Merzouga Hiking & Trekking Guide

Camel trek at Erg Chebbi sand dunes, Merzouga, Sahara, Morocco — Flickr CC-BY

The great dunes of Erg Chebbi

The towering golden dunes of Erg Chebbi rise 150 metres from the Sahara’s edge — a landscape of camel caravans, luxury desert camps and the most extraordinary night skies in Morocco.

Region: Sahara · Altitude: 850 m

History

A caravan crossroads on ancient trans-Saharan trade routes, Merzouga remains a gateway between Morocco and the deep desert.

Culture

Gnaoua music, nomadic Berber traditions and starlit camps deep in the sand sea.

Climate

True desert — hot days, cool nights, and blazing clear skies.

Best time to visit

October to April; avoid the intense summer heat.

Food

Berber pizza (medfouna), dates and tagine cooked in the sand.

Difficulty & fitness requirements

Tours to Merzouga range in difficulty: Easy, Moderate. Choose a trek that matches your fitness and experience, and ask our guides for a personalised recommendation.

Altitude: 850 m. Higher destinations demand better acclimatisation and fitness; our itineraries build in gradual ascent where needed.

Villages

Frequently asked questions

How do I reach Merzouga?

We arrange scenic multi-day journeys via the Dades and Todra gorges, or faster private transfers on request.

Photos

Group of camel riders in the Sahara, Morocco White and brown Sahara desert under a blue sky, Morocco Man walking camels across the Sahara, Morocco Three travellers riding camels in the Sahara, Morocco People riding camels across the desert dunes, Morocco

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