If you’ve ever dreamed of riding a camel into the Sahara or sleeping under the stars in the desert, chances are you’re picturing Erg Chebbi. Located near Merzouga in southeastern Morocco, these golden dunes rise up to 150 meters high and stretch for 28 kilometers, making them one of Morocco’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Here’s your complete 2026 guide to Erg Chebbi—everything you need to know before your desert adventure.
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Where Is Erg Chebbi?
Erg Chebbi sits on the edge of the Sahara Desert, near the town of Merzouga, close to the Algerian border. It’s the most accessible large dune system in Morocco, making it popular with travelers.
How to Get to Erg Chebbi
- From Marrakech: About 9–10 hours by car (most travelers book a 3–4 day desert tour).
- From Fes: Around 7–8 hours by car, often included in multi-day itineraries.
- By Bus: Supratours runs buses from Marrakech and Fes directly to Merzouga.
- By Tour: Easiest option, since guides arrange transport, meals, and desert camp stays.
Top Things to Do in Erg Chebbi
- Camel Trekking: The classic way to enter the dunes—rides last 1–2 hours at sunrise or sunset.
- Overnight Desert Camp: Sleep in Berber tents or luxury camps with private bathrooms and stargazing.
- Sandboarding: Rent a board and glide down the massive dunes.
- 4×4 Desert Tours: Explore faster and reach remote parts of the dunes.
- Cultural Encounters: Visit nearby Berber or Gnawa villages for tea and music.
Best Time to Visit Erg Chebbi
- Spring (March–May): Warm days, cool nights—ideal conditions.
- Autumn (Sept–Nov): Similar to spring, great for trekking and camping.
- Summer (June–Aug): Extremely hot (40°C+ / 104°F+). Avoid midday activities.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Mild days, but cold nights—pack warm layers.
Where to Stay: Camps & Riads
- Standard Camps: Basic tents, shared bathrooms, traditional meals, drumming by the fire.
- Luxury Camps: Private tents with real beds, hot showers, and gourmet dining.
- Riads in Merzouga: Stay in town and take day trips into the dunes.
Tip: Many tours include both a riad night in Merzouga and a night in the dunes.
What to Pack for Erg Chebbi
- Clothing: Lightweight, breathable layers + warm clothes for night.
- Scarf or turban: Protects against sun and sand (many tours sell or provide them).
- Closed shoes: Sandals are fine for camp, but sturdy shoes help for climbing dunes.
- Essentials: Sunscreen, water, camera, flashlight, and a small backpack.
Costs & Tours
- 2-day tour from Fes: From €100–€150 per person.
- 3-day tour from Marrakech: €200–€300 per person (includes transport, meals, camel ride, and camp).
- Luxury camp upgrade: +€100–€150 per person per night.
Erg Chebbi
A trip to Erg Chebbi is one of Morocco’s most unforgettable experiences. From camel trekking at sunset to sleeping under the Sahara’s star-filled sky, it’s more than just a tour—it’s a journey into Morocco’s soul. With the right preparation, you’ll leave with memories as vast and golden as the dunes themselves.
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