Merzouga Desert Activities

Walking into Erg Chebbi on camelback, with only the sound of soft footsteps on sand, is the reason many travellers come to Merzouga. Our treks leave close to the riad and are led by guides who grew up beside these dunes.

For a faster way to feel the scale of Erg Chebbi, a guided quad ride takes you over open sand and around the edges of the big dunes, with stops for photos along the way.

The landscape around Merzouga is far more varied than the dunes alone. A day by 4×4 opens up black stony plains, old mining areas, seasonal lakes and small villages that most visitors never see.

A buggy seats two side by side, which makes it a good choice for couples or a parent with an older child who want the thrill of the dunes together.

There is nothing quite like falling asleep in the dunes after the generators go quiet and the stars come out. A night in camp is often the highlight of a trip to the Sahara.

Climbing a dune is hard work — sliding back down it is the reward. Sandboarding is simple to learn and very popular with families and younger travellers.