Sleeping in the Sahara Desert is, for many travelers, the most special moment of their trip to Morocco. The Erg Chebbi dunes, next to the village of Merzouga, are the most famous and accessible in the country: mountains of golden sand up to 150 meters high that change color with the daylight.
Where is Merzouga
Merzouga is in southeastern Morocco, near the Algerian border. It is about 9-10 hours by road from Marrakech and about 7-8 from Fez, so it is best reached on a trip of several days, stopping at places such as the Dades Valley, the Todra Gorges or the Ziz Valley.
The desert experience
In the late afternoon you will ride a camel (actually a dromedary) into the dunes as the sun sets. The swaying of the camel and the silence of the desert are unforgettable. At the camp, a traditional dinner, mint tea and Berber music around the fire await you. Afterwards, all that remains is to lie back and look at the sky: without artificial light, the stars shine as in few places in the world.
The next day, get up early to watch the sunrise from the top of a dune. It is a magical moment that makes the whole trip worthwhile.
What to do in Merzouga
- Camel ride at sunset and sunrise.
- 4×4 route around Erg Chebbi, visiting nomad families and oases.
- Gnaoua music in the village of Khamlia.
- Quads and sandboarding on the dunes.
- Visit to the Rissani market, one of the most authentic in the south.
When to go
From October to April daytime temperatures are ideal, although winter nights can be cold. In summer the heat is intense, so activities take place at sunrise and sunset.
What to bring
- Warm clothes for the night, even in spring and autumn.
- Sunglasses, a cap or scarf for the sand and the sun.
- A small backpack for the night at the camp; the large suitcase can stay in the vehicle.
- A power bank for your phone and camera.
Recommended trips to the Merzouga desert
- 3-day tour from Marrakech via Merzouga
- 4-day route from Marrakech to Merzouga
- 3-day route from Fez to the desert
- 6-day tour from Fez to Merzouga
Travel with Vamos a Marrakech
We organize desert routes from Marrakech, Fez, Casablanca and Tangier, with a night at a camp in the dunes. Take a look at our trips to the Merzouga desert or write to us and we will plan a tailor-made trip for you.