Erg Chebbi or Erg Chigaga? The two of them are the most famous and stunning dunes in Morocco. Both ergs offer unique experiences and breathtaking landscapes, attracting tourists from all over the world. However, there are some differences between the two that can help travelers decide which one to visit based on their preferences.
The Sahara desert spans eleven nations, but visiting Morocco is the greatest way to experience it. The North African country contains several ergs, which are created by a sea of dunes with varying tones depending on the area. Visiting the desert is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, with guests sleeping in luxurious tents.
For decades, the Erg Chebbi was the sole erg on tourist radars, making it Morocco’s most renowned erg. It’s easy to see why, as it has been in several films, boosting tourism in the region. As a result, the Erg Chebbi grew in popularity, with additional hotels and agencies opening up. Tourists are gradually finding Erg Chigaga, which is off the grid and appears to have stayed unspoiled throughout the years.
Erg Chebbi, also known as Merzouga Dunes, is located in the eastern part of Morocco near the town of Merzouga. It is one of the most accessible ergs in the country, making it a popular choice for tourists. The dunes of Erg Chebbi are characterized by their golden-orange color and towering heights, reaching up to 150 meters (492 feet). The vast expanse of sand stretches over an area of approximately 28 kilometers (17 miles) long and 7 kilometers (4 miles) wide.
One of the main attractions of Erg Chebbi is the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing sunrise and sunset over the dunes. Many visitors choose to stay overnight in traditional desert camps, where they can experience camel trekking through the dunes and enjoy traditional Moroccan music and cuisine under the starry sky. The nearby village of Merzouga offers various accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses.
Erg Chigaga, also known as Chegaga Dunes, is located in the southwestern part of Morocco, near the town of M’Hamid El Ghizlane. Compared to Erg Chebbi, Erg Chigaga is more remote and less touristy, offering a more off-the-beaten-path experience. The dunes here are larger in size but less crowded, providing a sense of solitude and tranquility.
The dunes of Erg Chigaga are known for their impressive height, with some reaching up to 300 meters (984 feet). The landscape is characterized by vast stretches of sand, interspersed with occasional patches of vegetation. Due to its remote location, reaching Erg Chigaga requires a longer journey, often involving a 4×4 desert excursion or a multi-day camel trek.
One of the highlights of Erg Chigaga is the opportunity to witness the untouched beauty of the desert and explore the surrounding wilderness. Visitors can engage in activities such as sandboarding, quad biking, and hiking through the dunes. There are also several luxury desert camps available for those seeking a more comfortable and immersive experience.
In terms of accessibility, Erg Chebbi is generally easier to reach as it is closer to major cities like Marrakech and Fes. The road leading to Merzouga is well-maintained, allowing for smoother transportation options. On the other hand, Erg Chigaga’s remote location requires a longer journey and a more adventurous spirit.
Both Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga offer unique experiences and stunning landscapes. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preferences regarding accessibility, crowd levels, and desired level of adventure.
