Chegaga desert tour from Marrakech – 3 days

Daily Tour 3 day 2 nights
Marrakech Visit Marrakesh

Chegaga desert tour from Marrakech – 3 days has become a sought-after desert escapade in Morocco, captivating the hearts of adventurers and wanderers alike. This expedition promises a distinctive and exhilarating encounter with the awe-inspiring beauty of the Sahara Desert sand dunes.

Chegaga desert sand dunes, standing as one of the two prominent Saharan ergs, alongside the renowned Erg Chegaga, beckons travelers with its vast expanse of golden sand dunes that seem to stretch endlessly into the horizon. The undulating landscapes, shaped by the whispers of the desert winds over centuries, create a mesmerizing tapestry that unfolds before your eyes. So, set forth on this odyssey from Marrakech to Chegaga, and let the desert unveil its secrets and wonders in a symphony of sand and stars.


At First Sight

  • Group Size 2 to 30
  • 3 days Chegaga desert trip from Marrakesh
  • Max altitude – Tichka pass 2660 meters
  • Join In Marrakesh or Ouarzazate
Accommodation & Meals

  • 2 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners
  • 1 Night Hotel with a half-board
  • 1 Night standard camp


DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION
Marrakesh/Ouarzazate (Google Map)

DEPARTURE TIME
3 days desert tour draa valley mhamid erg chigag starts at 8 but may be subject to change depending on the season..

Quote of Chegaga desert tour from Marrakech - 3 days

Private Tour

GROUP SIZE 2 3 4 - 6 7 - 9 10 - 14
PRICE/P €370 €355 €340 €325 €310

INCLUDED
  • Transport DW 4X4 car or Mini Van/Taxi, drivers he speaks Basic English and French
  • All Accommodations for 2 nights with half Board, One night at the hotel in Zagora, one night in standard desert camp.
  • Camels riding for one hour.

NOT INCLUDED
  • All your standard Meals and accommodation in Marrakesh.
  • All kinds of drinks like beer, coke/fanta/sprite, and alcohol.
  • Travel Insurance (Essential).
  • Tips for staffs and drivers.
  • Lunches.
  • Other items not mentioned over in package included.

Highlights of this Sahara desert trip

3 days desert tour to Chegaga from Marrakech is a popular itinerary that takes you through diverse landscapes, cultural experiences, and the mesmerizing Sahara Desert sand dunes. Here's a general outline of what you can expect during this excursion:

  • High Atlas Mountain landscape: Stop at the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest point in the Atlas Mountains, to enjoy panoramic.

Visit Kasba and Ksar in the southern Morocco:

  • Along the way, you may have the chance to visit historic kasbahs (fortified villages) such as Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These ancient structures provide insight into Morocco’s rich history and architecture
  • Drive through Draa Valley: Pass through the Draa Valley, famous for its lush palm groves and kasbahs.
  • Diverse Landscapes: The landscape changes dramatically as you travel. You’ll encounter arid plains, lush oases, and rocky deserts, providing a variety of picturesque scenes.
  • The Chegaga Dunes: Also known as Erg Chegaga, are a large and remote dune field located in the Sahara Desert in southern Morocco. These dunes are part of the greater Sahara Desert. Erg Chegaga is one of the two major ergs (large sand seas) in the region, the other being Erg Chebbi.


WHY MOROCCO HIKE TOURS
Tourism has been our hobby since childhood, starting in 1994. Over the years, we have continuously improved our experience by accompanying groups all over Morocco. In 2003, we began leading groups officially as licensed guides under Number 420. Finally, in 2018, we established a fully licensed Travel Company based in Marrakesh, operating under license number 10P/19.

This ample experience that we will share with you will undoubtedly guide you to an unforgettable tour in Morocco.

Day 01 : Marrakesh – Ait benhaddou – Ouarzazate – Zagora

Depart early morning from Marrakesh, your gateway to the mystic landscapes of Morocco. The journey begins with a scenic drive through the high Atlas mountain and Tichka Pass, standing proudly at 2260 meters, offering breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains.
A highlight of your expedition awaits as you arrive at the renowned fortified village of Ait Benhaddou. This ancient village has not only stood the test of time but has also played a starring role in numerous cinematic masterpieces. Marvel at the unique architecture and immerse yourself in the history that permeates the narrow alleys and mud-brick structures.
The road unfolds before you as you continue your odyssey, tracing the contours of the Draa Valley. The landscape transforms, revealing lush palm groves and picturesque oases, creating a mesmerizing tableau of nature’s beauty. Each twist and turn of the road brings you closer to the enchanting destination of Zagora.

  • Overnight stay at the hotel at an altitude of 650meters.
  • The distance covered on the drive, 363km/7h
  • Meals: D
Day 02 : Zagora – Mhamid – Dunes of chigaga

The day begins post-breakfast, setting the stage for a day filled with awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural immersion. A camel ride, a timeless mode of transport in these vast expanses, awaits you, offering a unique perspective as you traverse the mesmerizing terrain. As the day unfolds, prepare to be mesmerized by the breathtaking spectacle of the sunset casting its warm hues upon the undulating sand dunes. The shifting colors and the tranquil ambiance create a serene backdrop, inviting you to pause and appreciate the beauty of the desert at dusk.

As the night descends upon the desert, a magical experience awaits. Dinner is served under the vast expanse of the starlit sky, creating a surreal atmosphere that is both intimate and extraordinary. The overnight stay unfolds beneath traditional tents in Chegaga, providing a sense of connection to the desert’s ancient mystique. The rhythmic silence of the dunes and the distant echoes of the desert wind contribute to an unforgettable night in the heart of this pristine wilderness.

  • Overnight stay at the hotel at an altitude of 600meters.
  • The distance covered on the drive, 150km/3h
  • Meals: B . D
Day 03 : Dunes of chigaga – Iriqui lake – Foum Zguid – Marrakesh

As the sun gently paints the sky with hues of pink and gold, take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the sunrise that marks the beginning of a new day. Embrace the tranquility of the morning as you indulge in a delightful breakfast.Embark on a new day that leads you away from the beaten path, leaving behind the familiar and venturing into the mesmerizing landscapes of sahara desert sand dunes. Navigate the vast expanse of the great dunes, a sea of golden sands stretching as far as the eye can see, until you reach the enchanting town of Foum-Zguid. Along the way, traverse the dried lake of Iriqui, a testament to the raw beauty of nature.
As the journey unfolds, you’ll find yourself in Taznakht, a place that wears the crown as the capital of saffron and the hub of Berber carpets. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and intricate patterns that characterize these cultural treasures. Learn the stories woven into every thread, connecting you to the rich history and traditions of the Berber people.
The road winds its way towards the iconic city of Marrakesh.

  • Marrakesh is  at an altitude of 500 meters.
  • The distance covered on the drive, 385 km/8h
  • Meals: B
Key Facts

We’ve gathered a selection of commonly asked questions to provide you with further insight into this extraordinary Excursion to Chegaga desert.

TRIPGENERALEQUIPMENT
Meal Plan & Water

No meals Lunches are included during this 3-day excursion from Marrakech. Your time is free and flexible. You may arrange with our driver to have lunch with a local Berber family. We advise you to buy mineral water for your safety.

Group Leader & Support Team

The group will be led by a professional and qualified driver who speaks English or another language of your preference, depending on the confirmation date. Additionally.

Altitude

This 3-day excursion from Marrakesh to Chegaga desert involves going to moderately high altitude. During the course of this  trip you will reach altitudes in excess of 2660 metres. Most people will have no difficulty with this level of altitude.

Expending funds

Plan to hold around £100 per person (or its equivalent in US dollars or Euros) for tips, soft drinks, snacks, and other incidental expenses. Keep in mind that additional costs may arise for souvenirs, and optional activities, so it’s wise to budget for these separately.

While Moroccan Dirhams are not typically available for purchase outside the country, you can conveniently withdraw local currency from ATMs upon your arrival at the airport or in Marrakech. ATMs offer the option to withdraw funds in pounds sterling, dollars, or euros, which you can easily exchange at the airport. Carrying a credit card is advisable for emergencies and additional peace of mind.

Direction on gratuities

Tipping is the customary way to express gratitude to your local guides and crew. It’s important to note that tips do not constitute a part of their wages; rather, they are viewed as a personal gesture of appreciation from group members. We advise our local teams that tips are not obligatory or expected but are rather a reflection of the service provided.
It is customary for the group to collectively decide on the final amount of tips to be distributed among the guides or driver. We suggest that approximately £20 per group member would be an appropriate amount to ensure fair compensation, which you can give directly to them.

Suitcase Allotment

You can, of course, leave any type of baggage at the hotel in Marrakech, including any items you do not need during this excursion, and pick these up when you return.

Internet access

Upon your arrival at the airport, you can purchase a SIM card for 1 euro, or sometimes it’s free. Then, all you need to do is top it up with an internet option, and you’ll have a connection when needed. We recommend Maroc Telecom as the company, but please keep in mind that in some places, other companies might offer better service. It all depends on the reception in each area.

Group size & Excursion Arrangements

All our tours proposals in Morocco by Morocco hike tours are guaranteed for a minimum of two people. There is a required minimum number of participants to ensure the trip proceeds. Once this minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from ‘Available’ to ‘Guaranteed to run

Health & Vaccinations

If you suffer from a severe allergy, kindly notify the Morocco Hike Tours Team (support) prior to your departure. While we will make every effort to assist you, please note that we cannot ensure an allergy-free environment during Your trip to Morocco. It is imperative that you carry your own allergy treatment, as ‘adrenaline auto-injectors’ are not provided as standard equipment by Morocco Hike Tours leaders and staff. Upon arrival, please inform your leader about your allergy and indicate the location where you store your adrenaline pen.

Vaccinations:&It’s advisable to reach out to your physician or travel clinic to verify if any particular vaccinations are necessary for your trip.

Passport & Visa

Your passport must meet 2 requirements. It must be:

  • Less than 10 years old on the day you enter (check the ‘date of issue’)
  • Valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

Travelers hailing from the UK, US, and EU typically enjoy visa-free access to Morocco. However, it’s essential to bear in mind that visa regulations can undergo alterations. Ensuring compliance with visa prerequisites falls under your purview for this journey. Hence, we advise consulting the closest embassy or consulate pertaining to your designated destination(s), as well as any countries involved in transit or transfer.

Certain local authorities furnish information regarding the requisite visas for their nationals. To assist you further, we’ve compiled a set of helpful links below:

Currency

Morocco’s monetary unit is known as the Moroccan Dirham. Below are some currency exchange rates, which can fluctuate daily:
– 1 Pound Sterling = 12.5 Dirham
– 1 Australian Dollar = 6.5 Dirham
– 1 Canadian Dollar = 7.4 Dirham
– 1 US Dollar = 10.00 Dirham
– 1 Euro = 10.6 Dirham.

Weather & Temperature

During the time of the desert, the weather typically offers pleasant conditions with daytime temperatures ranging between 20 and 36°C, and nighttime temperatures dropping to 7 – 10°C. However, there are instances when nighttime temperatures may plummet to as low as 3°C in December and January, so remember to pack a fleece jacket. While rainfall is uncommon in this area of Morocco, being a Sahara Desert region. During the summer, temperatures range between 30°C and 45°C during the day, and 20°C to 30°C at night.

Plastic & Rubbish

Morocco Hike Tours does not encourage the use of single-use plastic items. We ensure that all our staff across Morocco work together to reduce this issue and educate those around them. During our desert and mountain treks, we are committed to collecting our rubbish and bringing it back to the big cities. Our footprints are the only thing we should leave behind.

Travel Insurance

To participate in a holiday organized by Morocco Hike Tours, it is imperative that you possess a valid travel insurance policy. This insurance should adequately cover the expenses related to medical treatment and safeguard the value of your holiday in case of cancellation. Prior to obtaining insurance, please verify that the chosen policy provides coverage for the activities and altitudes specified in your itinerary.

In the event that one participant leaves the group for any reason, the customer must assume responsibility for the charges, and no reimbursement will be provided.

Season & Dates

This Chegaga excursion from Marrakesh operates year-round and offers flexibility to depart on any date of your preference. Additionally, this 3-Day excursion from Marrakesh provides the option to combine with other excursions for a more comprehensive experience.

Booking Procedure & Payment

Please select the trek or trek that piques your interest, then reach out to us via email to initiate a discussion regarding your preferred tour and to verify its availability. Once we have agreed upon the specifics of your  tour or trek, including its duration, route, and the number of participants, we will proceed to make a tentative reservation, providing you with the dates and associated costs.
To secure your booking, we kindly request a 20% deposit, which can be paid online through a bank transfer in Euros, pounds sterling, or US dollars. The remaining balance is settled upon arrival in Morocco, payable in cash using the same currencies—Euros, sterling, or dollars—at the outset of the trek or tour.
Please note: Should you find it inconvenient to carry cash, you have the option to settle the balance online via bank transfer a few days prior to the departure date.

Cancellation Conditions

Our Cancellation Policy:

  • If the trip is canceled at the discretion of our agency, you will be eligible for a full refund of the amount paid.
  • If the trip is canceled by you more than 31 days before the trip date, the amount paid will be retained as credit for a future trip, valid for two years (24 months).
  • If the trip is canceled by you less than one month (30 days or fewer) before the trip date, the amount paid will be retained as credit for a future trip, valid for one year (12 months).
How should you dress when traveling through small villages?

In areas with low tourist numbers (Berber villages in the desert such as in the Atlas), men are advised to avoid very short shorts, tank tops or loose shirts. The same goes for women, avoiding transparent fabrics and tight-fitting outfits. A scarf on your hair is not essential. You can try to dress in local fashion, which seems better suited to the climate.

Equipment list

This packing guide aims to assist you in organizing your belongings efficiently. It’s advisable to aim for minimal weight when packing your equipment.

Please ensure you have the following items with you:

  • Trainers or sandals to wear during your excursion.
  • T-shirts / tops / shirts
  • Fleece jacket or warm jumper during winter season.
  • Sunhat / Warm hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Daypack 20 litres for your personal equipment
  • Sun protection (including lip sun screen)
  • Antibacterial handwash
  • Camera
  • Pen-knife (note: always pack sharp objects in hold baggage)
  • Reusable cloth bag for shopping (to avoid plastic bags)

Item to rent:
Car rental: from €40, lease this via Morocco Hike Tours.
Rent a quad In Chegaga desert: From €60/1 hour, Lease via Morocco Hike tours, The price  may vary depending on the number of participants, Duration, your departure dates, and availability during the selected period.

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Chegaga desert sand dunes, standing as one of the two prominent Saharan ergs, alongside the renowned Erg Chebbi, beckons travelers with its vast expanse of golden sand dunes that seem to stretch endlessly into the horizon. The undulating landscapes, shaped by the whispers of the desert winds over centuries, create a mesmerizing tapestry that unfolds before your eyes. So, set forth on this odyssey from Marrakech to Chegaga, and let the desert unveil its secrets and wonders in a symphony of sand and stars.

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Total: €310.00 From €310.00 /person