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Crossing The Sahara

by：2024-Aug-26

The Sahara Desert, often considered the most fascinating desert in the world, spans over 9 million square kilometers across North Africa.

Its sheer size and diversity of landscapes make it an adventurer's paradise, offering a wide range of activities, from serene camel rides to adrenaline-pumping sandboarding. Which activity are you going to choose?

<h3>Starting Your Journey</h3>

One of the best gateways to the Sahara is Merzouga in Morocco, known for its proximity to the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes. These dunes, reaching heights of up to 150 meters, are the tallest in Morocco and offer an otherworldly experience. Merzouga is easily accessible from cities like Marrakech and Fes, with many tour operators offering guided excursions.

Erg Chebbi Dunes, Merzouga, Moroccan Sahara [Amazing Places 4K]

Video by Amazing Places on Our Planet

<h3>Where to Stay</h3>

Accommodations in the Sahara range from basic nomadic tents to luxurious glamping setups. Luxury desert camps in Erg Chebbi offer en-suite tents with comfortable beds, gourmet meals, and even hot showers, blending comfort with the raw beauty of the desert. An example is Scarabeo Luxury Camp, which combines traditional Berber design and modern luxury. Each tent is elegantly furnished with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and Moroccan decor. Guests can enjoy gourmet meals under the stars and various activities such as camel trekking and sandboarding!

Estimated Cost: $200 - $300 per night pp.

Address: Désert Agafay، Marrakech 40000, Morocco.

For those on a budget, standard camps such as Nomad Palace provide basic yet cozy accommodation, featuring traditional tents with shared bathrooms. The camp offers a communal dining experience, and guests can participate in activities such as camel rides and evening entertainment around the campfire.

Estimated Cost: $50 - $70 per night pp.

Address: Ctra. Merzouga - Taouz, km, 7, Merzouga 52202, Morocco.

<h3>Enjoying the Sahara</h3>

1. Camel Trekking:

One of the most iconic ways to explore the Sahara is on the back of a camel. Many tours offer overnight treks, where you can ride through the dunes at sunset, camp under the stars, and wake up to the serenity of the desert at dawn. You can also opt for a sunset or sunrise trek.

Price: Approx. $25 - $40 per person for a 1-2 hour trek.

2. Sandboarding:

If you're seeking adventure, try sandboarding down the vast dunes. Similar to snowboarding, this activity is a thrilling way to experience the desert's unique terrain. Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga both offer perfect dunes for this exhilarating sport.

Price: Often included in desert camp packages or around $10 - $20 if rented separately.

3. Exploring Oasis Towns:

The Sahara is dotted with oasis towns like Rissani and M'Hamid, where you can explore ancient markets, visit historic sites, and learn about the local customs. Rissani is particularly known for its traditional Moroccan architecture and as the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes.

Rissani Market Address: 7PJM+JGV, Rissani, Morocco

4. Cultural Encounters:

Spend time with the Berber people, who have lived in the Sahara for centuries. Many tours include visits to Berber villages, where you can learn about their music, dance, and crafts. A highlight is the Gnawa music performances in the village of Khemliya near Merzouga, offering a deep dive into the cultural tapestry of the Sahara.

Each of these experiences provides a unique way to explore and appreciate the vastness and beauty of the Sahara Desert, making your journey through Erg Chebbi unforgettable. Are you ready to leave yet?