Discover Morocco: 4-Day Tour of Erg Chigaga Dunes & History

We begin our journey at 8:30 AM in Marrakech, heading directly to Ouarzazate. The drive takes us along the scenic Tizi N'Tichka pass (2,260 meters), a winding mountain road that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. In winter, the mountains are beautifully covered in snow.

Once we cross the pass, our first stop is the Kasbah of Glaoui in Télouet. After exploring this historic site, we’ll enjoy lunch at the iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah in the Ounila Valley. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its stunning architecture and has served as a backdrop for many famous films.

After our visit to Ait Ben Haddou, we’ll continue to Ouarzazate, where we’ll tour the local movie studios. Finally, we’ll drive along the scenic road of a thousand kasbahs into the enchanting Dades Valley. Our first night will be spent in a cozy hostel or Riad nestled in the Dades Gorges.

After breakfast, we depart the Dades Valley and set off towards the breathtaking Todgha Valley, where lush gardens and towering gorges rise 300 meters alongside the crystal-clear river. Our route takes us through the Sagho region, renowned for its dramatic scenery—ideal for a short hike or capturing stunning photographs of the rugged landscapes and vibrant colors.

As we continue our journey, we pass through N'Kob, famously known as the village of 50 Kasbahs. This charming village is steeped in history and showcases traditional Moroccan architecture, making it a perfect spot for exploration.

Continuing on, we enter the picturesque Draa Valley, where sprawling palm groves, majestic mountains, and the meandering river create a captivating landscape. The lush greenery contrasts beautifully with the arid surroundings, inviting us to appreciate the natural beauty as we approach Zagora.

Our destination for the night is the Bivouac Sahara Relax, located just outside Zagora. Here, we'll indulge in a traditional dinner, featuring delicious Moroccan dishes, all while enjoying the enchanting music of nomadic tribes around a crackling campfire. As night falls, we’ll drift off to sleep beneath a vast sky, enveloped in the serene silence of the desert, with a dazzling canopy of stars illuminating our surroundings. This experience promises to be both peaceful and unforgettable, connecting us to the beauty of the Moroccan landscape.

In the morning, we set off towards Tamghoute, a charming village renowned for its exquisite green pottery and home to the largest Koranic library in Morocco. This cultural gem offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history and artistry. After exploring the library and browsing local pottery shops, we’ll continue our journey to the Sacred Oasis, a tranquil spot where we’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch in the refreshing shade of a palm tree.

Next, we head to the Chigaga dunes, a breathtaking expanse that stretches for 60 kilometers. As we approach this stunning landscape, you’ll be captivated by the undulating sands and the serene atmosphere. A cozy bivouac awaits us in the heart of the dunes, providing a perfect retreat to unwind and soak in the beauty of the surroundings.

In the afternoon, we’ll embark on a camel ride across the dunes, allowing us to fully appreciate the vastness of this magical landscape. As the sun begins to set, we’ll witness a stunning display of colors painting the sky over the expansive sandy terrain, creating a truly unforgettable moment.

After returning to the bivouac, a delightful meal awaits us, featuring traditional Moroccan dishes prepared with local ingredients. The evening will be filled with the enchanting sounds of nomadic music and storytelling, bringing the culture of the desert to life. As night falls, you’ll find yourself immersed in a serene world of silence and beauty, all beneath a dazzling canopy of stars, making this experience both tranquil and magical.

After breakfast, we embark on a scenic drive to Lake Iriqui, a vast dry lake that transforms into a stunning flower garden during the rainy season. This unique landscape offers a remarkable contrast to the surrounding arid terrain, making it a perfect spot for photography and reflection.

Continuing our journey, we head to Foum Zguid, a charming village renowned for its rich desert culture and hospitality. Here, you can immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and learn about the traditions of the region. Next, we make our way to Tazenakht, famous for its exquisite Berber carpets. In this vibrant town, you can admire the intricate craftsmanship.

Finally, we cross the majestic Atlas Mountains, where breathtaking views await at every turn. The winding roads offer panoramic vistas of rugged peaks and deep valleys. As we descend, the landscape shifts dramatically, revealing lush valleys and vibrant colors that contrast beautifully with the earlier arid scenery. We arrive back in Marrakech in the early evening, filled with unforgettable memories and experiences from our journey through this stunning part of Morocco..