Spend New Year’s in Erg Chebbi with camel rides, Berber tents, and dune-side music beneath an intense desert sky. This four-day circuit from Marrakech combines gorges, fossil quarries and a night camp under the stars.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The first night in Erg Chebbi arrives like a slow tide: gold dunes cooling, a camel caravan outlined against a sky where stars crowd so close they seem to breathe. You step from the khaima—a low Berber tent—onto wind-polished sand and the silence answers with a dry, papery hush.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 days
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers who can walk short distances on uneven sand and rock and tolerate long vehicle transfers; not for those with serious cardiovascular issues.
Wildlife
History
The route follows historic trans-Saharan corridors and modern caravan stops; nearby Ait Ben Haddou is a UNESCO ksar reflecting centuries of southern Moroccan adobe architecture.
Conservation
Respect dune ecology by staying on established camp sites and avoiding trampling vegetation; local operators often follow low-impact camp practices and support community initiatives.
Reserve your spot on the Under The Stars in the Desert Merzouga Morocco today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Hydrate for the desert
Carry at least 3 liters per day and start each morning with a full bottle—water sources are limited between stops.
Layer for big temperature swings
Days are hot and nights drop sharply; pack a lightweight insulating layer and wind shell for the camp evenings.
Protect against sun and sand
Wide-brim hat, high SPF sunscreen and a buff or scarf to shield face during dune crossings and camel rides.
Respect local customs
Ask before photographing nomadic families and follow guides’ instructions in camps to preserve cultural norms and privacy.
Sturdy trail shoes
Support and traction for mixed terrain—gravel tracks, oasis paths and sand edges.
Sun hat and sunglasses
Critical for daytime sun exposure crossing open dunes and plateaus.
summer
Insulating layer (fleece or down)
Nights drop rapidly in the desert; a warm layer keeps you comfortable in camp.
winter
Headlamp or compact flashlight
Useful for walking around camp after dark and during early-morning starts.