Morocco Desert Wildlife Expedition Departure from Foum Zguid for 7 Days

Embarking on an adventure through Morocco’s desert unveils a world of captivating wildlife. In the vast expanse of the Iriqui National Park and Erg Chegaga, our encounters with both animals and birds have been plentiful. Despite the initial impression, the desert is rich with life, awaiting those with a keen eye and a touch of luck.

Patience and timing are key as some species prefer the cooler, nocturnal hours, while others, like the endangered Dorcas gazelle, grace us with their presence. From our base at Forum Zguid to nestled amidst the Erg Chigaga dunes, we offer unparalleled access to nature’s wonders.

Tracks etched in the sand serve as silent reminders of the thriving ecosystem surrounding us, particularly in the early morning light. For those seeking a deeper immersion into the wilderness, our desert hikes and multi-day camping expeditions promise an intimate connection with nature.

From the elusive Fennec fox to the graceful White-crowned black wheatear, our sightings paint a vivid portrait of desert life. Each creature, whether the Berber skink seemingly gliding through the sand or the majestic Houbara bustard, adds to the tapestry of our desert adventures.

And in the realm of birdlife, the migratory Blue-cheeked bee-eater and the distinctive call of the Sand-grouse soaring in V formation provide a symphony of sound against the desert backdrop. Join us as we delve deeper into the wilderness, capturing the essence of Morocco’s desert wildlife.

What are the animals that are easy to find in the desert of Foum Zguid and Mahamid Elghizlane and don’t need any skills to be found?

Camel Dromedary: Known as the national animal of Morocco, these one-humped camels were historically vital for desert transportation and are still a popular activity during desert tours.

Beetles: These small creatures leave tracks in the sand and are abundant in Sahara wildlife, especially in dunes like Erg Chebbi.

Barbary ground squirrel: Found only in North Africa, these squirrels inhabit rocky grounds and are commonly seen in the Anti Atlas mountains and small rocky oases in the Sahara.
Moroccan spiny-tailed lizard (Uromastyx): Primarily herbivorous, these lizards are easy to spot in the southeastern region of Morocco, particularly in hilly, rocky areas during spring and summer.

Fennec fox: These nocturnal creatures are elusive but can sometimes be spotted in the Sahara desert, especially in Erg Chebbi, where locals may keep them as pets.
Saharan striped polecat: Also known as the Saharan striped weasel, these animals are rare to observe and are at risk of extinction, preferring arid, stony terrain on the margins of deserts.
Berber skink (Sandfish): With its unique ability to move through dunes, this small lizard is easily observed during desert walks.

Saharan Horned Viper Snake: One of the most venomous snakes in the Sahara, they are short and bury themselves in the sand, making them difficult to spot.

Desert Mice (Jerboa): Resembling miniature kangaroos, these creatures are common in dunes and are most active at night.
Desert Hedgehog: Found in the Sahara desert, these hedgehogs are nocturnal and rarely observed in the wild.

Desert monitor lizard: Endangered and unique to the Sahara desert region, these lizards are typically found in hilly, rocky areas.

Sand Cat (Felis Margarita): This elusive cat species is specially adapted to desert life and is found in Morocco’s dry regions, particularly the Sahara Desert.

Other endangered animals in Morocco’s Sahara desert include the African golden wolf, gazelles, palm rats, rabbits, Barbary Apes, genets, elephant shrews, golden jackals, Berber toads, and chameleons. It’s crucial to raise awareness about these endangered species and work towards their conservation to protect Morocco’s rich biodiversity.

Programme: in this expedition, you will be connected with nature and the local Berber nomads who will show you the wildlife of the desert, and the skills to live side to side with even the dangerous animals. You will not only discover the biodiversity of animals but also you will discover the beauty and the diversity of the Sahara as well as the dunes, you will also discover the tradition and the culture of the nomads in the desert, the Moroccan Berber nomads cuisine, you will be also disconnected with all the civilisation and connected with nature, you will also reach your limit physically in some days of the expedition. You will also enjoy the breathtaking of the beautiful sky during the night around the fire and also the star gazing, Which you will find as clear anywhere else

What you need to pack for this Moroccan wildlife expedition:

• sunglasses
• sleeping bags

Materials

• Travel first aid kits
• Power bank
• Solar panel
• Sun cream
• Trekking pole
• Action cameras and cameras to film the night
• Lightweight, breathable clothes to stay cool during the day.
• Long-sleeved shirt to protect you from the sun
• Comfortable hiking boots
• Flashlight to use during the night