5 Days tour to the desert of Erg Chebbi of the Moroccan Sahara

Your journey begins with a pickup from your Marrakech hotel or the airport as we set a course for the Dades Gorges. We will ascend the High Atlas Mountains via the winding Tizi-n-Tichka Pass, leading us to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou. This ancient ksar is a cinematic icon, having served as the backdrop for legendary films such as Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, and Alexander.

Following lunch, we continue through a landscape rich in history and natural beauty. We’ll explore the Taourirt Kasbah in Ouarzazate and travel through the lush palm groves of Skoura and the Valley of the Roses, world-renowned for its fragrant annual festival. Our route then takes us through the traditional Berber villages of El Kelaa des M’Gouna and Boumalene du Dades, where we will settle in for the night.

Today’s destination is the gateway to the Sahara: Merzouga. This region is home to Erg Chebbi, the highest sand dunes in North Africa. Stretching 20km long and 5km wide, this multifaceted desert environment offers a truly unique atmosphere.

On our approach to the dunes, we will pass through a series of verdant oases, including Tinjdad, and the charming Berber towns of Mellab and Touroug. After a midday break for lunch in Rissani, we will traverse the green palm groves of Ziz-Tafilalet and the dramatic black Hamada (stone desert) before reaching Merzouga. The evening offers a chance to relax, enjoy a traditional local dinner, and listen to the rhythmic sounds of Berber music before spending the night in a comfortable Riad.

After breakfast, we dive into the heart of desert culture. We’ll explore the Merzouga oasis and visit Khamlia, known as the "village of the blacks." Here, you will meet the Gnawa people, descendants of those brought from Sudan, to experience their soul-stirring music and unique lifestyle. We’ll also visit the seasonal Lake of Merzouga, a haven for desert birdlife.

Next, we head to Rissani (formerly Sijilmassa), the historic meeting point for ancient salt caravans from Timbuktu. You’ll have time to wander through the vibrant souks, rich with the scents of spices and local crafts. After enjoying a famous "Berber Pizza" for lunch, we return to the Riad.

Leaving unnecessary luggage in secure storage, you will mount your camel for a 60-minute trek into the heart of the Erg Chebbi dunes. Our destination is a traditional Berber camp featuring comfortable tents with full bedding, a restaurant, and a kitchen. As night falls, enjoy a campfire dinner accompanied by the hypnotic beat of Berber drums under a canopy of stars.

Awaken before dawn to climb the dunes and witness a breathtaking Saharan sunrise—a perfect moment for photography. After trekking back to the hotel for a fresh shower and breakfast, we begin our return journey toward Ouarzazate.

Our scenic drive takes us through the rugged landscapes of Alnif, Tazzarine, and Nkob, eventually merging with the lush Draa Valley, famous for its endless palm trees and ancient fortified villages. We will conclude the day in Ouarzazate, where you will spend the night in a cozy guest house.

On our final day, we depart Ouarzazate after breakfast and head back toward the Red City. We will once again navigate the spectacular scenery of the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the majestic Tizi N’Tichka Pass at an elevation of 2,260m.

The tour concludes in the afternoon as we drop you off at your accommodation in Marrakech, marking the end of your Saharan adventure.