Come & See The Date Palms In The Draa Valley
Erg Chigaga, also known as Erg Chegaga, is one of Morocco’s two great Saharan dune regions, alongside the famous Erg Chebbi near Merzouga. Located in the vast Souss-Massa-Draa region, around 50km west of the remote desert town of M’Hamid El Ghizlane, Erg Chigaga offers a truly wild and atmospheric desert experience.
Stretching for approximately 40km long and up to 15km wide, this immense sea of golden dunes is one of the largest and most remote dune fields in Morocco. Some of the dunes rise to around 170m, creating a spectacular landscape of sweeping sand, silence and ever-changing light.
Because Erg Chigaga is relatively difficult to reach, accessible only by 4x4, camel or on foot, it remains wonderfully remote and far less developed than many other desert areas. For travellers looking for an authentic Sahara adventure, the combination of vast dunes, solitude and traditional desert life makes Erg Chigaga an unforgettable destination.
This trek runs all year round and can depart on any date of your choice.
We usually have several treks departing each week, which you are welcome to join. Please get in touch to discuss your preferred dates.
This desert trek can be booked independently, including transfers from Marrakech, or we can create a tailor-made itinerary combining your Erg Chigaga adventure with time in Marrakech, Essaouira, the Atlantic Coast or the wider Sahara.
Our mountain and desert treks can also be combined with other Moroccan tours, including the Imperial Cities, Sahara Desert and Atlantic coast, allowing us to create a memorable adventure around your interests and available time.
Pick Up & Drop Off
You will be picked up from your accommodation in Marrakech city, many riads don't have access via car so the driver will park nearby and come to get you.
You will be dropped off at the nearest point to your riad/hotel. Our driver can call your riad to meet you if needed.
Route Details
Day 01
Marrakech - Draa valley - Zagora - M’hamid El Ghizlane
Our Nomadic Journey begins in Marrakech, travelling in comfortable Land Cruiser 4x4s with experienced local drivers who will take you deep into the Moroccan desert. We follow the ancient caravan route over the spectacular Atlas Mountains, enjoying magnificent scenery as we descend towards the lush Draa Valley.
The route continues through the valley’s thousands of swaying date palms, passing through Zagora before reaching the remote desert town of M’hamid El Ghizlane, the gateway to the Sahara. From here, we continue by 4x4 towards the dunes near the site of old M’hamid, where we spend our first night in a traditional local guesthouse. Approx. 8 hours’ driving.
Day 02
Sahara Desert
We wake among the dunes and, after a traditional Moroccan breakfast, meet our camels and Berber guides before setting off deeper into the Sahara Desert. As we leave the modern world behind, the vast desert landscape creates an extraordinary sense of peace and absolute silence, offering a chance to disconnect from everyday stresses and technology.
After approximately two hours on camelback, we stop for lunch before continuing our adventure by 4x4, travelling further into the remote desert. The feeling of isolation and tranquillity deepens as the landscape stretches endlessly around us, creating a truly memorable Sahara experience.
On arrival at our desert camp, there is time to relax, freshen up and take in the peaceful surroundings before the evening sets in.
Day 03
Sahara to Marrakech
After breakfast, we meet our experienced 4x4 drivers and begin the journey back to Marrakech, taking the direct route across the desert and through the changing landscapes of southern Morocco. This is a long but fascinating journey, offering a final opportunity to take in the remote desert scenery before returning to the vibrant atmosphere of Marrakech. Approx. 9 hours’ driving.
Note: This itinerary is a guideline and may be adapted to suit local conditions.
Equipment
Please ensure you have packed all safety essentials. See the Equipment List here if you're unsure of what to bring. Our guides will conduct a final gear check in Imlil before we commence the ascent to the higher altitudes of the Toubkal massif.
Tour Rates
Flexible Pricing
1 person : On Request
2 - 3 people : 370€/person
4 - 5 people :310€/person
6 - 10 people : 290€/person
What Is Included?
-
4x4 / mini-bus with english speaking driver
-
1overnight camping on the Erg Chebbi Dunes (Breakfast & Dinner included)
-
Camel ride on the dunes.
-
1 overnight in a Hotel at Dades Gorges (Breakfast & Dinner included)
What Is Not Included
-
Travel insurance.
-
Soft/alcoholic drinks
-
Tips and personal expanses
-
Lunches
-
Entrance fee (Monuments visits)
Accommodation & Shelters
Your overnight camping on the dunes will be in Nomad tents, plus 1 overnight in a Hotel at Dades Gorges and
1 overnight in a hotel in Ait benhaddou kasbahs.
NB: we also have access to our Guesthouse Dar Adrar in Imlil or in our Eco-lodge in Ouirgane
Clothing & Essential Equipment
Essential Equipment
Can Be Hired From Us
-
Good trainers for valley treks
-
Personnel First aid Kit
-
Lightweight waterproof over-trousers / rain-pants
-
Lightweight daypack
-
Sunglasses
-
Sunscreen
-
Torch and batteries
-
Towel & all personal toiletries
-
Ask us to see what we have
What Is Appropriate Attire In Morocco?
Morocco is a conservative and religious country, which means you always need to be mindful of your clothing choices. This is especially true in the country’s more rural areas, which include the Sahara Desert and its surrounding villages. As a general rule of thumb, you should always attempt to cover body parts considered “private”. For women, this means covering the arms (or at least the shoulders) and the knees up. For men, it requires covering up the shoulders and above the knee.
High Energy Meals
Meals on the trek are cooked by the Berber muleteers. The food is fresh and healthy. Example meals:
Breakfast: Jam, bread, cookies, fruit, juice, butter, coffee, milkLunch: salad, tomatoes, carrots, lentils, beans, rice or pasta, fish (sardines, tuna), seasonal fruit
Dinner: Soup, classic Morooccan tajine, couscous, olives, nuts, fruit
Can my dietary requirements be catered to?
Absolutely. Just let us know about your catering preferences when you confirm your booking to ensure any dietary requirements are met. Please remind as well your guide and cook on first day of the trek.
Start Your Journey
Ready to explore the Atlas Mountains? Reach out to us for detailed trek inquiries, tailor-made itineraries, or any questions about our Berber-led adventure tours.
Email: aztat.trek@gmail.com
Phone: +212 668-760165
Location: Imlil, Morocco
Personal baggage, cooking equipment and food are carried by the mules, leaving you to carry only a rucksack with whatever you need close at hand for the day. NB: Left luggage or unnecessary luggage can be left safely in our storage in Imlil till you come back from the trek.