5-Day Sahara Trekking Experience in Erg Chegaga Dunes

This 5-day Sahara desert trekking tour from Ouarzazate to Erg Chegaga and back offers a deep and authentic immersion into the Moroccan Sahara. Designed for travelers who value slow travel, nature, and cultural connection, the journey combines camel-supported trekking, remote desert landscapes, and nights under the stars far from mass tourism.

Guided by experienced local nomads, you will walk through stone plains, sandy corridors, and towering dunes as you approach the spectacular Erg Chegaga, Morocco’s largest and wildest dune system. Each day is paced for comfort, allowing time for photography, reflection, and wildlife observation. Traditional nomad camps, freshly prepared meals, and the profound silence of the desert create a meaningful and eco-friendly adventure. This tour is ideal for trekking lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a true Sahara experience beyond classic 4×4 desert tours.

Sahara trekking with local nomads – Camel-supported desert walk – Erg Chegaga deep desert experience – Eco-friendly & slow travel – Ideal for trekking lovers, photographers & nature travelers

Guided desert trekking with local nomads and camel support – Scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains and Draa Valley.

Day 1: Ouarzazate – Draa Valley – M’Hamid – Start of Desert Trek

Depart Ouarzazate in the morning and drive south through the beautiful Draa Valley, famous for its palm groves, ancient kasbahs, and traditional villages. Arrive in M’Hamid, the last village before the deep Sahara. Meet your local nomad team and camel caravan. Begin a gentle walk into the desert, allowing time to adapt to the trekking rhythm and desert environment.

Dinner and overnight in a traditional nomad bivouac under the stars.

Day 2: Sahara Trekking – Hamada & Small Dunes

After breakfast, continue trekking deeper into the Sahara with your nomad guide. Walk across hamada (stone desert), sandy corridors, and small dunes, experiencing the silence and vast open spaces of the desert. Lunch is served in the shade of an acacia tree. In the afternoon, continue walking toward a quiet dune area.

Enjoy sunset views and a peaceful night in a wild desert camp.

Day 3: Desert Trek to Erg Chegaga – High Dunes

Today you trek toward the impressive dunes of Erg Chegaga, the largest and most remote dune system in Morocco. The dunes grow higher and the landscape becomes more dramatic and photogenic. Climb a dune for panoramic views over the Sahara and enjoy free time to relax, meditate, or take photos.

In the evening, enjoy a special dinner and traditional atmosphere at camp near the dunes.

Day 4: Erg Chegaga – Deep Sahara Trekking

A full day dedicated to exploring the Erg Chegaga region on foot. Trek across vast dunes and open desert plains, guided by nomads who share their knowledge of desert life, navigation, and survival. Lunch in the desert, followed by a relaxed afternoon walk.

Enjoy your final night in the Sahara, watching the stars and embracing the deep silence of the desert.

Day 5: Erg Chegaga – Lake Iriki – Ouarzazate

Wake early to watch the sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, leave the desert by 4×4 vehicle, crossing the vast dry lake of Lake Iriki and remote desert tracks. Continue through the Draa Valley back to Ouarzazate, arriving in the late afternoon. End of your unforgettable Sahara trekking adventure.

Includes & Excludes

What’s Included

  • Private transportation from and back to Ouarzazate

  • 4×4 vehicle for desert access and return via Lake Iriki

  • Experienced local nomad trekking guide

  • Camel caravan for luggage, food, and camping equipment

  • Guided Sahara desert trekking experience in the Erg Chegaga region

  • 4 nights in traditional nomad bivouacs (desert camps)

  • All meals during the trekking days (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

  • Freshly prepared traditional Moroccan meals in the desert

  • Camping equipment (tents, mattresses, blankets)

  • Mineral water during trekking days

  • Nomad support team and full logistics

  • Traditional Berber tea & desert bread experience

What’s Not Included

  • Flights to and from Morocco

  • Drinks and personal expenses

  • Travel insurance

  • Tips for nomad guides and camel drivers

Start Your Journey Today

Ready to explore the beauty of Morocco? Book your tour now and allow our expert team to take care of every step of your journey.

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Moroccan Nomad Tours

FAQs – Ouarzazate to Erg Chegaga Desert Trekking Tour

Is this desert trekking tour suitable for beginners?

Yes. This Sahara trekking tour is suitable for beginners with a reasonable level of fitness. Walking distances are moderate, and the pace is relaxed, with plenty of breaks. No technical hiking experience is required.

How many hours do we walk each day?

You will walk approximately 3 to 5 hours per day, depending on terrain and group pace. The itinerary can be adjusted to shorter or longer walks if needed.

Do camels carry our luggage during the trek?

Yes. A camel caravan carries your main luggage, food, and camping equipment. You only carry a small daypack with water, sunscreen, and personal items.

Where do we sleep during the trek?

You will sleep in traditional nomad desert camps (bivouacs). Tents, mattresses, and blankets are provided. Sleeping under the stars is also possible if weather conditions allow.

What kind of food is served during the trek?

All meals are freshly prepared by the nomad team and include traditional Moroccan dishes, such as tagines, salads, soup, fresh bread, fruits, and tea. Special dietary requests can be accommodated in advance.

Is this trekking tour private or shared?

This is a private trekking tour, organized exclusively for you or your group. Dates, walking pace, and services can be fully customized.

What should I bring for the desert trek?

We recommend comfortable hiking shoes, light breathable clothing, a warm layer for evenings, sun protection, a reusable water bottle, and a sleeping bag. A full packing list can be provided after booking.