Setting Realistic Expectations for Desert Exploration
One of the regular questions we have about our luxury Marrakech desert tour is how long it takes to get to the Sahara from Marrakech. This is important, as many people think the desert is just outside the city. Although there is an area called the Agafay Desert around 30 minutes away, this is a rocky area rather than the Saharan dunes at Merzouga, Erg Chebbi or M’Hamid towards Erg Chigaga. Our favourite desert area is the off-road drive out to Erg Chigaga from the nomadic town of M’Hamid El Ghizlane, where you leave the main road and continue towards the quieter dunes.
Drive time to Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga
The drive to both Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga is around 7.5 hours direct and can be done in one day with stops for drinks, lunch and scenery. You travel through the High Atlas Mountains and down towards the Drâa Valley, with its long line of date palms and old caravan routes. For a wider choice of routes and trip lengths, see our Sahara desert tours from Marrakech, including classic, luxury and longer private itineraries.
Choosing the right desert tour length
Many people prefer to break up the journey either on the way to the desert, on the way back, or in both directions. Our luxury Sahara desert tour from Marrakech can run from 2 days up to 4 days or longer if you want to add extra locations. The ancient kasbahs of Telouet and Ait Ben Haddou can be visited en route, with carefully chosen hotels used to make the longer journey more comfortable.
To compare routes, dates and journey lengths, browse our Marrakech desert tour options or send us your dates and travel plans through our tour enquiry form.
Written by Moroccan Journeys
Rebecca grew up in Africa and has spent her life travelling and working in the UK and around the world in both the corporate and personal development fields. She is co-founder of Moroccan Journeys with Mohamed Elhaoissi and lives in the UK and Morocco. She believes in the conscious management of business and the importance of personal growth. Rebecca is also a Reiki Master Teacher and runs Intensive Reiki Journeys in the Sahara desert. She spends her free time exploring the untouched parts of Morocco to ensure Moroccan Journeys is eclectic and unique in its offering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can visit ancient Kasbahs like Telouet and Ait Ben Haddou en route to the Sahara. These historic stops add cultural depth to your tour, with comfortable hotels and pools available to relax after exploring these Moroccan landmarks.
Yes, our tours are suitable for all, with private 4×4 transport and expert guides ensuring comfort. The journey can be customised for pace and stops, making it accessible for families or those new to desert travel from Marrakech.
A 2-day tour includes a 7.5-hour drive to Erg Chegaga, a camel trek into the dunes, and an overnight stay in a luxury camp. You’ll experience Berber hospitality, a Moroccan meal, and return to Marrakech, with optional stops at scenic spots.
Yes, the road is continuously updated and now in excellent condition, making the 7.5-hour drive from Marrakech to the Sahara more pleasant. You’ll enjoy a smooth journey through the Atlas Mountains and Draa Valley with comfortable stops.
Yes, you can break up the journey over 2 to 4 days or more, with stops en route or on return. Visit ancient Kasbahs like Telouet and Ait Ben Haddou, and relax in carefully selected hotels with lovely pools after the drive.
The drive features stunning High Atlas Mountain peaks, the lush Draa Valley with thousands of date palms, and the historic caravan route used by spice traders. Stops allow you to admire the scenery and learn about Morocco’s rich cultural heritage along the way.
No, the Agafay Desert, just 30 minutes from Marrakech, is a rocky area, not the sandy Saharan dunes like Erg Chebbi or Erg Chegaga. Our tours focus on the true Sahara, offering a magical desert experience with camel treks and secluded dunes.
The drive from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert, such as Erg Chebbi or Erg Chegaga, takes about 7.5 hours directly, with stops for drinks, lunch, and scenic views. You’ll travel through the High Atlas Mountains and Draa Valley, enjoying an ancient caravan route, though the journey can be tailored to your pace.
Marrakech Desert Holidays
Luxury Sahara Desert Tour Marrakech
Private Sahara Tour
Our Luxury Sahara Desert Tour Marrakech is designed for travellers who want the desert journey arranged with private transport, carefully chosen accommodation and time to break up the route through the High Atlas, kasbah country and the dunes.
Sahara Desert Tours from Marrakech
Private Desert Routes
Compare our Sahara desert tours from Marrakech, including classic desert routes, luxury options, Erg Chigaga and Merzouga itineraries, and longer private trips that can be adapted around your dates and travel style.
