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The first colossal dunes of the Sahara rise at Morocco’s eastern edge.

The best time to see the dunes is at sunrise and sunset when the changing light subtly alters their colour with each passing second, from butter yellow to gold, ochre and honey.

Visiting the Erg Chebbi

The SaharaThese are the most accessible dunes of the Sahara in Morocco, but are not easily incorporated into a short trip, being about 10 hours’ driving time from Fez and at least as much from Marrakesh, so realistically you need at least a three-day round trip to fit them in.

They are best incorporated as part of a circuit itinerary between Marrakesh and Fez, or as a loop through the southern oases from Marrakesh.

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who's been there
Audley Travel Specialist Emma

Start planning your tailor-made trip to the Erg Chebbi by contacting one of our Morocco specialists

Suggested itineraries featuring the Erg Chebbi

Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in the Erg Chebbi, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Map of the Erg Chebbi

Places & hotels on the map

    Places near the Erg Chebbi

    Our expert guides to exploring the Erg Chebbi

    Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting the Erg Chebbi, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate the Erg Chebbi at its best.

    • Walking and trekking holidays in Morocco
      Trekking in the High Atlas

      Walking and trekking holidays in Morocco

      Walking and trekking holidays in Morocco

      Home to North Africa's highest mountain and the stunning Ourika Valley, Morocco is the perfect choice for a walking or trekking holiday in North Africa. We can advise you on the best places to stay to make the most of these wonderful walking opportunities.

      8 min read

      Read this guide

    Accommodation choices for the Erg Chebbi

    We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit the Erg Chebbi. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.

    Ideas for experiencing the Erg Chebbi

    Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting the Erg Chebbi, and which use the best local guides.

    • Erg Chebbi Excursion
      The Erg Chebbi, Morocco

      Erg Chebbi Excursion

      Erg Chebbi Excursion

      Sunrise and sunset are without doubt the best times to see the dunes, as the changing light on the dunes runs through a huge spectrum of colours, from sandy yellow, through ochre, to deep orange, and verging almost on purple. It is a remarkable sight.

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