How to Plan a Desert Adventure in Merzouga, Morocco

Posted on May 10, 2025 | Julie J. |

Merzouga was one of the most unforgettable stops on my Morocco trip. Tucked at the edge of the vast Sahara Desert near the Algerian border, it’s the gateway to the sweeping sand dunes of Erg Chebbi.

After days of winding roads and mountain scenery, arriving in Merzouga felt like stepping into another world—one where time slows down and the landscape takes center stage. It’s not just about the desert (though the golden dunes at sunrise really are magical); Merzouga also offers a glimpse into Berber culture, warm hospitality, and a pace of life that’s wonderfully unhurried.

I had one month in Morocco, so I took my time getting there, but if you’re short on time and can afford it, I recommend booking a tour from Marrakesh. Most last 3 to 5 days with stops along the way to break up the journey. You can usually choose to be dropped off back in Marrakesh or continue your trip to Fez.

Once in Merzouga, the typical thing to do is to head to a desert camp by camel or quad, spend the night, then do a 4×4 excursion the next day and maybe some sandboarding. With a final night in Merzouga. Most hotels there have a camp, and you can book both directly. From Merzouga, you can also arrange for many activities and day tours, and walk to the dune by yourself.

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About Merzouga

Merzouga is a small village in southeastern Morocco, best known for its proximity to the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi, some of which rise over 150 meters high. While the village itself is modest, it serves as a hub for desert experiences, from camel treks and sandboarding to stargazing and overnight camps under the Milky Way.

The area is home to Amazigh (Berber) communities, and many tours include music performances, traditional meals, and cultural exchanges. Whether you’re looking for adventure or simply a moment of quiet in the desert, Merzouga delivers.

How to Get to Merzouga

Getting to Merzouga takes time, but the journey is part of the experience. There’s no airport or train station nearby, so overland travel is the only option—and it’s worth every winding turn through the Atlas Mountains and rocky desert landscapes.

From Marrakesh: The most common route is by road, either on a multi-day tour or self-driving. Many desert tours from Marrakesh include stops in places like Aït Ben Haddou, Dades Gorge, and Tinghir, making the long journey (around 9–10 hours of driving) much more enjoyable and scenic. If you’re driving yourself, plan to stop overnight along the way.
From Fes: Another popular route starts in Fes and takes roughly 7–8 hours by car. Like the Marrakesh option, many travelers join a tour that includes a night in the desert before looping back or continuing to another city.
By Bus: Supratours offers a direct overnight bus from Marrakesh and Fes to Merzouga, which is convenient for budget travelers. It’s a long ride (around 12 hours from Marrakesh), but you’ll arrive right in town.

No matter how you get there, the moment you see the dunes rising out of the horizon, the journey fades into the background.

Best Time to Visit Merzouga

The best time to visit Merzouga is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months. During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant—perfect for exploring the dunes, going on camel treks, and sleeping under the stars without the extremes of summer or the chill of winter nights.

Summer (June to August) can be brutally hot, with temperatures soaring well above 40°C (104°F) during the day. If you do visit during this time, be sure to plan activities early in the morning or late afternoon and avoid the midday heat.
Winter (December to February) offers cooler daytime temperatures and mostly clear skies, but nights in the desert can be very cold—sometimes close to freezing. If you’re visiting in winter, bring layers, especially if you plan to stay overnight in a desert camp.

No matter the season, the desert sunsets and sunrises are always magical—but the more comfortable temperatures in spring and fall make for a more enjoyable overall experience.

Things to Know Before Visiting Merzouga

It’s a Long Journey to Get There

Merzouga is remote. Whether you’re coming from Fes or Marrakesh, be prepared for a long drive—often 8–10 hours. I broke up the trip with a few stops along the way, and I highly recommend doing the same to make it more manageable.

Bring Layers

Desert temperatures swing dramatically. During the day, it can be hot and sunny, but at night—especially in winter—it gets surprisingly cold. I was glad I packed a warm jacket, even if it felt out of place during the day.

Cash is King

Once you’re in Merzouga, don’t count on card payments. Most camps, guides, and local vendors deal in cash, and the nearest ATM is in Rissani, which is about 30–40 minutes away.

Don’t Expect Strong Wi-Fi or Cell Service

Signal is spotty in the desert, and most camps don’t offer reliable Wi-Fi (some don’t have any at all). It’s a good opportunity to unplug—just let people know you’ll be off the grid for a bit.

Desert Camps Vary Widely

From very basic to ultra-luxurious, desert camps come in all styles. Read reviews carefully, especially if comfort or privacy is important to you. I stayed in a mid-range camp that offered private tents, great food, and a proper toilet—worth every dirham.

Local Guides Add a Lot

Hiring a local guide for your desert excursions adds a layer of insight you won’t get otherwise. Many have grown up in the area and can share stories and traditions that give context to what you’re seeing.

Best Things to Do in Merzouga

Spending time in Merzouga feels like stepping into another world. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or just the stillness of the dunes, here are some highlights based on my time there:

1. Go on a Camel Trek at Sunset

No trip to Merzouga is complete without a camel ride into the dunes. It may be a bit touristy, but watching the sun set over the endless waves of orange sand from atop a camel is just something you don’t forget. Most tours include a stop for photos before reaching your desert camp for the night.

2. Sleep Under the Stars in a Desert Camp

Spending the night in the Sahara was a trip highlight. I stayed in a Berber-style camp—basic but comfortable, with proper beds and a communal meal under the stars. After dinner, there was music around the fire. The silence of the desert at night is something special.

3. Wake Up Early for Sunrise Over the Dunes

It’s worth the early wake-up call to climb a dune and watch the desert slowly come to life. The colors change minute by minute, and it’s incredibly peaceful before the day heats up.

4. Visit the Village of Khamlia

This small village just outside Merzouga is home to the Gnawa people, known for their music. We stopped by for a short performance and tea, which felt more genuine than I expected. It’s a good way to experience a different cultural layer of the region.

5. Drive Across the Black Desert and Visit Nomadic Families

Some desert tours include a 4×4 excursion across the starkly beautiful black volcanic desert surrounding the dunes. We visited a nomadic family living in traditional tents—an eye-opening stop that reminded me of the harshness of life here and the hospitality that’s still offered.

6. Try Sandboarding

If your camp offers it, give sandboarding a go. It’s harder than it looks, but even just sliding down the dunes like a kid is a fun way to spend part of the afternoon.

7. Walk the Dunes at Your Own Pace

Some of my favorite moments were unplanned—just walking out into the sand barefoot in the morning or at golden hour and watching the shadows stretch. You don’t need a tour for this—just a little time and curiosity.

Final Thoughts

Merzouga was one of the most memorable parts of my time in Morocco. There’s something truly humbling about standing in the vast silence of the Sahara, watching the sun rise over golden dunes. Whether you’re there for a luxurious desert camp experience or just passing through on a longer journey, Merzouga offers that magic mix of adventure and stillness. Give yourself enough time to slow down and really take it in—you won’t regret it.

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