Sandboarding is a blend between snowboarding, surfing and skateboarding. It is practiced in coastal dunes and deserts, where oceans and water are only a mirage. Essentially, instead of descending water, asphalt, or snow, you ride down or across the dunes face.
It is said to have originated in Egypt during the time of the Pharaohs. However, the first modern enthusiasts of the sport started hitting the sandy slopes some time around the 1950s.
Sandboarding is a sideways riding sport, which simply means you stand sideways on the board. Those with some experience surfing, skating, snowboarding or wakeboarding won't have a hard time learning the ropes. However, If you have no experience whatsoever with board sports, there is no need to worry! It may take you a couple of hours to get on your feet and ride properly, but it is often said that sandboarding is the easiest out of all the sports previously mentioned.
Though not required, for your protection we suggest you use gloves, goggles and a helmet. The quality of equipment is crucial, as well as the steepness of the dunes and the quality of the sand.
Experience the Sahara Desert
Morocco has various desert areas, but only one stands out for sandboarding, and that is Erg Chebbi. Located just a few kilometers from the desert village of Merzouga, Erg Chebbi is a massive dune in the Moroccan Sahara desert. It is definitely a must visit!
How to get from Marrakech to Merzouga
Merzouga is the main launching point for any kind of excursion into the Sahara Desert, such as camel tours, ATV rides, etc. The route from Marrakech to Merzouga is about 560 km, cutting through a section of the High Atlas mountains and then passing by deep ravines, before finally descending down the Sahara Desert.
Renting a car
Can be great for those who feel confident in their driving and navigation skills (hazards include tight curbs, livestock, reckless drivers and poor phone service). It definitely grants you more flexibility when it comes to time.
Small group tour
The most affordable and the most convenient for those who are on a tighter schedule. A guide will be available to provide information and answers to any questions you may have.
Public transportation (bus)
You’ll end up diving deeper into the culture and exploring places that aren't regularly receiving group tours. However, you will need to give yourself more time. This is because the buses arrive infrequently and have inconvenient connection times
Cost of sandboarding at Erg Chebbi
Usually, the cost of sandboarding is minimal, with the locals charging a small rental fee of 50 Dirham per board.
