Erg Chebbi — Merzouga Dune Wild Camping

Erg Chebbi is a sea of orange sand dunes rising to roughly 150 meters on the edge of the Sahara in southeastern Morocco, just outside Merzouga. Overlanders bivouac along the gravel hamada at the foot of the dunes or in the sand fringe. There are no facilities, no water and no shade, and the only neighbors are the tourist camps scattered along the dune line. Bring all your water and a way to pack out your trash. Sunrise and sunset on the dune crests are the draw.

The approach is a mix of piste and soft sand. Airing down helps, and 4WD makes sense if you go beyond the hardpack. Winters are cool and pleasant. Summer heat is dangerous and the wind can drive sand into everything. Many tourist camps and local guides also offer paid camel treks and dune camping, and some will let you park on their land for a fee. Ask locals about current access and respect private plots. Have a dirty day.

Saharan dune bivouac at the edge of Merzouga