Erg Chegaga Desert Trip: Five-Day Moroccan Adventure from Agadir

Embark on a thrilling five-day Moroccan adventure from Agadir to explore the largest desert in Morocco. Experience off-roading routes, spend a night under the stars in Erg Chegaga, and immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of Morocco.

Duration: 5 days
Cancellation: 3 days learn more
Highlights

Agadir – Ait Baha - Imchguiguiln Granary- Tafraoute :

Ait Baha - Prepare yourself for an unforgettable 5-day offroading adventure starting from Agadir! We will pick you up from your pre-confirmed location and set off to explore the beautiful Ait Baha region. Known for its lush valleys and stunning landscapes, this area is sure to captivate you.

Our journey will then take us to Imchguiguiln Granary, one of the oldest igoudars in the region, built over 750 years ago. Here, we will explore the vast corridor formed by two impressive rows of huts which were used to secure foodstuffs, crops, and even jewels and precious documents. Imchguiguiln Granary is also considered one of the world’s oldest banking systems, established by the Amazigh communities inhabiting the mountains south of Morocco. Our journey will take us through rocky peaks, cliff caves, and oasis granaries, all while experiencing the warm hospitality of the locals.

أكادير امشكيكلن - During our offroading adventure, we will visit the Imchguiguiln granary which is considered one of the oldest “igoudar” in the Ait Baha region. This granary is more than 700 years old and it played an essential role in the history of Morocco as it served as a banking system for the Amazigh tribes inhabiting the mountains of southern Morocco.

As we explore the granary, our guide will introduce us to the history of the granary and the role it played in the banking system of the Amazigh tribes. We will learn about the customs and traditions of the tribe members. This visit is an opportunity to discover the unique culture and history of the Amazigh tribes of Morocco and to understand how they preserved their valuables and goods in these collective Berber granaries. It is a chance to step back in time and appreciate the ingenuity of the ancient Berber banking system that was established in the 1400s and still exists today.

Souss-Massa - Driving from the Souss region to Ida Ouangnidif to Tafraoute rock city is a unique and unforgettable experience. Guests will be able to enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Anti-Atlas Mountains, with its red rock formations and green valleys. The road winds through the mountains, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the views.

As guests approach Ida Ouangnidif, they will be struck by the contrast of the green oasis surrounded by the arid landscape. The village is known for its traditional mud-brick houses and palm groves, which are a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the Berber people.

As guests continue their journey to Tafraoute, they will pass through the Ammeln Valley, with its impressive rock formations and narrow gorges. The road can be winding and steep in places, but the scenery makes it all worthwhile.

Tafraoute - As we arrive in Tafraoute, you will immediately notice the stunning pink granite rock formations that surround the city. We will check into our accommodation for the night, where you can relax and freshen up before heading out to enjoy a delicious dinner as we watch the sunset over the mountains.

The city of Tafraoute is known for its traditional Berber architecture and charming narrow streets. After dinner, you may want to take a stroll through the city and explore the local market where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs.

As the night falls, we will return to our accommodation where you can enjoy a peaceful night’s rest surrounded by the serene mountains and starry sky.

Tafraoute - Ait Mansour Valley - Tata - Tissint - Foum Zguid

Tafraoute - Wake up to a beautiful sunny morning in Tafraoute and enjoy breakfast on the terrace with a view of the blue sky. After breakfast, we will embark on a new adventure and drive towards the famous Painted Rocks site. The Painted Rocks are a collection of boulders that have been decorated with colorful geometric designs by Belgian artist Jean Verame in the 1980s. It is an impressive and unique sight to see and explore.

Next, we will visit the Napoleon Hat mountains, which are named for their distinct shape that resembles the iconic hat worn by the French emperor. The mountains are a popular spot for hiking and exploring, and offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

As our journey continues, we will make our way towards the desertic Oasis of Foum Zguid. Here, we will enjoy a peaceful evening and a delicious dinner, and have the opportunity to rest and relax after a day of adventure.

Vallee d’Ait Mansour - As we leave Tafraoute behind, we embark on a scenic drive towards Ait Mansour valley. The journey takes us through winding roads surrounded by stunning rock formations, and the scenery slowly changes from rugged mountains to lush greenery as we approach the oasis.

Upon arrival at Ait Mansour valley, we take a short walk through the peaceful oasis, surrounded by palm trees and a serene river. The rock formations in the valley are breathtaking, and we take a moment to connect with nature, meditate and simply take in the tranquil surroundings.

The natural beauty of Ait Mansour valley and the peaceful atmosphere provide the perfect opportunity to recharge and reconnect with ourselves. After spending some time in this paradise oasis, we continue our journey towards Tata.

Foum Zguid - After a day filled with adventure and natural wonders, we will arrive at the tranquil town of Foum Zguid. This peaceful and quiet place is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the starry night sky. The stars and moon are very clear in this region, and you can spend some time gazing at the twinkling lights while enjoying the fresh air and peaceful surroundings. We will have an overnight stay in this beautiful town, where you can unwind and recharge for the next day’s journey.

Foum Zguid - Oasis - 3 hours Off Road - Erg Chegaga :

Foum Zguid - As we start our journey from Foum Zguid after sunrise and breakfast, get ready for an unforgettable adventure through the largest real desert of Morocco. Unlike the popular Merzouga desert, this one is untouched by commercialization and truly wild. You’ll experience the authentic desert life, with rare sightings of nomads, gazelles (protected), camels, birds, fenec foxes, and even wild rabbits. The vast expanse of the desert will leave you awestruck, with no buildings or noises in sight, just the endless desert, blue skies, and natural wonders. This trip is highly recommended for those who love adventure and crave to explore off the beaten path. Get ready for an adventure-filled day as we drive off-road through the Oasis of Foum Zguid, and immerse yourself in the rugged, natural beauty of the Moroccan desert.

Erg Chigaga - We will embark on a thrilling 3-hour offroading adventure from the Oasis to the Chegaga dunes. We will make a stop for a picnic lunch outdoors at the stunning Iriki Lac, surrounded by breathtaking views of the desert and its unique ecosystem.

After lunch, we will head towards Chegaga, one of the largest sand dunes in Morocco, which is still a non-touristic area, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the authentic way of traveling and experience the senses of adventure. You will have the chance to see and experience the desert like never before, with its vast open spaces, untouched sand dunes, and unique wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for gazelles, camels, birds, and even the elusive fennec fox and wild rabbits.

Overall, this adventure through the non-touristic desert of Chegaga is perfect for those seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience. With stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and a chance to support the local community.

Erg Chigaga - As we arrive at Erg Chegaga, the largest wild desert of Morocco, we will embark on an unforgettable Dromedary trek to explore the sand dunes and catch the mesmerizing sunset views over the vast desert. Afterward, we will indulge in a delicious dinner and gather around the campfire, where we will enjoy some traditional music and dance under the blanket of stars. This experience will be a unique one, as the campsite is not touristic like Merzouga, making it a special and authentic desert trip that our guests will cherish forever. The serene environment will make for a peaceful and magical night under the clear desert sky.

Erg Chegaga - M’hamid El Ghizlane - Tamegroute - Zagora- Ait Benhaddou:

Erg Chigaga - As the sun rises over the Erg Chegaga dunes, we will enjoy a peaceful breakfast and take some memorable photos. Then, we will hop into our SUV and embark on a thrilling off-roading adventure, driving across the vast desert landscape to the other side of M’hamid Elghizlane. This is a unique and unforgettable experience, offering a chance to witness the true beauty of the desert and feel a sense of freedom and adventure that cannot be found anywhere else. You’ll be surrounded by sand dunes as far as the eye can see, with only a few nomads and their camels dotting the horizon. It’s a real desert trip that you’ll remember for a lifetime.

M’Hamid - As we leave the vast and wild Erg Chegaga, we’ll embark on an adventurous offroading drive to reach M’hamid Elghizlane. This is a unique journey that takes us to the end of the paved route in southeastern Morocco, where the desert meets the palm groves of the Draa Valley. M’hamid is a small and charming village that offers a glimpse into the traditional life of the nomadic tribes who have lived in this region for centuries.

Here, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about their culture and customs, taste traditional food, and see their traditional crafts, such as weaving and pottery. The surrounding landscapes are breathtaking, with towering sand dunes, lush palm groves, and rugged mountains. The village is also the gateway to the Sahara Desert and the starting point of many camel treks and desert expeditions.

This trip to M’hamid Elghizlane is a must for any traveler seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-track experience in Morocco.

Tamegroute - After leaving M’hamid Elghizlane, we will take a scenic drive along the Deraa valley towards Tamegroute village. This beautiful village is renowned for its green pottery, which is made using traditional methods passed down through generations. Upon arrival, we will visit one of the local potteries where we can witness firsthand the art of pottery making.

We will meet local artisans and learn about their techniques, traditions, and history. The pottery is made from a unique mixture of local clay, henna, and water, which gives it its distinct green color. The artisans use a foot-powered potter’s wheel to shape the clay into beautiful pots, plates, and other decorative items.

Aside from pottery, Tamegroute is also known for its beautiful mosque and its historic Zaouia (Islamic school). We will have the opportunity to visit these sites and learn about the rich history and culture of the area.

Zagora - As we make our way back from Tamegroute village towards Agadir, we will take a break in the city of Zagora, known for its fresh and delicious dates. This city is also famous for being a crucial stop on the ancient caravan routes that crossed the Sahara desert.

We will take a stroll through the local market and have a chance to taste some of the local specialties, including date-based dishes, before stopping for a relaxing lunch in a cozy local restaurant. The charming atmosphere of the city and the delicious food will leave us feeling satisfied and refreshed before we continue our journey. Don’t forget to take some pictures to capture the memories of this unforgettable trip!

Agdz - As we leave Zagora, we’ll make a stop in the small town of Agdz for a breathtaking view of the Derra Valley. From here, you can take in the stunning landscape of the valley, with the impressive Jbel Kissane mountain range in the distance. It’s a perfect spot for some memorable photos that you’ll cherish for a long time.

Ait Ben Haddou - After our stop at the Agdz overlook, we will continue our journey towards the stunning Ait Benhaddou village, where we will spend the night. Ait Benhaddou is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous ksar (fortified village) in Morocco. This ancient village has been used as a backdrop for numerous movies and TV shows, including Game of Thrones, Gladiator, and Lawrence of Arabia.

As we arrive in Ait Benhaddou, we will be greeted by the sight of its magnificent kasbahs (fortresses), which are built entirely of mud and straw. We will explore the narrow alleys of the village and witness the beautiful traditional Moroccan architecture. The sunset view from the top of the kasbah is a must-see and we will enjoy a delicious dinner and overnight sleep.

Ait Benhaddou - Gaz Heaven - Taliouine - Agadir

Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou - A new day and after enjoying your breakfast, we will embark on an exciting adventure to discover the Ksar of Ait Benhaddou.

We will start our journey after the sunset over the salt river and take a leisurely one-hour walk to explore the Ksar, which is a fortified village made of earthen buildings. You will be amazed by the intricate architecture of the earthen buildings that have been standing for centuries. You will have the chance to learn about the history of the Ksar and its significance in Moroccan culture. Additionally, Ait Benhaddou has been featured in several movies, including “Gladiator,” “The Mummy,” and “Game of Thrones,” and you will get to see the spots where these movies were filmed. Our trip from Ait Benhaddou to Agadir will be a fantastic experience that will allow you to appreciate the unique beauty of Moroccan architecture and culture while enjoying the stunning natural landscapes of this incredible country.

Ouarzazate - We will make a stop at Gas Haven, the unique and eerie abandoned gas station that was featured in the horror movie “The Hills Have Eyes.” This stop will provide you with an opportunity to take some photos and immerse yourself in the surreal atmosphere of the location. It’s a great chance to capture some memorable shots and experience a slice of American horror movie culture in Morocco.

Tazenakht - If you’re interested, we can also make a stop in Taznakht, which is a small town known for its traditional Moroccan rugs. These rugs are made using a unique technique that has been passed down from generation to generation. The Taznakht carpets are known for their bright and vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and durability. The rugs are made using high-quality wool and are handwoven by skilled artisans, making them a true work of art. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, Taznakht rugs are also functional and can be used as floor coverings, wall hangings, or even as decorative pieces. So, if you’re interested in purchasing a locally-made Moroccan rug, Taznakht is definitely worth a visit!

Taliouine - On our journey, we can make a stop in Taliouine, a town that is famous for its high-quality saffron. Saffron is a spice that is commonly used in Moroccan cuisine and is known for its unique flavor and bright color. Taliouine is the first quality place in Morocco for saffron, and you can find an abundance of the spice there. The town is situated in a beautiful area surrounded by mountains, and the locals are welcoming and friendly. You can learn more about the history and cultivation of saffron in the area, and you can also purchase some high-quality saffron to take home with you. So, if you’re interested in experiencing the unique flavor and color of Moroccan saffron, Taliouine is definitely worth a stop on our journey.

Agadir - After lunch, we will continue on to Agadir, where our 5-day/4-night adventure trip will come to an end. We will drop you off at any point of your choice around Agadir and Tazazout Beach. We hope that you have enjoyed your time exploring the Draa-Tafilalet region with us and that you have made many unforgettable memories along the way. If you have any questions or need any further assistance, please do not hesitate to ask. It has been our pleasure to share the beauty and culture of Morocco with you, and we hope to see you again soon!

What's Included
  • Lifetime desert trip Experience
  • Private transportation
  • On-board WiFi
  • Camel ride
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Guided Tour & Entrance Fees
  • In-vehicle air conditioning
  • Breakfast
  • 04 Nights Accommodation (3-4 stars)
  • Local community support
What's Not Included
  • Tips
Additional Information

This 5-day / 4-night voyage of adventure is intricately curated for those who seek genuine thrill and wish to traverse the vast desert in Morocco. The journey kicks off from Agadir and offers explorations of an ancient Granary, Oasis, and off-beat paths throughout the expansive desert, culminating with an evening under the Erg Chegaga stars.

What sets this expedition apart is the untamed ambiance of the desert, as we navigate it using SUVs from East to West, far removed from the typical tourist spots and routes. This provides a contrasting experience to the renowned Merzouga desert.

Our aim is to offer a holistic and enlightening experience to our guests, not just adrenaline-fueled escapades but also an insight into the heart of Moroccan culture and traditions. We aspire to make your holiday more than just exhilarating, we aim to make it educative and unforgettable.

Location
Agadir
Cancellation Policy

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

Select Date and Tickets
up to 15 guests
1 Adult
October 2024
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