Erg Chebbi
Morocco · Drâa-Tafilalet · 750 m
Description
Erg Chebbi (عرق الشبي) is one of Morocco’s best-known dune fields and one of the country’s most impressive desert landscapes. Stretching for around 22 kilometers near Merzouga, the vast expanse is characterized by golden-orange sand, towering dunes reaching heights of up to 150 meters, and wind-sculpted ridges that constantly reshape the scenery. The landscape is particularly striking at sunrise and sunset, when the changing light bathes the dunes in rich shades of gold, orange, and red. Camel treks, off-road excursions, and overnight stays in desert camps offer an immersive way to experience the Sahara, while the clear night skies away from larger settlements provide excellent conditions for stargazing.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 3 days (optimal 2 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: December – January
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Erg Chebbi dunes
- Sunrise or sunset camel trek
- Overnight stay in a desert camp
- Highest dunes of Erg Chebbi
- Sunrise and sunset viewpoints among the dunes
- Stargazing under the Sahara sky
- Sandboarding on the dunes
- 4x4 desert tour around Erg Chebbi
- Quad biking and dune buggy tours
- Khamlia village and Gnawa music
- Hassilabied village and palm grove
- Traditional khettara irrigation channels near Hassilabied
- Nomadic settlements around Erg Chebbi
- Desert cycling routes
- Dayet Srij seasonal lake (November - May)
- Flamingo watching at Dayet Srij (November - May)