Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Erg Chebbi is a prominent sand erg located in southeastern Morocco near the town of Merzouga. Spanning approximately 22 kilometers north to south and up to 5 kilometers wide, it is among the country's most extensive dune systems formed by the accumulation of fine desert sands. The dunes can rise up to 150 meters (about 500 feet), creating towering landscapes that shift with the desert winds. The area lies at the edge of the Sahara Desert and is characterized by its rich golden and reddish sand dunes, interspersed with sparse desert vegetation and occasional wells used by nomads.
Historically, Erg Chebbi has been a crossroads for nomadic Berber tribes, and today it offers visitors a glimpse into traditional desert life alongside recreational activities. Key recreation opportunities include camel trekking over the dunes, sandboarding, 4x4 desert excursions, and overnight stays in Berber-style camps to experience traditional music and cuisine. Stargazing is popular here due to minimal light pollution. Despite harsh conditions, the reserve supports desert-adapted species such as the fennec fox, desert hedgehog, and various reptiles.
Attractions near Erg Chebbi include the small town of Merzouga, which serves as a gateway with accommodations and guides. The desert's distinctive high dunes are its main draw, offering stunning sunrise and sunset vistas that appeal to photographers and outdoor enthusiasts. The reserve's unique natural environment combined with cultural experiences makes it a significant destination in Morocco's protected areas.
The area does not have extensive formal infrastructure typical of national parks but prioritizes conservation of the delicate desert ecosystem through sustainable tourism practices and visitor education.
