DISCOVER THE ERG CHEGAGA DESERT FROM OUARZAZATE
The Erg Chegaga desert is one of the most fascinating and popular places in Morocco. It offers breathtaking landscapes, a unique culture and an unforgettable travel experience. If you are looking for an authentic adventure, an escape from the beaten track and an immersion in the nomadic culture, excursions to the Erg Chegaga desert from Ouarzazate are perfect for you.
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Three different trips from Ouarzazate
Erg Chegaga Desert Excursion - 2 days and 1 night
300€/pers. from 2 people
This excursion is ideal for those who wish to discover the desert in a short time. You will enjoy a camel ride, a sunset over the dunes, a night in a bivouac under the stars and a guided tour of the desert. The return will be by 4×4 the next morning.
- Day 1: Departure from Ouarzazate, discovery of Lake Iriki and bivouac in M’Hamid
- Day 2: Walk in the Erg Chegaga desert, watch the sunset over the dunes, overnight in bivouac, star gazing and return to Ouarzazate
Erg Chegaga Desert Excursion - 3 days and 2 nights
440€/pers. from 2 people
This excursion will allow you to discover the beauty of the desert in depth. You can admire Lake Iriki, take a walk in the Erg Chegaga desert, visit the city of Foum Zguid carpets and discover the nomadic culture by spending a night with the locals.
- Day 1: Departure from Ouarzazate, discovery of the Draa Valley, bivouac in M’Hamid
- Day 2: Camel ride in the desert, discovery of fossils, observation of the sunset over the dunes, night in a bivouac, star gazing
- Day 3: Return to Ouarzazate via the city of carpets, Foum Zguid
Erg Chegaga Desert Excursion - 4 days and 3 nights
530€/pers. from 2 people
- Day 1: Departure from Ouarzazate, discovery of the Draa Valley, bivouac in M’Hamid
- Day 2: Camel ride in the desert, discovery of fossils, observation of the sunset over the dunes, night in a bivouac, star gazing
- Day 3: Walk in the Erg Chegaga desert, discovery of nomadic life, night in bivouac
- Day 4: Return to Ouarzazate via the city of carpets, Foum Zguid
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Places to visit on the road from Ouarzazate to Erg Chegaga
The journey to the Erg Chegaga desert from Ouarzazate is itself an unforgettable adventure, with many sites to visit along the way. Must-sees include the Drâa Valley, which is dotted with traditional Berber villages and earthen kasbahs, and the town of Zagora, famous for its famous “Timbuktu, 52 Days” signpost. You can also discover Lake Iriki, an oasis of sand and stone, and the town of Foum Zguid, known for its production of Berber carpets. Finally, do not miss to visit M’Hamid El Ghizlane, the “gateway to the desert”, where you can discover the culture of the desert nomads and their traditional way of life.
The road from Ouarzazate to Erg Chegaga is dotted with spectacular landscapes and places of interest. Here are some places not to miss:
- The Draa Valley
- The Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou
- The city of carpets, Foum Zguid
Tips for preparing your trip to the Erg Chegaga desert
Before leaving for your desert excursion, it is important to take into account some tips to ensure that your trip goes smoothly. First of all, it is advisable to make a reservation in advance, especially during high season periods. Then, it is recommended to bring clothes adapted to the desert climate, that is to say light clothes, but also warm clothes for the night.
Also don’t forget to take comfortable shoes for camel rides or on foot on the dunes. It is also important to bring sun protection products, enough water and medication if needed. Finally, it is advisable to respect the customs and traditions of the local populations, in particular by avoiding taking photos without their authorization.
Finally, to fully enjoy your trip to the desert, be prepared to immerse yourself in the local culture and adapt to the customs and lifestyles of the desert nomads.
Be prepared for extreme temperatures: The days can be very hot and the nights very cold in the desert. Be sure to bring appropriate clothing to protect you from the sun and to keep you warm at night.
Protect your skin and eyes: The sun can be very intense in the desert. We recommend that you bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself.
The culture of the desert nomads
A desert experience is also a unique opportunity to experience the fascinating culture of the desert nomads. The latter have lived in the desert for centuries, adapting their way of life to the extreme conditions of the environment. Desert nomads are known for their legendary hospitality, traditional music and desert survival techniques. They also have a unique skill in producing handicrafts, such as carpets, jewelry, and camel wool clothing. During your excursion, you will have the opportunity to discover the culture of the desert nomads by visiting their camps, interacting with them and learning about their way of life. This will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the desert experience and better understand this unique region.
The Erg Chegaga desert is home to nomadic tribes who live in traditional canvas tents called “khaimas”. You will have the opportunity to discover their way of life and share a friendly moment with them. They will tell you about their traditions, their culture and their way of life in the desert. You will also be able to watch a demonstration of traditional music and dance, as well as the preparation of local dishes, such as the famous tajine, cooked in a traditional earthen oven called “tabouna”. This unique experience will allow you to better understand life in the desert and discover a fascinating and little-known culture.