Merzouga Travel Guide · The gateway to the Sahara
Merzouga: The Golden Dunes of Erg Chebbi
A small village at the foot of Morocco's highest dunes, where camel caravans leave at sunset and the night sky is full of stars.
Destination overview
The Essence of Merzouga
Merzouga sits on the edge of Erg Chebbi, a sea of dunes about 28 km long whose crests rise up to 150 metres above the plain. Their colour changes through the day, from pale gold in the morning to deep orange at sunset, and from the top of the high dunes there is nothing to the east but sand. This is the picture most travellers have in mind when they think of the Sahara.
It is also a place where people live. Around the dunes are the village of Khamlia, known for its Gnawa music, nomad families who still camp on the black desert, the seasonal lake of Dayet Srji and the market town of Rissani. Most visitors arrive on a tour from Marrakech or Fes, ride into the dunes by camel and spend the night in a desert camp. Staying two nights gives you a full day to see the rest.
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Iconic landmarks
Must-See Places in Merzouga
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Experience Merzouga Your Way
Featured tours
Popular Tours from Merzouga
2 Days / 1 Night
2-Day Merzouga Desert Tour with Camel Trek & Desert Camp
Merzouga · Khamlia · Erg Chebbi Dunes · Desert Camp
3 Days / 2 Nights
3-Day Merzouga Birdwatching Tour: Desert Birds of Erg Chebbi
Merzouga · Khamlia · Erg Chebbi Dunes · Desert Camp
Most Popular
4 Days / 3 Nights
4-Day Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour
Marrakech · Dades Valley · Merzouga · Ait Ben Haddou · Marrakech
Explore Merzouga
Interactive Map
Discover the main attractions, neighbourhoods and nearby places to help you plan your visit.
Travel guide
When to Visit Merzouga
The desert is at its best from October to April, with warm days and cold, clear nights. Summer is extremely hot, and spring can bring wind and blowing sand.
- SpringMar – MayWarm days, some wind
- SummerJun – AugExtreme heat; dawn and dusk only
- AutumnSep – NovIdeal days, mild nights
- WinterDec – FebSunny days, very cold nights
Useful Travel Tips
- Bring a scarf, sunglasses and sun cream; the camp can supply a turban
- Pack warm layers for the night from November to March
- Take only a small overnight bag to the camp; luggage stays in the vehicle
- Get up for sunrise; it is the quietest hour on the dunes
Travel blog
Stories from Merzouga
Frequently asked questions
Merzouga Travel Guide: Frequently Asked Questions
How many days should I spend in Merzouga?
One night in a desert camp is the minimum. Two nights are better: the full day in between lets you visit Khamlia, the nomad families and the lake, or simply enjoy the dunes without rushing.
What is the best time to visit Merzouga?
October to April. Days are warm and the light is clear, though nights from December to February can fall close to freezing. From June to August daytime temperatures often pass 40°C.
What are the desert camps like?
We offer two options, both with private tents, en-suite bathrooms and hot showers: a mid-range luxury camp, and a luxury camp with more spacious tents, air conditioning and heating.
Do I have to ride a camel to reach the camp?
No. The camel trek takes about an hour to an hour and a half, but you can go by 4x4 instead if you prefer, and children can share a camel with a parent.
Is Merzouga safe for visitors?
Yes. Merzouga is used to welcoming travellers and serious problems are rare. Take the same care you would anywhere: keep valuables out of sight in busy places and agree prices in advance. On a private tour your driver-guide is with you throughout the journey.
Can you include Merzouga in a private tour?
Yes. Merzouga features in many of our private tours, and every itinerary can be adjusted. Tell us how long you would like to stay and we will build the route around it.
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Merzouga Travel Guide: Quick Guide
The essentials of our Merzouga travel guide in three short answers.
Things to Do in Merzouga
The top things to do in Merzouga start with Erg Chebbi Dunes (morocco's great sea of sand), Desert Camps (a night among the dunes) and Khamlia Village (the home of Gnawa music). Other things to do in Merzouga include Nomad Tents, Dayet Srji Lake and Rissani.
Merzouga Morocco at a Glance
Quick facts on Merzouga Morocco: region: Drâa-Tafilalet; ideal stay: 1 to 2 nights; best season: October to April; famous for: Erg Chebbi dunes, camel treks and desert camps. Merzouga sits on the edge of Erg Chebbi, a sea of dunes about 28 km long whose crests rise up to 150 metres above the plain.
Private Merzouga Tours
95 of our private tours include Merzouga, among them the 2-Day Merzouga Birding Tour: Dunes, Oases & Desert Birds, 2-Day Merzouga Desert Tour with Camel Trek & Desert Camp and 2-Day Honeymoon Desert Escape in Merzouga with Luxury Camp. All Merzouga tours can be adjusted to your dates, pace and interests.