Merzouga is a small desert village in southeast Morocco. It is famous for the Erg Chebbi sand dunes, which are some of the highest and most beautiful dunes in the country. Sandboarding here means sliding down these soft golden dunes on a smooth board. It’s fun for both beginners and experienced riders, and you don’t need any special skills to try it.
Many travelers visit Merzouga just for this experience. It’s exciting, safe, and surrounded by stunning desert views.
Where is Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi Dunes?
Merzouga is about 560 km from Marrakech and 460 km from Fes. It is close to the border with Algeria. The Erg Chebbi dunes stretch for about 28 km in length and up to 7 km in width, with some dunes reaching 150 meters high.
How to get to Merzouga
- By private tour, driver from Marrakech, Fes, or Casablanca.
- By flight from Marrakech to Errachidia, then hire a private driver to the desert (around 2 hours and 30 minutes by road).
- By bus to Merzouga and then a short taxi ride to your hotel or camp.
- By rental car for those who want to drive themselves.
Once you are in Merzouga, the dunes are only a few minutes away from most hotels and camps.
What is Sandboarding?
Sandboarding is like snowboarding, but instead of snow, you ride on sand. You can stand, sit, or even lie down on a flat board and slide down the slopes of the dunes. The speed depends on the slope and the smoothness of your board.
In Merzouga, sandboarding is often included for free when you book a camel trek, a quad tour, or stay overnight in a desert camp.
Why Merzouga is Perfect for Sandboarding
Merzouga is one of the best places in the world for sandboarding because the dunes are tall and steep, perfect for long rides. The sand is soft, so falls are gentle and safe. There are dunes of all sizes for beginners and advanced riders. The views from the top are breathtaking, with golden sand stretching into the horizon.
How to Try Sandboarding in Merzouga
You can try sandboarding in two ways:
- Join a desert tour – Many camel trekking or 4×4 tours include sandboarding at no extra cost.
- Rent a board – Hotels, guesthouses, and desert camps often rent boards if you want to go on your own.
To sandboard, you climb up the dune with your board, choose your slope, and slide down. You can try different positions — standing, sitting, or lying flat — depending on how adventurous you feel.
Best Time of Year for Sandboarding in Merzouga
The desert is very hot in summer, so the best time to visit is from October to May. In these months, the weather is cooler, especially in the mornings and evenings.
Season: Oct–May
Day Temperature: 15–30°C
Night Temperature: 5–15°C
Best Time for Sandboarding: All day, but mornings and evenings are most comfortable
Season: Jun–Sep
Day Temperature: 35–45°C
Night Temperature: 20–28°C
Best Time for Sandboarding: Only early morning or sunset to avoid heat
What to Wear and Bring
- Light, breathable clothes for the day.
- A warm jacket in winter nights.
- Sunglasses and a hat for sun protection.
- Sunscreen to protect your skin.
- A scarf or turban to protect from sand and wind.
- Water to stay hydrated.
Other Desert Activities to Enjoy
Merzouga is not just for sandboarding. You can also take a camel trek at sunrise or sunset, go on a quad bike or dune buggy ride across the dunes, join a 4×4 desert tour to explore nomadic villages and oases, visit Khamlia village to listen to traditional Gnaoua music, or spend a night in a luxury or Berber desert camp.
Safety Tips for Sandboarding in the Desert
- Drink water before and after sandboarding.
- Avoid the midday sun in summer.
- Keep your valuables in a safe place.
- Start on smaller dunes if you are new to the sport.
- Make sure your board is smooth and clean for faster sliding.
Where to Stay in Merzouga for Sandboarding
There are many places to stay in and around Merzouga. Luxury desert camps offer private tents, bathrooms, and meals. Mid-range camps have shared facilities but comfortable beds. Hotels and guesthouses in Merzouga village are good for those who prefer to stay close to town. Most desert camps include sandboarding in their activities, so you can try it as much as you like during your stay.
Conclusion
Sandboarding in Merzouga is a fun, safe, and unforgettable experience. The tall dunes of Erg Chebbi are perfect for both beginners and thrill-seekers. Whether you come for a day trip or stay overnight in the desert, sliding down the golden sand will be one of the highlights of your Morocco adventure.
FAQ
Yes, it is safe. The sand in Erg Chebbi is soft, so falls are gentle. Always bring water, avoid the midday heat, and follow your guide’s advice.
No, beginners can enjoy it. You can start on smaller dunes and work your way up. Many camps provide boards and show you how to ride.
From October to May is best, when the weather is cooler. In summer, go early in the morning or at sunset to avoid high temperatures.
You can take a private tour or driver from Marrakech, Fes, or Casablanca. Another option is to fly from Marrakech to Errachidia and then hire a private driver to the desert. Buses and rental cars are also available.
Yes, most desert camps and camel trekking tours in Merzouga include sandboarding for free or for a small extra cost.
