Setting Realistic Expectations for Desert Exploration
One of the regular questions we have about our Marrakech Desert Tour is how long it takes to get to the desert from Marrakech. This is really important as many people think that the desert is just outside the city. Although there is an area called the Agafay Desert just 30 minutes away, this is a rocky area and not the magical Saharan dunes at Merzouga, Erg Chebbi or at M’hamid out to Erg Chegaga. Our favourite desert area is the fantastic off-road drive out to Erg Chigaga from the nomadic town of M’hamid El Ghizlane where you are going off the beaten track to meet your camels to trek into the tall and impressive secluded dunes area.
Unveiling the Drive Duration to Erg Chebbi and Erg Chegaga
So, the drive to both Erg Chebbi and Erg Chegaga is 7.5 hours direct and can be done in one day with plenty of stops for drinks, lunch and to admire the stunning scenery. You will drive through the High Atlas peaks and down to the Draa Valley filled with thousands of date palms. This is the ancient caravan route that was taken by the spice traders and many who made their way from Africa, through the Sahara and North to Marrakech. The road is continuously being updated and is now better than ever which makes the drive much more pleasant.
Tailoring Your Desert Experience
Many people like to break up their journey either on the way to the desert, on the way back or in both directions. So, our Marrakech Desert Tours can run from 2 days up to 4 days or longer if you want to add in extra locations. The ancient Kasbahs of Telouet and Ait Ben Haddou can be visited en route and our hotels are carefully selected for their comfort and lovely pools, to relax after the drive.
Visit us at Moroccan Journeys to find out more about all of the options.
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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 Marrakech & Sahara Holiday
7 Day Holiday
Indulge in the ultimate Moroccan experience with a luxurious Marrakech & Sahara holiday. This bespoke tour is crafted to showcase the best of Morocco, from the bustling markets of Marrakech to the serene sands of the Sahara. Each leg of the journey is tailored to provide the epitome of comfort, with world-class accommodations and exclusive experiences. Explore the heart of Marrakech with its vibrant culture, exquisite cuisine and awe-inspiring architecture. Then, venture into the Sahara Desert for an unforgettable sunset camel ride and a night under the stars. This is the ultimate luxury escape!
Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Holidays
7 Day Holiday
Experience the ultimate adventure with the Merzouga Tour, a thrilling journey through the picturesque landscapes of Morocco. This tour takes travelers on a once in a lifetime escapade into the heart of the Sahara desert where they’ll have the opportunity to witness the spectacular Merzouga Desert in all its glory. From the charming city of Marrakech, the trip leads visitors through the breathtaking Atlas Mountains, and into the Sahara where they will enjoy a camel ride while taking in the stunning desert views. Overall, the Merzouga Tour is an unforgettable expedition that promises an adventure like no other.
