Cross the Drâa valley and walk ancient caravan routes on an eight-day trek from Marrakech to Chegaga. Four days of guided hiking with dromedaries, desert camps, and a night near the iconic Aït Ben Haddou.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A wind-scraped dawn lifts off the desert as you step out of camp with a dromedary’s steady rhythm beneath you and sand that seems to move with intent. The trek threads High Atlas foothills, the palm-lined Drâa valley and the great Chegaga dunes, alternating long, empty plains with pockets of sheltered oases where date palms bend in the breeze.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 days (4 days hiking)
Fitness Level
Suitable for moderate fitness; days range from short walks to 6.5-hour dune crossings—basic endurance and comfortable walking pace required
Wildlife
History
The itinerary follows ancient trans-Saharan caravan routes and passes through Aït Ben Haddou, a ksar long used as a trade and defensive post and later a film location.
Conservation
Respect water scarcity by minimizing waste and using provided water filters; camps follow low-impact practices but travelers should avoid off-track driving and limit firewood use.
Reserve your spot on the Morocco desert trek (8 days) today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Stay hydrated early and often
Carry at least 2–3 liters in a comfortable bladder; desert walking and wind increase fluid loss even when you don’t feel thirsty.
Protect from sun and sand
Wide-brim hat, high-SPF sunscreen, UV sunglasses and a scarf or buff will reduce sun exposure and keep sand out of your hair and face.
Footwear for sand and plains
Use supportive, broken-in boots with breathable gaiters or lightweight sand socks to limit sand ingress and ankle strain on uneven dunes.
Pace dunes on early starts
Begin long dune days at first light when sand is firmer; midday heat and soft sand make long stages much harder.
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and traction for mixed terrain—sand, hard-packed plains and uneven tracks.
Sun hat and high-SPF sunscreen
Essential protection during long exposed walking periods.
summer
Lightweight insulated jacket
Desert nights drop sharply; a warm, compressible layer is useful after sunset.
spring|fall|winter
Hydration bladder (2–3L) and backup bottle
Hands-free drinking and reserve water for long stretches between camps.
summer