To adrenaline junkies and adventure seekers, sandboarding in Morocco is your thing. Just imagine, standing on top of honey dune glistening in the light, gliding at full speed. It is like snowboarding, but instead of icy slopes, one rides down endless waves of sand. The Moroccan desert is great to play with for any kind of border from pro to beginner.
Why Try Sandboarding in Morocco?
Morocco has miles and miles of desert, which is pretty much just begging to be sandboarded in. The perfect setting for this extreme sport, towering and soft sand under the Sahara Desert provides the perfect location for an exhilarating sand ride. Plus, it’s not (unlike snowboarding) freezing temperatures or heavy gear you’ve to think of; strap a board to your feet, look for the best slope, and then just let gravity do the rest.
One of the great things about sandboarding is the accessibility. It’s possible to enjoy it without any previous experience. Dunes create slopes ranging from easy to impossible, so whether you are a beginner or an expert, there is the right bit for you. And that will forever hold a memory about how you glided down a sunny warm dune.
Best Places for Sandboarding in Morocco
To explore some of the best sandboarding spots, Morocco has plenty to show. Here are the apposite areas here one can indulge in this great sport:
-
Erg Chebbi
Located near Merzouga, Erg Chebbi is in fact one of the most famous sand dunes in Morocco. The heights of the dunes reach about 150 meters-thus perfect for desert surfing. The soft golden sands coupled with mesmerizing views of the Sahara make this a sandboarder’s dream location.
-
Erg Chigaga
A more wild and lesser-known area, Erg Chigaga is located near M’Hamid. Vast dunes and a more rugged, untouched desert experience characterize this region. Go here for an adventurous escape from the crowds.
-
Agafay Desert
For anyone based in Marrakech, the Agafay Desert is easily reached. Although the dunes here are lesser compared to their brothers in the Sahara, it is a good place for a first-time sandboarder. Sandboarding day trips from Marrakech usually include other exciting activities, including camel rides and quad biking, for an enthralling treat.
How to Get Started with Sandboarding
Sandboarding newbie? Don’t worry, it’s just easy to pick up, like Finnish baseball. To get started, here are a few tips:
A right board- Sandboards glide easily on the sand, some travelers prefer using those regular snowboards, but they sink into the dunes.
Wax your board so that it would be much smoother in riding and less friction with a good wax job.
Start on small dunes. First, practice on smaller slopes, then rush to the tallest dune. Lean back slightly, so it helps you to balance and prevents the nose of the board from digging into sand.
Wear sunglasses and sunblock-The sun in the desert is intense, as sand may get into your eyes.
The Best Time for Sandboarding in Morocco
The ideal season for sandboarding is between the cooler October and April months. Less warm summer months will make it impossible to enjoy that which you do enjoy doing outdoors. The best time to hit the sand dunes is the early mornings and late afternoons when the temperature is just right to be outdoors and even better for some shots.
What to Wear and Pack for Sandboarding
The desert calls for a specific kind of dressing. This, then, is what you need to wear and carry with you:
- Nice, free-flowing clothes – Light and loose clothing helps in keeping you cool and provides some sun protection.
- Closed-toe shoes – The sand can get hot, and wearing shoes will protect your feet.
- Hat and sunglasses – When in the desert sun, you do need some protection.
- Water bottle – In a dry desert atmosphere, it is very important to keep hydrated.
- GoPro or camera – You must take some pictures of those epic moments you are going to experience while sliding down the dunes.
Combining Sandboarding with Morocco Sahara Tours
The best way to experience sandboarding in Morocco would be to take part in several Morocco Sahara tours. Such tours usually combine Sandboarding with lots of other desert activities instituted for fun. You can ride camels, check out Berber villages, enjoy traditional Moroccan food, and even spend the night in luxury desert camps underneath the stars.
There are numerous tour operators that create tailor-made itineraries that include sandboarding, which makes a perfect combination with a complete desert adventure. Whether you have planned a one-day trip in the dunes or a multi-day expedition, you will find sandboarding thrown into the mix to spice up the whole experience.
Is Sandboarding Safe?
Yes! Sandboarding is a rather safe sport. The soft sand acts as a cushion to your falls, which definitely lessens the chances of injury as compared to snowboarding. But precaution should be taken. Avoid riding down dunes that have sharp drop-offs, and always take a look at where you are landing before you slide. If you happen to be a beginner, try to get accustomed to slow, controlled descents before trying any advanced tricks.
Why Sand Surfing Morocco Should Be on Your Bucket List
Sandboarding in Morocco is a unique experience without comparison. The rush of skimming down an enormous dune, gorgeous views of the desert, and warmth of spirited Moroccan hospitality make this excursion unforgettable. Compared to other boarding sports, sandboarding is open to everyone and complements the tourism spirit for travelers who value adventure, be they sprightly children or energetic grandparents.
Final Thoughts
Sandboarding in Morocco is an ideal combination of adventure and fun. Riding the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi or trying out a quick slide near Marrakech will be an experience worth remembering. So, if you are planning an escape to Morocco, do include this in your itinerary; the hot golden sands, heart-thumping rides, and breathtaking sights are worth every penny.
So, grab a board for an excursion to the dunes-who else from the Moroccan desert is better suited for the first experience?
FAQs for Sandboarding in the Moroccan Desert
-
Is sandboarding in the Moroccan desert difficult to learn?
Sandboarding in Morocco is so easy for all people – novice or pro. Even if you haven’t ever done anything like this before, you easily learn the basics of sandboarding. Soft rolling dunes of the Sahara provide a forgiving surface. It makes the process much easier than snowboarding or skiing. You can take a start from the smaller dunes and go up as your confidence builds. You can seek help from friendly guides and instructors in Morocco for easy tips to get started.
-
What should I wear and bring for sandboarding in Morocco?
It can get quite hot in the Moroccan desert, so dress well for it! Wearing loose-fitting, and lightweight clothing is the best option for keeping you cool and comfortable. Prefer long sleeves, and long pants for excellent sun protection. It is better than shorts and a t-shirt. Get closed-toed shoes to protect your feet from hot sand. Don’t forget to carry a hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen. Keep a water bottle with you to refill water. And of course, don’t forget to capture every bit of that wilderness through a camera or GoPro.
-
Is sandboarding in the Moroccan desert safe?
Generally, sandboarding in the Moroccan desert is very safe and fun. Landing on the soft, sandy dunes comes much softer than either snow or hard-packed dirt. But as always there’s some safety consideration to take. Listen to your guides, and begin on the small dunes to get an idea of the sensation with the board and the sand. Avert riding any dune with sharp drop-offs hidden obstacles. And always hydrate and protect yourself from the sun. With some common sense, you can have a thrilling yet safe sandboarding experience in the beautiful Moroccan desert.
