Sahara Self-Drive Expedition: Sand Seas of the Maghreb

Event image
10

Date

Saturday, 03.10.2026

Time

From 08:00 Until 18:00

Description

Sand Seas of the Maghreb is a true Sahara desert expedition designed for adventurous travelers who want far more than a traditional guided tour.

Over nine days, you’ll drive your own 4x4 through some of Morocco’s most remote desert landscapes, navigating vast dune fields, dried riverbeds, mountain passes, and forgotten desert tracks near the Algerian border.

This is not a convoy following a tourist route. You’ll learn real off-road driving skills, camp beneath the stars, cook around open fires, and experience the Sahara in its rawest form. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced off-roader, this expedition is designed to challenge, educate, and inspire.

No previous off-road experience is required.

What to Expect

  • Drive a 4x4 through the Sahara Desert, vehicles supplied and shared between two
  • Professional coaching from an experienced expedition leader
  • Learn dune driving, desert navigation, and vehicle recovery
  • Four nights of wild camping in remote desert locations
  • Four nights in carefully selected boutique hotels
  • Small group adventure with a maximum of four vehicles
  • Campfires, shared meals, and authentic desert experiences
  • Explore remote areas rarely visited by tourists
  • Travel through landscapes made famous by the Dakar Rally

Adventure Overview

  • Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights
  • Wild Camping: 4 Nights
  • Accommodation: 4 Nights Boutique Hotels
  • Vehicles: 4x4 Vehicle Included
  • Group Size: Maximum 8 Participants
  • Vehicle Limit: Maximum 4 Vehicles
  • Experience Level: Suitable for Beginners and Experienced Drivers

Itinerary

Day 1 – Marrakech to Ouarzazate

  • Arrival in Marrakech
  • Group transfer to Ouarzazate
  • Vehicle collection and expedition briefing
  • Final preparation before entering the Sahara

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 2 – Into the Desert

  • Travel to Erg Chegaga
  • Introduction to sand driving
  • First dune navigation exercises
  • First night of wild camping

Accommodation: Wild Camp

Days 3–5 – Deep Sahara Exploration

  • Navigate remote dune systems
  • Cross dried riverbeds
  • Visit isolated Berber settlements
  • Advanced desert driving coaching
  • Multiple wild camps in remote locations

Accommodation: Wild Camp

Day 6 – Merzouga

  • Reach the famous dunes of Erg Chebbi
  • Sunset over the Sahara
  • Hotel stay and shower facilities

Accommodation: Hotel

Days 7–8 – Return Journey

  • Drive through changing desert landscapes
  • Boutique hotel stays
  • Scenic routes back towards civilization
  • Final group dinner

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 9 – Return to Marrakech

  • Departure day
  • Transfer to Marrakech
  • Return flights home

Included

  • Self-drive 4x4 vehicle (shared between 2 participants)
  • All expedition permits and route access
  • 4 nights wild camping
  • 4 nights boutique hotel accommodation (based on two people sharing a room)
  • Recovery equipment and one radio per vehicle
  • Safety and communication systems
  • Full desert driving tuition
  • Founder-led expedition guidance
  • Transfer Marrakech → Ouarzazate and back
  • GPS navigation and satellite telephone support

Not Included

  • Flights to and from Morocco
  • Fuel costs
  • Travel insurance
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Personal expenses
  • Visa fees (if applicable)
  • Optional private room upgrade

Important Information

  • No off-road experience required
  • Suitable for solo travelers
  • Solo participants may be paired with another guest
  • Desert driving instruction provided throughout the trip
  • Wild camping equipment can be borrowed if required
  • Participants should hold a valid driving licence
  • Travel insurance covering off-road activities is mandatory
  • Minimum participant age: 18 years

Ticket Prices

Shared Vehicle Package
From
3178.71 $

1
Drive your own 4x4 across the Sahara Desert with professional coaching
2
Experience four nights of authentic wild camping under the stars
3
Small-group expedition limited to four vehicles for maximum adventure

Venue information

Marrakesh, Morocco
Marrakesh

Refund Policy

This event does not allow refunds once a booking has been confirmed.

Additional Cancellation Terms

More than 90 days before departure - Deposit refunded less any non-recoverable costs We'll always try to recover as much as possible 60–90 days before departure - Deposit retained, balance refunded if already paid 30% deposit is non-refundable from this point Under 60 days before departure - No refund Full balance is due at 60 days, all costs committed by this point


Host Details
Scarab Adventures
Scarab Adventures
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