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Morocco · North Africa · Desert

Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes

Orange Saharan dunes, camel treks and nights in a desert camp.

Best timeMar to May, Oct to Nov
Ideal stay1 to 2 nights
GatewayErrachidia or Marrakech
Month by month
  1. JAnuary
  2. FEbruary
  3. MArch (good)
  4. APril (good)
  5. MAy (good)
  6. JUne
  7. JUly
  8. AUgust
  9. SEptember
  10. OCtober (good)
  11. NOvember (good)
  12. DEcember

Erg Chebbi is Morocco’s most famous dune sea. Ride a camel or walk into the dunes for sunset, spend the night in a camp and watch the stars.

Highlights

  • Camel trek at sunset
  • Desert camp nights
  • Gnawa music in Khamlia
  • Sandboarding

Wildlife to look for

  • Dromedary camel

Where to stay

Desert camps from simple to luxurious.

Getting there

About 9 to 10 hours’ drive from Marrakech, often as a 3-day tour via the Dades and Todra gorges.

Tips

  • Break the drive with a night in the Dades Valley.
  • Desert nights are cold outside summer.
  • Ask how camels are cared for before you book.

Best time to visit

Mar to May, Oct to Nov. See where to go in Africa in March and our guide to the best time to visit Africa.

Plan your stay

Hotels on Booking.com Tours on GetYourGuide Tours on Viator

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Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes?

Mar to May, Oct to Nov. Break the drive with a night in the Dades Valley.

How long should I spend at Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes?

1 to 2 nights.

How do I get to Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes?

About 9 to 10 hours’ drive from Marrakech, often as a 3-day tour via the Dades and Todra gorges.

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