Private Safari 4 Days From Marrakech to Erg Chigag Desert

Setting out on a private 4-day safari from Marrakech to the stunning Erg Chigaga Desert is a journey that offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and culture. Traversing the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi-N-Tichka pass, you’ll have the chance to experience the rich heritage of the region by visiting local Kasbahs and women’s cooperatives. But the real highlight of this expedition lies in the serene beauty of the Sahara, where an overnight stay in a desert camp and the mesmerizing sunrise over the dunes promise an unforgettable experience. As you delve deeper into this captivating itinerary, the true allure of this private safari begins to unfold.

Good To Know

• Explore the stunning High Atlas Mountains and Sahara Desert on a 4-day private safari from Marrakech, including visits to Ait Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate, and the Erg Chigaga dunes.

• Experience Berber culture firsthand by visiting a nomadic family, observing traditional handicrafts, and staying in a desert camp to stargaze under the night sky.

• Witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Erg Chigaga dunes and discover the unique Iriki Lake, a seasonal salt lake that appears after heavy rains.

• Explore the world of filmmaking by touring the Atlas Corporation film studios in Ouarzazate, where iconic movies like Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator were shot.

• Enjoy comfortable accommodations, including a Riad in Dades Valley and a desert camp at Erg Chigaga, with meals tailored to your dietary preferences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Marrakech to Dades Valley

The journey from Marrakech to Dades Valley begins with a scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi-N-Tichka pass, reaching an impressive elevation of 2,260 meters.

Along the way, visitors will stop at a local Kasbah and a women’s cooperative to learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The next destination is the iconic Ait Ben Haddou, a well-preserved fortified city and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Continuing on, the tour makes its way to Ouarzazate, known as the "door of the desert," before arriving in the beautiful Dades Valley, where guests will spend the night.

Exploring Saghro Mountains

On the second day, travelers venture into the rugged Saghro Mountains. They explore this remote region, visiting a nomadic family and learning about their traditional way of life. The terrain is harsh yet breathtaking, with towering peaks and winding valleys.

Feature	Description
Landscape	Dramatic, rocky landscapes dotted with scattered shrubs and sparse vegetation
Culture	Rich nomadic culture, with families living in portable tents and herding livestock
Activities	Hiking, interacting with locals, gaining insights into traditional Berber life
Wildlife	Chance to spot various desert-adapted animals, like Barbary sheep and raptors
Challenges	Extreme temperatures, limited infrastructure, and remoteness of the region

The day culminates with an overnight stay in the desert camp, where travelers can gaze at the star-filled sky and enjoy the tranquility of this captivating landscape.

Sunrise at Erg Chigaga

Early risers awaken to the magnificent sight of the Erg Chigaga dunes bathed in the warm glow of the rising sun.

They’re treated to a breathtaking display as the sun’s rays dance across the undulating sand, casting long shadows and highlighting the dunes’ mesmerizing shapes.

This is the perfect time to capture stunning photographs or simply bask in the serene tranquility of the desert.

After a hearty breakfast in the camp, guests will have the opportunity to explore the surrounding landscapes, discovering the old Paris-Dakar rally route and crossing the Iriki lake before continuing their journey towards the Anti Atlas mountains.

Discovering Iriki Lake

After leaving the Erg Chigaga dunes, guests will discover the Iriki Lake, an ephemeral salt lake located along the old Paris-Dakar rally route.

The guide will explain how this vast, shimmering expanse of salt only appears after heavy rains, creating a striking contrast against the surrounding desert landscape.

Guests will have the chance to walk across the cracked, crystalline surface, leaving their footprints behind.

The journey continues as the vehicle traverses the dry riverbed, crossing the Iriki Lake before ascending into the Anti Atlas mountains, offering panoramic views of the arid, rugged terrain.

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Film Studios in Ouarzazate

The journey continues as the vehicle ascends into the Anti Atlas mountains, offering panoramic views of the arid, rugged terrain.

The tour makes a stop at the Atlas Corporation film studios in Ouarzazate. This major production hub has been the backdrop for many famous movies, including Lawrence of Arabia, The Mummy, and Gladiator. Visitors can explore the sets and learn about the filmmaking process.

After the studio tour, the group continues their drive through the Ounila Valley, enjoying the dramatic landscapes before reaching the High Atlas mountains and arriving back in Marrakech, concluding the 4-day private safari adventure.

Traversing the High Atlas

The scenic drive through the High Atlas mountains takes the group along Tizi-N-Tichka pass, reaching an elevation of 2,260 meters.

Along the way, they’ll visit:

• A local Kasbah, an ancient fortress-like structure
• A women’s cooperative, where they can see traditional handicrafts being made
• The UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, a well-preserved kasbah
• The film studios in Ouarzazate, where many famous movies have been shot
• The Dades Valley, known for its dramatic rock formations and green oases

This journey through the rugged High Atlas provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes of Morocco.

Accommodations and Meals

Spanning the 4-day adventure, travelers are treated to a variety of accommodations and meals.

The first night is spent in the Dades Valley, where guests enjoy dinner and breakfast at a local Riad.

The second night immerses them in the desert experience, as they spend the night at a camp amid the Erg Chigaga dunes, complete with a campfire and stargazing.

The final night is in Ouarzazate, where another Riad provides dinner and breakfast.

Throughout the tour, one lunch is included during the 4×4 exploration.

Vegetarian and Halal options are available upon request, ensuring all dietary needs are catered to.

Preparing for the Safari

Preparing for the safari requires a few key considerations to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Firstly, it’s essential to pack appropriate clothing and footwear, such as:

• Lightweight, breathable layers
• Comfortable walking shoes or boots
• Sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen

Secondly, be sure to bring any necessary personal items, including:

• Medications and basic first-aid supplies
• Water and snacks to stay hydrated and fueled
• Camera and chargers to capture the stunning landscapes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Modify the Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, the itinerary can be modified to visit additional sites. Travelers should discuss their preferences with the tour operator, who can customize the tour to include extra stops within the overall duration.

What Is the Minimum Group Size for a Private Tour?

This is a private tour, so there’s no minimum group size. You can book the tour for just yourself or your group of any size. The tour can be customized to include additional sites as requested.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children on the Tour?

The tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year or elderly over 70 years. However, it doesn’t mention any specific age restrictions for children. It’s advisable to check with the tour operator for their policies regarding children.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration Beyond 4 Days?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended beyond 4 days. Travelers can customize the itinerary to fit their preferences and schedule. Additional days would incur extra costs based on the extended activities and accommodations required.

What Is the Policy for Single Travelers Joining the Tour?

Single travelers can join the tour. However, there’s no single supplement fee, so they’ll have to share a room or desert camp with other solo participants. The tour operator can assist with matching single travelers.

The Sum Up

This private 4-day safari from Marrakech to the Erg Chigaga Desert offers a captivating blend of natural wonders, culture, and luxury experiences. Traverse the High Atlas Mountains, explore UNESCO heritage sites, witness the mesmerizing Saharan sunrise, and enjoy authentic accommodations. It’s an unforgettable journey that showcases the diverse beauty and rich heritage of Morocco’s stunning southern regions.

You can check availability for your dates here: