Trip Overview
Immerse yourself in the vast silence of the Sahara on this physically demanding but deeply magical 5-day expedition. This trek takes you far beyond the usual tourist camps, into the deep dunes of Erg Chebbi and the surrounding black desert (Hamada).
You will walk alongside camel caravans, sleep under a blanket of infinite stars, and experience the authentic lifestyle of desert nomads. This is a true disconnect from the modern world, offering a profound connection with nature's most dramatic landscape.
Highlights
- Deep trekking through the shifting dunes of Erg Chebbi
- Camping in the wild under millions of stars
- Authentic encounters with nomadic families
- Crossing the dramatic black desert (Hamada)
- Watching sunrise and sunset over the dunes
- Traditional music around the campfire
Detailed Itinerary
We arrive in Merzouga and meet our camel team. Leaving the village behind, we trek immediately into the waves of orange sand. As civilization fades, the silence leads us to our first wild camp in the heart of the dunes.
A full day of trekking across the dunes. The landscape changes constantly as the sun moves across the sky. We hike for about 6 hours, experiencing the true scale of the desert, camping near the Ouzina area.
Today we cross the contrasting black volcanic desert (Hamada) towards Ramlia. The flat, stony ground offers a stark beauty against the horizon. We may encounter nomadic shepherds in this remote region.
We trek through hidden desert oases, green spots of life in the arid landscape. We see ancient irrigation systems and rest in the shade of palm trees, continuing to our final night's camp.
A final morning trek brings us back towards Merzouga or our transport pick-up point, completing our great desert loop. We return to civilization with sand in our boots and peace in our souls.
Accommodation & Meals
- Accommodation: Mobile desert camp (Tents). Sleeping mats are provided. This is a wild camping experience.
- Meals: All meals prepared by our camel team/cook. Freshly baked sand bread (Mella), tagines, and salads.
What to Bring
- Lightweight, breathable clothing (long sleeves recommended for sun/insects)
- Good walking sandals or lightweight trekking boots
- Sleeping bag (desert nights can be cold)
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen)
- Flashlight/Headtorch
- Wet wipes (showers are not available in the wild)
Fitness & Difficulty
This is a Hard trek. Walking on sand is physically exhausting and requires strong legs and endurance. You will be walking 5-7 hours a day in potentially hot conditions.
Know Before You Go
- Water is precious; we carry what we need.
- There are no toilets in the deep desert; nature is your bathroom.
- Respect the silence and the fragile environment.
Best Time to Go
October to April is the ideal season. Summer months (May-September) are dangerously hot for trekking.