Erg Chebbi is a vast sea of wind-sculpted sand dunes on the western edge of the Sahara, beside the village of Merzouga in southeastern Morocco. Its golden dunes rise to about 150 m and stretch roughly 22-28 km north to south and 5-7 km east to west, just 35 km from the Algerian border, making it Morocco's most iconic destination for camel trekking, overnight desert camps and stargazing. As of 2026 new luxury camps keep opening around Merzouga, so tent standards and prices vary widely; plan to stay at least one night to catch the dunes shifting colour at sunrise and sunset.
Dunes glowing from red to gold at sunrise and sunset (the signature moment)
A camel trek of 45 minutes to 1 hour from the dune edge to a desert camp
Stargazing under near-zero light pollution, with the Milky Way often visible
Sandboarding and 4x4 desert excursions across the erg
Oases between the dunes and Berber nomad cultural encounters
Good to know
SeasonSummer (Jun-Aug) can hit 45-50 C by day and is dangerous. Spring (Mar-May) and autumn (Sep-Nov) are best; the peak desert season runs October to April.
SeasonDiurnal swings are extreme: hot days but nights that fall near freezing in winter. Bring a warm, wind-proof outer layer for any overnight camp, whatever the season.
SafetyClimbing the dunes at midday in summer carries a real heatstroke risk. Carry plenty of water, wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, and avoid strenuous walking in the heat of the day.
CautionCamp photos often differ from reality. Before booking, ask explicitly whether the camp is inside the Erg Chebbi dunes or on the village edge, and confirm that the camel trek and meals are included.
CautionWatch for fake guides and bait-and-switch vehicle 'upgrades'. Booking directly with a local Merzouga operator who actually owns the camels and tents is usually safer and cheaper than going through a middleman.
MannersThis is a Muslim region. Cover shoulders and knees in the village and camps, ask before photographing nomads or locals, and note that a small tip for camel handlers and camp staff is customary.
RulesThere is no entry ticket for the dunes themselves, but camps, camel treks and tours are all paid and priced very differently between operators. Confirm the latest rates directly before you go.
Practical info
Merzouga lies about 560 km from Marrakech (9-10 hours by direct bus) and about 380 km from Fes (7-8 hours); the nearest airport is Errachidia (ERH), roughly 80 km away. Most camps sit at the dune edge and are reached on foot or by a short taxi, with a camel trek being the usual way to arrive. Entry to the dunes is free, but camp, camel and tour prices vary by operator, so verify the latest rates and what is included before booking.
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