From M'Hamid to Erg Chigaga
| 4x4 | Camel trek | |
|---|---|---|
| M'Hamid → Erg Chigaga | ~2 hours off-road | 3–5 days |
| Route | Dry lake bed, oasis, rocky piste | Slow route through small dune fields and oases |
| Good for | Most travellers | Experienced, unhurried travellers |
| Book with | Operators in M'Hamid or Marrakech | Local guides in M'Hamid |
Most travellers arrive on a 3–4 day tour from Marrakech that sleeps in the Draa Valley or M’Hamid, crosses to Erg Chigaga for one or two camp nights, and returns via Foum Zguid. The Erg Chigaga guide covers camps and what to expect in the dunes.
What to do in M'Hamid
Erg Lihoudi
A small field of dunes a short drive from town — the quickest taste of the desert if you are not continuing to Chigaga.
The old ksar
The traditional earthen village across the river from the modern town, with a slower pace than the main street.
The Draa Valley drive
South of Zagora the road passes palm groves, kasbahs and Tamegroute, known for its green pottery and old Koranic library. Leave time for stops.
Stargazing
Even at the edge of town the sky is dark; at Erg Chigaga it is among the darkest in Morocco.
M'Hamid El Ghizlane: frequently asked questions
Where is M'Hamid El Ghizlane?
M'Hamid El Ghizlane is a small town at the southern end of the Draa Valley in south-eastern Morocco, near the Algerian border. It is about 450 km and 8–9 hours by road from Marrakech, and about 95 km south of Zagora. The paved road ends here; beyond it lies the desert route to Erg Chigaga.
How do you get from M'Hamid to Erg Chigaga?
By 4x4: about 60 km and 2 hours west across a dry lake bed, rocky piste and small oases. There is no paved road, so you need a 4x4 with a local driver; operators in M'Hamid and Marrakech arrange this. Multi-day camel treks from M'Hamid to Chigaga are also possible for travellers with time.
Is M'Hamid worth visiting on its own?
It is a quiet, end-of-the-road town rather than a sight, but the dunes of Erg Lihoudi nearby make a good short desert experience, and staying a night lets you start for Erg Chigaga early in the morning. Most visitors pass through on the way to Chigaga.
Is it safe to travel to M'Hamid?
M'Hamid is a small, calm town used to visitors. As anywhere in the remote south, travel with a reputable operator, especially for the off-road crossing to Erg Chigaga, carry enough water and cash, and expect no mobile signal deep in the desert.