Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Benhaddou – Ouarzazate
Your 5-day journey to the wild desert dunes of Chegaga begins in Marrakech. After meeting your driver and guide in the morning, we set out across the spectacular High Atlas Mountains. The road takes us through winding valleys and traditional villages until we reach the Tizi n’Tichka Pass at 2,260 m, the highest mountain road in Morocco.
We then follow the ancient caravan route to visit the impressive Kasbah of Telouet, once home to the powerful Glaoui family. After exploring its crumbling walls and intricate decorations, the journey continues through picturesque Berber villages until we reach the fortified ksar of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its iconic red clay architecture has featured in many famous films, and walking through its alleys feels like stepping into history. After visiting the kasbah, we continue to Ouarzazate, where dinner and overnight stay await in a comfortable hotel.
Day 2: Ouarzazate – Draa Valley – Zagora
After breakfast, we depart towards Zagora, crossing the scenic Tizi n’Tinififft Pass (1,660 m). We stop for lunch in Agdz, a charming town at the gateway to the Draa Valley.
A short drive later, we head off-road to visit the Kasbah of Tamnougalt, a fascinating fortress that once served as a key stop for caravans. From here, we continue off-road for 32 km through the heart of the Draa Valley, passing by date palm oases, centuries-old kasbahs, and lush groves that stretch for miles. By evening, we arrive in Zagora, where dinner and overnight accommodation are arranged in a hotel.
Day 3: Zagora – Erg Chegaga Dunes
The adventure continues after breakfast as we travel towards M’hamid, the last town before the vast Sahara begins. Along the way, we stop in Tamegroute, where you’ll visit its unique underground kasbah, a traditional pottery workshop, and the ancient Koranic library, a treasure trove of manuscripts.
From Tamegroute, the road winds through the palm groves and kasbahs of the Draa Valley until we reach the dunes of Erg Lihoudi. Here, enjoy lunch among the dunes and take part in a one-hour camel trek across the sands.
Later, we continue off-road for 64 km into the desert until we reach the remote and towering Erg Chegaga dunes, the highest dunes in southern Morocco, rising up to 300 meters. On the way, we pass the mysterious Sacred Oasis, an important stop for desert nomads.
Arriving at the desert camp, you’ll be welcomed with mint tea before climbing the dunes to watch a spectacular sunset. Dinner will be served around the campfire, accompanied by Berber drumming and music. Overnight stay in traditional Berber tents under a sky filled with stars.
Day 4: Chegaga – Iriqui Lake – Ouarzazate
Wake early to witness sunrise over the dunes — a highlight of any desert journey. After breakfast, we leave Chegaga and drive through the wild landscapes of southern Morocco. The route takes us past the dry lake bed of Iriqui Lake, a vast desert plateau dotted with acacia trees, creating dramatic scenery.
We stop in Taznakht, a town known for its traditional Berber carpets, where you can enjoy lunch and perhaps shop for handmade souvenirs. In the afternoon, we continue our journey back to Ouarzazate, where you’ll spend the night in a hotel.
Day 5: Ouarzazate – Marrakech
On the final day of your adventure, we begin with a morning tour of Ouarzazate. Visits include the historic Taourirt Kasbah and the renowned Atlas Film Studios, where many international movies were filmed.
Afterward, we set off towards Marrakech. Lunch will be served in Taddert, a charming mountain village, before crossing the High Atlas once again. By late afternoon, we arrive in Marrakech, marking the end of your unforgettable 5-day Sahara journey to Chegaga.
Price Includes:
✅ 3 nights in hotels/riads with dinner & breakfast
✅ 1 night in a Berber desert camp with dinner & breakfast
✅ Comfortable 4×4 AC Land Cruiser for 5 days
✅ Professional English-speaking driver/guide
✅ Fuel throughout the journey
✅ 2-hour camel trekking experience
✅ 4×4 desert excursion through Erg Chegaga
