Journeying into the sun-kissed dunes of the Moroccan Sahara is undoubtedly one of the most awe-inspiring 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 significant journey of 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 that glisten in the bright desert sun.
Once you arrive, the sheer scale and grandeur of the dunes are simply breathtaking - you 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 from 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 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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Erg Chebbi
Of Morocco’s two major dune systems, Erg Chebbi is the more well-known and the most popular destination for travellers seeking an overnight Saharan desert experience. It’s a well-established tourist destination, with 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 a significant advantage, with the drive from Fes to the town of Merzouga (the gateway to Erg Chebbi) just 7 hours. Marrakech is around 9 hours away. While it’s possible to complete an excursion from Marrakech or Fes to Erg Chebbi in just 3 days and 2 nights, I’d strongly recommend allowing at least 4 days to truly savour the sights and scenery along the way.
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 with their towering rock formations 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.
Most of the camps in Erg Chebbi have a lively ambiance, with drumming and singing around the campfire at night. For some, this detracts from the wilderness feel and the overall experience of sleeping under the Saharan stars. But if you’re here 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.
Moroccan Sahara Desert: Erg Chebbi vs Erg Chigaga
Best desert camps in Erg Chebbi
Luxury desert camp near Merzouga
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, transporting you to a world far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. They come complete with private bathrooms and are accessed via walkways illuminated by flickering lanterns. From the serene camel ride at sunset to the enchanting ambiance of the desert camp, this is an experience that will leave an indelible mark.
"Our time at Erg Chebbi camp was the absolute highlight of our two-week adventure in Morocco. The camp's setup is nothing short of enchanting, providing us with the most comfortable sleep throughout our entire stay..” - Justin (read more reviews here)
Mid-range desert camp near Merzouga
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 the exceptional accommodations and dining, the Merzouga Stars Luxury Camp offers yoga classes amidst the stunning desert scenery.
"Our desert adventure at this camp was fantastic! The kids loved riding the camels and exploring the dunes. The staff were brilliant at keeping them entertained, and we all enjoyed the delicious Berber food.” - Patrick (read more reviews here)
Budget desert camp near Merzouga
Sahara Wellness Camp is the passion project of an Amazigh family hailing from the Sahara Desert, 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; it is small, so you feel like part of a big family. We got real rest and felt great there.” - Anna (read more reviews here)
Moroccan Sahara Desert: Erg Chebbi vs Erg Chigaga
Erg Chigaga
Erg Chigaga is the lesser-known of Morocco’s two dune systems, having 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, with more and more accommodation options springing up to cater to the increasing number of adventurous travellers drawn to its remote, untamed landscapes.
When compared with Erg Chebbi, Erg Chigaga has a distinct advantage when it comes to solitude and experiencing a true sense of wilderness. The journey from Marrakech is a long one, taking around 9 hours in total, with the final two-hour stretch along rugged, unpaved terrain. A 4x4 vehicle is necessary and it’s best to go with a local driver who knows the roads.
Along the way, you can make a detour to explore the UNESCO-listed ksar of Ait Benhaddou and meander through the lush palm groves and 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 majestic landscapes.
Once you reach the small town of M'Hamid (the gateway to the dunes), you have the option to embark on an immersive camel trek to one of several tented camps. Alternatively, you can continue by 4x4 to a desert camp and complete a circuit route, without having to retrace your steps back to the starting point. This journey takes in majestic rocky terrain and the dried-up expanse of Lake Iriki along a trail that was once part of the legendary Paris-Dakar rally.
While the dunes of Erg Chigaga may not quite match the sheer scale of their counterparts at Erg Chebbi, there is an undeniable sense of vastness and wildness to this landscape that is truly captivating. The opportunity to experience off-the-grid desert camping makes Erg Chigaga an appealing option for those seeking to escape the crowds and truly disconnect.
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.
Moroccan Sahara Desert: Erg Chebbi vs Erg Chigaga
Best desert camps in Erg Chigaga
Luxury desert camp near M’Hamid
The beautifully appointed tents at this luxury desert camp in Erg Chigaga provide a truly indulgent glamping experience, offering guests an unparalleled level of comfort in the heart of the Sahara. Inside each tent, you'll find massive, plush beds swathed in high-quality linens, as well as en-suite bathrooms and flushing toilets. The culinary offerings at the Zaila Erg Luxury Camp are nothing short of five-star while everything from camel rides to quad biking excursions and sandboarding is available.
"What an extraordinary camp and an unforgettable experience! You'd be hard-pressed to find a better place to immerse yourself in all the wonders of the Sahara.” - Abbey (read more reviews here)
Mid-range desert camp near M’Hamid
For the adventurous, Dune Blanche offers a wealth of excursions, from camel treks across the dunes to thrilling quad bike and 4x4 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. It beautifully sits between dunes which you can walk and explore by yourself in early morning sunrise moments or for the most incredible sunset.” - Bausch (read more reviews here)
Budget desert camp near M’Hamid
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 cosy 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)
Moroccan Sahara Desert: Erg Chebbi vs Erg Chigaga
Erg Chebbi vs Erg Chigaga
As you can see, the Moroccan Sahara desert experience that’s right for you depends on individual preferences, with some preferring the easy access and convivial atmosphere of Erg Chebbi. Those seeking solitude and a feeling of remoteness might want to opt for Erg Chigaga, which is the less developed of Morocco’s two dune systems.
Both destinations offer desert camps to suit all budgets, although your choices will be greater 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.
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