Erg Chebbi Dunes | Merzouga

The Erg Chebbi Dunes are the crown jewel of Morocco’s Sahara Desert experience—massive, rolling waves of golden sand stretching for miles and rising up to 150 meters (500 feet) high. Located just outside the village of Merzouga, Erg Chebbi is often what travelers picture when they dream of the Sahara: endless sand, camel caravans, and silent, starry nights.

What is an "Erg"?

An erg is a broad, flat area of desert covered with wind-swept sand and dunes.

Erg Chebbi is one of Morocco’s two main ergs (the other is Erg Chigaga, farther west).

It stretches for about 28 km (17 miles) from north to south, and about 5–7 km wide.

Why Visit Erg Chebbi?

1. Breathtaking Natural Beauty

The dunes shift colors with the sun: from golden beige in daylight to deep red-orange at sunset and purple-tinted under moonlight.

Climbing the tallest dune—often nicknamed Lalla Merzouga—offers panoramic views that are completely surreal.

2. Sunset & Sunrise Views

This is the reason many people trek out to the desert.

Sunsets here are hypnotic: the sky glows in layers of orange, pink, and violet while the shadows dance on the sand.

Sunrise is quieter, more meditative, and just as stunning.

3. Desert Adventures

Camel treks are the most iconic experience—either short rides or overnight journeys to a desert camp.

Sandboarding down steep dunes is a blast, and many camps provide boards.

4x4 tours, ATV rides, and even horseback riding are available for the adrenaline-inclined.

4. Stargazing

There is almost no light pollution—meaning the Milky Way is clearly visible, and on moonless nights, the sky is filled with stars.

Many desert camps offer reclining spots and telescopes for guests.

Erg Chebbi vs Erg Chigaga

While both are gorgeous, Erg Chebbi is more accessible, has better infrastructure (hotels, road access, etc.), and is perfect for first-time desert travelers. Erg Chigaga is more remote, rugged, and suited for off-the-beaten-path adventurers.

How to Visit the Erg Chebbi Dunes

Start Point: Merzouga

The village of Merzouga lies right at the foot of the dunes.

Many travelers either stay in Merzouga or take camels directly from town into the desert for an overnight camp.

Options for Exploring the Dunes:

Camel Trek + Overnight in a Desert Camp

Classic experience, usually starts late afternoon.

Includes dinner, local music, a fire circle, and stargazing.

Luxury Desert Camps

Private tents with en-suite bathrooms, gourmet meals, and even solar power or air conditioning.

Self-Guided Exploration

Hike or sandboard during the day and return to your riad or camp at night.

Sunset or Sunrise Tours

Short camel rides (1–2 hours) ideal if you don’t want an overnight.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November): Best weather—warm days, cool nights.

Winter (Dec–Feb): Cold nights (can drop below freezing), but still dry and sunny.

Summer (June–August): Very hot during the day, though some travelers still visit (tours start early/late to avoid the heat).

Travel Tips

Clothes: Wear light, breathable fabrics, a scarf or turban for sun and sand, and bring layers for chilly nights.

Shoes: Sandals for camel rides, but also bring hiking shoes if you plan to climb dunes.

Hydration: Always carry water, even for short treks.

Photography: Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) is magic. Protect your camera from sand!

Nearby Points of Interest

Khamlia Village – Home to Gnawa musicians with West African roots.

Lake Dayet Srij (seasonal) – May appear near Merzouga in wet seasons, drawing flamingos and desert birds.

Rissani – The nearest town with a lively market and historic links to the Alaouite dynasty.

In Summary

The Erg Chebbi Dunes are the ultimate Sahara postcard come to life: majestic sand seas, camel silhouettes against a blazing sky, and tranquil desert nights. Whether you're camping under the stars, chasing dunes at dawn, or just watching the sky change over the sand, it's a place that stays with you long after the journey ends.

Want help picking a great camp or crafting a desert itinerary that includes gorges, oases, and kasbahs? I’ve got you!