Planning a trip into Morocco’s Sahara can feel overwhelming with so many options—this tour offers a balanced mix of comfort, adventure, and authentic desert life. It promises a chance to see some of the most stunning dunes in the region, enjoy desert sunsets, and stay overnight in cozy tents under the stars.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the diverse landscape—from lush shaded stopovers to vast, wind-sculpted dunes. Second, the well-organized itinerary that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and adventure, including camel rides and wild bivouacs. Third, the authentic touches like nomadic dinners and sunrise views that truly connect you with desert life.
A possible consideration? The tour involves multiple 4×4 drives across remote areas—so if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer less bumpy rides, it’s worth preparing accordingly.
This tour suits travelers craving a deep Sahara experience without sacrificing comfort and those eager to see both Erg Zahar and Erg Chigaga’s iconic dunes. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and culture.
Key Points
- Authentic Sahara experience with dune sunsets and sand surfing opportunities
- Comfortable camping in biviouac tents under the stars with full board included
- Diverse landscapes from lush shaded oases to expansive desert dunes
- Includes camel rides and panoramic views of the dunes for an immersive experience
- All transportation provided in private 4x4s, making the journey smooth and manageable
- Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind
An Overview of the Itinerary and What You Can Expect
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Starting Point: M’Hamid
Your desert adventure kicks off from M’Hamid, often called the desert gate. After a roughly one-hour drive, you’ll stop at RASS NKHAL, a peaceful spot that embodies eco-tourism with shaded areas perfect for relaxing and enjoying a traditional Moroccan tea. This is a great introduction to the region’s focus on sustainable tourism and authentic local flavors. Expect to spend some time here soaking in the calm before heading into the dunes.
The highlight of this stop is the lunch under the shaded tree, which is a lovely way to connect with the environment and enjoy some local cuisine. The quietness and natural beauty set a peaceful tone for the days ahead.
Exploring Erg Zahar: The First Big Dune Area
The journey continues into the desert with a 1-hour 4×4 drive through the Sahara to Erg Zahar. Here, you’ll set up camp amidst stunning dunes, a perfect base for experiencing the desert’s silence and grandeur. The camp is described as a wild bivouac, meaning it’s a more rustic, authentic style of camping—think tents that are simple but comfortable enough for a night under the stars.
One of the best parts of this stop? The sunset at the top of the dunes. Travelers have described these moments as unforgettable, with the vast landscape turning shades of orange and red. Some even try sand surfing, which adds a fun, adrenaline-filled element to this serene environment.
This part of the journey is about enjoying the desert’s natural beauty, and you’ll likely find the quietness and wide-open sky to be deeply calming.
Moving to Erg Chigaga: The Iconic Dunes
After a hearty breakfast watching the sunrise, you’ll leave Erg Zahar and head towards Erg Chigaga in a 2-hour 4×4 drive. This area is renowned for its massive dunes, some of the tallest in Morocco, giving you panoramic views that are truly breathtaking.
Arriving in the late morning or early afternoon, you’ll settle into another wild bivouac among the dunes, where your lunch under Tamaris trees offers a welcome respite from the heat. The camp setup here allows for more exploration, with options like a camel ride that grants a panoramic view of the dunes, ideal for snapping photos or simply soaking in the vastness.
The highlights? The dunes themselves—glistening with shifting sands—and the experience of being surrounded by such natural grandeur. Some reviewers describe the guides as joyful and welcoming, adding a friendly, personal touch to the adventure.
Final Day: The Sacred Oasis and Return
On the last morning, after breakfast and watching the sunrise, you’ll take a 4×4 drive across the dunes and Hamada landscape to visit Oum Laalag, a sacred oasis. This stop offers a peaceful walk among date palms and lush greenery contrasting sharply with the surrounding desert, giving a glimpse of traditional oasis life.
After this, you’ll head back to M’Hamid, passing the Oum Laalag oasis again, with an estimated two-hour drive concluding your desert experience before early afternoon.
What Travelers Say About This Tour
One traveler, describing their experience as a “Chiggaga adventure,” mentioned being “fully satisfied” with the services, from camel rides and 4×4 drives to the bivouac and culinary offerings. They appreciated the joyful guides and the authentic atmosphere, highlighting the delicious food and stunning views as memorable highlights.
Another review emphasized the spectacular sunset views and the unique opportunity to surf the sands—an activity that adds a playful twist to the desert experience. The fact that the tents are described as comfortable enhances the value, especially considering the remote location.
The Value of This Tour
At $403.98 per person, you’re paying for more than just transportation and accommodation—you’re investing in a comprehensive Sahara experience. The package includes all meals, transportation, and activities like camel rides, which means no hidden costs or surprises. The inclusion of three nights’ dinner and breakfast ensures you’re well-fed after days of exploration.
The private transportation is a major plus, providing flexibility and comfort while traversing the desert’s challenging terrain. Also, the full-day activities mean you’ll see diverse scenery—from shaded oases to endless dunes—without feeling hurried or rushed.
Given the positive review praising the service quality, it’s clear this tour prioritizes authentic experiences with a personal touch, making it suitable for travelers seeking a genuine Sahara adventure.
Who This Tour Is Best For
This tour is ideal for adventure seekers who want a deep dive into desert life, including camel rides and dune exploring. It’s perfect for those looking for a comfortable yet rustic experience—the bivouac tents are simple but cozy, and the itinerary is well-paced.
If you’re a nature lover wanting to see iconic dunes and enjoy breathtaking sunsets, this trip hits the mark. It’s also a great choice for visitors wanting a balance between adventure and relaxation, with plenty of opportunities to sit back and take in the scenery.
However, if you prefer a more luxurious or less bumpy ride, you might find the multiple 4×4 drives and rustic camping less suited to your taste. It’s best suited for travelers who value genuine, raw desert experiences over lavish comfort.
FAQs
Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation in 4×4 vehicles is included throughout the tour, ensuring smooth travel between stops.
How many nights will I stay in the desert?
You will stay two nights in tents—one in Erg Zahar and one in Erg Chigaga—both in wild bivouacs designed for authentic desert immersion.
Are meals provided?
Yes, the tour includes dinner and breakfast for all three nights and lunch on four days, offering hearty, traditional Moroccan fare.
Can I participate if I’m not experienced with camel rides?
Yes, camel rides are included as an activity, and they are suitable for most travelers, offering panoramic views of the dunes.
What is the terrain like during the drives?
Expect rough, bumpy drives across desert landscapes—the roads are often sandy or rocky, adding to the adventure but requiring some patience.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but due to the outdoor and sometimes rustic nature of the experience, it’s best suited for those prepared for outdoor adventure and variable conditions.
Final Thoughts
This Sahara tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience of Morocco’s iconic dunes—combining scenic splendor, cultural touches, and comfortable camping. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to see the best of Erg Zahar and Erg Chigaga without sacrificing convenience, and who are eager to enjoy stunning desert sunsets and wide-open spaces.
With friendly guides, delicious food, and a genuine connection to desert life, this trip promises unforgettable memories. It’s perfect for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a true Sahara escape.
While the journey involves some rough drives and rustic tents, those are small trade-offs for the chance to see Morocco’s legendary dunes, sleep under the stars, and experience the calm of the desert firsthand. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, this tour could be your highlight in Morocco.
To sum it up, this tour offers great value for an immersive desert experience, blending scenic beauty with cultural authenticity, making it a top pick for adventurous travelers ready to explore Morocco’s Sahara in style.