DUNES, OASES & ADVENTURE
2-Day Erg Chegaga Desert Tour from Ouarzazate
Explore southern Morocco on a 2-day journey to Erg Chegaga, crossing vast desert landscapes and discovering the wild side of the Sahara.
Erg Chegaga Desert Express
The 2-Day Erg Chegaga Desert Tour from Ouarzazate is a popular desert adventure in Morocco, attracting travelers eager to discover the breathtaking beauty of the Sahara. This excursion offers a unique opportunity to experience the spectacular sand dunes of Erg Chegaga and the vast landscapes of southern Morocco.
The Erg Chegaga sand dunes form one of Morocco’s two major Saharan ergs, alongside the famous Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga. Stretching across a vast expanse of golden sand, these impressive dunes create a stunning landscape shaped by the desert winds over centuries.
During this 2-day desert excursion from Ouarzazate, you will discover the remote beauty of Erg Chegaga and the captivating scenery of the Sahara. Set off on a journey from Ouarzazate to Erg Chegaga and experience the magic of the Moroccan desert, where endless dunes, peaceful landscapes and star-filled skies create a truly memorable adventure.
Highlights of 2-Day Erg Chegaga Desert Tour from Ouarzazate
Embark on a captivating 2-day Erg Chegaga desert tour from Ouarzazate and discover the diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage and spectacular sand dunes of the Moroccan Sahara. This journey takes you through traditional villages, lush palm groves and vast desert scenery. Here are some of the highlights you can experience along the way.
- Visit Kasbahs and Traditional Villages: Discover historic kasbahs and traditional villages along the route, offering a glimpse into Morocco’s rich history, architecture and local way of life.
- Explore the Draa Valley: Travel through the beautiful Draa Valley, known for its extensive palm groves, traditional kasbahs and striking desert landscapes.
- Discover Diverse Landscapes: Enjoy the changing scenery as you journey south, from arid plains and rocky terrain to green oases and the vast open landscapes of the Sahara.
- Camel Trekking in Erg Chegaga: Experience the beauty of the Erg Chegaga sand dunes on a camel ride across the desert. Depending on your itinerary, you may have the opportunity to admire the spectacular sunset or sunrise over the golden dunes.
- Visit Fint Oasis: If included in your itinerary, discover the peaceful Fint Oasis near Ouarzazate, a green haven surrounded by rocky landscapes, traditional villages and palm trees.
Why Trek with 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.
TOUR ITINERARY
Depart early morning from Ouarzazate, your gateway to the mystic landscapes of Morocco. The journey begins with a scenic drive through the Jebel Saghro mountain, standing proudly at 1660 meters, offering breathtaking views of the wide stony desert. The road unfolds before you as you continue your odyssey, tracing the contours of the Draa Valley. The landscape transforms, revealing lush palm groves, picturesque oases, many KSOR an KASBA, creating a mesmerizing tableau of nature’s beauty. Each twist and turn of the road brings you closer to the enchanting destination of Zagora. we will enjoy a beak at Ksar Tamgroute witch is known for its historic significance, particularly for its ancient Islamic theological school, or madrasa that we can visit if it’s open, Tamgroute is also notable for its traditional pottery industry and it is known for its distinctive green glaze. The road continue driving for one hour to join Ksar Oulad Driss that still an original and fortified Village, awaits you, offering a unique perspective as tiny Museum. 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 Luxury camp 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 a luxury desert camp at an altitude of 600meters.
- The distance covered on the drive, 320km/5h 30
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 Fint Oases where we will have a break, enjoy some mint tea, and appreciate this particular spot. Our day concludes as we head back to Ouarzazat.
- Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Ouarzazate at an altitude of 1256 meters.
- The distance covered on the drive, 230 km/5h
2-Day Erg Chegaga Desert Tour from Ouarzazate Tour Prices
| Group Size | Price / Person |
|---|---|
| 2 People | €310 |
| 3 People | €280 |
| 4 People | €260 |
| 5+ People | €240 |
What's Included
- Private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned 4×4 vehicle or luxury minivan.
- Experienced driver/guide speaking English, Spanish, Italian, German or French.
- Pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation in Ouarzazate.
- One night in a luxury desert camp among the Erg Chegaga sand dunes, with en-suite bathrooms.
- All meals included: one breakfast, two lunches and one dinner, with vegetarian and vegan options available.
- One-hour camel ride at sunset, plus free time to explore the dunes on foot.
- Traditional Berber music experience at the desert camp.
- Mineral water during the trip, plus tea and coffee at the camp.
- Entrance fees for selected visits.
What's Not Included
- All drinks, including beer, Coke, Fanta, Sprite, and other alcoholic beverages.
- Travel insurance (essential).
- Tips for local staff and drivers.
- Any other items not mentioned in the “Included” section.
Key Facts
We’ve compiled a selection of frequently asked questions to provide you with further insight into this 2-Day Erg Chegaga Desert Tour from Ouarzazate
Meal Plan & Water
One breakfast, one dinner, and two lunches are included during this excursion from Ouarzazate. Mineral water (1L per person per day) is also included during these two days of excursion from Ouarzazate.
Group Leader & Support Team
The group will be led by a professional and qualified driver who speaks a basic English or another language of your preference, depending on the confirmation date. Additionally.
Altitude
This day excursion from Ouarzazate involves going to moderately high altitude. During the course of this trek you will reach altitudes in excess of 1600 metres. Most people will have no difficulty with this level of altitude.
Expending funds
Plan to hold around £50 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 Ouarzazate, 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
- 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’)
- United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/morocco/entry-requirements
- USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Morocco.html
- Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/africa/morocco
- Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/morocco
Getting Ready for Your trip to Morocco
Preparing with some extra physical activity prior to embarking on an active vacation is highly advisable. Enhancing your fitness level beforehand will undoubtedly enhance the overall enjoyment of your trip.
Being in good physical condition and accustomed to walking for 3 to 5 hours on consecutive days is recommended. Engaging in hill walking, incorporating both ascent and descent, serves as optimal preparation. Additionally, activities such as running, cycling, and swimming are beneficial for improving cardiovascular endurance and stamina.
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.
Washing Cloths
If you wish to have your clothes washed during your stay in Morocco, it will be possible for an additional fee of 10 Dirhams per item (underwear not accepted) and 4/5 Dirhams per item for ironing.
Weather & Temperature
During this time of the valley of roses, 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, so remember to pack a fleece jacket. While rainfall is uncommon in this area of Morocco, being a mountainous region, it’s wise to be prepared for occasional showers.
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 day excursion from Ouarzazate operates year-round and offers flexibility to depart on any date of your preference. Additionally, this Day excursion from Ouarzazate provides the option to combine with other excursions for a more comprehensive experience.
Booking Procedure & Payment
Please select the trek that piques your interest, then reach out to us via email to initiate a discussion regarding your preferred trek and to verify its availability. Once we have agreed upon the specifics of your 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.
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.
Get in Touch
Ready to book this trek, have a question, or want to customize your experience? Send us a message and we’ll get back to you shortly.
