AUTHENTIC DESERT EXPERIENCE – OUARZAZATE TO ERG CHEGAGA DESERT

Hour by hour

Your day, step by step

1. 1

   Ouarzazate-Zagora-Erg chegaga (Camel Trek)

   Departure at 7:30 AM from your hotel, as your journey begins southward toward the spectacular Erg Chegaga Desert for an unforgettable camel trekking experience. To start, you’ll travel along the scenic Anti-Atlas Mountains, ascending to their highest pass at 1,660 meters, where breathtaking panoramic views await. Afterwards, the road winds gently downhill toward the town of Agdz, a gateway to the lush Draa Valley. From here, the adventure continues along the left bank of the valley, following the path of an ancient caravan route. As you drive through this historic corridor, you’ll be surrounded by endless palm groves, traditional kasbahs, and timeless landscapes that echo Morocco’s rich trading heritage.

   We will pause in the charming village of Tamnougalt, where you’ll enjoy a short visit and a refreshing glass of traditional mint tea, while soaking in the authentic atmosphere of this historic ksar. Afterwards, we continue our journey, passing through a picturesque villages that stretch along the valley, each offering a glimpse into local life. Gradually, we rejoin the main road leading to the town of Zagora—often referred to as “the gateway to the desert.” Upon arrival, you’ll discover one of the most delightful towns in southern Morocco, beautifully adorned with vibrant cerise bougainvillea, soft pink oleander bushes, and lush palm trees, creating a colorful and inviting oasis at the edge of the Sahara.

   We then continue our drive to Tamgroute, where you’ll enjoy a guided exploration of this fascinating village. During your visit, you’ll discover its historic Quranic library, wander through the mysterious underground passages, and witness local artisans crafting traditional pottery entirely by hand. Afterwards, we head deeper into the desert, making a relaxing stop in the village of Oulad Driss for a short break and a delightful lunch at a charming hotel set amidst the sandy surroundings. Following lunch, we continue to M’hamid, where the paved road comes to an end and the true desert adventure begins. From here, we venture off-road for approximately 50 km, traveling across a rugged track of sand and stone that gradually leads us to the vast and breathtaking dunes of Erg Chegaga..

   Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed with a refreshing glass of traditional mint tea. After settling into your private nomadic tent and placing your luggage, you’ll set off on a memorable camel ride across the golden dunes. As the sun begins to set, you’ll witness a truly breathtaking sunset from one of the highest sand dunes—a magical moment in the heart of the Sahara. After dinner, you will gather around a glowing campfire, surrounded by the serene silence of the desert. Relax under a vast, star-filled sky, take in the magic of stargazing, and enjoy the soothing rhythms of traditional drum music played by the nomads—a truly enchanting Saharan experience. Overnight in a comfortable nomadic tent under a sky filled with countless stars.

2. 2

   Erg chegaga to Ouarzazate

   Your journey begins with an early wake-up call to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes—an unforgettable moment as the desert slowly comes alive with golden light. After enjoying a delicious breakfast, you’ll meet your driver and depart from the camp, driving across the rolling dunes until you reach Lake Iriki, a vast dry lakebed that once held water around 50 years ago. In the past, it was a thriving habitat for numerous bird species and wildlife such as deer and desert foxes.

   From there, we continue our adventure along a rugged rocky track toward the town of Foum Zguid, located approximately 80 km from our starting point. Here, we’ll pause for a short break before resuming our journey. Next, the road leads us along the spectacular Anti-Atlas Mountains, passing through a series of authentic Berber villages nestled along the valley. As we travel through these timeless landscapes, we gradually arrive in Taznakht, a town renowned for its beautifully handwoven carpets, decorated with vibrant green, yellow, red, and white geometric patterns crafted here for generations. Once again, we pause to relax and enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant..

   In the afternoon, we continue our drive toward Ouarzazate. We may take the main road, or weather permitting opt for the scenic route via the Fint Oasis, a hidden gem (though impassable during heavy rains). Finally, we arrive in Ouarzazate in the late afternoon, marking the end of this remarkable desert journe.