3-Day Desert Tour – Erg Lihoudi (Mhamid)

Meeting Point
Your Hotel - Riad Or Appartment
Departure City
Marrakech
Tour Availability
All Times
Activities
Departure From Marrakech
Trip Type
Tours in Morocco

3-Day Desert Tour – Erg Lihoudi (Mhamid)

This 3-day desert tour to Erg Lihoudi offers a fantastic and accessible way to experience the Moroccan Sahara from Marrakech. The journey itself is a highlight, traversing the stunning High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, offering breathtaking vistas. The drive through the lush Drâa Valley, dotted with ancient kasbahs and extensive palm groves, provides a beautiful contrast to the later desert landscape.

The tour’s pacing is well-thought-out, breaking up the long drive with a comfortable overnight stay in Agdz. This allows for a more relaxed exploration of the Drâa Valley before heading deep into the desert. Reaching Mhamid, the “last oasis,” truly feels like an entry point into another world. The highlight is undoubtedly the desert experience at Erg Lihoudi – whether you choose a camel trek or a minibus ride into the dunes, settling into an authentic nomadic bivouac is magical. Dinner under the stars with traditional music by the campfire creates an unforgettable ambiance. Waking up to a desert sunrise is a serene and powerful experience.

The return journey includes a valuable stop at Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which is a perfect historical and architectural counterpoint to the natural beauty of the desert. The inclusion of a professional driver and comfortable, air-conditioned transport ensures a smooth and safe trip.
While lunches and drinks aren’t included, this allows for flexibility in dining choices along the way. Overall, this tour provides a rich, immersive, and well-organized desert adventure that perfectly balances spectacular scenery, cultural insights, and the tranquility of the Sahara. It’s highly recommended for anyone looking to experience the Moroccan desert without an overly strenuous itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - 3-Day Desert Tour – Erg Lihoudi (Mhamid)

Expand all

Q1: What is the main destination of this desert tour?

A1: The main destination is the Erg Lihoudi dunes, near Mhamid El Ghizlane, in the Moroccan Sahara Desert.

Q2: How long is the tour?

A2: It is a 3-day, 2-night tour.

Q3: What kind of transportation is used?

A3: Transportation is provided in a private, comfortable, air-conditioned minibus with a professional driver for the main journey. You’ll switch to a camel or minibus for the final stretch into the Erg Lihoudi dunes.

Q4: Is hotel pick-up and drop-off included in Marrakech?

A4: Yes, round-trip transfers from your hotel or riad in Marrakech are included.

Q5: What are the main highlights of Day 1?

A5: Day 1 includes crossing the stunning High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass and journeying through the Drâa Valley to Agdz for an overnight stay in a guesthouse or traditional kasbah.

Q6: What will I experience on Day 2 in the desert?

A6: Day 2 features driving along the Drâa Valley, arriving in Mhamid (the last oasis), and then heading into the Erg Lihoudi dunes by camel or minibus. You’ll spend the night in an authentic nomadic tent at a bivouac, with dinner and traditional music around the campfire. You can also sleep under the stars!

Q7: What is the sleeping arrangement in the desert?

A7: You will stay overnight in a nomadic tent within an authentic bivouac in the Erg Lihoudi dunes. Sleeping under the stars is also an option if desired and weather permits.

Q8: What happens on Day 3?

A8: Day 3 starts with a desert sunrise, followed by a return to Mhamid and then a drive back towards Marrakech. The journey includes a significant stop at the famous Aït Ben Haddou kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, before arriving in Marrakech in the late afternoon.

Q9: Are meals included in the tour price?

A9: Dinner on Day 1 (in Agdz) and Day 2 (in the desert bivouac) are included. Breakfasts on Day 2 and Day 3 are also included. Lunch and additional drinks are NOT included, allowing you flexibility.

Q10: Are there any unique activities included?

A10: Yes, the tour uniquely includes a 1-hour and 45-minute quad bike experience (one quad bike per adult) along with a helmet and safety goggles, and refreshing mint tea.

Q11: What should I bring with me?

A11:

Comfortable clothes and walking shoes.
Warm layers for the desert nights, which can be cold.
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
A camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
Cash for lunches, drinks, souvenirs, and tips.
A small backpack for day use.

Q12: Is the desert camp luxurious?

A12: The description mentions an “authentic bivouac,” which implies a traditional, comfortable nomadic tent experience rather than a luxury glamping setup. However, it will be comfortable for sleeping.

Q13: Is the tour suitable for children?

A13: Given the quad bike inclusion and long drives, it’s generally suitable for families, but parents should consider their children’s stamina for travel and desert conditions. The quad biking is per adult, so children may ride as passengers depending on age and camp policy.

Q14: Are tips for the guide included?

A14: No, tips and gratuities for the guide (and driver) are not included and are at your discretion.

Q15: Can I download the program in different languages?

A15: Yes, the program is available for download in English, French, Italian, and Spanish.