Sun Rythem
6 DAYS DESERT TREKKING TO ERG ZAHAR
Marrakech to Erg Zahar Desert Trek
6 Days to Erg Zahar Sahara Desert. The Desert Hike in Morocco is a walk in the big dunes of southern Morocco with a professional nomadic guide and camel drivers. A camel caravan carries the luggage.
The fascination of desert immensities, an unusual encounter with nomads, study, and observation of animal and plant life, relaxation, silence, and total forgetfulness of civilization and the modern world in absolute calm in the heart of the great desert of the Moroccan Sahara, at sunrise and unforgettable sunsets.
During the hike, you live according to the rhythm and the intensity of the sun, everyone advances at his pace accompanied by the camel drivers. Before each stage departure, they gather the camels, who have fed on desert shrubs during the night, collect the wood for the fire, prepare the tea, and make the bread baked in the sand. You sleep under the stars, under tents. You will taste the Moroccan cuisine prepared by the camel drivers.
6 Days Desert Trek From Marrakech Highlights
- Traverse the rugged terrain and breathtaking vistas of the Atlas Mountains on your scenic drive from Marrakech to the Mhamid Desert.
- Embark on a camel trek into the Sahara from Mhamid, winding through towering dunes and golden sands for a truly immersive desert experience.
- Spend nights under the starry desert sky in traditional Berber desert camps, enjoying Moroccan cuisine and cultural performances around a crackling campfire.
- Witness the awe-inspiring beauty of sunrise and sunset over the Sahara, as the desert landscape is bathed in hues of orange, pink, and gold.
- Explore hidden desert oases and lush palm groves, offering moments of tranquility and refreshment amidst the arid desert landscape.
- Engage in cultural exchanges with local nomadic tribes, gaining insights into their traditional way of life and enriching your understanding of desert culture and heritage.
6 Days Desert Trekking From Marrakech Itinerary
Day 1: Departing early from your accommodation in Marrakech, venture through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tichka Pass, the highest road pass in Morocco, treating you to panoramic views of valleys, Berber villages, and striking landscapes. En route, explore renowned kasbahs such as Tamnougalte and the UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou, a picturesque 16th-century site favored by Hollywood. Continue through the palm-lined Draa river valley to Zagora, the date capital, before arriving at Mhamid, the gateway to the Sahara. Enjoy dinner and overnight camping in a Nomadic standard camp.
Day 2: After breakfast in the camp, commence the trek from Mhamid accompanied by your guide and camel caravan, traversing the Sahara Desert towards the Palm Grove. Indulge in tea and lunch amidst the shade of Tamaris trees before journeying to the sanctuary of Sidi Naji, steeped in local history. Settle into the bivouac at the foot of sand dunes for the night.
Day 3: Depart from Sidi Naji toward Erg Zahar, the third-largest dune in Mhamid, with a four-hour trek through a mix of plateau and sandy terrain. Afternoon lunch under Tamarist shade precedes an onward journey to Erg Zahar, where you’ll witness a breathtaking sunset over the dunes, glimpse the Algerian border, and partake in making sandbread and tajin.
Day 4: From Erg Zahar, head to Kraat Jamal via Lahdybat, a route lined with tamarisk trees, for a lunch stop amidst the Daraa Valley. Spend the night in a desert locale teeming with wild camels.
Day 5: Embark on the return trek to Mhamid, a three-hour journey culminating in a refreshing shower, lunch, and overnight stay.
Day 6: Begin the journey back to Marrakech, retracing your steps through the Atlas Mountains, with an anticipated late afternoon arrival at your Marrakech accommodation.
6 Days Desert Trek From Marrakech
Included
- Round-trip transport from Marrakech/MHAMID
- Pick up from your Marrakech hotel / Riad.
- 5-night accommodation half-board
- Guide/cook and camel drivers (local guides)
- Drop off at your Marrakech hotel or the closest accessible
- location to your riad if not car accessible.
- Camels for children
- Tourist promotion tax, and tourist tax
Not Included
- Tips
- Lunch and meals during Marrakech-Mhamid transfers
6-Day Desert Trek Frequent asked Questions
What is included in the trek package?
Our 6-day desert trek package includes accommodation in traditional desert camps, meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), experienced guides, camel caravan support, and transportation from Marrakech to the starting point of the trek.
What should I pack for the trek?
Essential items to pack include comfortable hiking clothes, sturdy walking shoes, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, a refillable water bottle, personal toiletries, and a small backpack for day trips. Additionally, a sleeping bag and warm layers are recommended for nights in the desert.
What is the level of difficulty for the trek?
The trek involves moderate levels of physical activity, including walking for several hours each day over varying terrain. Participants should have a reasonable level of fitness and be prepared for hiking in desert conditions.
Are there age restrictions for the trek?
While there are no strict age restrictions, participants should be in good health and capable of walking for extended periods. Children under the age of 5 will have extra camel for ride.
Is it safe to trek in the desert?
Our experienced guides are knowledgeable about the desert terrain and prioritize the safety of all participants. We provide support throughout the trek, including assistance with navigation, first aid, and emergency communication..
- What is the accommodation like during the trek? Accommodation is provided in traditional Berber-style desert camps, featuring comfortable tents with bedding provided. While basic, the camps offer a unique opportunity to experience the tranquility and beauty of the desert night sky.
Are vegetarian/vegan options available for meals?
Yes, we can accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions with advance notice. Our experienced chefs prepare delicious Moroccan cuisine using fresh ingredients, including vegetarian and vegan options.
Can I customize the trek itinerary?
While our 6-day trek itinerary offers a comprehensive desert experience, we can accommodate requests for customizations or extensions to the itinerary. Please contact our team to discuss your preferences and requirements.