3-Day Tour from Marrakech to Erg Chigaga Desert

From Red City to Remote Dunes — A Journey into Morocco’s Wild Soul

3‑Day Marrakech → Erg Chigaga Tour: Tour Overview

Leave behind the vibrant chaos of Marrakech and venture deep into the heart of the Sahara on this unforgettable 3-day desert expedition to Erg Chigaga—the most remote and untouched dunes in Morocco.

Your journey begins by crossing the High Atlas Mountains and winding through the Draa Valley, Morocco’s longest river oasis, lined with thousands of date palms and ancient kasbahs. Discover the desert gateway town of Zagora, and continue toward the nomadic village of M’Hamid, where the paved road ends and the true adventure begins.

From there, take a thrilling 4x4 ride into the vast wilderness of the Sahara. Unlike the more touristy Erg Chebbi, the Erg Chigaga dunes offer raw, untamed beauty and an authentic desert experience. Ride camels across rolling dunes, dine beside a campfire, and sleep under a canopy of stars in a traditional Berber desert camp.

This route is perfect for travelers seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience—one that blends ancient culture, breathtaking landscapes, and peaceful isolation in the wild heart of Morocco’s desert.

Tour Itinerary: 3 Days in the Sahara: Erg Chigaga Desert Tour from Marrakech

Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Benhaddou – Draa Valley – M’Hamid

We begin our 3-day Erg Chigaga desert tour from Marrakech at 08:00 AM in a comfortable, air-conditioned 4×4 vehicle. The journey starts by crossing the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi-n-Tichka Pass, offering breathtaking views.

Our first major stop is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou, Morocco’s most iconic ksar (a fortified village made of traditional earthen buildings). After exploring this historical site, we continue toward Ouarzazate or Agdez for lunch.

In the afternoon, we travel through the Draa Valley, famous for its lush palm groves and ancient kasbahs, before arriving in Zagora or M’Hamid, depending on the route and accommodation choice.

Dinner and overnight stay will be in a desert lodge in Zagora or in a traditional tent near M’Hamid, depending on your selected option.

Day 2: Zagora – M’Hamid – Sacred Oasis – Erg Chigaga Dunes

After breakfast, we continue our desert adventure through the palm-filled landscapes of the Draa Valley. We'll pause for a panoramic view over the Draa Palmeraie and then stop in Tamgroute to visit its historic Koranic library (note: closed on national/religious holidays) and the unique underground kasbah.

From there, we head to M’Hamid, the last village before the vast wilderness of the Erg Chigaga dunes. After a short break, we continue 60 km off-road across the desert toward Erg Chigaga, Morocco’s most remote dune region. These magnificent dunes rise up to 300 meters high and stretch over 40 kilometers.

Enjoy a camel ride at sunset across the golden sands, followed by a traditional dinner and overnight stay in a Berber tented camp beneath the star-filled Sahara sky.

Day 3: Erg Chigaga – Lake Iriqui – Foum Zguid – Taznakht – Marrakech

After breakfast at your desert camp in Erg Chigaga, we set off along the old Paris–Dakar rally route, crossing the remote and stunning dry Lake Iriqui. This off-road section offers a unique landscape that transitions from dunes to rocky desert plains.

We arrive in Foum Zguid, where the paved road begins again, and continue to the Berber village of Taznakht for a lunch stop. Known for its beautiful handmade carpets, Taznakht is a cultural highlight of the region.

In the late afternoon, we return to Marrakech, with arrival expected around 6:00 PM. You will be dropped off at your riad or hotel, marking the end of an unforgettable Sahara experience.

Tour Photo Gallery

Marrakech to Erg Chigaga: 3-Day Morocco Desert Adventure  – Map Overview: