Nestled in the southeastern corner of Morocco, Merzouga is a small desert town on the doorstep of the Sahara’s undulating dunes. According to local legend, this arid landscape was once a verdant jungle until divine punishment transformed it, entombing unforgiving families who had refused charity to a poor woman. Today, the remnants of this ancient curse manifest in the towering Erg Chebbi, a breathtaking expanse of towering sand mountains that draw visitors from far and wide.
For centuries, Merzouga existed as a transit point for merchants traversing the legendary trade routes to Timbuktu, until it eventually became a sacred pilgrimage site for the nomadic Ait Atta tribes. Today, it has firmly established itself as a tourist destination, serving as a departure point for overnight adventures at traditional desert camps.
While there are two major dune systems accessible to tourists in Morocco’s southeast (Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga), the former is more popular and with a greater choice of camps. Venturing to this remote corner of the country is a bucket list experience for many travellers and one that I can’t recommend highly enough.
In this Ultimate Travel Guide to Merzouga, discover incredible places to stay in the town and the best time to visit, as well as inspiring things to do in the Erg Chebbi dunes and beyond.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission when you make a purchase. Affiliate links cost you nothing and ensure my content stays free!
Things to do in Merzouga
Explore the Erg Chebbi dunes
Sprawling to the east of Merzouga, the Erg Chebbi dunes are the highest and most expansive sand dunes in Morocco. Formed over centuries by the relentless winds sweeping across the Sahara Desert, these undulating hills of golden sand are a sight to behold, whether you’re viewing them from the rooftop of your Merzouga riad or immersed within them.
Embarking on a thrilling 4WD adventure is one of the best ways to experience the dunes, either on a small-group adventure or a private tour. Many include a stop at an Amazigh village where you’ll have the opportunity to meet the locals and learn about their unique way of life. Quad biking and sandboarding are other popular ways to experience the dunes, with each activity offering a different perspective.
It’s also possible to simply walk up the nearest dune from your Merzouga riad or kasbah hotel, with the hike to the top taking less than an hour. Head off in the late afternoon to time your arrival for the sunset - it’s an experience you’ll never forget!
Embark on a camel trek
Camel trekking through the Sahara is an unforgettable experience for many travellers and is the transport method of choice for many overnighting at a desert camp. But it’s also possible to head out just for a couple of hours at sunset or even embark on a multi-day camel trek led by a local Tuareg guide.
Gliding atop the gentle, lumbering gait of these humped creatures offers an elevated view on the desert environment, as well as being an opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditional way of life for the desert's nomadic inhabitants. Camels have been integral to their existence for centuries and, in my experience, the camels in Merzouga are well looked after. To be sure you’re supporting an ethical operation, always read the reviews from previous guests before booking.
Things to do in Merzouga
Overnight in the dunes at a desert camp
Spending a night beneath the star-studded skies of the Sahara Desert is a truly transformative experience and a “must” if you’re travelling all the way to Merzouga. Far removed from the glare of city lights, the sweeping dunes of Erg Chebbi offer an unforgettable desert escape, with both budget-friendly and luxury camps to choose from. Each offers an authentic taste of Amazigh hospitality and the chance to experience the serene solitude of this untamed wilderness.
While the desert dunes of Erg Chebbi are definitely “busier” than those of Erg Chigaga further south, the advantage of staying here is the sheer choice of desert camp accommodation available. Scroll down for my top picks in the area.
This article explains in more detail the difference between Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga while my Ultimate Travel Guide to M’Hamid is a good starting point if you’re heading to Erg Chigaga.
Birdwatch at the seasonal salt lake of Dayet Srji
Located a short drive west of Merzouga, Dayet Srji is a seasonal salt lake that stands in stark contrast to its arid surroundings. It serves as a vital oasis for a diverse array of migratory and desert-dwelling birds before transforming into a cracked, parched expanse during the summer months.
The best time to visit Dayet Srji is following the rains when it attracts enigmatic Egyptian nightjars and pink flamingos, who flock here to feed on the abundant brine shrimp. For photography, coincide your visit with the early morning or late afternoon when the light is at its most atmospheric.
Visit the Moroccan National 4x4 Auto Museum
Car enthusiasts shouldn’t miss this small but engaging museum, which boasts an impressive collection of off-road vehicles that showcase the rugged spirit of the desert region. Around 30 cars are showcased at the Moroccan National 4x4 Auto Museum, including several wide-bodied vehicles that were specially designed for traversing the endless dunes and rocky outcroppings of the desert. The museum also features an array of cars that were once used by the country's royal family, offering a glimpse into their privileged world.
Ultimate Travel Guide to Merzouga
How to get to Merzouga
The closest airport to Merzouga is Moulay Ali Cherif Airport in Errachidia, which is around two hours’ drive away. It receives regular flights from Casablanca, Rabat and Marrakech. The closest international aviation gateway is Fes-Saïss Airport, which is around seven hours’ drive from Merzouga and receives flights from destinations across Europe.
If you’re hiring a car in Fes, it’s a relatively straightforward journey down the N13 to Merzouga. To break up the journey, I’d recommend spending a night in Errachidia, a lively city that serves as the capital of the Drâa-Tafilalet region.
Want to hire a car in Morocco? I suggest checking out Discover Cars, which compares deals from over 500 suppliers and offers a vast range of cars, from compact automatics to manual vans.
If you’re planning a self-drive adventure in Morocco and want to visit the Sahara Desert, check out this one-week itinerary from Marrakech.
By bus
If you're travelling on a budget, bus is the most affordable way of getting to Merzouga. Several bus companies, such as CTM and Supratours, operate daily departures between Marrakech and Merzouga, as well as Fes and Merzouga. From Marrakech, the journey takes around 10 to 12 hours while it’s around 8 to 10 hours from Fes. Generally speaking, the buses are comfortable and air-conditioned.
By guided tour
The most convenient way to explore Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes is on an organised tour from Marrakech or Fes. Due to the travel distances, you need to spend at least two nights, one of which will usually be at a desert camp and another at an atmospheric destination en route. This is a great opportunity to explore some of Morocco’s off-the-beaten-track spots, some of which are among my favourite places in the country.
For example, this 3-day/2-night trip to the Sahara includes a visit to Ait Benhaddou and the gorgeous gorges of Todra and Dades. If you have an extra day up your sleeve, this 4-day/3-night trip includes an exploration of the Valley of the Roses and the Route of 1000 Kasbahs, with a night spent in Agdz.
Viator has heaps of Moroccan Sahara Desert tours to choose from and it’s a great starting point as you can read reviews from previous guests and get a taste of what the camps look like.
Best places to stay in Merzouga
Best places to stay in Merzouga
If you want to stay in Merzouga itself and explore the Erg Chebbi dunes on day trips, all of the following hotels receive rave reviews. Desert excursions can be arranged at reception.
Inspired by a kasbah, this luxury Merzouga hotel features spacious rooms decorated with neutral tones and Moroccan crafts. There are singles, doubles and triples available (all with ensuite bathrooms), as well as a tranquil inner courtyard complete with a burbling fountain. When you’re not out on desert adventures, you can relax beside the pool beneath the shade of a date palm.
"This site is absolutely amazing! Just a few steps away, you are in the middle of the sand dunes and at night you can watch the stars.” - Crystal (read more reviews here)
Offering stunning views across the Erg Chebbi dunes, this high-end riad lies a short drive south of Merzouga. It features beautifully appointed suites and an inviting swimming pool, as well as an elegant dining room where meals are served. With its shaded loungers, the rooftop terrace is the place to be at sunset.
“If you are not staying in the tents this is the best place to be in Merzouga.” - Shiyas (read more reviews here)
Perched on a hill overlooking the dunes, this mid-range Merzouga hotel is owned and operated by the friendly Ait Bahadou brothers. It features colourfully decorated rooms and a sparkling swimming pool, as well as an onsite restaurant serving authentic Moroccan cuisine. If you do want to spend a night in the desert, that can easily be arranged at Kasbah Azalay’s sister camp.
“It was amazing, the view was breathtaking and the food was delicious.” - Lise (read more reviews here)
Best desert camps in Merzouga
Luxury desert camp near Merzouga
Experience the epitome of desert luxury in Erg Chebbi at this romantic camp, which checks all the right boxes. It features beautifully designed sleeping tents complete with private bathrooms and walkways lit by lanterns. Stays include a serene camel ride at sunset and an enchanting desert ambiance that will leave a lasting impression.
"Our time at Erg Chebbi camp was the absolute highlight of our two-week adventure in Morocco.” - Justin (read more reviews here)
Mid-range desert camp near Merzouga
If you want to experience affordable luxury in the Moroccan Sahara, check out this highly-rated camp near Merzouga. The elegant tents offer plenty of space and well-appointed bathrooms. Stays include a multi-course Moroccan dinner in the evening and a tasty breakfast in the morning. On top of that, the Merzouga Stars Luxury Camp also offers yoga classes with a stunning desert view.
"Our desert adventure at this camp was fantastic!” - Patrick (read more reviews here)
Budget desert camp near Merzouga
The Sahara Wellness Camp is a labour of love for a local Amazigh family, headed by Omar and his brothers, Hamid and Aziz. Their strong ties to the land and their dedication to upholding the traditional way of life in the area are apparent in every detail. The camp consists of only six black tents, beautifully decorated with vibrant carpets, as well as a central communal tent where friendly meals are shared.
"Everything was amazing!!! The camp has a great energy, friendly vibe.” - Anna (read more reviews here)
Best places to stay in Merzouga
Best time to visit Merzouga
The best times to visit Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes are during the spring and autumn seasons. During these temperate periods, the daytime temperatures are pleasantly warm (often reaching the mid to high 20s Celsius), allowing you to comfortably explore the dunes without being overwhelmed by intense heat. And as the sun dips below the horizon, the nights remain mild, with temperatures that are cool but not chilly.
In contrast, the summer months in Merzouga can be brutally hot, with daytime temperatures that can climb well above 40 degrees Celsius. While the dry desert heat is generally more bearable than humid conditions found elsewhere, the relentless midday sun can still be overbearing. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the winter months of December and January bring a different set of challenges, with chilly nighttime temperatures that can make camping and other outdoor pursuits less comfortable.
Comments