Marrakech To Erg Chigaga Desert 3 Days Tour

DAY 1: Marrakech – High Atlas – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate

At 8:00 AM, your driver will pick you up from your hotel or the nearest accessible point in Marrakech to begin your 3-day desert adventure to Erg Chigaga. Our journey takes us southeast through the High Atlas Mountains, one of Morocco’s most picturesque roads. Along the way, we’ll stop at scenic points to capture breathtaking photos and admire the majestic mountain landscapes.

After crossing the Tizi n’Tichka pass, 2,260 meters above sea level, we will take a detour towards Telouet, following the old caravan route. Here, we’ll visit the historic Kasbah of the Pasha, an ancient palace located on the outskirts of the Berber village of Telouet. Strategically placed to oversee the passage of merchant caravans and close to vital salt mines, this kasbah offers a glimpse into Morocco’s rich trading history.

After lunch, we continue our drive through the Ounila Valley, with opportunities for short walks to immerse ourselves in the beautiful surroundings. Our next stop is Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar (fortified village), where we’ll explore its mud-brick houses and towering defensive walls. Dating back to the 17th century, Ait Ben Haddou was once an essential stop on the trade route between Marrakech and Sub-Saharan Africa. We’ll also visit the old fondouk (caravanserai) before continuing to the Berber village of Tazentoute. Here, you’ll explore the picturesque palm grove on a donkey ride and spend the night with the locals, where you can experience a traditional Berber cooking class.

DAY 2: Ouarzazate – Zagora – Mhamid – Chegaga Dunes

After breakfast, we depart from Ouarzazate and make a stop at the famous film studios for a photo opportunity. Then, we’ll visit the Taourirt Kasbah, a stunning example of traditional earthen architecture. Located at the crossroads of ancient caravan routes, it was an important strategic site along the Draa River.

Continuing along our Marrakech to Erg Chigaga desert route, we’ll pass through the Tinifift pass (1,680 meters above sea level) and reach Agdz, a small village once vital to the ancient caravan trade. From here, we continue toward Zagora, where we stop for lunch, then proceed to Tamegroute and M’hamid El Ghizlane, before beginning the 50 km off-road track to Erg Chigaga. Tonight, we camp under the stars in the vast desert dunes of Erg Chigaga.

DAY 3: Chegaga Desert – Lake Iriqi – Foum Z’Guid – Taznakht – Marrakech

After a desert breakfast, we begin the journey back to Marrakech. Our first stop is Lake Iriqi, a national park nestled between the dry bed of the Draa River and the southern foothills of the Anti-Atlas Mountains, near the Algerian border. The park features typical desert landscapes with sparse vegetation, such as acacia savannahs and tamarisk-covered dunes.

We continue our journey to Foum Zguid, where we reconnect with the paved road leading to Taznakht, known for its Berber women weavers. After a brief stop, we pass through Amerzgane and continue our way to Marrakech, arriving in the late afternoon. We’ll transfer you to your hotel, concluding this unforgettable 3-day Marrakech to Erg Chigaga desert tour.

Key Highlights of the 3-Day Marrakech to Erg Chigaga Desert Tour:

• Explore the Majestic High Atlas Mountains: Scenic drives, detours to historical sites, and incredible panoramic views.

• Ait Ben Haddou and its UNESCO Heritage: Discover the iconic ksar, a film set, and an essential stop on ancient trade routes.

• Berber Village Experience: Ride donkeys through palm groves and engage in authentic Berber culture with a cooking class.

• Cultural Immersion in Ouarzazate and Zagora: Visit film studios, kasbahs, and ancient caravanserais.

• Desert Adventure: Spend the night in Erg Chigaga’s dunes, experience camel trekking, and explore Lake Iriqi’s natural beauty.

• Authentic Berber Crafts: Visit Taznakht to witness the weaving tradition of Berber women.