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Merzouga Desert Activities
A dirt bike rider on the crest of a red dune in Erg Chebbi

Quad, buggy & 4x4

Dirt Bike and Motocross Tour in the Merzouga Dunes

A guided dirt bike tour in Merzouga: ride a motocross bike through the Erg Chebbi dunes and desert tracks with an experienced local guide.

  • About 1–3 hours, or a full day for experienced riders
  • Morning · Afternoon · Sunset
  • Challenging

We're still finishing the details on this page. Ask us and we'll send you what's included, the timings and the price in writing.

Overview

Riding a motocross bike in the Erg Chebbi dunes is one of the best ways to feel the size of the Sahara. Your guide rides in front, picks the line and adapts the route to your level, from easy desert tracks to bigger dunes.

We start with a short briefing and a check of your gear. Beginners stay on flat sand and easy tracks around the dunes. Experienced riders can go deeper into the erg, climb high dunes or join a longer ride to Khamlia and the black desert.

Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the sand is cooler and the light is best for photos. Not ready for a bike yet? Try a quad or a buggy instead.

Highlights

  • Motocross bike with a local guide out in front
  • Routes for beginners and experienced riders
  • Helmet, goggles and gloves provided
  • 1 to 3 hours, or a full day in the desert
  • Morning, afternoon or sunset rides

Key details

Duration
About 1–3 hours, or a full day for experienced riders
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon. In summer, avoid riding in the middle of the day.
Meeting point
At the bike base in Merzouga or Hassilabied, or at your hotel at the edge of the dunes.
Transport
We can arrange a transfer from your accommodation in the Merzouga area on request.

Included

  • Motocross bike, one per rider
  • Helmet, goggles and gloves
  • Safety briefing
  • Guide leading the ride

Not included

  • Fuel deposit or damage deposit, if the operator asks for one
  • Transfers from outside Merzouga unless agreed
  • Drinks and snacks
  • Tips for the guide (optional)

What to bring

  • Riding experience, tell us your level
  • Boots or strong closed shoes
  • Long trousers and a long-sleeved top
  • Water
  • A scarf or buff for sand and dust

Age, safety & accessibility

  • You must be an adult and comfortable on a motorbike. Tell us honestly how much you have ridden.
  • Helmet, goggles and gloves must be worn at all times. Stay on the guide’s line and keep your distance.
  • Beginners ride on easy terrain only. The guide decides when it is safe to go onto bigger dunes.
  • No alcohol before or during the ride.
  • Not suitable if you are pregnant or have back or neck problems.
  • Summer heat in the dunes is extreme, so ride early or late and drink plenty.

Booking conditions

  • You’re sending a request, not making an instant booking. We’ll confirm the bikes, the start time and the price by WhatsApp or email.
  • Strong wind or a sandstorm can delay or cancel a ride. If that happens we offer you another time or a refund.
  • Tell us how many riders you are and your riding level, so we prepare the right bikes.

Cancellation policy · Booking terms

Photo gallery

A dirt bike rider on the crest of a red dune in Erg Chebbi

A dirt bike rider on the crest of a red dune in Erg Chebbi · 1/2

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a motorbike licence?

You need to be comfortable on a motorbike. For off-road riding in the dunes the operator will tell you what is needed when you book.

Is dirt biking good for beginners?

Yes, if you stay on easy tracks with the guide. Big dunes are only for experienced riders.

Can we combine a bike ride with other activities?

Yes. Many riders add a sunset camel trek or a night in a desert camp on the same day.

Learn more

Background reading on Wikipedia and more packages on our other site.

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