Are you planning on trying Sandboarding in Morocco? Complete Travel Guide For U.S. Travelers: The Best Dunes, Budget Tips, Local Culture And Must-Do Desert Experiences
It is like surfing, but instead of crashing waves, you ride sand dunes of golden sand in the Moroccan sun. What is sandboarding—and why is it so thrilling? For Americans who travel, adding sandboarding in Morocco to your bucket list is a must if you’re looking for an experience unlike any at home.
In this guide, you’ll find out where to go, what to expect, highlights of the culture, and how to maximize your trip — on a budget.
Erg Chebbi (Merzouga Desert’s Most Popular Spot)
Erg Chebbi, near the village of Merzouga, is one of the best-known sand dune areas of Morocco. The tallest dunes reach 500 feet, making it the perfect place to go sandboarding.
Why it’s sandboarding heaven:
Loose, fine sand that is easy to slide on
Foreground for some of the most spectacular photos
Camel rides and desert camps available
How to Get There:
Fly into Marrakech or Fes
Merzouga (8–10 hours west of Marrakech)—Take a bus or private tour
Erg Chigaga (Zagora Region)—For the Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventurer
Less touristic than Erg Chebbi, Erg Chigaga is a wilder and more remote desert experience. Getting here typically requires a 4×4 ride, but it is absolutely worth it.
Why you’ll love it:
Fewer crowds
Bigger dunes in some areas
Real nomad life vibes in the desert
Great for a Quick Stop: Tinfou Dunes (Near Zagora)
Tinfou is sometimes referred to as the “gateway to the Sahara.” It’s smaller but still provides a taste of sandboarding fun if you’re pressed for time.
What’s Sandboarding in Morocco Like?
Sandboarding is kind of like snowboarding — except instead of cruising down a snowy mountain slope, you’re gliding down dunes of sand. In order to make gliding easier, boards are usually waxed.
Good to Know:
Boards are for hire, or included in desert tours
No experience necessary—guides will help you with the basics
It’s fun when it gets hot in early morning or in the sunset
Tip: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a scarf or bandana to cover your face — sand gets everywhere!
The Best Local Experiences to Pair with Sandboarding
Camel Trekking
No visit to the Moroccan desert is complete without a camel ride. Most tours include camel treks to and from the dunes.
Overnight in a Desert Camp
Rest beneath the stars inside a typical Berber tent. Listen to music, enjoy the fire, and eat local dishes. It’s an indelible way to end your day.
Berber Cultural Experience
Taste Berber tagine, couscous & mint tea.
EXOTIC HANGOUT: Nature, oceans and local music & dance performances
Discover nomadic traditions and desert surviving techniques
4×4 Desert Safari
Drive further through remote dune areas and enjoy desert driving. Some safaris also visit fossil sites and oases.
When to Go Sandboarding in Morocco
Sandboarding is best between the following months:
October to April — Nice temps, cooler nights
Keep away June–August – Very warm and fewer agreeable for full-scale exercises
Tips on how to travel on a budget
However, with smart planning, traveling from the U.S. to Morocco can be surprisingly cheap. Here’s how:
Flights
Set up price alerts with Google Flights or Skyscanner
Fly to Casablanca, Marrakech or Fes — then hop a bus or a tour to the desert
Accommodations
Desert camps (budget: $20–$30luxury: $100+)
And hostels and riads (traditional Moroccan guesthouses) in nearby towns are also super affordable.
Transportation
Think group desert tours — usually this means transport, meals, and sandboarding
Shared taxis and buses are much cheaper than private transfers
Food
EAT LOCAL: Street food and small cafes serve delicious meals for a few dollars
Don’t miss Moroccan pancakes, tajine, and harira soup
What to Bring for Sandboarding in Morocco
• Lightweight, breathable clothing
A scarf or turban (you can get these in the local markets)
Sunglasses and sunscreen
A reusable water bottle
Closed toe shoes or socks (it gets hot out there in the sand, yo!)
GoPro or camera (for killer action shots)
Example 3-Day Sandboarding Itinerary (From Marrakech)
Day 1: Travel to Merzouga
Departure frmo Marrakech in the morning
Scenic stops you may take along the way (Ait Ben Haddou, Atlas Mountains)
Arrive in Merzouga by evening
Camel ride to desert camp + dinner and music
Day 2: Sand Dunes & Desert Fun
Sunrise over the dunes
Breakfast & then sandboarding session
Lunch in Merzouga village
Optional 4×4 safari or Berber family visit
Overnight at camp or nearby guesthouse
Day 3: Return to Marrakech
Early departure
Stops for sightseeing and lunch
Get to Marrakesh by the evening
Visa & Entry Information for American Tourists
Good news! U.S. citizens do not require visas for stays of less than 90 days. All you need is a passport valid for 6 months beyond the date of entry.
Desert Visitations Safety Tips
Always go with a guide or a tour group
Drink water and get out of the sun during the midday hours
Tell someone your travel plans
Watch out for wildlife (primarily insects or snakes)
Best Instagram Shots When Sandboarding
Erg Chebbi Sunset—The golden colors create magical photos
Camel caravans in silhouette
Shots of them sliding down the dunes
Stargazing in the Sahara sky
Reasons to Experience Sandboarding in Morocco
Different kind of adventure: Not many places combine sandboarding with a stunning backdrop
Cultural immersion: Meet local Berber life, desert traditions, and hospitality
Cher — Morocco is a great value destination if you’re coming from the U.S.
Memories for a lifetime: Whether it’s a camel ride or a night under the stars, each moment is unique
Final Thoughts
Sandboarding in Morocco is not simply a sport; it’s an adventure in time and topography. For the adventure seeker, the culture buff, or simply someone seeking an unusual getaway, Morocco’s deserts present something memorable.
So grab your sense of adventure, book your flight, and be prepared to ride the sands of Morocco. 🏜️🌍
✅ FAQ
❓ Where is the best sandboarding in Morocco?
Erg Chebbi, close to Merzouga, is the best place and has tall, very smooth dunes and great desert picture spots.
❓ Do I have to be experienced to try sandboarding?
No experience is needed! Most desert tours offer equipment and instruction suitable for beginners.
❓ Is it safe to try sandboarding in Morocco?
Yes, it’s safe, particularly when engaging in it with professional guides. You just need to be mindful of typical safety practices such as wearing protective sunscreen and staying hydrated.
❓ When’s the best time of year to go sandboarding in Morocco?
October to April is optimum, and the weather remains pleasant for desert adventures.
❓ Where else can I do sandboarding along with a camel ride/desert camp?
Absolutely! Most Morocco tours combine camel rides, overnight camping, and sandboarding.