Starry nights in the Sahara
No light pollution, and away from the camps with floodlights. The Milky Way is visible to the naked eye.
Why the sky is darker here
There are no cities near Merzouga, so there is no light pollution. But there is another difference: most camps are grouped in the same stretch of dunes, with their lights and their music. We are in Erg Znaigui, 15-20 km further south and outside that cluster.
For looking at the sky that changes everything: the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye and, on moonless nights, so is the shadow of your own hand on the sand.
When to come, depending on the moon
- New moon: the darkest sky and the most stars. This is the date to pick if that is what you came for.
- Full moon: fewer stars, but the dunes glow silver and you can walk at night without a torch.
- The best hours are after dinner, once the fire has died down.
- From November to February the sky is clearest, but wrap up: it is cold.
Dinner under the stars
If you would rather eat outside, with your table set on the sand away from the camp lights, tell us in advance and we will arrange it. It is what couples ask us for most.
Questions about the night sky
Do you really see that many stars?
Yes, and it surprises even people who were told to expect it. There are no villages nearby and no light from other camps, which is what spoils the sky in the busier area.
When is the best time for the sky?
Winter nights are the clearest, though cold. Whatever the season, the moon matters most: with a full moon you see far fewer stars.
Is there a telescope?
We do not advertise one because we would rather not promise it. Ask us before you come and we will tell you what we have that week.
Can we climb the dunes at night?
Yes, and it is worth it. If you want, someone from the team goes with you: at night the dunes all look alike and it is easy to lose your bearings.
What time does the music finish?
The evening by the fire follows dinner and lasts as long as the group wants. When it ends, the camp falls silent: there is no bar and no music into the small hours.
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Pick your night
Send us your dates and we will tell you what the moon will be doing, in case you want to shift them.
+212 661 614 125 · We always reply the same day.
Keep reading
- Experiences Knowing the Sahara means more than looking at its dunes: it means crossing it, hearing its silence and meeting the people who live in it.
- Sunrise Half an hour of sleep in exchange for the best light of the day in the desert. We wake you in time.
- Double and twin €200 per tent per night, not per person. Choose a double bed or two separate beds: same price, same fit-out.