Around Morocco Tours

3 Days from Ouarzazate to Erg Chigaga Sand Dunes

3 Days from Ouarzazate to Erg Chigaga Sand Dunes

This 3-day desert adventure takes you from Ouarzazate through the breathtaking landscapes of southern Morocco. Travel along the Draa Valley, lined with palm groves and ancient kasbahs, before reaching Zagora, the gateway to the Sahara. Continue toward Mhamid, the last village before the desert, and journey off-road to the towering dunes of Erg Chigaga. Enjoy a camel ride at sunset and spend the night in a traditional Berber camp under a sky full of stars. On the final day, cross the remote Iriqui Lake and pass through Foum Zguid and Tazenakht, known for its beautiful handmade carpets, before returning to Ouarzazate. This itinerary blends adventure, culture, and natural beauty—offering an authentic experience of Morocco’s desert life, from fertile valleys to golden dunes, while discovering the warmth and hospitality of the local people.

Day 1: Ouarzazate – Draa Valley – Zagora

Your journey begins in the gateway to the desert, Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Morocco.” After breakfast, set off through breathtaking landscapes as you travel south toward the Draa Valley, Morocco’s longest river valley. Along the way, admire a succession of ancient kasbahs, lush palm groves, and traditional Berber villages nestled between ochre cliffs. The winding road reveals ever-changing scenery, from rocky desert plateaus to fertile oases. You’ll stop to enjoy panoramic views and soak in the peaceful rhythm of valley life before continuing to Zagora, the “Desert Gate.” As evening falls, settle into your accommodation and enjoy a traditional dinner under the starry Saharan sky.

Day 2: Zagora – Mhamid – Erg Chigaga

After breakfast, the adventure continues deeper into the Sahara. Pass through Tamegroute, a historic village known for its ancient Quranic library and distinctive green pottery. Then head toward Mhamid, the last town before the vast dunes begin. Here, the paved road ends and your off-road journey to Erg Chigaga begins—an exhilarating drive across rocky plains, dry riverbeds, and small dunes. By afternoon, you’ll reach the majestic dunes of Erg Chigaga, rising up to 300 meters high. Ride a camel through the golden sands as the sun sets, painting the desert in warm shades of orange and red. The night will be spent in a desert camp, where you can savor a traditional Berber dinner, listen to local music, and gaze at the endless canopy of stars.

Day 3: Erg Chigaga – Foum Zguid – Tazenakht – Ouarzazate

Wake up early to witness the sunrise over the dunes, a truly unforgettable sight. After breakfast in camp, begin your journey back toward Ouarzazate via a different route. The trail leads across the dry Iriqui Lake, a vast desert plain that occasionally fills with water after rare rains. Rejoin the paved road at Foum Zguid and stop for a break before continuing through the colorful Atlas foothills to Tazenakht, a town famous for its exquisite handwoven carpets. In the afternoon, return to Ouarzazate, where your desert adventure concludes, leaving you with lasting memories of Morocco’s stunning landscapes and warm hospitality.

What including in the Tour

What not including in the Tour

Scroll to Top