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How to Reach Us · Umnya Desert Camp, Erg Chegaga, Sahara Morocco

How to Reach Us

The road to the desert is part of the journey

Getting to M'Hamid El Ghizlane

Umnya is located deep in the Sahara, near the dunes of Erg Chegaga. Here's how to get there.

Option 1, Recommended

Private Transfer

We arrange private transfers from Marrakech, Ouarzazate, Zagora, or Fez airports. Travel in comfort with an English-speaking driver who knows the route intimately. Stops at scenic viewpoints, kasbahs, and oases can be included.

  • Marrakech → M'Hamid: ~7h15 of tarmac (an overnight stop in Ouarzazate is the civilised way to do it)
  • Ouarzazate → M'Hamid: ~3h45
  • Zagora → M'Hamid: ~1h30

Option 2

Self-Drive

If you're renting a car, the road to M'Hamid is paved and well-maintained. Once in M'Hamid village, our team will meet you and transfer you by 4x4 to the camp through the dunes (approximately 1.5 hours).

Option 3

Public Bus + Local Transfer

CTM and Supratours buses connect Marrakech to Zagora daily. From Zagora, we arrange private transport to M'Hamid and then to the camp.

Option 4, Exclusive

Helicopter & Private Jet Transfer

Arrive in style with a direct helicopter or private jet transfer from Marrakech, Ouarzazate, or Agadir. The helicopter lands on our own helipad at the camp, so there is no transfer at the end of it. It is the most dramatic desert arrival imaginable.

  • Marrakech → the camp by helicopter: 1h40
  • Ouarzazate → the camp by helicopter: ~1 hour
  • Landing directly at the camp, no road section at all

Subject to availability and weather conditions. Contact us for scheduling and quotes.

Full helicopter experience guide, Atlas, Draa Valley, Erg Chegaga

Need Help Planning?

Our team will gladly arrange your full itinerary, transfers, and any additional stops along the way. Just tell us where you're starting from.

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Complete Guide

How to Get to Erg Chegaga

All distances, routes, self-drive tips and helicopter details

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Frequently asked questions

How do I get to Erg Chegaga from Marrakech?
The standard route is Marrakech to M'Hamid El Ghizlane by road (approximately 7h15) or by private 4×4 transfer organised through Umnya. From M'Hamid, the camp is a further 60 km across open desert piste, requiring a dedicated 4x4, approximately 1.5 hours. The most dramatic option is a private helicopter from Marrakech Menara Airport, reaching the camp in approximately 1h40.
What is the nearest airport to Umnya Desert Camp?
Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) is the most practical gateway, with direct flights from London, Paris, Amsterdam, Madrid, Dubai and most major European cities. Ouarzazate Airport (OZZ) is closer but has limited service. Casablanca Mohammed V (CMN) is the main international hub if no direct route to Marrakech is available.
Is a 4×4 vehicle required to reach the camp?
Yes. The final 60 km from M'Hamid to Umnya Desert Camp is across open desert piste with no sealed road. A high-clearance 4×4 is essential. We arrange all 4×4 transfers from M'Hamid, guests do not need to drive themselves.
Can I arrive by helicopter?
Yes. Umnya Desert Camp has a private helipad. We coordinate helicopter transfers from Marrakech Menara Airport with certified operators. Flight time is approximately 1h40. This option is popular for UHNW guests, private buy-outs, and those who want the most dramatic possible arrival.
Can I drive myself to the camp?
Experienced off-road drivers with a suitable 4×4 can self-drive from M'Hamid with GPS coordinates and detailed waypoint instructions provided by our team. We strongly recommend booking a guide vehicle as escort for first-time visitors to the piste.