Morocco ToursMorocco is home to some of the most stunning deserts in the world, each offering unique landscapes and experiences. In this article, we’ll compare two of the most popular desert destinations—Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga—to help you decide which one is the perfect fit for your Sahara adventure.
Erg Chebbi
Erg Chebbi, located near the town of Merzouga, is one of Morocco’s most popular desert destinations, known for its striking beauty and iconic golden dunes—the highest of which rises to an impressive 150 meters. As a more developed and touristic area, it provides convenient access and plenty of activities, making it an attractive option for travelers looking for a classic Sahara experience without venturing too far off the beaten path. Here’s what you should know about Erg Chebbi:
- Location: Near the town of Merzouga in southeastern Morocco, close to the Algerian border.
- Landscape: Iconic golden sand dunes reaching heights of up to 150 meters, forming one of the most picturesque desert scenes in Morocco.
- Accessibility: Easier to reach compared to other desert areas, with paved roads leading to Merzouga. Suitable for travelers with limited time.
- Activities:
- Camel treks at sunrise or sunset.
- Sandboarding on the high dunes.
- Overnight stays in luxury desert camps or traditional Berber tents.
- Stargazing under clear, unpolluted skies.
- Best For: Those seeking a quintessential Sahara experience with more established tourism infrastructure.
Erg Chigaga
Far from the bustling cities and tourist hubs, Erg Chigaga offers an unparalleled sense of adventure and tranquility for those willing to venture deeper into the Sahara. Located at a greater distance from Marrakech and only accessible via 4×4 vehicles, this desert rewards travelers with the chance to “sink in the Sahara silence” and marvel at its raw, untamed beauty. Erg Chigaga embodies the spirit of the Sahara—a place of isolation, serenity, and boundless horizons.
- Location: Near the town of M’Hamid in the far southeast of Morocco, at the edge of the Sahara Desert.
- Landscape: Vast and remote sand dunes, reaching up to 60 meters, surrounded by untouched wilderness. Offers a more rugged and authentic desert feel.
- Accessibility: Requires a 4×4 vehicle and a longer journey (about 60 km off-road from M’Hamid), making it more secluded and less crowded.
- Activities:
- Extended camel treks for a deeper immersion into the desert.
- Remote camping experiences with minimal light pollution for unparalleled stargazing.
- Exploration of nearby oases and traditional nomadic lifestyles.
- Best For: Adventurous travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience and a sense of solitude in a less commercialized setting.
Conclusion
While both Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga offer stunning desert landscapes, Erg Chigaga stands out for its remote, unspoiled atmosphere, making it the perfect choice for those seeking solitude and a more authentic Sahara experience. Erg Chebbi, though beautiful, is more touristic and accessible, with well-established infrastructure and activities catering to a wider range of travelers. On the other hand, Erg Chigaga’s rugged terrain and quieter, less commercialized environment, enables travelers to experience a deeper connection with the desert. For those looking for adventure and a sense of isolation, Erg Chigaga is the ultimate desert destination.
