Desert Nights Camp in Merzouga Morocco / Erg Chebbi Desert

The Merzouga desert is located in the southeast of Morocco and is part of the Sahara Desert. It is the largest desert in the country, stretching over an area of about 10,000 square kilometers. It is known for its sand dunes, which can be as high as 150 meters. The landscape of the Merzouga desert is made up of sand dunes, which are constantly shifting due to the wind. This creates an ever-changing landscape that can be seen from far away. The sand dunes are also home to various wildlife such as gazelles, foxes, and snakes. The climate of the Merzouga desert is hot and dry. During the summer months, temperatures can reach over 50°C, while in the winter, temperatures can drop to 0°C. The desert also experiences strong winds, which can make sandstorms a common occurrence. The Merzouga desert is known as a popular tourist destination, particularly for its sand dunes. Visitors can take camel rides through the desert, explore the sand dunes, and take in the unique landscape. They can also take part in a variety of activities such as sand surfing, stargazing, and night camping. The Merzouga desert is a place of beauty, relaxation, and mystery. It is a place for adventure and exploration and is a great destination for those looking for a unique experience.

Erg Chebbi Dunes / The famous desert erg in the world

Erg Chebbi is a Saharan erg, or sand sea, located in the Moroccan region of Merzouga. The dunes are some of the most spectacular in the world, reaching heights of up to 150 meters (492 feet) and covering an area of over 22,000 hectares (54,400 acres). The dunes are composed of red-gold sand that sparkles in the sun, and they are surrounded by a vast expanse of black volcanic rock. The Erg Chebbi dunes are a popular tourist destination, and they offer a range of activities for visitors.

From the stories about the Erg Chebbi Dunes and how it was founded, there is the famous one that says that in the desert of Merzouga, there were wealthy families living a good life with opulence and extravagance. But they went mess and they lived overwhelmed; some of them were taking shower with milk. And because of that God sends a harsh wind bourn the village until     

A camel ride is the most popular way to explore the dunes, and visitors can also take part in activities such as quad biking, sandboarding, and sand-skiing. Visitors can also go on a hot air balloon ride over the dunes or take part in a guided 4×4 tour. The Erg Chebbi dunes are also home to various wildlife, including foxes, camels, and sand cats. Bird watchers can also find a variety of species, including African Desert Warblers, Olive-backed Sunbirds, and Desert Sparrows. The Erg Chebbi dunes are a unique and beautiful landscape, and they are a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of the Sahara Desert.

Merzouga Desert Camp

Camping in the desert of Merzouga allows visitors to explore the best night can someones have. For those who love desert and camping, Merzouga is the best choice. When you camp in the desert of Merzouga, you get a new experience, enjoying the shining stars, silent wind, and listening to the Berber Gnawa Music. Also, by camping in the desert of Merzouga, you can attend one of the most panoramic views of the sunset and sunrise. There are two types of desert camps in Merzouga: luxury desert camps and traditional Berber camps.

Merzouga luxury desert camp:

It’s a desert camp that consists of luxury bivouacs in the middle of the Sahara desert of Merzouga; some of them are located between the high Erg Chebbi Dunes. You can find all that you need during your stay and more. Usually, these bivouacs consist of rooms according to your numbers, bathroom and toilet, and restaurant.

Merzouga Traditional desert camp:

Over the years nomads of the Sahara desert used to build traditional tents as simple houses; from here the Berber traditional tent for camping in the desert came. Today, several visitors love to camp in a traditional tent in the desert for having a memorable experience and trying the nomad’s life.

Things to do in Merzouga Morocco

Camel trekking

Morocco’s camel trekking represents one of the most exotic desert activities. Camel trekking is generally the best way to explore Morocco’s desert and it’s included in all our private desert tours and desert space tour camping products. Camel trekking consists of riding your camel for an hour or two, or even more if you want, with a desert guide. The experience will make you discover the mystery of the desert and live the lifestyle of Nomads and Berber people. Riding a camel might be, for travelers, a very exotic and amazingly unique experience.

4×4 journey in the desert

A 4×4 journey in the desert is a must tried desert activity in Merzouga, Morocco for those who may not like to trek camels. You can start the journey from the village of Merzouga to the famous dunes of Erg Chebbi or you can make dune bashing with 4×4 vehicles in the desert. Driving 4×4 in the Sahara might be dangerous especially when you hike the dunes and that’s why it’s important to journey with a professional driver. 

YOGA MEDITATION

Yoga is for everyone and no one is too old or too stiff, too fat or thin or tired. Your yoga teacher can guide all visitors of all ages and physical conditions to an experience of desert space tour yoga, that is safe, accessible, and rewarding for their bodies.

Our yoga sessions take place in the biggest sand dunes in North Africa. In Erg Chigaga dunes or in Erg Chebbi dunes, they can be early in the morning as sunrise classes, or in the evening as a part of a camel trek for sunset.

Sand bath in the desert 

A sand bath in the desert is a type of spa treatment where one immerses themselves in hot sand to relax and detoxify the body. This treatment is believed to be beneficial for both mental and physical health. It is also said to help with stress relief, increased circulation, and improved skin health. The hot sand is filled into a shallow pit, and the person lays down in it for a few minutes before being brushed off with a broom. Sand baths can be done in the desert of Merzouga.

Sunset and sunrise experience in the desert of Merzouga 

Watching the sunrise and sunset in the desert of Merzouga is a magical experience. The sun rises in the east and sets in the west, creating a beautiful landscape of colors. The sand dunes of the desert shimmer in the morning and evening sun, and the stars of the night sky sparkle against the dark sky. The experience is made even more special by the sound of the desert wind and the unique wildlife that inhabits the area. Whether you go on a camel ride, take a hot air balloon ride, or simply set up camp and watch the sunset and sunrise, you will be mesmerized by the beauty of the desert.

Visit the Khamlia village in Merzouga 

Khamlia is a small village located in the desert of Merzouga, in the south of Morocco. It is home to the Gnawa people, an ethnic minority of African descent. The Gnawa are famous for their music, which is a mix of African, Arabic, and Berber influences. Visitors to Khamlia can enjoy traditional Gnawa music and dance, as well as learn about the culture and history of the Gnawa people. The village also has some interesting sights, including a mosque and several palm groves. Visitors can also enjoy camel rides in the desert and take in the spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking dunes of Erg Chebbi, Merzouga Morocco

Hiking dunes in the Merzouga desert is a popular activity for those looking for a unique way to experience the Sahara. With its vast sand dunes and unique landscape, this part of Morocco provides the perfect backdrop for a hike. It’s best to go with a guide who can show you the best routes and provide information about the local environment. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, bring plenty of water, and cover your head from the sun. As you make your way up the dunes, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the desert and the surrounding mountains. When you reach the top, you can take in the spectacular 360-degree view of the desert. This is an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for years to come.

Sandboarding in Merzouga, Morocco

Sandboarding is a sport similar to snowboarding, but it is done on sand instead of snow. The sand dunes of Merzouga provide an ideal environment for sandboarding and tourists flock to the area to try this adrenaline-filled activity. Several companies offer sandboarding tours and equipment rental, and some even offer lessons. The best time to go sandboarding in Merzouga is during the winter months when the sand is not too hot and is perfect for sliding.

Know Before You Go To Visit Merzouga Desert in Morocco

HOW TO GET TO MERZOUGA, MOROCCO

The most convenient way to get to Merzouga is by car. The best route is to drive from Marrakech to Ouarzazate, then to Erfoud, and finally to Merzouga. The total drive is about 8 hours. For travelers flying into Morocco, the closest airport is located in Er–Rachidia, about two hours from Merzouga. Also, there is another path to reach Merzouga desert from Marrakech; you drive via Tizi n’Tichka pass and Tinajdad palm grove, Touroug, Jarf, and Rissani, then you arrive in Merzouga desert.

How long is better to spend in Merzouga?

It typically takes two to three days to explore Merzouga and the surrounding area. However, you could stay longer if you wanted to explore further and experience the desert at a slower pace.

Do I need a Visa to enter the Sahara Desert of Merzouga, Morocco?

No, you don’t need a visa to enter the desert of Merzouga since you enter the country without a visa. Even the Sahara Desert of Merzouga, Morocco has borders with Algeria, but you don’t need a visa.

What requirements do you need to enter Morocco and spend your vacation?

You may not need a visa to enter Morocco! All you will need is a valid passport and buy a ticket. Morocco is one of the great diplomatic countries and has good relations with most of Euroup countries, America, Asian countries, Latine America, the Arab Region, and African countries; it also has signed a lot of accords about tourism with these countries and that’s why it’s easy to visit Morocco and spend a wonderful vacation that can reach to 3 months.

What to wear in the desert of Merzouga?

When heading out into the desert of Merzouga Morocco, it is important to wear clothing that is lightweight, breathable, and light-colored to help reflect the sun’s rays. Choose fabrics such as cotton, linen, and synthetic blends. Opt for long sleeves, long pants, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your head and face from the sun. Wear closed-toe shoes or sandals to protect your feet. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water and sunscreen.

Spend 3 Days/ 3 Nights in Merzouga, Morocco

First Day/ First Night in Merzouga Desert

Upon arriving in Merzouga, visitors can enjoy a camel ride across the golden desert sands to the camp for the night. Upon arrival, visitors can take in the stunning desert sunset and spend the evening under the stars, feasting on a traditional Berber dinner. After dinner, visitors can join in a traditional drum circle around the campfire and enjoy the music of the desert. 

Second Day/ Second Night in Merzouga Desert / Exploring the Desert 

On the second day, visitors can explore the desert on foot, taking in the sights and sounds of the Sahara. From the rolling dunes to the ancient ruins, there is plenty to explore in this wild and mysterious landscape. Visitors can even find the fossilized remains of the once-thriving sea life in the rocks of the desert. 

Third-Day/ Third Night in Merzouga Desert

On the final day, visitors can take a final camel ride back to the village and bid farewell to the desert. Visitors can take home memories of the stunning sunsets, a newfound appreciation for the desert’s beauty, and a deep connection with the people of Merzouga.