Erg Chebbi

Morocco's Sahara. The dunes of Erg Chebbi rise to 150 meters — not the highest in the Sahara, but among the most accessible. The sand is the colour of peach skin at dawn, terracotta at noon, purple at sunset. The town of Merzouga serves as basecamp. Desert camps range from basic bivouacs to luxury tents with private bathrooms. The camel ride to camp takes 90 minutes; the 4x4 transfer takes 20. Both arrive at the same silence. The desert is an exercise in reduction. No trees, no buildings, no sound except wind. The stars at night justify the trip alone — no light pollution, no haze, the Milky Way like a river overhead. Sleep little; the dawn is worth the exhaustion. Best time: Spring or autumn (summer too hot, winter cold nights) Allow: Overnight minimum Combine with: Khamlia village (Gnawa music)