Join #TeamCityHospice on this long-weekend trek for charity, as you experience the beauty of one of the most breathtaking and largest deserts in the world – The Sahara!
Our overseas challenge in 2025 is to trek for four days through this ever-changing landscape and to climb to the top of the massive Chegaga Dunes, where you will witness the desert sun-rise. The days will be hot and the trekking will be tough, but the team at Global Challenge Adventures with their unrivalled support will help you conquer this mammoth desert! Vista’s as far as the eye can see combined with the pleasure of having the volcanic Anti-Atlas Mountains as your backdrop – need we say more!
With traditional Berbers as your guides you’ll experience the delights of Morocco first hand, in addition to being mesmerised by the remoteness and solitude that the Sahara brings. If you want to take part in one of the most fantastic overseas challenges, this most unique trek challenge is for you.
So join us as we conquer the Sahara!
The Itinerary
Day 1 - Depart UK
You will depart the UK for our flight to Morocco and upon arrival, we transfer to our hotel in Ouarzazate. South of the High Atlas Mountains, Ouarzazate is a town created by the French in 1928 but is now the film centre of Morocco – the base for such films as ‘Gladiator’ and ‘Alexander the Great’. As a relatively new town it does not have a city centre, but has a large Glaoui Kasbah which is well worth visiting. You will have an early start in the morning so an early night is recommended!
Day 2 - M'hamid to Bougharn Dunes
Following a very early breakfast, you’ll transfer from our hotel and set off for the desert. The driving route goes along the Draa Valley – a long, stunning palm filled oasis with rocky mountains and Hamada (rock desert) on each side. After approximately 4 hours drive (discounting photo and tea stops and lunch at Ouled Driss) you arrive at M’hamid – the gateway of the desert. Don your trekking boots before setting off into the dunes for the beginning of our challenge! To get you into the spirit of trekking in the desert you will have a short trek of about 2-3 hours today which will finish at our camp in the Bougharn Dunes.
Day 3 - Bougharn Dunes to Chigaga Dunes
Here you’ll set off with camel trains and begin trekking through the dunes – there is no path to follow as they continually change in the wind. The camels will find the best way through the dunes and in the event of a sandstorm you can protect yourself by wearing a Seche (headscarf ). This is part of the traditional costume worn by the nomadic Tuaregs that covers the face, ears and neck and provides protection from the wind-driven sand – they are also yours to keep as souvenirs from your challenge. Towards the end of our trek, the team will try and find the nomads’ encampment and pay a visit to experience their unique way of life – they are very hospitable people and we may be asked to partake in a strong cup of mint tea or coffee. Tonight’s camp is at the foot of the stunning Chigaga Dunes.
Trekking distance – approx. 14 – 18km / 6 – 7 hours
Day 4 - Chigaga Dunes to Ergh Aghoual
A very early start today before the sun rises – after waking, time for a very quick snack and then commence the climb up to the top of the Chigaga Dunes (100m). The climb will be in the dark, but the moon and stars should be enough to light our way. Upon reaching the top, you’ll rest and wait for the sunrise over the Sahara, then watch the colours of the dunes change in the sunlight – a truly breathtaking sight! After watching the sunrise, we descend in the heat of the morning sun back to our camp, where you’ll have breakfast. After a short rest, you’ll push on with the desert challenge towards the camp at Erg Arghoual which is around 7 hours away on foot.
Trekking distance – approx. 14 – 18km/7 – 8hrs
Day 5 - Erg Aghoual to Ouarzatate
Following breakfast at camp, you’ll push on to the end of our trekking challenge – it’s a short walk to the waiting transport at Sidi Ab Nbi. You’ll wave goodbye to the camels and the breathtaking Sahara and then transfer back to our hotel. This evening you will toast your achievements at a celebratory dinner!
Trekking distance – approx. 4km/ 2hrs
Day 6 - Return to UK
An early morning transfer back to Marrakech, giving you the afternoon free to explore before catching an evening flight back to the UK.
Please note this is a complex itinerary and subject to change, including the timings and distances detailed.
The Cost
Registration Fee: £199
Minimum Sponsorship: £2,140
Please note that a portion of the funds raised will go towards your trek costs.
Ages 14 – 17 must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian.
