Erg Chebbi dunes, away from camp lights

Milky Way Photography in the Sahara

Far from city lights, Erg Chebbi can offer remarkably dark skies. This guided night session takes you away from camp lights to photograph stars above the dunes — and, in the right season and conditions, the Milky Way.

approx. 2–3 h (after dark)
Short (≤ 2 h)
Erg Chebbi dunes, away from camp lights

The experience

About this activity

Night-sky conditions depend on the moon phase and weather. The best nights are around the new moon, when the sky is darkest; a bright moon washes out fainter stars. The bright core of the Milky Way is visible roughly from spring to early autumn, rising later in the night early in the season and earlier as summer progresses. Dust, haze or cloud can reduce visibility, so we cannot guarantee a Milky Way view.

Your guide leads you a short walk from camp to a dark spot with a good dune foreground. You’ll need a camera with manual settings and a sturdy tripod; the guide can suggest starting settings and compositions. Light painting of the dunes or a tent can be tried, with consideration for other guests.

We’ll help you choose dates when booking, and the session is best combined with an overnight camp stay so you’re already in the dunes after dark. A telescope may be available at some camps — to be confirmed.

Dark desert skies away from camp lights
Dune foregrounds for night compositions
Planned around moon phase and season
Basic settings guidance from your guide
Combines naturally with a camp stay

How it runs

Typical plan

After dinnerMeet your guide at camp and check equipment.
approx. 15–20 minWalk by head torch (red light preferred) to a dark viewpoint.
approx. 1.5–2 hSet up, test exposures and photograph the sky and dune foregrounds.
EndReturn to camp; later sessions can be arranged if the Milky Way core rises late.

Timings shift with the season (sunrise and sunset change by more than two hours across the year).

Inclusions

What’s included

Typically included

Night guide
Walking access from camp

Not included

Camera and tripod
Camp accommodation unless booked
Specialist astrophotography tutor unless arranged

We confirm these details in your written quote:

Moon phase and Milky Way timing for your dates
Telescope availability at your camp
Availability of a specialist astrophotography guide

Safety

Safety, ages & accessibility

Nights can be very cold from November to March — bring warm layers. Use a head torch, stay with your guide and don’t wander alone in the dunes at night.

Good to know

Best around the new moon; a bright moon hides faint stars.
Milky Way core is visible roughly spring to early autumn — no guarantee.
Bring a tripod and a camera with manual settings; a red head torch helps.
Weather, dust or haze can reduce visibility.

Price & booking

Contact us for a price. Every trip is priced for your dates, group size, tour type and accommodation level. Send us your plan on WhatsApp or by email and we will send you the price. [TO CONFIRM: payment method (e.g. bank transfer), deposit amount and balance deadline]. A booking is confirmed only after we confirm availability and payment arrangements in writing. We never ask for card details on this website.

Questions

FAQs

Is a Milky Way view guaranteed?

No. It depends on the season, moon phase and weather. We help you pick the best dates, but conditions can change.

Can I photograph the night sky with my phone?

Many recent phones have night modes that capture stars well on a tripod or steady surface. A dedicated camera gives more control.

When is the best time of year?

The Milky Way core is visible roughly from spring to early autumn. Stars are impressive year-round on clear, moonless nights.

Plan around it

Where it happens & what pairs well

Combine it with

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