What is Erg Chebbi?
An erg is a large field of sand dunes. Erg Chebbi stretches for about 25 to 30 km from north to south and a few kilometres from east to west, and some dunes reach up to 150 metres high.
Around it the landscape is very different: flat stony desert, called hamada, small oases and palm groves.
Merzouga, the gateway to the dunes
Merzouga is a small village at the edge of Erg Chebbi. Together with the nearby villages of Hassilabied and Khamlia, it is the starting point for camel rides, desert camps and tours in the dunes.
The colours of the dunes
The sand changes colour during the day: soft gold in the morning, pale at midday and deep orange and red at sunset. This is why sunrise and sunset are the best moments to be on the dunes.
Weather in the desert
Summers are very hot, often over 40 °C. Winter days are sunny and pleasant, but nights can be close to zero. Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons.
Life in the desert
Berber families have lived around Erg Chebbi for centuries. Some nomad families still live in tents with their animals, and the village of Khamlia is known for its Gnawa music.
