From Zagora: 3-Desert Tour to Erg Chigaga Dunes & Caml Trek

If you’re dreaming of desert sands, starry nights, and a taste of Berber culture, this 3-day tour from Zagora to Erg Chigaga offers just that—plus some. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a clear picture of what to expect from this immersive adventure.

We love the way this tour combines off-road driving through rocky deserts and dunes, the chance to ride camels at sunrise and sunset, and the opportunity to connect with local nomads. The highlight for many seems to be the stunning vistas of red dunes and the authentic desert camp experience.

One possible consideration is that the tour is quite packed, with early mornings and long days, which might feel rushed for some. Still, if you’re eager to see Morocco’s Sahara in a short amount of time, this could be perfect.

This tour suits travelers who thrive on adventure, love photography, or want a genuine cultural experience in the desert, all without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Authentic Desert Experience: Two nights in a traditional nomad camp with local music and food.
• Varied Activities: Camel trekking, 4×4 drives, sandboarding, and visits to Berber villages.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Rashid and Mohammed enhance the experience.
• Picturesque Sunsets & Sunrises: Dunes offer unbeatable photo opportunities.
• Cultural Encounters: Visits to Koranic schools and local nomads deepen your understanding.
• Great Value: For $401, the tour includes transportation, camp stay, most meals, and activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

This 3-day adventure kicks off in Zagora, a hub for desert explorers, with a pick-up from your hotel around 1 pm. The journey immediately promises a mix of rugged landscapes and cultural sights.

Day 1: Zagora to Erg Chigaga via Mhamid

The drive starts with a scenic route through Tizi Anagame and Ben Selman Mountain, offering views that hint at the desert’s vastness. Once you leave the tarmac behind, the landscape shifts to rocky deserts, sand dunes, and oases—each stop a perfect photo backdrop, especially the lush oases that contrast sharply with the surrounding sands.

A key highlight here is arriving at Erg Chigaga, the largest dune region in the area, just in time for sunset. Climbing the dunes to witness the sunset’s red glow is a must-do and offers some of the best photo moments. Based on reviews like Michael’s, many travelers suggest spending at least two nights (rather than one) to truly soak in the desert ambiance.

You’ll settle into a private tent at the desert camp, where you’ll enjoy a Berber dinner, accompanied by music and drums around the campfire. The atmosphere is intimate, and guides like Mohammed are praised for their attentiveness and local knowledge.

Day 2: Camel Trekking & Nomad Encounters

Waking early for the sunrise on the dunes is a magical experience, with many describing it as a moment of quiet awe. After breakfast, your full day of camel trekking begins, either on camels or with a 4×4, depending on your preference.

The route takes you to Tamares Tree, a landmark where lunch is prepared in traditional nomad style—kebabs and freshly baked bread. The highlight here is visiting nomad families, sharing tea and learning about their way of life. One reviewer, Heide Maria, appreciated guides like Mohammed for their knowledge and care, making the experience more meaningful.

The afternoon offers more dune exploration and the opportunity to sandboard down the dunes, adding a dash of adventure. As the day ends, you’ll witness another spectacular sunset on the dunes, with many guests noting the striking beauty of the shifting sands.

Day 3: Return to Zagora via Tamagroute

The final dawn involves climbing the dunes once more for a last sunrise spectacle—a truly unforgettable experience. After breakfast, you’ll begin your return trip, heading back through the Draa Valley, with a stop at Tamagroute.

This village is famous for its Koranic library and green pottery—a taste of local craftsmanship and spirituality. The drive back to Zagora wraps up around noon, leaving you with a deep sense of having touched Morocco’s desert soul.

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What’s Included and What Not

The tour’s $401 price appears to deliver solid value considering all included elements:

• Private 4×4 with A/C and fuel ensures a comfortable and personalized experience.
• English-speaking guides like Rashid and Mohammed are consistently praised for their knowledge, attentiveness, and ability to make the journey smooth and informative.
• Camel treks in the desert, with a camel each, are the centerpiece.
• The overnight stay in a traditional nomad camp with dinner and breakfast offers an authentic desert experience.
• Lunches on Day 2 and all transportation within the area are covered.

Extras like drinks, driver tips, or personal expenses are additional, so budget accordingly for beverages or souvenirs.

Authentic Experiences and Review Insights

Multiple reviews emphasize the quality of guides—Michael appreciated Rashid’s leadership, while Heide Maria praised Mohammed for being extremely knowledgeable and attentive. Guests often mention the authenticity of the camp, with camp personnel described as friendly and efficient.

A reviewer noted that spending two nights at the camp allows more time for relaxation and enjoyment, which is something to keep in mind when planning. The stunning sunset views and the chance to meet local nomads are consistently highlighted as the most memorable parts.

While the landscape is vast and breathtaking, the tours are quite active, involving a lot of early mornings and long drives, so travelers should prepare for a physically engaging trip. The small group sizes and personalized guides make this a more intimate experience, making it easier to ask questions and soak in the scenery.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring layers: Desert mornings and evenings can be cold, even in summer.
• Camera ready: The dunes and sunsets provide perfect photo ops.
• Stay two nights if possible, as many reviews suggest this allows a more relaxed experience.
• Book in advance: The tour is popular, and flexible booking options are available with free cancellation up to 24 hours.
• Expect early starts: Sunrises and departure times are early but worth it for the views.
• Budget for drinks and souvenirs: These are not included and might be available at the camp or during stops.

The Sum Up

This 3-day Zagora to Erg Chigaga desert tour offers an excellent blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. The inclusion of camel rides, 4×4 excursions, and nights in a traditional desert camp, paired with knowledgeable guides, makes it a compelling choice for those seeking an authentic Sahara experience without overly touristy fluff.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want a hands-on adventure, enjoy breathtaking landscapes, and are open to cultural exchanges with nomads. While the itinerary is busy, the genuine aspects—like stunning sunsets, local hospitality, and scenic drives—outweigh the few logistical considerations.

For anyone craving a taste of Morocco’s wild, sandy heart, this trip promises memorable moments and plenty of stories to tell back home.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for 3 days, starting from around 1 pm on Day 1 and ending at noon on Day 3.

What is included in the price?
The package covers transportation in a private 4×4, guides, camel treks, two nights in a nomad camp with dinners and breakfasts, and most meals on Day 2.

Can I choose between camel riding and 4×4?
Yes, the full-day trek around Erg Chigaga can be done on a camel, 4×4, or both, depending on your preference.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While not explicitly stated, the active nature and early mornings suggest it’s best for travelers in good health and with a sense of adventure.

What should I bring?
Layers for variable desert temperatures, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, and some cash for drinks or souvenirs.

Is it possible to book with flexible payment or cancellation?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here: