Morocco Sandboarding in Merzouga is one of the most exhilarating ways to discover the Sahara. While many visitors come to admire the vastness of the dunes, few realize the thrill that comes with surfing them. Sandboarding, also called dune surfing, allows you to glide smoothly down the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi, combining adventure, sport, and stunning landscapes into one unforgettable experience.
Unlike traditional sightseeing, this desert sport immerses you in the landscape. It’s not just about watching the desert—it’s about engaging with it physically and playfully. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or with family, this activity is suitable for all ages and can be done year-round.
Morocco Sandboarding in Merzouga is not just a fun sport; it’s a unique way to connect with the Sahara. Since the dunes in Erg Chebbi are some of the highest in Morocco—reaching over 150 meters—this activity offers breathtaking views and high-speed fun. Moreover, the fine golden sand provides a smooth ride and safe landings, even for first-time sandboarders.
What makes it even better is that you can integrate it into other popular desert activities. For example, you can start your day with a camel ride, then enjoy a quad bike tour, and finally end with sandboarding on the sunlit dunes. The flexibility of this experience makes it a top choice for visitors staying at Antares Desert Camp, where all arrangements can be taken care of for you.
You can try Merzouga sandboarding at virtually any time of day, but the most magical moments are definitely sunrise and sunset. These golden hours not only provide cooler temperatures but also add a touch of romance and cinematic beauty to your ride. The colors of the dunes shift from gold to orange to deep red, creating perfect photo opportunities and unforgettable memories.
In terms of logistics, it’s simple. Sandboards are provided by Antares Desert Camp, and you’ll receive a short safety briefing before starting. No prior experience is needed, as sandboarding is easy to learn and low-risk. The duration of the activity typically ranges from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your energy and enthusiasm.
When you stay at Antares Desert Camp, your Morocco Sandboarding in Merzouga experience becomes seamless and elevated. The camp offers guided dune activities with high-quality equipment, personalized support, and flexible schedules. You won’t need to worry about organizing anything yourself—they handle it all.
Furthermore, you can combine your sandboarding session with other top-rated desert experiences offered by Antares, such as camel trekking, quad biking, and overnight stays in luxury desert tents. Their team ensures your safety and enjoyment, making this not just an activity—but a lifelong memory.
If you're traveling from Marrakech to the Merzouga desert, the most convenient and affordable option is the Supratours bus. This direct bus departs from Marrakech every morning at 08:00 AM and arrives in Merzouga around 9:00 PM. The journey offers scenic views of the Atlas Mountains and Moroccan countryside along the way. To ensure a smooth trip, it’s recommended to book your bus ticket in advance, especially during high tourist seasons.
Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive from Marrakech to Merzouga, which takes approximately 9 to 10 hours. This allows you to explore the route at your own pace, with opportunities to stop in Ouarzazate, the Dades Valley, or Todra Gorge before reaching the dunes of Erg Chebbi.
For those coming from Fes, the best option is also the Supratours night bus, which departs daily at 7:00 PM and arrives in Merzouga the next morning at around 6:00 AM. This overnight journey is efficient and saves you the cost of a night’s accommodation. The bus is air-conditioned and comfortable, making it a good option for long-distance travelers.
If you prefer a private transfer or a rented car, the drive from Fes to Merzouga takes about 7 to 8 hours, offering beautiful views of the Middle Atlas, cedar forests, and the Ziz Valley. Either way, reaching Merzouga from Fes is both scenic and rewarding.
No matter how you arrive, we make it easy to meet us at the edge of the Merzouga dunes.
1. If you're driving a rented car, we will meet you directly at our partner hotel near the Erg Chebbi dunes. You’ll receive the exact GPS location upon booking, and we will welcome you upon arrival.
2. If you're arriving by Supratours bus, we will be waiting for you at the Merzouga bus station to take you to the starting point of your desert adventure. We monitor all arrival times to ensure a smooth pickup—even if the bus is delayed.
With Antares Desert Camp, your desert journey starts the moment you arrive in Merzouga.
It’s a thrilling desert activity where you slide down sand dunes using a board, similar to snowboarding. The experience is safe, exciting, and ideal for all adventure lovers visiting the Erg Chebbi dunes. It can be done alone or combined with other desert tours, and it’s one of the best ways to engage with the Sahara landscape.
Yes! Sandboarding in Merzouga is suitable for all ages. Children as young as six can enjoy it under supervision, while older adults also find it accessible due to the soft nature of the sand and the gentle slopes available for beginners. The activity can be tailored to different fitness levels, especially with the help of guides from Antares Desert Camp.
Not at all. If you book your activity with Antares Desert Camp, everything is included—sandboard, guidance, and support. All you need is comfortable clothing, water, and a sense of adventure. Sunglasses and sunscreen are highly recommended due to the bright desert sun.
Sunrise and sunset are the most recommended times. Not only is the temperature more pleasant, but the lighting also enhances the visual beauty of the dunes. You’ll get amazing photographs and enjoy a more comfortable ride compared to the midday heat.
Absolutely. Most guests choose to add sandboarding to a full desert experience including camel trekking, quad biking, or an overnight camp in the Sahara. At Antares Desert Camp, staff will assist you in designing a personalized itinerary that includes as much or as little as you want.
