Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The star attraction, though, is the mis-named
Erg Chigaga
, not a single dune (
erg
) but
an awesome stretch of golden sand sea some 56km southwest of M'Hamid. The best way
to reach them is in classic movie style: by camel, which takes five days or a week (from
Dh500 to Dh600 per day) round trip. To reach the area in a few hours, you'll need a 4WD,
which costs Dh1000 to Dh1300 per day with insurance, plus another Dh350 to Dh500 for
the camp.
Other nearby desert destinations include
Erg Ezahar
and the
Iriki oasis
mirage. And if you
get the hang of camel-riding, you might consider an epic 12-day camel trip to
Foum Zguid
.
Tours
Treks on foot, by camel or 4WD to Erg Chigaga can be arranged in Marrakesh, Zagora or
M'Hamid. Sales ploys come with the territory, so don't be reeled in by
faux guide
scare
tactics. Prices are fairly standard: around Dh350 per person per day for an overnight
camel trek and Dh500 to Dh600 per day for a camel trek to Erg Chigaga. Also bear in
mind that many desert tour operators only accept payment in cash.
Bivouac Sous Les Étoiles
( 0644 77 74 05;
www.bivouacsouslesetoiles.org
)
Expert and friendly 4WD excursions and
camel treks led by the personable Hassan and a team of M'Hamid locals.
DESERT SAFARI
Caravan de Rêves
( 0670 02 00 33;
www.caravane-de-reve.com
)
A small operation of French, German and
English-speaking Saharawi (indigenous people of Western Sahara) offering camel treks,
walking tours, sand-boarding and 4WD excursions, including a well-priced overnight Erg
Chigaga trip including 4WD, three meals and accommodation for Dh1000.
DESERT SAFARI
Sahara Services
( 0661 77 67 66;
www.saharaservices.info
)
All-inclusive desert trips via camel and 4WD, in-
cluding overnights to an encampment of walled Berber tents in Erg Chigaga. A large out-
fit, it uses many of the other guides in town and thus prices are on the high side.
DESERT SAFARI
Zbar Travel
( 0668 51 72 80;
www.zbartravel.com
)
Offers overnights at an Erg Chigaga encampment,
sleep-outs under the stars, sand-boarding and dromedary treks.
DESERT SAFARI