Marrakech Desert Trip Chigaga Dunes Riding Camel Sandboarding

Planning a trip to Marrakech and craving a true desert escape? This three-day tour to Erg Chigaga Dunes promises a chance to see Morocco’s wild, untouched sands, ride camels into the sunset, and sleep under a blanket of stars in a Berber tent. It’s designed for travelers with limited time but eager for an immersive Sahara experience.

What sets this tour apart? We love the off-the-beaten-path destination—the Erg Chigaga dunes are far less crowded than Merzouga, offering a more solitary, genuine desert vibe. The combination of cultural insights, adrenaline-pumping sandboarding, and authentic Berber camping makes it a well-rounded adventure. The tour’s positive reviews, with a perfect 5-star rating from 21 travelers, reflect its quality and value.

That said, it’s important to note that the journey involves long drives and off-road sections, so if you’re sensitive to bumpy rides or prefer luxury, it might require some patience. Plus, the experience is mostly outdoors, so weather conditions can influence your plans.

This trip suits adventurous souls, culture enthusiasts, and those seeking a memorable Sahara experience without spending days in transit. If you’re looking for a blend of scenic drives, cultural stops, and desert thrills, this is a trip worth considering.

Key Points

• Authentic Sahara experience away from tourist-heavy areas
• Camel riding and sandboarding included for fun and adventure
• Overnight stay in a Berber bivouac under the stars
• Cultural visits to kasbahs and oases along the route
• Long, scenic drives through diverse Moroccan landscapes
• Excellent reviews highlight the trip’s value and memorable moments

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Marrakech to the High Atlas and Tamnougalt

Your adventure begins with a visit to Tamnougalt Kasbah, a historic fortress that offers a glimpse of traditional Moroccan architecture. Travel time is quick, but the charm of this ancient site, with its mud-brick walls and surrounding gardens, makes it worth the 30-minute stop. Reviewers have found this part especially interesting, with one noting it as a “highlight of the trip.”

Next, you’ll venture into the High Atlas Mountains, where a brief 15-minute stop provides incredible mountain vistas. It’s a perfect photo op and a calming contrast to the desert ahead. The mountains are often lush and rugged, with some travelers mentioning how the scenery changes dramatically from lush green to barren rock.

The day wraps up with a visit to the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou, a UNESCO-listed fortress that has served as the backdrop for countless films. The one-hour exploration here is a highlight for many, offering a peek into traditional Berber life and stunning panoramic views of the river valley. It’s a great way to start feeling connected to the local culture.

Day 2: The Desert Gateway and Erg Chigaga Dunes

On day two, you leave behind the mountains and head into the Draa Valley, where you get a taste of rural Moroccan life. The drive along the ancient caravan route winds past villages and oases, giving you a sense of the region’s historical importance for trade. Travelers mention that the scenery along this route is both breathtaking and educational.

Your stop at Mhamid, the ‘gateway to the desert,’ marks a turning point. After breakfast, you’ll visit the Oasis of Erg Lihoudi for a traditional lunch, with some tours offering the chance to relax and prepare for the desert crossing. Then comes a two-hour camel trek, during which you’ll experience the iconic desert mode of transport—trust us, the gentle sway of a camel is surprisingly peaceful.

Post-camel ride, the journey continues with off-road driving across 60 km of desert terrain to reach the Erg Chigaga dunes. The route passes through ergs (sand seas), regs (rocky areas), hammadas (rocky plains), and oases—each offering distinctive landscapes that make the drive visually stunning. The silence here is profound, and travelers often comment on the serenity and sense of remoteness.

That night, you sleep in nomad tents at the foot of the dunes. The experience is both authentic and comfortable, with many noting the peacefulness of sleeping under countless stars and the enjoyment of Berber music around the campfire.

Day 3: Return Journey Through the Mountains

After a hearty breakfast, your return begins with a scenic drive through the remaining desert landscapes, including Lake Iriqui and fossil-rich plains. The route takes you back to Foum Zguid, where you can freshen up with a shower before heading back to Marrakech.

The drive back along paved roads offers views of Berber carpets and colorful villages, giving a final touch of local culture. Expect to arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon, feeling like you’ve experienced a truly different side of Morocco—one of wild sands and welcoming Berber hospitality.

Practical Details & What You Can Expect

Transportation & Group Size

The tour uses private transportation, which means comfort and flexibility. While the group size isn’t explicitly specified, reviews suggest a small, intimate experience, usually with a dedicated guide like Said or Ahmed, who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

Duration & Timing

Starting at noon in Marrakech, the trip spans approximately three days, with most activities centered around daytime hours. The long drives—about 8 hours on the final day—are balanced by interesting stops and scenic views.

Inclusions & Extras

The tour includes two breakfasts and two dinners, giving you time to connect with local cuisine. Lunches are typically at oasis stops or villages, offering a taste of Moroccan flavors. Sandboarding is a fun addition, and the camel rides are a key highlight for many.

Value & Cost

At $557.50 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the inclusions, authentic camping experience, and the opportunity to visit remote parts of Morocco that are hard to reach alone. It’s an all-encompassing package that blends scenic drives, cultural stops, and adventure activities.

What Reviewers Say

One traveler called it a “highlight of our Morocco trip,” appreciating the variety—camel riding, sandboarding, and camping—packed into just three days. They also praised the chance to see off-the-beaten-path dunes, far from the tourist crowds.

Another mentioned how the silence and vastness of the desert made the experience unforgettable, describing the dunes as “immense and far away from civilization.” The night spent under the stars, listening to Berber music, was especially cherished.

Guide insights also received praise; reviewers noted that guides like Said are knowledgeable and eager to share stories about Berber culture, making the stops more meaningful.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right For You?

This Marrakech desert trip is perfect for those looking for a balanced adventure—combining cultural exploration, physical activity, and stunning landscapes. Its value lies in the chance to see remote dunes, sleep in traditional tents, and enjoy authentic Berber hospitality, all within a manageable timeframe.

It’s especially suited for adventure seekers, photography lovers, and cultural explorers who want to experience the Sahara beyond the typical tourist spots. If you’re after luxury or have mobility concerns, be prepared for some bumpy rides and outdoor nights.

Travelers who prioritize authenticity over luxury will find this tour rewarding, along with those eager to experience Morocco’s natural beauty firsthand. The combination of scenic drives, cultural stops, and desert thrills creates a truly memorable journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from Marrakech to the desert?
The trip involves about 8 hours of driving over the three days, including scenic routes through mountains, valleys, and desert terrains.

Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes two breakfasts and two dinners, typically enjoyed at local spots or in the desert camp. Lunch is not included but can be purchased at stops such as oasis villages.

Is sandboarding part of the experience?
Yes, sandboarding is included and offers a fun way to enjoy the dunes beyond camel riding.

What kind of accommodation is provided in the desert?
You’ll sleep in nomad tents—authentic Berber bivouacs—designed to provide a genuine desert camping experience, with some basic comforts.

Can this tour be canceled?
Yes, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start date, allowing flexibility if plans change due to weather or other reasons.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for outdoor nights, bumpy drives, and some physical activity like camel riding and sandboarding.

Final Words

For those wanting a no-fuss, authentic Sahara experience, this 3-day Marrakech desert tour offers a wonderful mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. It’s a chance to escape the city, sleep under the stars, and connect with Morocco’s Berber roots in a way that few tours can match.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time desert explorer, this journey delivers stunning views, meaningful cultural stops, and unforgettable memories—all at a fair price point. It’s best suited for travelers who crave genuine experiences and aren’t afraid of some outdoor nights.

If you’re dreaming of wide-open sands and star-studded skies, this tour might just be the highlight of your Moroccan adventure.