Camel trekking
Ride a dromedary across the dunes of Erg Chebbi — the classic way to arrive at a desert camp, timed for the soft light of late afternoon.
Experiences
Sunrise in the dunes
Wake before dawn, climb a dune in the half-light and watch the first sun spill across the Sahara before breakfast at camp.
Sunrise is quieter than sunset and, for many travellers, even more memorable. The camp is still asleep, the air is cool and the sand is firm underfoot after the night.
How it works
Your camp will usually tell you the evening before what time the sun rises. Set an alarm about 40 minutes earlier, dress warmly and head for the nearest high dune. Light starts to fill the sky well before the sun itself appears, so arrive early to see the whole sequence.
Practical tips
- Bring a torch or use your phone light for the first part of the walk.
- Layers matter. Desert nights are cold for much of the year, and mornings stay cool until the sun is up.
- Look west too. As the sun rises behind you, the dune shadows to the west are at their sharpest.
After sunrise, breakfast is served at camp. If your package returns to Merzouga by camel, the ride usually leaves soon after breakfast, before the day heats up.
Experiences
Sunset in the Sahara
Watch the dunes of Erg Chebbi change colour as the sun goes down — the moment most travellers remember long after their trip.
Sandboarding
Slide down the slopes of Erg Chebbi on a board — an easy, fun activity for families and groups, with no previous experience needed.
4x4 desert excursions
Explore the landscapes around Erg Chebbi by 4x4 — black-stone desert, villages, seasonal lakes and old mining areas beyond the dunes.