A 3-day, 2-night itinerary from Ouarzazate to the Erg Chigaga sand dunes offers a fantastic adventure through Morocco’s diverse landscapes. Including ancient kasbahs, lush oases, and the breathtaking Sahara. Below is a suggested itinerary(Ouarzazate to Erg Chigaga):
Day 1: Ouarzazate to M’Hamid
Distance: ~260 km (6-7 hours drive)
- Morning:
- Depart Ouarzazate early.
- Visit Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous kasbahs in Morocco.
- Continue to Agdz, a charming town at the foothills of the Jebel Saghro mountains.
- Explore the Draa Valley, with its scenic palm groves and ancient kasbahs.
- Afternoon:
- Stop for lunch in Zagora, known as the gateway to the desert.
- Visit the Tamegroute village to see its ancient Koranic library and traditional pottery workshops.
- Evening:
- Arrive in M’Hamid, the last town before the desert.
- Spend the night in a traditional guesthouse or desert camp.
Day 2: M’Hamid to Erg Chigaga
Distance: ~60 km (off-road, 2-3 hours by 4×4)
- Morning:
- Enjoy a hearty breakfast.
- Begin your 4×4 journey into the Sahara Desert, passing through arid landscapes and remote Berber villages.
- Stop at Sacred Oasis (Erg Lihoudi) for a short break.
- Afternoon:
- Arrive at Erg Chigaga, Morocco’s largest sand dune field.
- Have lunch at the desert camp and relax.
- Evening:
- Experience a camel ride through the dunes during sunset.
- Savor a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars.
- Enjoy Berber music and storytelling around the campfire.
- Overnight in a luxury or standard desert camp.
Day 3: Erg Chigaga to Ouarzazate
Distance: ~350 km (7-8 hours drive)
- Morning:
- Wake up early to witness the sunrise over the dunes.
- Have breakfast at the camp.
- Begin your journey back via Foum Zguid, passing Lake Iriki and its dried lakebed, a stunning natural phenomenon.
- Afternoon:
- Stop for lunch en route and take breaks to explore any additional sights.
Continue back to Ouarzazate