A Desert Voyage - Where to Stop between Marrakesh and Erg Chigaga

A Desert Voyage - Where to Stop between Marrakesh and Erg Chigaga

The Sahara is mystical, enchanting, and endless. And getting there is half the fun. While you might get your camel fix in the Agafay Desert near Marrakesh, the big and grand desert is a solid 10 hour drive away. And while it is easiest to get a guide to help, it is possible to do it (or at least part of it) on your own. Just make sure you bring four-wheel drive and a satellite GPS to get to your camp. Even if you don't want to go into the desert by yourself, there is a plethora to see along the way, including the High Atlas Mountains, the kasr's and movie studios around Ouarzazate, the fascinating Berber culture in the Dra’a Valley, and even some more off-the-beaten bath excursions towards Tazenakht. If you are looking for the best sites to and from Erg Chigaga, this guide is for you.
Updated ago
3
Share

Leaving Marrakesh, to get to the desert you'll start with a climb over the High Atlas Mountains. A beautiful set of snow-capped ridges, rolling streams, argan fields, and sheep herds, the mountains are a great place to explore before headed to the desert.

Over the High Atlas Mountains

Anima (André Heller Garden)
@markfedoronko
Only 30 minutes from Marrakesh, the André Heller Garden is a whimsical celebration of modern art. A sister property to another botanical garden in Italy, the colorful display is a great first stop on the way into the mountains!
Add to
Details
Ourika
@markfedoronko
A famed spot in the Atlas Mountains, the waterfalls of Ourika is a serene place of natural beauty. The Ourika River that flows through the town offers a great place to rest and enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains and take a walk through the area. There are also numerous cafes right along the river, draped with traditional carpets and filled with local hospitality.
Add to
Details
Tizi n'Tichka
@markfedoronko
In weaving your way over the Atlas Mountains (whether you drive or go by bus), you will get a little twisted and want to stop for a break. If you go by bus, you will stop in a small village with tourist shops, cafes, and a truck with an espresso machine in the back making amazing Moroccan coffee. If you look to stop on your own, there are many overlooks with cafes, shops, and lots of views.
Add to
Details

Once over the mountains you'll want to find a good place to rest. The best choices will be the large town of Ouarzazate or the Kasr of Aït Benhaddou. In my trip, we took the bus to Ouarzazate and then took a "Grand Taxi" (a local shared taxi) to Aït Benhaddou, arriving by 1 PM and then touring the famed Kasr.

Aït Benhaddou

Buy to unlock full guide

Access all the local insights and recommendations from @markfedoronko when you purchase this guide.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
My name is Mark, and I've been travel planning since the age of 11. About Me I help redefine the way you experience the world. I don't just plan trips; we craft extraordinary adventures tailored to your unique desires. Mark's journey into the realm of travel planning began at an early age, driven by an insatiable curiosity to uncover the hidden gems and cultural nuances that make each destination truly exceptional. Expertise Beyond Borders Boasting an extensive portfolio of expertise, Mark is a seasoned navigator through the enchanting landscapes of Morocco, the captivating history of Jordan, the rich tapestry of Israel/Palestine, the cosmopolitan allure of Copenhagen, and beyond. Whether you're yearning for the vibrant markets of Marrakech, the ancient wonders of Petra, the historical significance of Jerusalem, or the contemporary charm of Copenhagen, I ensure that your journey is not just a trip but a transformative experience. Custom Itineraries, Crafted with Care I understand that no two travelers are the same. My commitment to personalization means that every itinerary is a bespoke masterpiece, meticulously crafted to reflect your preferences, interests, and dreams. From immersive cultural excursions to adrenaline-pumping adventures, we curate experiences that resonate with your individual travel style. Why Choose Mark's Travel Recs? Passion-Driven Expertise: Mark's lifelong passion ensures every itinerary has an authentic touch. Global Perspective: With knowledge spanning diverse destinations, I offer journeys beyond the ordinary. Attention to Detail: I leave no stone unturned, from accommodation to off-the-beaten-path excursions. Seamless Planning: Let me take the reins for a stress-free journey from conception to execution. Embark on a voyage of a lifetime with me—where the world is your oyster, and I help you discover its pearls
What's included
Digital Map
Fully interactive, digital map for finding places nearby
22 places
22 hand-picked places with notes from the creator
DESTINATION(S) COVERED
Aït Benhaddou, Morocco
M'Hamid El Ghizlane, Morocco
Marrakesh, Morocco
Morocco
Zagora, Morocco
Erg Chigaga، Morocco
Ouarzazate, Morocco
FOCUSES AND THEMES
Backpackers
Couples
Groups
Adventure
Architecture
Foodie
People & Culture
History
Road Trip
Nature
BEST TIME OF YEAR
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Format
Itinerary
Itineraries typically include day-by-day plans, with food, lodging and activity recommendations for each day.
COMMON QUESTIONS
What is Thatch?
Thatch is an online marketplace that provides instant access to thousands of vetted local experts and premium travel guides - making it the easiest and most affordable way to take high quality trips with less stress. For travel creators (tastemakers, travel advisors, influencers and local experts) Thatch makes it easy to curate, publish, and sell digital travel guides, itineraries and personalized planning services.
What if I’m not satisfied with my purchase?
How do I access my purchased guides?
Can I access my guide offline?
How often are guides updated?
Can I request a personalized guide or itinerary?
Can I sell my own travel guides and itineraries?
Save for Later
Share
Powered by Thatch
The home for unique & authentic travel
Powered by Thatch: Where great trips are made.
© Mark Fedoronko 2024 Help Privacy Terms Copyright Become a Seller Seller Academy About Careers Blog Explore Places