Morocco's Sahara Desert

The majestic Sahara Desert consumes approximately 3,500,000 square miles of space on the planet. A majority of this space falls within the Morocco borders. Vast arrays of ethnic lifestyles can be found making a home in the Sahara Desert. The most popular ethnic group is the Arabic Berber groups that include Hassaniva-speaking Moors and African groups of Tubu, Nubians, Zaghawa and Hausa. It is estimated that 2.5 million people reside within the Sahara Desert. In addition to the residents, there are several cities that can be found inside the Sahara Desert as well. Among the most populated is Nouakchott which is the capital of Mauritania.

Insight

The Sahara Desert holds the distinction of being virtually as large in size as the continental United States. Its historical roots date back over 3 millions years ago and present day measures sand dunes at least 600 feet in height. Boundaries extend to the Atlantic Ocean on the west, Atlas Mountains to the north, Red Sea to the east and valley of the Niger River to the south.

Borders of the desert create different sections of the desert. The area containing a majority of the mountains and high plateaus lies inside the central portion at Tibesti Mountains and Air Mountains. The moist arid portion of the desert lies inside the Tenere Desert and Libyan Desert areas. Its highest peak can be found in the Tibesti Mountains section of northern Chad. This high point measures 11,200 feet into the skyline.

Already impressive in size, the Sahara Desert continues to grow each year. Reports have measured an average growth of 30 miles to the south each year. As it moves, the Sahara Desert crosses over grasslands and dry savanna territory. Its yearly growth pattern has been attributed to global warming issues. The technical term for this occurrence is 'desertification'. The Sahara Desert is not alone in this event. Deserts across the globe are continually affected by global warming issues.

Morocco trekking Adventure

The Sahara Desert provides some of the most picturesque views in Morocco. One of the greatest ways to become consumed with the views and attributes of the area is through a guided trekking adventure. This adventure will take travelers off paved roadways and into a 'behind the scenes' look at the Sahara Desert. Travel around Mhamid and through the Erg Chigaga sand dunes. At times the desert trek can be physically demanding. Therefore it is advisable for all participants to maintain an adequate fitness level before embarking on the journey.

The first day of a Sahara Desert trekking adventure begins with meeting fellow trekkers and tour guide in the vibrant city of Marrakesh. After introductions and pleasantries are exchanged, the tour moves on to the High Atlas Mountains for a lunch break. Once lunch has concluded, the trek will continue on towards the desert area where the first overnight stay will occur. More than likely, tour guides will elect to stay in authentic Moroccan riads to give participants a feel for what lies ahead on the trek.

As the sun rises on day two of the adventure, travelers are lead towards the Mhamid region. Here, camels will be utilized to enter into the Sahara Desert. Scenery in this quaint village features rolling sand dunes with landscaping consisting mostly of open spaces and rock formations. The sand dunes in Erg Chicgaga will be crossed on camel as the trek continues under the beautiful Moroccan starry skies. The day comes to a close as trekkers prepare for a campout in Bivouac nomadic tents.

On the third day of the trekking adventure, travelers cross through the Valley of 1000 Kasbahs. This legendary region consists primarily of palm tree grooves. It is an incredible area for exploration on foot, mule or 4 x 4 vehicles. A notable sight is the Amerhildil house where Moroccan royalty once resided. The Glaouis family called this place home during their years of rule over Morocco. The evening will be spent in another equally famous Kasbah that is now a hotel of sorts.

The Sahara Desert trekking adventure draws to a close with a return to Marrakesh. Before that occurs, there are still sights and sounds of the Sahara Desert to enjoy. Make a stop in the quaint town of Ait Benhaddou where Hollywood makes a stop on occasion as well. Blockbuster hit moves such as The Mummy and Gladiator have used the area scenery for movie scene backdrops. Another piece of Hollywood movie glitz and glamour can be found in the village of Ouarzazate. Various movie sets have set up shop here in the time that Atlas Studios relocated its home here.

After an exciting four day trekking adventure through the majestic Sahara Desert, it is time to return home. This is achieved by descending from the High Atlas Mountains into Marrakesh. Here weary trekkers can return to their hotels and riads for a much needed night of rest. The next day will more than likely consist of departing the Marrakesh airport and heading back home.