Marrakech to Erg Chegaga Desert Tour – 3 days

Erg Chegaga Sahara Tour from Marrakech 3 days:

Go on a captivating 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to the untamed and pristine dunes of Erg Chegaga, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life amidst the windswept sands.

Journey through the magnificent landscapes of the Atlas Mountains and traverse the picturesque Draa Valley, adorned with lush date palm groves, fortified kasbahs, and charming Berber villages, culminating in a memorable overnight stay at a luxurious nomad camp nestled amidst the Erg Chegaga dunes.

This enchanting itinerary includes visits to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kasbah Ait Ben Hdaou and Kasbah Telouet. The highlight of this desert adventure features a captivating sunset camel ride and an enchanting night spent under the star-studded sky amidst the golden sands of the Erg Chegaga Desert, promising an unforgettable experience.

Highlights:

• Explore the picturesque landscapes of the Atlas Mountains as you journey through charming Berber villages.
• Discover the historical marvels of ancient Kasbahs, including Kasbah Teleout and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou.
• Embark on a mesmerising camel trek at sunset, indulge in exhilarating sandboarding, capture breathtaking photos, and groove to the rhythmic beats of nomadic music.
• Savour delectable traditional cuisine and enjoy the luxury of your private tent in a prestigious desert camp.
• Drive through the stunning Draa Valley, adorned with fortified kasbahs, expansive palm groves, and verdant oases.
• Immerse yourself in the art of pottery-making in the village of Tamgroute and explore a carpet cooperative in Taznakht to gain insights into local craftsmanship.

What is included:

• Transport in a private air-conditioned & comfortable 4WD vehicle
• Experienced English-speaking nomad driver-guide
• Pick-up from and drop-off at your hotel in Marrakech
• Meals: breakfast & dinner – with vegetarian and vegan options available
• One night in a comfortable hotel with air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms
• One night in a luxury desert camp in Erg Chegaga under private & comfortable tents equipped with private bathrooms and shower
• A camel ride for about two hours with a guide in Erg Chegaga and free sand-boarding, if desired
• Lunch with vegetarian and vegan options
• Berber drumming & music in the desert camp
• Hiking amid beautiful scenery and free time to explore the sites of interest
• Loca guides and entrance fees
• Tea/ coffee in the desert camp

What is not included:

• Drinks
• Tipping
• Extras

Itinerary:

1st day: Marrakech – Agdz

Begin your 3-day desert tour from Marrakech at 08:30, departing from your hotel and journeying south towards the awe-inspiring Erg Chegaga dunes. Traverse the majestic Atlas Mountains and meander through picturesque Berber villages. The vistas from the mountains, overlooking the valleys and villages nestled amongst the rugged terrain, are truly breathtaking.

After crossing the Tizi-n-Tichka pass (2260 m), the highest point in North Africa, take a detour to visit Kasbah Telouet, also known as the Palace of Glaoui, once the stronghold of the El Glaoui family.

Continue your descent from the mountains until you reach Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its appearances in numerous Hollywood films. Following lunch, proceed southwards, passing through Ouarzazate and journeying over the Anti-Atlas Mountains to Agdz, a charming oasis town renowned for its variety of palm dates. As you descend the Tizi-n-Tinfifite pass (1660m), marvel at the verdant green oases and countless palm trees, marking the beginning of the Dra’a Valley.

Retire for the night in a delightful guest house overlooking the valley.

2nd day: Agdz – Erg Chegaga

After a hearty breakfast, resume your journey southwards on the 3-day Erg Chegaga desert expedition from Marrakech. Follow the ancient Caravans Road towards Zagora, the last major town before the Sahara Desert. Here, visit a local green pottery co-operative and the historic Quranic library in Tamgroute village.

Continuing your southern trajectory, reach M’hamid, the final stop before the Sahara, for a delectable lunch. In the afternoon, traverse approximately 65km of off-road terrain, witnessing the diverse landscapes of the Sahara including ‘erg’ (dunes), ‘hammada’ (stony desert), and oases, until you arrive at the Erg Chegaga dunes.

Embark on a sunset camel ride to your desert camp nestled amidst the towering dunes of Erg Chegaga (300m). Witness the magnificent sunset from atop the dunes before indulging in a sumptuous dinner and spending the night under the star-studded desert sky.

3rd day: Erg Chegaga – Marrakech

Wake early to witness the enchanting sunrise painting the dunes with a kaleidoscope of colours, offering moments of tranquillity in this magical setting.

Following breakfast at the camp, resume your desert expedition, traversing another 90km of the Sahara Desert with ever-changing landscapes including Lake Iriqui, known for its mirages, and the mountains where fossil hunting is a possibility.

Journey westward along the historic route of the “Rally Paris-Dakar” until you reach Foum Zguid, the first village after the desert, for a satisfying lunch. Proceed northward, passing through Taznakht, renowned for its Berber carpets and rugs. Optionally, visit a display room showcasing looms and skilled women at work.

After a rejuvenating tea break in Ouarzazate, ascend the Atlas Mountains via an alternative route, pausing at panoramic viewpoints for photos and relaxation. Arrive back in Marrakech by late afternoon, concluding your unforgettable 3-day desert tour.

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