Desert Expedition: Camel-Back Trek to Erg Chegaga & Lake Iriki – 8 Days

Set off on an extraordinary 8-day adventure from Foum Zguid, deep in the Iriki National Park and the wild dunes of Erg Chegaga. This expedition-style trek immerses you in nomadic life, blending cultural encounters, Saharan wildlife observation, and magical nights beneath star-filled skies.

Expedition Highlights

Wildlife viewing: Dorcas gazelles, desert foxes, fennecs, migratory birds, reptiles and more.
Cultural immersion: Share everyday moments with Berber nomad families, discover their cuisine and traditions.
Saharan adventure: Hikes on foot and by camel, crossing the dry Iriki lakebed and the dunes of Erg Chegaga.
Unforgettable nights: Wild camping under the Sahara’s starry skies, ideal for astrophotography.

Expedition Itinerary

Day 1: Foum Zguid – Tajine Mountains
Welcome in Foum Zguid, introduction to the town, then meeting with the camel team. Trek towards the Tajine Mountains and set up camp on the heights to observe desert nocturnal life. Night in a tent or under the open sky.

Day 2: Tajine Mountains – Iriki Lake Shore
Walk towards the dry Iriki lakebed. Camp is set up along the shore. Night-time wildlife observation: fennecs, foxes and other species active at dusk.

Day 3: Crossing Iriki Lake
Full day of trekking across the vast dry lake, designated a national park since 1994 and covering over 123,000 hectares. Night in a wild camp.

Day 4: Arrival in the Dunes – Erg El M'Hazil / Erg Chegaga
Camp is established among the dunes, followed by wildlife exploration and a sunset viewing session.

Day 5: Crossing the Dunes – Gazelle Watching
A demanding day of hiking across the high Saharan dunes, with a strong chance of spotting gazelles, especially in winter. Wild camp in the dunes.

Day 6: Encounter with a Nomad Family
Discover nomadic life through traditions, hospitality and a Berber meal. Spend the night with a family in their camp.

Day 7: Oued Ennam – Oumlâlag Oasis
Walk through the lush Oumlâlag oasis, rich in contrasts and biodiversity. Night in a bivouac.

Day 8: Return – M'Hamid El Ghizlane – Marrakech
4x4 transfer to M'Hamid El Ghizlane, then onward journey back to Marrakech.

Practical Information – What to Bring

• Sunglasses, sunscreen, light and covering clothing
• Comfortable hiking shoes
• Sleeping bag, torch/flashlight, first aid kit
• Power bank, solar panel, video or photo camera for night shooting

👉 A rare and authentic expedition, perfect for travellers seeking nature, adventure and meaningful encounters in one of Morocco’s most unspoilt desert regions.