Morocco’s two most famous dune fields, Erg Chegaga and Erg Chebbi, both promise the classic Sahara postcard image — but they’re quite different trips in practice. If you’re trying to decide which one fits your Morocco itinerary, here’s an honest comparison of both.
Location and Access
Erg Chebbi sits near Merzouga, on the eastern side of the Sahara close to the Algerian border, and is reached via Fes or Marrakech by a long full-day drive. Erg Chegaga is farther southwest, reached from M’Hamid El Ghizlane near Zagora, typically as part of a route through the Draa Valley from Marrakech or Ouarzazate. Because it takes more effort to reach, Erg Chegaga sees noticeably fewer visitors.
Size and Scenery
Erg Chebbi’s dunes are more compact but taller in places, reaching up to around 150 meters, and are easy to access on foot from nearby hotels. Erg Chegaga is Morocco’s largest dune field, stretching over 40 kilometers, with a wilder, more remote feel and dunes that roll on toward the horizon in every direction.
Crowds and Atmosphere
This is where the two experiences diverge the most. Erg Chebbi has grown into a well-developed tourist hub, with dozens of camps clustered near the dunes and a busy, sometimes crowded atmosphere, especially at sunrise and sunset. Erg Chegaga remains far more remote and quiet — camps are spread out, and it’s common to have a stretch of dunes entirely to yourself. If solitude and a genuine sense of remoteness matter to you, Erg Chegaga has a clear advantage.
Getting There
Reaching Erg Chegaga requires either a multi-hour 4×4 drive or a multi-day camel trek from M’Hamid, which becomes part of the adventure itself rather than just a transfer. Erg Chebbi, by contrast, can be reached directly by car in many cases, making it more convenient but also more accessible to large tour groups.
Which Should You Choose?
- Choose Erg Chebbi if: you have limited time, are traveling from Fes, or want an easier, more accessible desert stop as part of a broader Morocco circuit.
- Choose Erg Chegaga if: you want a quieter, more remote Sahara experience, don’t mind extra travel time, and are looking for a genuine multi-day trekking adventure rather than a quick overnight stop.
Based in M’Hamid El Ghizlane, our tours are built around Erg Chegaga and the surrounding dune fields — the quieter, wilder side of the Moroccan Sahara. Take a look at our Erg Chegaga tours and bivouac packages to start planning your trip.