Erg Chebbi vs Erg Chigaga: Planning a Sahara Desert Adventure

Planning a trip to the Sahara Desert? Discover what sets Erg Chebbi vs Erg Chigaga apart to decide which Moroccan dune system is right for you.

Exploring the dunes of the Moroccan Sahara is undoubtedly one of the most incredible experiences that this North African country has to offer. The towering, golden peaks seem to stretch endlessly in every direction, with just a scattering of traditional Amazigh tents peppering the scene. 

Reaching these remote dune systems does require a looong journey (they’re around 8-10 hours by car from the major cities). But the payoff is more than worth it. As you draw closer, the landscape gradually transforms from rugged mountains and rocky plains into a sea of undulating dunes.

Once you arrive, the sheer scale and grandeur of the dunes are simply breathtaking. You really do feel like a tiny speck in the ocean. And as the sun dips toward the horizon, it paints the sands in a stunning palette of oranges and reds. The photography here is sublime!

The two main dune systems that visitors can choose between are Erg Chebbi (near the town of Merzouga) and Erg Chigaga (close to the town of M’Hamid). Both sets of dunes present an opportunity to be immersed in the otherworldly landscape of the Sahara Desert. But, in my opinion, the experiences vary slightly.

In this Erg Chebbi vs Erg Chigaga article, I’ll explain the differences between the two dune systems to help you decide which Moroccan Sahara experience is right for you.

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Visiting the Erg Chebbi dunes

Of Morocco’s two major dune systems, Erg Chebbi is the more well-known. It’s definitely the most popular destination for travellers seeking an overnight Saharan desert experience.

It’s a well-established tourist destination. There’s an abundance of Amazigh-style camps catering to all budgets where you can spend the night after a sunset camel ride. 

The ease of access to Erg Chebbi is an advantage. The drive from Fes to the town of Merzouga (the gateway to Erg Chebbi) is just 7 hours. Marrakech is around 9 hours away.

The journey is punctuated by several fascinating places that are worth spending a night or two, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Benhaddou. En route, you can explore the dramatic Dades and Todra gorges or inhale the floral aromas of the aptly named Valley of the Roses. 

Once you reach the town of Merzouga, the real adventure begins with a camel trek into the dunes of Erg Chebbi. Here, you’ll spend the night (or more) at a desert camp, which vary in size and seclusion. Some are located in more remote areas than others while a few offer an ultra-luxurious experience. 

Some of the camps in Erg Chebbi host drumming sessions around the campfire at night, which offer a taste of nomadic culture. For some, this detracts from the wilderness feel and the silence of spending a night in the Sahara Desert. Others love that there’s something to do after dark.

I’d say that if you love to socialise and want the ease of access, then Erg Chebbi is ideal.

Merzouga and Erg Chebbi can easily be visited on a tour from Ouarzazate or on an overnight adventure from Fes.

Best desert camps in Erg Chebbi

Luxury desert camp near Merzouga

Erg Chebbi Camp

For the ultimate in desert luxury in Erg Chebbi, this romantic camp ticks all the right boxes. Its sleeping tents have been beautifully designed with Moroccan decor and there are lots of high-end perks. They come complete with private bathrooms and are accessed via walkways illuminated by flickering lanterns.

“Our time at Erg Chebbi camp was the absolute highlight of our two-week adventure in Morocco.” – Justin (read more reviews here)

Mid-range desert camp near Merzouga

Merzouga Stars Luxury Camp 

For affordable luxury in the Moroccan Sahara, you can’t go past this highly-rated camp near Merzouga. The luxury tents themselves are elegantly designed, with ample space and well-appointed bathrooms. Stays include a multi-course Moroccan meal in the evening, as well as a delicious breakfast after sunrise. Beyond its exceptional accommodations and dining, the Merzouga Stars Luxury Camp also offers yoga classes.

“Our desert adventure at this camp was fantastic! The kids loved riding the camels and exploring the dunes.” – Patrick (read more reviews here)

Budget desert camp near Merzouga

Sahara Wellness Camp

Sahara Wellness Camp is the passion project of an Amazigh family led by Omar and his brothers, Hamid and Aziz. Their deep-rooted connection to the land and their commitment to preserving the traditional way of life in the region are evident in every aspect of the camp.

It comprises just six black tents, which are elegantly adorned with colourful carpets, as well as separate tents housing showers and toilets. At the heart of the camp is a communal tent where convivial meals are served. 

“Everything was amazing!!! The camp has a great energy, friendly vibe.” – Anna (read more reviews here)

Visiting the Erg Chigaga dunes

Erg Chigaga is the lesser-known of Morocco’s two dune systems. It has only become accessible to tourists within the past few decades. This is due to the region’s complex history of border disputes with neighbouring Algeria, which previously made it off-limits for many visitors.

As these political tensions have eased, Erg Chigaga has steadily grown in popularity. More and more accommodation options are springing up to cater to the increasing number of adventurous travellers drawn to its remote, untamed landscapes.

Comparing Erg Chebbi vs Erg Chigaga, the latter has a distinct advantage when it comes to solitude and experiencing a true sense of wilderness. That being said, the journey from Marrakech is a long one, taking around 9 hours in total.

Along the way, you can make a detour to explore the UNESCO-listed ksar of Ait Benhaddou and the crumbling fortresses of the Draa Valley. This area is far less visited compared to Dades and Todra gorges, although no less impressive when it comes to incredible landscapes. 

Once you reach the small town of M’Hamid (the gateway to Erg Chigaga), you can ride a camel through the dunes. Alternatively, you can continue by 4×4 to your desert camp. There’s also the option to complete a circuit route, without having to retrace your steps back to the starting point.

This journey takes in magnificent desert terrain and the dried-up expanse of Lake Iriki along a trail that was once part of the legendary Paris-Dakar rally. 

The dunes of Erg Chigaga may not quite match the sheer scale of their counterparts at Erg Chebbi. They’re not as tall! But there is an undeniable sense of wildness that is truly captivating. If you’re seeking to escape the crowds and really disconnect, then Erg Chigaga might be for you.

M’Hamid and Erg Chigaga can be visited on this one-week Morocco itinerary from Marrakech to Agadir or this two-week Morocco itinerary from Essaouira.

Best desert camps in Erg Chigaga

Luxury desert camp near M’Hamid 

Chez Naji: Luxury Sahara Desert Camp

The beautifully appointed tents at this luxury desert camp in Erg Chigaga provide an indulgent glamping experience. Inside each tent, you’ll find plush beds with high-quality linens, as well as en-suite bathrooms and flushing toilets. The culinary offerings at Chez Naji are nothing short of five-star. Everything from camel rides to quad biking excursions and sandboarding is available.

“The views, food, and people operating Chez Naji were wonderful.” – Demartino (read more reviews here)

Mid-range desert camp near M’Hamid

Bivouac La Dune Blanche

For the adventurous, Dune Blanche offers a wealth of excursions, from camel treks to quad bike and 4×4 expeditions. Each of its themed tents is uniquely decorated and equipped with electricity and private showers with hot water. At the heart of the camp is a towering tree where guests gather to feast on traditional Moroccan cuisine in the evening. 

“This magical place is situated apart from all other luxury camps, feeling authentic and close to local life.” – Bausch (read more reviews here)

Budget desert camp near M’Hamid

Camp Chraika

Located a 20-minute walk from M’Hamid, Camp Chraika provides an affordable base for exploring the Erg Chigaga dunes. This recently renovated budget Sahara camp features a shared lounge while each tent is outfitted with comfortable beds. Mornings at Camp Chraika start with a buffet breakfast spread while watching the rolling sand dunes stretch out endlessly beyond. 

“Our stay at Chraika was amazing and gave us an unforgettable adventure into the heart of the Sahara.” – Nicolaj (read more reviews here)

Erg Chebbi vs Erg Chigaga

As you can see, the Moroccan Sahara desert experience that’s right for you depends on individual preferences. Some prefer the easy access and convivial atmosphere of Erg Chebbi, the more developed of Morocco’s dune systems. In contrast, those seeking solitude and a feeling of remoteness might want to opt for Erg Chigaga.

Both destinations offer desert camps to suit all budgets, although there are far more options in Erg Chebbi. If you want to combine your Sahara experience with a visit to the Dades and Todra gorges, then this is best done en route to Merzouga (and the Erg Chebbi dunes).

Alternatively, the road leading to M’Hamid (and Erg Chigaga) takes in the little-visited Draa Valley and one of the largest palm groves in the world. 

About Me

I’m Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I’ve developed an intense love for Morocco, its incredible landscapes, storied cities and the exceptionally generous hospitality of its people.

Malika in Morocco is a place to share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. As a resource for travellers visiting Morocco, I want to encourage others to experience this captivating destination the way they desire, whether that’s independently or under the expert guidance of local tour operators.

I believe strongly in supporting responsible and sustainable tourism initiatives while inspiring travel experiences that are life-impacting and mutually beneficial for both travellers and locals.