morocco," and tour Atlas Studios (optional).
  • Overnight in Ouarzazate.
Day 2: Ouarzazate to Zagora via Draa Valley

Our driver will pick you up for a scenic drive into the Draa Valley .

  • Follow the lush Draa River Oasis , flanked by thousands of palm trees.
  • Explore remote Berber villages and ancient kasbahs.
  • Stop in Agdz , a picturesque town at the edge of the desert.
  • Arrive in Zagora , where the famous sign reads "52 Days to Timbuktu."
  • Overnight in Zagora.
Day 3: Zagora to Foum Zguid & Start of Off-Road Adventure

Our driver will pick you up for the start of your off-road expedition.

  • Drive to Foum Zguid , the gateway to the desert plateau.
  • Begin your rugged off-road journey across barren plateaus, rocky trails, and dry lake beds.
  • Stop for a picnic lunch in the wilderness.
  • Arrive at a remote desert camp near Lake Iriqui (seasonal).
  • Overnight in a desert camp under the stars.
Day 4: Off-Road to Erg Chegaga Dunes

Our driver will pick you up after breakfast for a full day of off-road exploration.

  • Cross the vast Chegaga Plateau , stopping to admire the stark beauty of the desert landscape.
  • Visit a nomadic Berber family and learn about their traditional way of life.
  • Arrive at the towering Erg Chegaga Dunes , the largest and most remote in Morocco.
  • Take a camel trek into the dunes and watch the sunset over the golden sands.
  • Enjoy a traditional Berber dinner and music under the stars.
  • Overnight in a luxury desert camp.
Day 5: Erg Chegaga Exploration

Our driver will pick you up after breakfast for a day of desert adventures.

  • Optional activities: Sandboarding, quad biking, or hiking in the dunes.
  • Visit a nearby oasis and learn how date palms are cultivated.
  • Explore the surrounding desert on foot or by 4x4, discovering hidden gems like ancient wells and fossil beds.
  • Return to the camp for another night under the stars.
Day 6: Erg Chegaga to Tazenakht via Anti-Atlas Mountains

Our driver will pick you up for the return journey toward Marrakech.

  • Drive through the rugged Anti-Atlas Mountains , stopping at panoramic viewpoints.
  • Visit Tazenakht , a village famous for its traditional Berber rugs and carpets.
  • Learn about the weaving process and shop for unique souvenirs.
  • Overnight in Tazenakht.
Day 7: Tazenakht to Marrakech

Our driver will pick you up for the final leg of your journey.

  • Cross the Tizi n’Tichka Pass , enjoying one last look at the High Atlas Mountains.
  • Stop in Ait Ben Haddou for a photo opportunity.
  • Arrive in Marrakech by evening.
  • Drop-off at your riad/hotel or Marrakech Airport.
  • Transport: Private air-conditioned 4x4/vehicle with fuel and tolls.
  • Driver: Professional English-speaking driver (10+ years experience).
  • Accommodation: 9 nights in riads/hotels (3*/4*) and 1 night in a luxury desert camp.
  • Meals: Daily breakfasts, dinners in the Sahara camp, and remote areas.
  • Activities:
    • Guided tours in Fes, Volubilis, and Ait Ben Haddou.
    • Camel trek in the Sahara Desert.
    • Berber music/dinner in the desert camp.
     
  • Entrance Fees: Ait Ben Haddou, Volubilis, Fes medina monuments.
  • Flights: International flights to/from Marrakech.
  • Visa Fees: Check requirements for your nationality.
  • Tips: For driver/guides (€5–10/day/person recommended).
  • Travel Insurance: Mandatory for emergencies/cancellations.
  • Optional Activities: Quad biking, dune bashing, or hot-air balloon rides.
  • Lunches: Most lunches are not included (flexible stops for local eateries).
  • Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, extra drinks, etc.

FAQ

1. What makes Erg Chegaga different from Erg Chebbi?

  • Erg Chegaga is more remote and less touristy than Erg Chebbi, offering a deeper desert experience with fewer crowds and larger dunes.
 

2. Is the off-road journey safe?

  • Yes! Our experienced drivers are trained in off-road conditions, and all vehicles are equipped with 4WD and safety gear.
 

3. How physically demanding is the trip?

  • Moderate. Includes light hiking, camel treks, and long driving days (4–6 hours with breaks).
 

4. Can I skip the camel trek?

  • Yes! You can take a 4×4 vehicle directly to the camp if preferred.
 

5. Are meals halal/vegetarian-friendly?

  • Meals are halal. Vegetarian options (tagines, salads) are available. Notify us in advance for dietary needs.
 

6. What’s the best time to visit the Sahara?

  • Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer mild weather. Summers (June–August) are hot; winters (December–February) are cooler.
 

7. Can I customize the itinerary?

  • Yes! Extend the trip, swap destinations (e.g., add Essaouira), or adjust activities.