Sand Dunes in Morocco’s Forgotten Corners: Hidden Oasis of the Sahara
Morocco is renowned for bustling medinas, dramatic mountain ranges, and coastal resorts—but tucked away in its eastern deserts are sand dunes in forgotten places, far beyond the beaten path. These remote dunes offer intrepid travelers a rare chance to witness the Sahara in its purest form: untouched, tranquil, and brimming with raw beauty.
1. Beyond Erg Chebbi: Hidden Dunes Near Merzouga
Merzouga, the gateway to Erg Chebbi—Morocco’s most photographed dunes—draws crowds with dunes soaring up to 150 m in height. But just beyond the well-trodden tracks lie secret dune areas often overlooked by mass tourism.
Local guides refer to remote spots around Dsha or the so-called Black Point, accessible only by off-road paths or guided camel treks. There, you’ll find sweeping sand seas devoid of crowds, stretching uninterrupted toward the horizon.
- Camp under a sky thick with stars, free of light pollution.
- Trek into dunes rarely seen by others.
- Experience nomadic Saharan life at small, isolated oases.
2. The Tranquil Dunes of Er‑Rich
Heading northwest of Erg Chebbi, the Er‑Rich region supports a lesser-known dune field. Far quieter and more expansive, these dunes are ideal for travelers seeking solitude and serenity.
- Vast, undisturbed dunes that shift with the wind.
- Quad‑biking or guided 4×4 trips through golden sands.
- Quiet desert nights punctuated only by nature’s sounds.
3. Majestic Heights: Ksar Amlil Dunes
South and deeper into the Sahara, dunes associated with Ksar Amlil rise dramatically. These dunes are rugged and raw—ideal for experienced hikers, photographers, or desert explorers.
- Sunrise photography on towering dunes.
- Untouched golden landscapes with nearby oases.
- Opportunities to spot desert wildlife.
4. Tidli and the Forgotten Dunes Beyond Erfoud
Erfoud, known as the “Gateway to the Desert,” has popular dunes, but beyond it lies Tidli, home to pristine sands far from busy routes.
- Camel rides at sunrise or sunset.
- Desert yoga or meditation retreats.
- Authentic hospitality from nomadic families.
Why These Forgotten Dunes Matter
Nature Untamed
These untouched dunes show the Sahara as it was for centuries—wild, vast, and unspoiled.
Solitude & Silence
Here, you’ll experience absolute silence interrupted only by wind or your own heartbeat.
Cultural Connection
Meet Amazigh and Sahrawi communities, learn desert lore, and see oasis agriculture unchanged for generations.
Adventure & Discovery
Exploring these dunes often means 4×4 travel, camel treks, and wild camping—true desert adventure.
Top Activities
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Camel Trekking | Journey between dunes and remote oases. |
| 4×4 or Quad Safari | Explore remote dunes for adrenaline thrills. |
| Sandboarding | Glide down steep dune slopes. |
| Desert Camping | Sleep under starry skies far from civilization. |
| Photography | Capture untouched Sahara landscapes. |
Best Time to Visit
The best months are March–May and September–November, with mild days and cool nights. Summer exceeds 40 °C, while winter nights can be near freezing.
Travel Tips
- Base yourself in Merzouga or Erfoud for supplies.
- Hire local guides for off-road access.
- Choose eco-friendly wild camps to preserve the fragile desert.
- Respect nomadic culture and support local businesses.
Conclusion
Morocco’s forgotten sand dunes reveal the Sahara at its most authentic: silent, vast, and stunning. From hidden sands near Merzouga to high dunes at Ksar Amlil, these remote spots promise an adventure unlike any other.
Want more offbeat travel ideas? Read our guide on Undiscovered Places in Morocco.