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Merzouga
A desert village at the foot of Erg Chebbi, Morocco’s tallest sand dunes, for camel treks and nights under the stars
A desert village at the foot of Erg Chebbi, Morocco’s tallest sand dunes, for camel treks and nights under the stars
The dunes change colour through the day, from pale gold to deep orange at sunset. Camel treks of an hour or two lead to camps among the dunes.
Ask whether the camel ride is optional if you prefer to walk or go by 4×4.
Photo: Johannes K Becker, CC BY-SA 3.0
Camps range from simple tents to luxury set-ups with private bathrooms. Dinner, drumming around the fire and a night sky free of light pollution are part of the experience.
Nights are cold in winter; check heating and bedding.
Photo: Isabeldianamadrid, CC BY-SA 4.0
Climbing a dune before dawn to watch the sun rise over the desert is a highlight. Sandboarding is also offered at many camps.
Photo: Nomadz, CC BY-SA 3.0
South of Merzouga, this village is home to a Gnawa community, descendants of people brought from sub-Saharan Africa, whose musicians perform for visitors.
Photo: Withkarim, CC BY-SA 4.0
About 35km north, the market town of Rissani has a busy souk and the mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif, founder of the Alaouite dynasty.
Photo: Houssain tork, CC BY-SA 4.0
Camps and guesthouses serve tagines, couscous and harira soup. Try medfouna, a local “Berber pizza” stuffed with meat, onions and spices and baked in the sand or a clay oven.
Mint tea is offered everywhere as a welcome.
Merzouga is around 450–550km by road from Fes and Marrakech, a long day’s drive; many visitors join a three-day desert tour. Buses run from Fes and Marrakech, and the nearest airport is at Errachidia.
Camps arrange pick-ups from the village.
Morocco uses the dirham (MAD).
Two days lets the desert become a destination.
Arrive, ride or walk to camp for sunset, dinner and stargazing.
Watch sunrise, then visit Khamlia and Rissani.
Stargazing is superb.
Desert nights are cold.
Very hot in July and August.
Leave big luggage behind.
Quick answers for planning time in Merzouga.
The highest rise around 150m.
Around 500km, a long day’s drive.
No; many camps also offer 4×4 transfers or walking.
October to April; summer is extremely hot.
One night works, but two give time to enjoy it.
Planning a wider trip? Our Morocco travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.