Discover Merzouga Desert

What to See in Merzouga

Erg Chebbi Dunes

The main attraction of Merzouga is undoubtedly the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes. These wind-blown formations reach heights of up to 150 meters and span an area of 50 kilometers from north to south. Their color shifts dramatically throughout the day, from golden yellow in the afternoon to deep orange and red at sunset, creating a photographer's paradise. The vast undulating landscape of sand seems to stretch endlessly, offering a true taste of the Sahara Desert.

Dayet Srji Salt Lake

Just outside Merzouga lies Dayet Srji, a seasonal salt lake that fills with water during the winter and spring months. This natural wonder attracts a variety of birds, including flamingos, desert warblers, and Egyptian nightjars. Even when dry, the cracked salt bed creates a striking landscape that contrasts beautifully with the nearby sand dunes.

Khamlia Village

Located about 7 kilometers from Merzouga, Khamlia is home to the Gnawa people, descendants of slaves from Sub-Saharan Africa. The village is known for its distinctive music and spiritual traditions. Visitors can experience authentic Gnawa music performances featuring hypnotic rhythms played on traditional instruments like the krakebs (metal castanets) and gimbri (three-stringed lute).

Things to Do in Merzouga

Camel Trekking

A camel trek into the dunes is the classic Merzouga experience. Typically beginning in the late afternoon, these excursions take you deep into the Erg Chebbi, where you can witness a spectacular sunset over the dunes. Many tours include an overnight stay in a desert camp, allowing you to experience the tranquility of the desert night and the breathtaking starry sky unobscured by light pollution.

Desert Camping

Spending a night in the desert is a must-do activity in Merzouga. Desert camps range from basic Berber tents to luxury glamping experiences with proper beds and private bathrooms. Evening activities often include traditional Berber dinner, folk music around a campfire, and stargazing. Waking up early to watch the sunrise over the dunes is an unforgettable experience that makes the overnight stay worthwhile.

4x4 Desert Tours

For a more adventurous exploration, 4x4 tours allow you to cover more ground and reach remote areas of the desert. These excursions often include visits to nomadic Berber families, abandoned mines, oases, and fossil sites. The thrill of driving over dunes adds an element of excitement to the cultural experience.

Sandboarding

The steep slopes of the Erg Chebbi dunes provide perfect conditions for sandboarding. Many camps and hotels offer boards for rent, allowing visitors to slide down the dunes for an adrenaline rush amidst the stunning desert landscape. The best time for sandboarding is early morning or late afternoon when the sand is not too hot.

How to Get to Merzouga from Marrakech

The journey from Marrakech to Merzouga is a long but rewarding one, spanning approximately 560 kilometers and typically taking 8-10 hours of driving. The route takes you through the High Atlas Mountains, the Dades Valley, and numerous traditional villages, making it a scenic road trip with plenty of worthwhile stops along the way.

Recommended Itinerary

Due to the long distance, we recommend breaking up your journey to Merzouga into at least two days:

Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Valley (320 km)

Depart early from Marrakech and cross the Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka pass. Stop at Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and famous kasbah. Continue to Ouarzazate to visit the film studios and Taourirt Kasbah before reaching the Dades Valley for an overnight stay.

Day 2: Dades Valley to Merzouga (240 km)

Continue through the Valley of Roses and the Todra Gorge, stopping to explore these natural wonders. Proceed to Erfoud, known for its fossil crafts, before making the final stretch to Merzouga. Arrive in time for a sunset camel trek into the dunes.

Day 3-4: Merzouga Desert

Spend at least two days exploring the desert area, with activities like a desert camp overnight stay, visiting local villages, and experiencing the unique natural features of the region.

When to Visit Merzouga

The best time to visit Merzouga is between October and April when temperatures are more moderate. Winter (December to February) offers pleasant daytime temperatures of 15-20°C, perfect for desert activities, though nights can be cold, dropping to around 5°C or lower.

Summer months (June to September) can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C, making outdoor activities challenging. Spring (March to May) offers a good balance, with warm days and the possibility of seeing the desert landscape dotted with rare wildflowers after winter rains.

Tips for Visiting Merzouga

• Stay hydrated: The desert climate is extremely dry, so drink plenty of water throughout your visit.
• Sun protection: Bring a wide-brimmed hat, high SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and light, long-sleeved clothing to protect from the intense sun.
• Pack for temperature changes: Desert temperatures can drop significantly at night, so bring warm layers for evenings, especially in winter.
• Protect your camera: Fine desert sand can damage camera equipment. Bring protective gear and avoid changing lenses outdoors.
• Fuel up: If driving yourself, fill up your tank in larger towns like Erfoud, as fuel stations are scarce near Merzouga.