The Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga are indisputably one of the greatest attractions of Morocco. Better known as the Merzouga dunes, they are one of the two ergs of the Sahara in Morocco (the other is the Erg Chigaga near M'hamid). The Erg they are groups of large dunes formed by the sand carried by the wind.
Erg Chebbi is located near the small town of Merzouga. 22 km long and about 5 km wide, its highest dunes culminate at 150/200 meters. These high dunes, yellow or ocher in color, represent a must-see place for lovers of unique and sensational adventures.
How to get to the Erg Chebbi Dunes
To reach the dunes of Merzouga (Erg Chebbi), a private vehicle can be used. You can start from Fes o Marrakech. The roads to get to Merzouga are all paved.
Merzouga and Erg Chebbi are approximately 360 km from Ouarzazate. The road takes about 6 hours (the average speed in Morocco is close to 50/60 km per hour). You can easily walk the road in several days because it is dotted with grandiose landscapes (the Todra gorges, the Dadès gorges,…).
The easiest way to visit the dunes is with one 4 × 4 Land Cruiser, however, travel on the camel. Whether you choose to ride a camel or explore them on foot with a Moroccan travel guide, you will have the same chance to observe the flora and fauna of the desert.
Be very careful when visiting in the summer months, as temperatures are extremely hot. Bring plenty of water, a hat and sunscreen.
Where to stay in Merzouga
To visit the dunes of Erg Chebbi you can spend the night in the different riads and hostels in Merzouga and book an excursion with local guides.
Or you can choose to camp in a Berber tent, sample traditional tagine and tea, and try sand-boarding. There are numerous tours offering various formulas to visit the dunes.
The third option is to stay in a riad and visit the Erg Chebbi dunes on your own. We do not recommend this choice because if you are not an expert it is easy to get lost in the dunes.
