3 days tour from Marrakech to Chigaga desert

Your journey begins with an early departure from Marrakech by private 4x4 vehicle, ascending into the High Atlas Mountains through the stunning Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m). Enjoy scenic photo stops along the winding roads as you descend toward the arid south.

Draa valley and Zagora

After crossing the Tizi-n-Tifntit Pass, you'll arrive in Agdz, a gateway town at the head of the lush Draa Valley. This region, known for its extensive palm groves and ancient kasbahs, offers a glimpse into traditional desert life. Travel off-road through fortified Berber villages, oases, and date plantations as you follow the Draa River southward. By late afternoon, reach the desert town of Zagora, where you'll check in to a comfortable kasbah-style hotel. Enjoy dinner and rest as the calm desert air settles in for the night.

After breakfast, your desert experience deepens. You’ll travel further south to M’Hamid El Ghizlane, the last village before the vast wilderness begins. Here, switch modes of transport: mount a camel for a half-day trek through a mix of erg (sand dunes) and reg (rocky desert), crossing the mystical Draa Hamada. Around midday, pause beneath the shade of tamarisk trees for a traditional picnic lunch in the wild.

Erg Chigaga

By early afternoon, return to your 4x4 and begin the exciting off-road adventure through remote desert terrain to reach the untouched beauty of Erg Chigaga. A vast “sand sea” of golden dunes that stretch beyond the horizon. Along the way, visit the Sacred Oasis, a mythical desert stop revered by nomads. Arrive at your desert camp nestled at the base of towering dunes, just in time for sunset. Dinner is served under the stars, followed by Berber music around the fire, and an overnight stay in a nomadic-style tent, far from civilization.

Awaken early to watch the sun rise over the great dunes, painting the desert in golden hues. After breakfast, begin the return journey by 4x4, crossing dried lakebeds and rocky trails. Along the way, stop at the traditional village of Oulad Driss to visit a nomadic house-museum that offers insight into desert life. Then continue to Tamegrout, a town famous for its ancient Koranic library, green pottery workshops, and centuries-old underground kasbah—an opportunity to witness Morocco’s spiritual and artisanal heritage. After these enriching visits, begin the scenic drive north with a stop for lunch en route. Cross the High Atlas once again and arrive back in Marrakech by evening, with the desert still fresh in your mind.