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3 Days/2 Nights to Erg Chigaga Dunes

Private desert hiking journey with wilderness camping and camel support

This private desert trekking Morocco adventure takes you from Mhamid El Ghizlane into the remote landscapes of Iriqui National Park before returning to Mhamid El Ghizlane. Designed for individuals, couples, families and friends, it combines rewarding walking with wilderness camping and Sahrawi cultural insight. Best from October to April, the trek is supported by a camel caravan, so you do not carry expedition kit. You stay in mobile tents, with an optional fixed camp night at Erg Chigaga dunes (night 3).

2 nights from
€470 pp
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Marrakech Medina
Marrakech Medina
Marrakech Medina
Marrakech Medina

Highlights

Over these three days, you cross open desert landscapes, rest beneath Tamarisk trees, and camp in quiet wilderness settings. Guided by experienced Sahrawi hosts, you experience traditional hospitality, freshly prepared meals, and evenings beneath star-filled skies. The route links Sidi Naji, Erg Zahar, and Erg Chigaga, with opportunities for dune ascents, photography, wildlife observation, and sand-bread baking. Camel support carries equipment throughout, allowing you to focus on walking and enjoying the changing scenery across the Sahara desert.

  • Walk to the heart of Iriqui National Park with camel support.
  • Camp beneath starry skies in remote wilderness locations.
  • Enjoy Sahrawi hospitality and cultural knowledge throughout trek.
  • Climb Erg Zahar dune for memorable sunset views.
  • Reach Erg Chigaga summit for evening photographic opportunities.
  • Explore varied desert biodiversity across remote Sahara landscapes.
  • Enjoy freshly prepared camp meals after rewarding hikes.
  • Optional fixed camp night at Erg Chigaga dunes.

Reviews

Tour Details

SummaryShim

This private desert hiking adventure follows a three-day route from Mhamid El Ghizlane into the heart of Iriqui National Park and back by 4×4. Accompanied by a Sahrawi guide, cook and camel handler, you walk through changing desert scenery while a camel caravan transports camping equipment and supplies. The trek includes two nights of wilderness camping in mobile tents, with an optional third night at a fixed camp at the base of the tallest dune in the Erg Chigaga.

The journey passes through Sidi Naji and Erg Zahar before reaching Erg Chigaga, where you can climb the dunes for unforgettable sunset views and blue hour. Evenings are spent around camp, with fresh meals and opportunity to experience sand-bread baking beneath the night sky. Walking distances are typically 16–20 kilometres per day and dune ascents involve deep sand. Best undertaken between October and April, this trek suits individuals, couples, families and friends seeking a private Sahara experience with a short vehicle transfer component at the end.

ItineraryShim

Day 1 – Sidi Naji
Meet in Mhamid El Ghizlane at 09:00 and begin your trek into the desert crossing the course of the Draa River south-west. You walk for approximately five to six hours towards Sidi Naji, following remote trails through open landscapes. A lunch break is taken in the shade of Tamarisk trees before continuing onward. In the evening, settle into your first wilderness camp and enjoy dinner prepared by the support team.

Day 2 – Erg Zahar
Continue deeper into the Sahara towards the impressive dune region of Erg Zahar. The day involves steady walking across varied desert terrain (low level dunes giving way to a broad plateau) with support from the camel caravan. Later, climb to the summit of Erg Zahar for sunset views and photographic opportunities. After dark, return to camp for dinner and another night of wilderness camping beneath the stars.

Day 3 – Erg Chigaga
Walk for around three hours before transferring by private 4×4 vehicle towards the Erg Chigaga dunes. On arrival, hike to the summit for sunset views across the surrounding expanse of the Sahara. You may either stay overnight at the fixed camp at Erg Chigaga or return by 4×4 to Mhamid El Ghizlane, arriving after approximately 21:00. Optional Day 4 return to Mhamid after breakfast, arriving mid to late morning.

What’s Included?Shim

Your trek includes the essential desert logistics needed for a comfortable private journey. A local support team manages camp life, meals, water and equipment, while camel support reduces what you need to carry. Vehicle transfers connect the route with Erg Chigaga and Mhamid El Ghizlane.

  • Vehicle transfer in the desert to Erg Chigaga dunes (day 3)
  • Vehicle transfer back to Mhamid El Ghizlane (day 3 late or morning of day 4)
  • Accommodation on 2 or 3 nights
  • All meals in the desert
  • Drinking water in the desert
  • English or French speaking guide
  • Cook throughout the trek
  • Camel caravan support
  • Mobile tent accommodation (with blankets and sleeping mat)

Not included:

  • Public transport arrangements to the start point (Mhamid El Ghizlane)
  • Tips for the guiding and support team
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Sleeping bag

Optional extras:

  • Bring binoculars for wildlife and birdlife viewing
  • Bring walking poles if preferred
  • Pack a sleeping bag for added comfort
  • Bring down or fleece layers during winter months

Dates & PricesShim

This trek operates on a private departure basis for individuals, couples, families and friends. Departures are available on demand, subject to guide and support-team availability. October to April offers the most suitable conditions. An optional extension adds a third camping night at Erg Chigaga (fixed camp) before returning to Mhamid by 4×4 the following morning.

From €410 per person (3 days/2 nights) or from Eur €470 per person (4 days/3 nights).

GalleryShim

EnquireShim

Complete the form to enquire. All fields required please*. Alternatively call  +212 679 006 221 or via WhatsApp

FAQsShim

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How is luggage carried during the trek?
You do not need to carry your camping equipment during the trek. A camel caravan accompanies the journey and transports the main kit and supplies. You should still carry personal items needed during the day, such as sun protection and any essential personal belongings.
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What level of fitness is required?
A reasonable level of fitness is recommended. You should expect to walk approximately 16–20 kilometres per day across desert terrain. Some sections involve soft sand, and the climbs to Erg Zahar and Erg Chigaga summits take place on deep dunes, requiring additional effort.
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What meals are provided?
All meals in the desert are included. The support team prepares food throughout the trek, including three-course evening meals featuring soup, tagine, fresh fruit. Lunches comprise fresh salads, with protein. Drinking water is also provided. Please advise any dietary restrictions or allergies before departure so arrangements can be considered.
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What are the camping arrangements?
The standard itinerary includes two nights of wilderness camping in mobile tents. Camping equipment includes blankets, sleeping mats and tents, while you bring your own sleeping bag. If you choose the extension option, the additional night is spent at a fixed camp at the Erg Chigaga dunes.
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When is the best time to do this trek?
The recommended season is from October to April. During this period, daytime walking conditions are generally more comfortable for trekking. Evening and early morning temperatures can be cooler, particularly during winter months, so warmer outer layers such as fleece or down clothing are recommended.
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Is this trek suitable for everyone?
The trek is designed for individuals, couples, families and groups of friends on a private basis. Because of the walking distances, uneven terrain and deep sand on dune ascents, participants should be comfortable with several consecutive days of desert hiking.

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