Thinking about venturing into Morocco’s Sahara? This two-day, one-night tour from Zagora offers an authentic taste of the desert’s rugged beauty without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. We’ve looked into it, and what stands out are the guided camel rides, the chance to sleep under the stars, and the delicious traditional food served in a Berber tent.
One thing to keep in mind: it’s a fairly intensive trip with early starts and long drives, so it’s best suited for travelers ready for adventure and willing to embrace the rustic charm of desert life. If you love breathtaking scenery, authentic experiences, and don’t mind a bit of roughing it, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.
What we really like about this experience: the knowledgeable guides, the stunning sunset and sunrise views, and the chance to dress like a nomad. The price offers great value considering all logistics are covered, from transport to meals. However, it’s worth noting that drinks are not included, and the drive can be quite long—so patience and a sense of adventure are recommended.
Who should consider this? Perfect for those seeking a genuine Sahara experience, eager to learn about Berber culture, and comfortable with basic accommodations. It’s also ideal if you want a well-organized trip that takes care of the logistics, letting you focus on enjoying the desert.
Key Points
- Authentic desert experience: Camel rides, Berber tents, and starry nights.
- All logistics covered: Pickup, transport, meals, and accommodations included.
- Breathtaking views: Sunsets, sunrises, and uninterrupted desert scenery.
- Cultural immersion: Dress in traditional Arab attire and enjoy local hospitality.
- Age and activity level: Suitable for most travelers, but expect long drives and basic accommodations.
- Excellent reviews: Consistently high ratings with rave reviews about guides and scenery.
The Itinerary: What to Expect
This tour kicks off in Zagora around 2 p.m., with a scenic drive through Tizi Anagame and Ben Selmane. It’s not a quick hop—expect about two hours of off-road driving to reach the big dunes of Erg Chigaga. During this ride, you’ll get a real sense of Morocco’s diverse landscapes, from lush valleys to arid desert plains.
Camel ride before sunset: Once at the dunes, you’ll hop on a camel for a sunset ride. This isn’t just a touristy photo op; it’s a proper ride that allows you to get close to the desert’s rugged terrain. Reviewers mention that the camels are well looked after, and the experience feels peaceful and authentic.
Evening in a nomad Berber tent: As the sun dips, you’ll settle into a traditional Berber tent where dinner is served. Reviewers rave about the food, describing it as both delicious and flavorful, adding a genuine touch of Moroccan hospitality. The night can be spent either in the comfort of a tent or under a blanket of stars—an experience many find unforgettable.
Sunrise and breakfast: The early morning sunrise is described as magical, with many guests noting it as the highlight of the trip. After breakfast, you’ll start heading back, with a stop at Tamagroute to visit a Koranic library—a charming cultural addition.
Return journey: The drive back to Zagora is about 12 hours, but it’s broken up with interesting sights and plenty of opportunities to take photos along the way. You’ll arrive back around noon, tired but enriched by your Sahara adventure.
Looking for more options in Zagora? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
What Makes This Tour Special
This is more than just a desert trip; it’s a curated experience that balances adventure with comfort. The guides, praised for their knowledge and friendliness, are key to making the experience memorable. One reviewer highlighted Abdul as a particularly caring guide, ensuring everyone feels safe and engaged.
The scenery is undeniably stunning—from the rolling dunes to the expansive skies. Reviewers describe sunsets as breathtaking, with the sky painting itself in hues of orange and pink. The camel ride at dawn is particularly serene, offering a peaceful start to the day when the desert awakens in quiet beauty.
Food and hospitality also shine. Guests mention the flavorful dinner served in traditional tents, often accompanied by local tea. The warm welcome from the Berber guides adds a genuine cultural depth to the journey.
Practical Considerations and Value
The tour costs around $174.47 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the inclusions—meals, fuel surcharge, and logistics. It’s important to note that drinks are not included, so plan to bring water or purchase drinks separately.
Timing-wise, the trip is typically booked 34 days in advance, and the journey spans about 24 hours in total. Expect long drives, but the off-road segments offer a taste of Morocco’s diverse landscape. The tour is designed to cater to most travelers, with flexible options to sleep in tents or under the stars.
The pickup is conveniently offered in central Zagora, making it easy to join without extra hassle. Since it’s a private tour for your group only, the experience feels intimate and personalized.
Authentic experiences like dressing in traditional Arab attire, enjoying local music, and sharing meals in a nomad camp are what make this tour stand out. Reviewers appreciated the well-organized logistics and the clarity of instructions, which help maximize the experience.
Authentic Experiences We Loved
Many reviews highlight the guides’ professionalism. One reviewer said, “Our guide Ali provided us with great and interesting knowledge of the area,” which we believe makes a real difference in understanding the landscape and culture.
The sunset camel ride is praised for its tranquility, offering a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to soak in the desert’s vastness. Dawn rides are equally valued, with guests describing them as very peaceful and “serene,” capturing the true essence of Sahara mornings.
Overnight stays in tents appear to strike the right balance—simple, authentic, and comfortable enough for most. Guests mention that tents are kept clean, and for those wishing to sleep under the stars, arrangements are made to ensure comfort despite minimal amenities.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is suited for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts who want an authentic Sahara experience without the hassle of planning. The inclusions make it perfect for those who value convenience, as they don’t need to arrange transport or meals separately.
It’s also a good choice for travelers comfortable with basic accommodations and long drives, who want to see Morocco’s iconic dunes in a short time. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike have enjoyed this journey, especially those looking for memorable sunsets and starry nights.
If you’re after luxury or high-end amenities, this might not be your best fit. But for genuine desert vibes, warm hospitality, and awe-inspiring scenery, this tour ticks all the boxes.
FAQ: Your Quick Guide
What is included in the price?
The tour covers fuel surcharge, dinner, breakfast, and tea/coffee. It does not include drinks or lunch.
How long is the drive to the desert?
It’s approximately two hours of off-road driving from Zagora to the dunes, with a scenic route through Moroccan landscapes.
Can I sleep under the stars?
Yes, depending on your preference, you can stay in a traditional Berber tent or sleep directly under the stars on the dunes for a more rustic experience.
What should I wear?
While the tour suggests dressing in traditional Arab attire, it’s best to wear comfortable, modest clothing suitable for desert conditions—think breathable fabrics and layers for temperature changes.
Are children allowed?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s advisable to check with the tour provider for age restrictions, especially considering the long drives and outdoor activities.
Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience for your group only, which allows for a more personalized and flexible schedule.
How do I cancel if needed?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not eligible for refunds.
Final Thoughts
This Erg Chegaga desert tour from Zagora offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, culture, and stunning scenery. The guides’ expertise and friendly approach are often highlighted as major highlights, making the experience engaging and authentic. The sunset and sunrise camel rides, combined with a night under the stars, give you a genuine Sahara adventure.
While it’s a long trip with basic accommodations, the level of organization and culture makes it a fantastic choice for those wanting to experience the Sahara without overextending their budget. The inclusive nature of the tour means you can relax and focus on the scenery, the food, and the company.
If you’re after a memorable desert escape that’s both immersive and comfortable, this tour provides excellent value and plenty of authentic Moroccan charm. It’s especially suited to travelers who don’t mind a bit of rustic adventure and want a guided experience to ensure they see the best of Erg Chegaga.
To sum it up, this trip is an authentic, well-organized way to experience the magic of Morocco’s Sahara. It’s perfect for those craving a mix of adventure, cultural exposure, and stunning natural beauty—all at a reasonable price. Just pack your camera, some patience, and an appetite for adventure, and you’re set for a desert journey you’ll remember for years to come.