New Year Sahara Adventure to Erg Chigaga
5-day private New Year journey from Marrakech to the wild dunes of Erg Chigaga via the High Atlas, ancient kasbahs, Anti-Atlas landscapes, and the Draa Valley. Includes New Year’s Eve celebration in the desert.
Journey Highlights
- Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2260m)
- Kasbah Telouet & Ounila Valley
- Ait Ben Haddou guided visit
- Off-road adventure to Erg Chigaga dunes
- New Year’s Eve celebration in the Sahara
- Camel trek & sandboarding
- Draa Valley & Tamegroute pottery
Day by Day
Day 1: Marrakech – Tizi n’Tichka – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate
Departure at 9:30 am from Marrakech. Cross the High Atlas via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Visit Kasbah Telouet and travel through the scenic Ounila Valley. Guided visit of Ait Ben Haddou before continuing to Ouarzazate. Approx. 4 hours drive.
Day 2: Ouarzazate – Taznakht – Foum Zguid – Erg Chigaga
Travel through the Anti-Atlas Mountains to Taznakht, known for handmade carpets. Continue to Foum Zguid, then drive off-road across dry riverbeds and Lake Iriqui to reach Erg Chigaga dunes. New Year’s Eve celebration at the desert camp. Approx. 4.5 hours drive.
Day 3: Erg Chigaga Dunes Experience
After breakfast, camel trek into the dunes with Berber guides. Possible visit to a nomadic family. Picnic lunch in the desert. Afternoon at leisure with sandboarding, trekking, or relaxation. Evening dinner and music around the campfire.
Day 4: Erg Chigaga – Mhamid – Zagora
Leave the desert via off-road route to Mhamid, then continue on paved road through the Draa Oasis. Visit Tamegroute pottery workshops. Arrive at a traditional kasbah hotel set within palm groves. Approx. 4 hours drive.
Day 5: Transfer to Ouarzazate Airport
Morning transfer to Ouarzazate airport. Approx. 1.5 hours drive.
What's Included
Included
- Private transfers by minivan and two 4x4 vehicles with fuel
- English-speaking local drivers
- 2 nights in luxury desert camp with ensuite bathroom
- Breakfasts, picnic lunch in the oasis, and dinners at camp (New Year celebration included)
- Camel trekking, sandboarding, and campfire music
- Accommodation in Ouarzazate and Draa Valley with breakfast and dinner
- Guided visit in Ait Ben Haddou
- Trip preparation consultation
Not Included
- Lunches (except picnic lunch in the camp)
- Beverages
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel insurance
- ATV riding (850 MAD per quad for 1 hour)
Where You'll Stay
Jnane Tamsna – Ouarzazate
Comfortable guesthouse accommodation. Dinner included.
Luxury Desert Camp – Erg Chigaga
Private tents with ensuite bathrooms, New Year’s Eve celebration, meals, campfire, and desert activities.
Dar Hnini – Draa Valley (Grand Family Villa)
Traditional kasbah inside palm groves. Hammam available after the desert experience.
Before You Go
- Warm clothes for cold desert nights
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun protection
- Small backpack for day use
- Cash for personal expenses