Overview:

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey into the heart of Morocco’s vast Sahara Desert with our 5-day Erg Chigaga Camel Trekking adventure. Far from the well-trodden tourist trails, this immersive experience takes you deep into the dunes of Erg Chigaga, one of the most remote and authentic corners of the Moroccan Sahara. Starting from the gateway town of M’Hamid, you’ll ride camels across golden sand seas, sleep under star-filled skies, and witness the nomadic lifestyle in its purest form.

Unlike the more frequented Erg Chebbi dunes, Erg Chigaga offers a raw and untamed desert experience, perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and cultural explorers. This trek is not just a desert tour, it’s a soulful journey into Morocco’s most mesmerizing wilderness.

Highlights of the Tour:

• Camel trekking adventure through the untouched dunes of Erg Chigaga

• Overnight stays in authentic Berber desert camps under millions of stars

• Traditional desert cuisine cooked over an open fire and shared with nomads

• Unmatched views of sunrise and sunset over the endless sand dunes

• Live Berber music and storytelling around a campfire

• Visit sacred oasis palm groves and ancient caravan routes

• Disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature and silence

Day 1: M’Hamid – Ras Nkhal – Sidi Naji

Your adventure begins in the frontier town of M’Hamid, the last village before the open Sahara. After meeting your camel caravan and guides, you’ll begin trekking toward the desert. The landscape transitions from sparse palm groves to rolling dunes. Your first stop is Ras Nkhal, where you’ll rest and enjoy lunch. Continue trekking to Sidi Naji, an ancient marabout site (saint’s tomb) surrounded by dunes. Overnight in a desert camp with traditional dinner and Berber music.

Trekking time: ~5 hours
Camp: Nomadic tent at Sidi Naji

Day 2: Sidi Naji – Erg Ait Ounir

Wake up to a majestic desert sunrise and enjoy a hearty breakfast before resuming your journey. Today, the dunes grow higher as you approach Erg Ait Ounir, a scenic region with both rocky and sandy terrain. The route gives a glimpse into ancient nomadic trails and hidden desert flora. Lunch is served under tamarisk trees. Evening brings another unforgettable night of stargazing and silence in the open Sahara.

Trekking time: ~6 hours
Camp: Wild camping at Erg Ait Ounir

Day 3: Erg Ait Ounir – Erg Chigaga

Today is the most anticipated day as you reach the majestic Erg Chigaga dunes, towering up to 300 meters and stretching over 40 kilometers. These are the largest dunes in Morocco and offer an awe-inspiring setting for the evening. Climb the highest dune to watch the sunset and take in panoramic views that stretch to the Algerian border. Dinner and music by the fire cap off an unforgettable day.

Trekking time: ~5 hours
Camp: Fixed desert camp in Erg Chigaga with basic amenities

Day 4: Erg Chigaga – Sacred Oasis – Bougarn Dunes

After breakfast, you leave the high dunes and trek toward the Sacred Oasis (L’Oasis Sacrée), a peaceful natural spring nestled among palm trees. This was a critical stop for old trade caravans. Enjoy lunch in the shade before continuing to Bougarn Dunes, a less-explored section of the desert that offers solitude and serenity. Your final night in the dunes is a time to reflect and absorb the silence of the Sahara.

Trekking time: ~6 hours
Camp: Wild camping in Bougarn Dunes

Day 5: Bougarn Dunes – M’Hamid

The final stretch of your journey takes you through fossil-rich plains and dried riverbeds, slowly re-entering the outer reaches of M’Hamid. Bid farewell to your camel companions and guides. Once back in M’Hamid, you can relax, take a warm shower, and enjoy a proper meal. The adventure may end here, but the memories of your desert trek will last a lifetime.

Trekking time: ~4–5 hours
Accommodation: Optional guesthouse in M’Hamid (not included)