amybizboz

I'm planning about a week and a half in Morocco, half in Marrakech and half in Essaouira. I wanted to see if there are Sahara treks that are only one or two nights--am traveling with a friend that is not so keen on this side trip, so would like it to be *efficient* if that's possible. I know it is a long ride to get to the desert, but didn't want to miss the opportunity since we will be so close--are there faster options, is it possible to fly closer to the desert? Any tour groups you had a really good experience with? We are in our mid-30s and for the most part adventurous--I think my travel buddy has read too many Paul Bowles books...I guess things don't end so well for the characters that enter the Sahara...

amybizboz

Thanks Nigeltravel. The trip with Desert Flying Carpets seems to take "the long way" to the desert. Looks like the route to M'hamid is more direct--anyone else out there with recommendations via M'hamid? Specific tour companies or bivouacs in Erg Chebbi that you loved?

DC_Mom

Check out Sahara Trek (the company) we used them. You can fly from Marrakech to Ouarrzazate rather cost effectively. It will still be a bit of drive out to M'hamid from Ouarzzazate, but not as bad as the straight shot from Marrakech.

markwillenbrock

Fastest way to get to the desert is to fly there; it costs about 5,500 euros, return, for a helicopter from Marrakech (return!).

If you haven't got that in your back pocket, it's quicker to go to Erg Chebbi. Although M'hamid is closer to Marrakech the roads are not as good and it takes a further two hours or more of VERY rough tracks to get out to the dunes at Erg Chegaga - marvellous though they are.

You can also take a scheduled flight from Casablanca to Errachidia or Ouazarzate. Stupidly, there are no scheduled flights from Marrakech.

You friend should re read Bowles' 'Let it come down'. Still tragic, but much closer to reality!