Big Sahara trip :Ouarzazate /Zagora /Mhamid/ Erg Chegaga/3 days 2 nights

Traveling across Morocco’s desert landscape offers an experience like no other. The Big Sahara trip from Agadir, organized by Bakhazouz Tours, promises a three-day adventure through some of the most iconic desert scenery, blending natural beauty with cultural insights. From the towering dunes of Erg Chegaga to the historic Kasbahs of Ouarzazate, this tour truly captures the essence of Morocco’s diverse landscape.

What we love about this trip is the chance to watch breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the dunes, enjoy authentic camel rides, and stay in luxury desert camps. Plus, the journey through ancient villages and film-famous Kasbahs adds layers of cultural discovery. However, it’s worth noting that the drive between some stops can be lengthy—around 21 hours of total travel time—so this experience is best suited for those comfortable with long road trips and open to adventure.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see Morocco’s lesser-known desert corners. If you’re craving a mix of natural splendor, local culture, and a touch of luxury in the wilderness, this trip offers remarkable value for its price.

Key Points

• Authentic Sahara experience with sunrise and sunset views over the dunes
• Includes camel rides and overnight stays in luxury camps or nomad tents
• Visit iconic locations like Erg Chegaga, Kasbah Ait Benhadou, and the Draa Valley
• Professional guides and well-organized itinerary ensure smooth travel
• Long driving hours but scenic and rewarding stops along the way
• Limited group size (max 6 travelers) for personalized service

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Agadir to Erg Chegaga

The adventure kicks off with an early departure from Agadir. Traveling through the saffron-producing town of Taliouine, you’ll get a taste of Morocco’s agricultural traditions before heading into the desert. After a few hours of driving, your first major stop is Taznakht, a town famous for its vibrant textiles and carpets—an excellent spot to stretch your legs and browse local crafts.

From there, the journey continues southward through Foum Zguid, a small oasis town that marks the entry point to the Sahara. The highlight of this stretch is reaching Erg Chegaga’s expansive sand dunes—some of the highest in Morocco at 300 meters tall and stretching for 40 km. Here, you’ll witness a spectacular sunset over the shifting sands, a moment many regard as unforgettable.

You’ll spend the night in nomad tents or a bivouac beneath the stars. The experience of sleeping in the desert—listening to the wind and gazing at a sky full of stars—is what makes this trip truly special. The tour’s reviews confirm that guests loved the chance to watch the night fall over the dunes, describing it as “a timeless experience of breathtaking landscapes.”

Day 2: Erg Chegaga to Ouarzazate

Waking up early, you’ll watch the sunrise over the dunes—a photo opportunity like no other. After breakfast, the group visits local nomads for a traditional Moroccan tea, gaining insight into their way of life. The landscape around Erg Chegaga is a mix of dunes and hammada, the rocky desert plains that create dramatic contrasts.

The journey continues eastward to Mhamid, a historic desert village with a rich Berber heritage. Here, you get a sense of local life beyond the tourist spots. Moving on, the trip skirts the Draa Valley, known for its lush palm groves and ancient kasbahs, before reaching Ouarzazate—a city famed for its film studios and historic kasbahs.

Guests have praised the guides for their knowledge and friendliness, often describing them as “a well of information” who enhanced their understanding of Morocco’s history and culture. The overnight stay at a hotel includes dinner and breakfast, providing a comfortable break after the desert night.

Day 3: Ouarzazate to Agadir

The final day is a blend of iconic landmarks. First, a visit to the famous Kasbah Ait Benhadou, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has acted as the backdrop for numerous films. Walking through its ancient mud-brick architecture makes history feel alive.

Next, the tour takes you through the Valley of Caravans and nearby Berber villages. These stops offer authentic glimpses into rural Moroccan life, with opportunities to chat with locals or browse traditional crafts.

Returning to Agadir, the journey wraps up with plenty of stories and photos of your desert adventure. The reviews consistently highlight how well-organized and professional the entire experience was, with many guests saying they’d happily do it again.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price of $502.50 per person covers most essentials, making it a good value considering the experience. Included are an air-conditioned vehicle, camel rides, dinner and breakfast at the hotel, and two nights in luxury camps or tents. The guides are knowledgeable, making sure everyone stays safe and informed.

However, meals are not provided for lunch, so you’ll want to bring some snacks or plan to buy food during stops. Drinks and tips are also extra, so budget accordingly.

The tour is flexible in terms of cancellation—full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance—and it’s limited to a maximum of six travelers, which means you’ll get a more personal experience.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights

One of the most praised aspects of this trip, based on reviews, is the knowledgeable guides. Guests have described their guides as friendly, attentive, and full of interesting stories, enhancing the experience beyond just sightseeing. This personal touch is particularly noticeable during the visits to local nomads, where guests appreciated the chance to sip tea with Berbers and hear their stories firsthand.

The stunning views of the dunes, especially at sunrise and sunset, stand out as unforgettable moments. As one reviewer said, “We loved the way the dunes change color as the sun rises and sets—it’s a photographer’s paradise.” The stay in luxury desert tents provides comfort amid the wilderness and adds a special touch to the overnight experience.

Guests also appreciated the well-organized itinerary, which balances long driving hours with relaxing stops and cultural visits. The inclusion of films’ filming locations like Kasbah Ait Benhadou adds an extra layer of interest for movie buffs.

Practical Considerations

While the experience is incredibly rewarding, it’s important to be prepared for the long hours of travel—about 21 hours total, split over three days. The roads between some stops are scenic but can be bumpy, so bringing snacks, water, and entertainment is advisable.

The trip is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues might find some parts challenging, especially sleeping in tents or navigating uneven terrains. As the tour maxes out at six guests, it offers a more intimate setting, but it also means booking early is recommended.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Sahara trip is perfect for adventure lovers who want to see Morocco’s vast landscapes up close. It’s especially good if you’re craving an authentic desert experience with opportunities for stunning photography, cultural interaction, and a bit of luxury.

It’s also ideal for small groups seeking personalized service and those interested in Morocco’s film history. If you’re ready for long drives and don’t mind sleeping under the stars or in tents, this trip offers a memorable escape from the usual.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day tour from Agadir to Erg Chegaga and beyond offers a well-rounded Sahara experience blending natural beauty, local culture, and comfortable touches. The inclusion of camel rides, sunset views, and overnight desert stays make it a standout choice for those eager to explore Morocco’s legendary dunes.

The professional guidance and thoughtful organization shine through in every detail, with reviews confirming the trip exceeds expectations. Expect awe-inspiring landscapes, insightful interactions, and a sense of adventure that’s hard to match.

For travelers seeking a balanced mix of scenic marvels and cultural richness in a small group setting, this trip is a fantastic way to experience Morocco’s desert magic.

FAQs

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience spans approximately 21 hours over three days, including travel time and sightseeing stops.

Are meals included?
Dinner and breakfast are included at the hotel, but lunch is not provided. You’ll want to plan for snacks or additional purchases during the day.

How many travelers are in each group?
The tour operates with a maximum of six travelers, offering a more personal and flexible experience.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, pickup is included, making it easy to start your adventure without stress.

What kind of accommodation is provided?
Guests stay in luxury camps or nomad tents in the desert, with some nights sleeping under the stars or in well-equipped tents.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy if canceled at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but given the long drives and tent accommodations, it’s best suited for those comfortable with these conditions.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera, and personal snacks. Prepare for warm days and cool desert nights.

This Sahara trip from Agadir offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty and cultural discovery—an experience that’s sure to leave lasting memories of Morocco’s stunning desert landscapes.