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A group of friends celebrating sunrise on top of a dune

Excursions

Sunrise Excursion to an Erg Chebbi Viewpoint

A guided sunrise excursion to a dune viewpoint in Erg Chebbi, on foot or by 4x4, with no camel involved.

  • About 1–1.5 hours in total
  • Sunrise
  • Easy

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

Highlights

  • Sunrise from a dune viewpoint over Erg Chebbi
  • Walk from your camp or auberge, or go by 4x4
  • No camel ride, so it suits most travellers
  • A local guide who knows where the morning light falls
  • Mint tea afterwards if you'd like it

Key details

Duration
About 1–1.5 hours in total
Best time
You leave 30–60 minutes before sunrise, depending on whether you walk or drive. The time shifts through the year.
Meeting point
At your camp, or at your hotel or auberge in Merzouga or Hassilabied. We confirm the exact time the evening before.
Transport
On foot from camp or an auberge at the edge of the dunes. By 4x4 if you're staying further out or would rather not walk far.

Included

  • Local guide
  • 4x4 transport if you choose that option
  • Mint tea afterwards, if you ask when booking

Not included

  • Breakfast, unless your accommodation includes it
  • Transfers from outside Merzouga unless agreed
  • Tips for the guide (optional)

What to bring

  • A warm layer or jacket, as dawn is often the coldest part of the day
  • A headlamp or your phone torch
  • Closed shoes for cold, soft sand
  • A scarf or buff against the wind
  • Your camera, with a charged battery

Age, safety & accessibility

  • You set off in the dark. Use a torch, watch your footing and stay close to the guide.
  • Desert mornings can be cold, especially from November to March. Wear layers.
  • Climbing a dune in soft sand is hard work. Tell us about any heart, knee or breathing problems; the 4x4 option keeps walking to a minimum.
  • In the 4x4, seatbelts are worn where fitted and the driver sticks to suitable tracks. Dune driving can be bumpy, so mention any back problems or pregnancy.
  • Children are welcome. Just let us know their ages when you book.

Booking conditions

  • You're sending a request, not making an instant booking. Tell us where you're staying and whether you'd like to walk or take the 4x4, and we'll confirm the time on WhatsApp or by email.
  • Thick cloud, dust or strong wind can hide the sunrise. If conditions make the outing pointless or unsafe, we'll offer you another morning or a refund in line with our cancellation policy.

Cancellation policy · Booking terms

A group of friends celebrating sunrise on top of a dune

A group of friends celebrating sunrise on top of a dune · 1/2

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between this and the sunrise camel trek?
How far do we have to walk to see the sunrise?
Can we do the sunrise excursion from a desert camp?
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