Merzouga- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Nestled on the edge of the Sahara in southeastern Morocco, the village of Merzouga invites travellers to step out of routine and into a landscape where sand, sky and tradition meet. Located at the foot of the impressive dunes of Erg Chebbi (some reaching 150 m high), Merzouga serves as both a launch point and a destination—offering sweeping desert vistas, timeless cultural rhythms and a chance to slow down under star-filled skies.

The golden dunes of Erg Chebbi

When you arrive in Merzouga, the vast sea of sand is likely your first impression. The Erg Chebbi dune field stretches for some 50 km in length and about 5 km in width, with the sand formations towering above the plain. One of the most compelling ways to feel their scale is a camel ride at sunrise or sunset—when the shifting light paints the dunes in copper and gold tones. Many itineraries recommend spending at least one night in a camp among the dunes to truly savour the silence of the desert.

Desert life and local culture

Beyond sand and sky, Merzouga gives you the chance to connect with Berber (Amazigh) traditions. Nearby villages such as Khamlia host Gnawa musicians whose soulful rhythms draw on centuries of desert heritage. Sharing mint tea with local families, exploring mud-brick homesteads and learning from nomadic perspectives can deepen the experience.

Nature and adventure in the desert

Even in the desert you’ll find surprising patches of life. The seasonal lake of Dayet Srij lies just a few kilometres from Merzouga, and during wetter months hosts birdlife including flamingos. For those seeking thrill, quad‑biking, 4×4 dune-rides and sand‑boarding are popular options around the dunes. Desert night skies are another highlight—remote, dark and clear, perfect for stargazing.

How to get there & best time to visit

Getting to Merzouga often means a scenic drive from Marrakech, Fès or Ouarzazate. The best travel windows are spring (March‑May) and autumn (September‑November) when daytime temperatures are comfortable and nights are cooler. Summers can be very hot; winters bring cold nights.

Where to stay

Accommodation in Merzouga ranges from simple guest-houses to luxury desert camps tucked among the dunes. Many travellers opt for one night in a tent under the stars, paired with dinner and Berber entertainment around the fire.

Practical tips & responsible travel

• Reserve at least 2 nights if you want to enjoy both dune time and local culture; with only one night you may feel rushed.
• Dress in layers: days are warm, nights can be chilly in the desert.
• Respect local culture: ask permission before photographing people, and support local artisans when buying souvenirs.
• While quad‑bike and 4×4 activities are fun, seek operators committed to minimal impact on the dunes and local environment.
• Bring plenty of water, sunscreen and good footwear if you plan to walk dunes.