Erg Chigaga, one of Morocco’s most breathtaking desert destinations, is a remote and stunning expanse of sand dunes located in the Sahara. Unlike its more famous counterpart, Erg Chebbi, Erg Chigaga is less accessible, offering a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path desert experience. If you’re planning a trip to Erg Chigaga, this step-by-step guide will help you navigate your way there.
Step 1: Arriving in Morocco
Before setting off for Erg Chigaga, you’ll need to arrive in Morocco. The best way to do this is by flying into one of the country’s major international airports:
- Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) – Ideal if you want to combine your desert adventure with time in Marrakech.
- Ouarzazate Airport (OZZ) – A smaller airport, closer to the desert, with some international and domestic flights.
- Agadir Al Massira Airport (AGA) – Another option, especially if you plan to explore southern Morocco.
Step 2: Getting to the Gateway Cities
Option 1: Marrakech to Mhamid
Mhamid is the last town before reaching Erg Chigaga, and the most common starting point for desert excursions.
- By Bus: CTM and Supratours offer daily buses from Marrakech to Mhamid. The journey takes around 9-10 hours.
- By Rental Car: You can rent a car and drive yourself. The distance is about 460 km and takes approximately 8-9 hours.
- By Private Transfer: A more comfortable option is hiring a private driver, which is faster and allows for stops along the way.
Option 2: Ouarzazate to Mhamid
Ouarzazate is closer to the desert and serves as an excellent starting point.
- By Bus: Supratours operates a bus service from Ouarzazate to Mhamid, taking around 5-6 hours.
- By Rental Car: The drive from Ouarzazate to Mhamid is about 260 km and takes roughly 5 hours.
- By Private Transfer: A good option for comfort and flexibility.
Step 3: Reaching Erg Chigaga from Mhamid
Mhamid is the last paved settlement before the Sahara takes over. From here, you’ll need a 4×4 vehicle or a camel caravan to reach Erg Chigaga.
Option 1: 4×4 Jeep Tour
Most visitors choose a guided 4×4 tour to Erg Chigaga. The journey takes around 2-3 hours and covers approximately 60 km of off-road desert terrain. Tours are available from Mhamid and can be arranged in advance or upon arrival.
Option 2: Camel Trekking
For a truly immersive desert experience, you can take a multi-day camel trek. A typical trek from Mhamid to Erg Chigaga takes about 2 days, with an overnight stay in a desert camp along the way.
Option 3: Self-Drive Adventure
If you have experience driving in desert conditions, you can rent a 4×4 and navigate the route yourself. However, this requires proper preparation, GPS navigation, and ideally, some guidance from locals.
Best Time to Visit Erg Chigaga
The best time to visit Erg Chigaga is during the cooler months:
- October to April: Pleasant daytime temperatures and cool nights.
- May to September: Extremely hot, making travel challenging.
What to Pack for Erg Chigaga
- Loose, breathable clothing to protect against the sun.
- Sunglasses and a hat for sun protection.
- Comfortable shoes for walking on sand.
- Plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- A scarf or turban to protect against sand and wind.
- A flashlight or headlamp for nighttime in the desert.
Where to Stay in Erg Chigaga
Most visitors stay in desert camps, which range from basic to luxury. Some recommended options include:
- Luxury Desert Camps: Offer comfortable beds, gourmet meals, and private bathrooms.
- Standard Desert Camps: More affordable, with shared facilities and traditional meals.
- Wild Camping: For the adventurous, you can camp under the stars with your own gear.
Conclusion
Reaching Erg Chigaga requires careful planning, but the journey is well worth it. Whether you take a 4×4, ride a camel, or go on a guided tour, the experience of exploring these vast, untouched dunes is unforgettable. Plan wisely, choose the right transport, and get ready for a Sahara adventure like no other!
