Where is Merzouga and how do you get there?
Merzouga sits in the far south-east of Morocco, close to the Algerian border. From Marrakech the drive is long, so we split it over two days with stops at the Tizi n'Tichka pass, the UNESCO-listed ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, the Dades Valley and the Todra Gorge. From Fes you reach Merzouga in one day through the cedar forests of Ifrane, Midelt and the palm groves of the Ziz Valley.
That is why a Merzouga trip needs at least 3 days from Marrakech. Compare the routes on our page of Morocco desert tours, or read Merzouga vs Zagora if you are still choosing between the two deserts.
What to do in Merzouga
- Camel ride at sunset into the Erg Chebbi dunes to reach the camp (included in every tour).
- Sunrise over the dunes before breakfast at the camp.
- 4x4 tour around Erg Chebbi with Khamlia, the village of Gnawa music, and the market town of Rissani (included in the 4 day tour).
- Dinner under the stars, Berber drums around the fire and some of the darkest skies in Morocco for stargazing.
More details in our Erg Chebbi dunes guide and what to expect on a camel trek.
Luxury camp or standard camp?
Many budget trips use large shared camps with shared toilets. On our private tours you sleep in a luxury camp: a private tent with real beds, linen and an en-suite bathroom, dinner and breakfast included. The difference is explained in private vs group Sahara desert camp.
Best time to visit Merzouga
October to April is the most pleasant period: warm days and cool to cold nights (bring a warm layer from November to March). Tours run all year; in summer we plan the camel ride at sunset and the gorge walks early, when it is cooler. See the best time to visit the Sahara Desert and our Sahara packing list.