Before reaching the dunes of Merzouga, the route passes through two towns with a lot of history: Erfoud and Rissani. They are worth a stop to discover the most authentic south of Morocco.
Rissani, heir to Sijilmassa
Next to Rissani lie the ruins of Sijilmassa, one of the richest cities in North Africa in the Middle Ages. It was the end point for caravans crossing the Sahara laden with gold and salt. This region, the Tafilalet, is also the homeland of the Alaouite dynasty, the royal family that has ruled Morocco since the 17th century.
The Rissani market
It is one of the most authentic markets in the south. On market days (usually Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday), people from nearby villages come to buy and sell spices, dates, vegetables, clothes and livestock. Look for the famous «donkey car park», where dozens of animals wait for their owners. And don’t miss the date stalls: the Tafilalet produces some of the best dates in Morocco.
Erfoud, the town of fossils
Millions of years ago this area was covered by the sea. That is why the surrounding quarries are full of fossils, such as ammonites and trilobites. In Erfoud you can visit workshops where fossil marble is cut and polished to make tables, sinks and decorative objects. Erfoud is also famous for its date festival in autumn.
The Ziz Valley
Between Errachidia and Erfoud, the Ziz river forms a valley with thousands of palm trees and adobe ksour. The views from the roadside viewpoints are spectacular.
Recommended trips via Rissani and Erfoud
- 6-day tour from Fez to Merzouga
- 5-day desert trip from Marrakech
- 4-day route from Marrakech to Fez
- 3-day tour from Marrakech via Merzouga
Travel with Vamos a Marrakech
We pass through Rissani and Erfoud on our routes to the Merzouga desert. Write to us and we will plan a tailor-made trip for you.