Chebbi

Chebbi is most commonly associated with Erg Chebbi, a prominent dune field in the Sahara Desert of southeastern Morocco. An erg is a broad sea of sand formed by wind deposition, and Erg Chebbi lies near the town of Merzouga in the Errachidia Province of the Drâa-Tafilalet region. It is one of Morocco’s best-known dune landscapes and a major destination within the Sahara.

The dune field comprises active dunes that can reach substantial heights, with some dunes approaching about 150 meters. The area covers tens of square kilometers, featuring shifting sands, oasis pockets, and views of the surrounding desert landscape. Its dunes are a defining feature of the Merzouga area and attract visitors for sunrise and sunset scenery.

Tourism and cultural context are central to Erg Chebbi. The site is widely visited for camel treks and overnight desert camps that offer a view of the night sky and the desert horizon. Access is typically via Merzouga, with excursions also organized from nearby towns such as Erfoud. The local economy around Erg Chebbi often centers on desert tourism, guiding, and accommodation in traditional Berber-style camps.

Beyond the geographic feature, Chebbi is also found as a surname of North African origin. The etymology of the toponym is not definitively established, but it is a localized name associated with the region.