Morocco: Dune Boarding the Sahara
Morocco is a scenic wonderland that offers up endless arrays of activities for residents and visitors alike. Part of this scenery includes miles of sandy deserts and beaches. While some Morocco travelers steer clear of such places, others jump into the sand with both feet. Specifically, these individuals toss a snowboard onto the sand and set off on a downhill adventure.
Since there is certainly less snow to be found in Morocco than other countries, barring the steep High Atlas and Middle Atlas mountains and a couple smaller towns, the snowboard is used for dune boarding. Sand dunes provide the perfect topography for fast flying adventure. There are numerous dunes to be found in the landscapes of Morocco, with some shifting ridges and slopes, but primarily remaining the same for years. Though sand dunes can take various shapes and sizes, the end configuration depends on wind direction and how pre-existing sand blows.
There are subtle differences between the formation of snow mounds and the formation of sand dunes. For this reason, there is a difference between snow boarding and dune boarding. Even the most experienced snow boarder needs to keep a few essential elements in mind when taking to the sand.
Start by selecting the steepest sand dune possible. As descent is made down the hill, speed will be picked up. Sand creates friction between it and the board. Therefore, the ride will be a little bumpy in nature compared to its snowboarding counterpart.
Unlike snowboarding, however, dune board riders should maintain an upright body position, slightly leaning backwards. Worn like a helmet, a Berber scarf is an essential piece of equipment. This will protect a dune boarder against sand entering the eyes, nose, mouth and ears when traveling downhill. Also, physical fitness should be at peak levels. There are no ski lifts to take a rider to the top of a sand dune hill. This journey must be completed on foot with board in tow, often taking 20 minutes to over one hour.
Some of the best places to dune board in Morocco is in the Western Sahara desert. Experts say some of the largest sand dunes in Morocco can be found here. In the middle of this area is Hassi Labied, a small desert city with a ski shop. This enables dune boarders to purchase or rent the necessary equipment for a day on the dunes. When the last dune has been tackled, sit back and enjoy the beautiful Moroccan sunset over the desert. The picturesque browns, yellows and oranges come together to create a perfect end to the perfect action packed day in Morocco.
…more on High Atlas Mountains
…more on Adventures in Morocco
…more on Western Sahara
by Sam Mitchell
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April 1st, 2008 at 10:21 am
[…] dunes, strap on skis and come slushing down. Nope, no snow…but sand skiing is just as much fun as dune boarding in Morocco. Climb back up and do it all again. You can find outfitters to provide all the equipment needed. […]