Morocco Desert Trips: what is the Best Desert to Visit?

on May 08, 2024

Traveling to the desert in Morocco is a must-do. Whether you're with family, friends, or alone, the unique landscapes and vast sand dunes promise an unforgettable journey. We offer various desert trips in Marrakech filled with stunning views. You can drive yourself for an adventurous road trip or use our chauffeur service for a more relaxed experience. Enjoy the beauty of the desert and embark on an exciting adventure.

Morocco desert trips

Understanding the Deserts of Morocco

When we think of deserts, we usually picture huge sand dunes. But in Morocco, deserts have more than just sand. Besides sandy areas, there are also rocky parts that look like the moon. The Sahara, the world's biggest hot desert, has two different terrains.

Hammada 

A hammada is a rocky desert landscape that's almost completely free of sand. Instead of the soft sand dunes, travelers might picture visiting on their desert trips, a hammada is full of sharp rocks and pebbles, giving it a rugged and dramatic appearance. It's formed over time through erosion, leaving behind an intriguing, rocky desert that feels ancient and untouched. If you’re drawn to raw, untamed beauty, the hammada is sure to fascinate you.

Erg 

An erg is the classic desert landscape travelers might imagine going to while booking their desert trips (sand seas), where massive sand dunes stretch endlessly in every direction. Morocco's famous ergs, like Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga, feature towering dunes shaped by the wind, making them perfect for those who want to explore this stunning sea of sand. Here, you can trek with camels, camp under the stars, or even try sandboarding down the dunes. If you're looking for adventure or simply the peaceful beauty of the desert, the erg is a must-see.

How many Deserts are in Morocco?

Agafay Desert

Agafay Morocco desert trips

What is so special about Agafay desert?

Just an hour from Marrakech, the Agafay Desert is a special place with a different desert feel than sandy dunes. It's a peaceful spot on a rocky plateau, perfect for a calm desert adventure. Visitors can enjoy fun activities there. This is a great substitute for travelers who are short on time and dream of going on desert trips.

What can you do in Agafay desert?

Riding camels is a part of the journey in the Agafay desert. It is a chill and fun way to explore. If you're up for more excitement, try quad tours to speed through the rugged terrain and see amazing views. You can also canoe at the Lalla Takerkoust reservoir for a peaceful time surrounded by beautiful desert views.

In the evening, the Agafay Desert becomes magical with lots of stars. Stargazing here is amazing because you can see the universe without city lights. Even though it doesn't have big sand dunes, it's a cool place for a special desert adventure near Marrakech.

Zagora Desert

Morocco desert trips Zogora 2-day trip

The Zagora Desert, located about 355 kilometers from Marrakech, can be reached by a 6-hour drive. Despite its rocky Hammada landscape, this desert provides a unique and captivating experience suitable for a brief 2-day journey, perfect for those with limited time.

What to do and see in a Zagora desert trip?

Traveling to Zagora Desert lets you visit Kasbah Aït Benhaddou, a famous spot seen in many movies. The journey takes you through Drâa Valley to Zagora, passing ancient forts and villages. The valley is known for its palm groves, Berber villages, and beautiful oases. This drive shows Morocco's traditional life blending with nature in a cool way.

When you get to Zagora, you'll find a calm desert with rocky land and some sand dunes. The peaceful views help you feel relaxed and forget about city life. Sleeping under the stars in a Berber camp is a special chance to see the beautiful desert night sky with its bright stars.

In addition to exploring the natural beauty of the Zagora Desert, visitors can also partake in various activities such as camel rides, quad biking adventures, and guided tours to discover the hidden gems of the desert and Drâa Valley. Whether you are seeking relaxation amidst nature or an adventure-filled escapade, Zagora Desert trips promise to cater to all preferences and create lasting memories for every traveler.

Erg Chegaga

Erg Chigaga Morocco desert trips

Erg Chegaga Desert is a must-see spot for those looking for a real adventure in Morocco. It is the biggest dune field in the country, offering a stunning view that goes on for miles. Situated around 9 hours to the southeast of Marrakech, getting to this remote desert paradise is an adventure itself.

What’s unique about Erg Chegaga desert ?

Leaving the busy city behind and entering the vast desert area highlights the need for a reliable 4x4 vehicle. The shift from smooth roads to rough terrain is an exciting part of the journey, giving a taste of what's to come. Moving through the rocky Hammada landscape, you'll see the change in scenery from rocks to soft, moving sands. Suddenly, you're surrounded by tall sand dunes that seem to go on forever into the distance.

Exploring Erg Chegaga on a guided trip allows you to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Moroccan landscapes. You'll have the opportunity to witness stunning sunsets over the dunes, camp under a blanket of stars, and experience the tranquility of the desert night.

Whether you're an avid photographer, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique travel experience, Erg Chegaga trip promises to captivate your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories of Morocco's natural beauty.

Erg Chebbi Desert

Quadbiking in Morocco desert trips Merzouga

Erg Chebbi Desert is a must-visit destination in Morocco, known for its stunning beauty and unique experiences. Situated near the town of Merzouga, this desert is approximately a 10-hour drive from Marrakech, making it a perfect stop for travelers looking to explore the enchanting Sahara region.

What to do and see in Erg Chebbi Desert?

The grand dunes of Erg Chebbi are a sight to behold, with some towering as high as 150 meters, providing an awe-inspiring backdrop for unforgettable adventures. One of the highlights of visiting Erg Chebbi is the opportunity to witness the Kasbah of Ait Ben Hadou along the way. This ancient fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a glimpse into Morocco's rich history and architectural heritage.

Additionally, travelers can marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of Dades Gorges, characterized by dramatic rock formations and lush palm groves that create a picturesque setting for memorable photo opportunities. For those seeking authentic desert trips, spending a night in a traditional tent is highly recommended. This allows visitors to immerse themselves in the magic of Erg Chebbi, surrounded by the tranquility of the desert under a blanket of stars.

The traditional Berber hospitality adds a touch of cultural authenticity to the experience, as guests can enjoy local cuisine, music, and storytelling around a campfire. Whether you're an adventure seeker looking to explore the vast sand dunes or a nature enthusiast eager to discover the diverse landscapes of Morocco, Erg Chebbi Desert offers something for everyone. From camel treks across the golden sands to sunset views that will take your breath away, this desert jewel promises an unforgettable journey filled with wonder and discovery.

Which desert is best to visit?

After exploring the different types of deserts that Morocco offers, you might feel overwhelmed or torn. Which Morocco desert trips should I pick? It is understandable! It's tough to declare a definitive winner because each trip has its unique appeal.

  • The Erg Chebbi desert, passing by the Dades gorges, known for its iconic golden sand Dunes, perfect for those seeking the classic Saharan experience. If you have 3 days to spare, it might be an ideal journey for an ultimate desert experience.
  • The more remote Erg Chigaga desert offers a wild adventure for those who love authenticity and less-traveled paths. But to go on this unique journey, one would need 4 days.
  • The Zagora Desert is closer to Marrakech than the dunes of Erg Chebbi or Erg Chigaga, making it a convenient option for travelers with limited time. This desert journey takes 2 days. The visit to Ait ben Haddou and Drâa valley further enhances its appeal.
  • Meanwhile, the Agafay Desert, near Marrakech, provides a quick and convenient desert experience without a long journey. You can spend half a day or the night there. This is the perfect option if you don’t have multiple days to spare.

No need to feel the pressure!

Ultimately, the best Morocco desert trips depend on your interests, expectations, and how much time you have. Morocco’s variety of deserts means there's something for everyone. Each offers an unforgettable journey. We're here to walk you through your choices and help you make the most of your time in Morocco. Embark on your Morocco desert trips with us and create memories that will last a lifetime!

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