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Merzouga sits right on the edge of the Sahara, around an eight-hour drive from Marrakech (yep, it’s an absolute mission). Unless you’re some sort of driving fanatic, you’ll definitely want to break up the trip with stops in places like Ouarzazate, Dades Valley, and Todra Gorge.
Let’s be real — the main reason most people make the long journey from Marrakech all the way to Merzouga is for one thing only… to visit the Sahara Desert.
Seeing those golden dunes in real life is a proper pinch-me moment. But here’s the thing, not all desert camps near Merzouga are actually in the Sahara Desert. Some, especially the ones around Erg Chebbi, are technically just outside it. Cue me having a mini meltdown after booking my accommodation, frantically double-checking if I was actually staying in the Sahara (I was… but it wasn’t exactly the dream stay — more on that later!).
Merzouga itself is tiny, and honestly, you don’t need long here. Two nights is plenty – enough time to experience the Sahara, see the stars above, and do all the fun desert activities.
To help you plan the ultimate trip to Merzouga, I’ve popped together this guide – packed with the best things to do, where to stay, and, of course, where to find the tastiest food (because priorities!).
Overview of the Ultimate Guide to Merzouga
I’ve pinned all the must-see spots, best hotels, and must-try restaurants in Merzouga on this Google Map below.
Top Things to Do in Merzouga
To be honest, there’s not a whole lot going on in Merzouga itself. The main reason most people travel here is to experience the Sahara, so naturally, most of the activities are all about making the most of the desert.
Trek into the Desert on a Camel in Merzouga
If you’re looking for a more traditional way to experience the Sahara’s iconic sand dunes, a camel ride is a great option!
Back in the day, camel caravans would trek for miles across the unforgiving desert, braving the harsh conditions to trade precious goods like gold and salt along the famous Trans-Saharan trade route. Ait Ben Haddou just so happened to be one of the key stops along the way. Luckily, you don’t have to embark on this huge journey, but you can experience what it would’ve been like.
Camel rides are an extremely popular activity in Merzouga, but not all operators treat their camels the same. Sadly, some camels are poorly treated, overworked, and not properly cared for.
Go Quad Biking in Merzouga
One of the top things to do in Merzouga is go on a quad bike or an ATV tour — like this epic one-hour quad-biking safari. Zipping across the dunes of the Sahara is an experience you’ll never forget – and honestly, I think it’s way better to do it here in Merzouga than elsewhere in Morocco. There’s just something about it being the Sahara Desert that makes it all the more epic!
If you’d rather stay in a luxury riad on the edge of the Sahara instead of camping right out in the dunes, don’t worry – you won’t be missing out on any of those epic desert adventures.
Most places can easily arrange tours for you (or you can book with companies like GetYourGuide or Viator), so you’ll still get the chance to venture into the Sahara. In my opinion, this gives you the best of both worlds – gorgeous accommodation with luxuries like a swimming pool and air-con (which you’re unlikely to find in a desert camp!) and unforgettable Sahara experiences!
Go Sandboarding Down the Dunes in Merzouga
Many Sahara camps offer free sandboarding – if yours does, you absolutely have to try it! It’s like snowboarding but on the dunes. Just a tip, though: make sure to pack or hire some goggles to protect your eyes from the sand kickback. Because trust me, when you’re in the Sahara, sand will get everywhere – and you definitely don’t want it in your eyes!
If you’re after something a little different, you could even try zorbing down the dunes. Yep, you heard that right – zorbing in the Sahara! Now that would be a unique way to experience the desert!
Do a Spot of Stargazing in Merzouga
If you’re lucky enough to get clear skies when you visit the Sahara, you’re in for an absolute treat – it’s hands down one of the best places in the world for stargazing. With almost no light pollution and open desert, you might even get a glimpse of the magical Milky Way!
However, if you’re planning to visit between May and September, just a heads up — the intense heat can create a bit of a haze, making a clear night sky far less likely. For the best stargazing experience, winter’s your best bet.
Staying for a couple of nights will also give you a better shot at witnessing at least one epic, clear night sky.
Embark on a Jeep Tour of the Local Area in Merzouga
Depending on where you’re staying in the Sahara, you might have the option to take a camel ride or jeep tour to your accommodation (although it may cost extra!).
I spent a night at a desert camp and opted for the camel ride there (which, due to a sandstorm, turned into a bit of an uneasy adventure!) and then took a jeep back. These trips mainly transport you to and from your accommodation, so you won’t see much along the way.
If you’re looking to cover more ground and explore a bit more, then a jeep tour through Merzouga and the Sahara Desert is definitely the way to go.
You’ll get to visit the seasonal Merzouga lake, stop by Khamlia village for some authentic Gnawa music, enjoy a cup of mint tea with the locals, and even head out on an excursion to meet the nomadic families living in their traditional Berber-style tents. It’s a great way to experience the desert’s culture and beauty all in one trip!
Local Culture and Berber Experiences in Merzouga
Around 80% of the Moroccan population identifies as Berber or Amazigh. This ancient tribe has lived in Morocco for thousands of years, with their rich culture woven into the country’s fabric.
If you want to immerse yourself in their traditions, a cooking class with Berbers is an absolute must. You’ll be using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to whip up Berber pizza while learning all about the spices and herbs that give Berber cooking its distinctive flavour.
Along the way, you’ll get an insider’s view of the history of the Berber tribe, straight from the locals. After all that work, enjoy a traditional glass of Moroccan mint tea and savour the fruits of your labour. Who knows – you might just find a new favourite dish to cook when you’re back home!
Stop off in Ziz Canyon on your way to or from Merzouga
If you’re like us and heading back to Tinghir or Dades Valley after your desert adventure, you might want to switch things up and take the more scenic route via Ziz Canyon. Sure, it adds about an extra hour to the journey, but it’s totally worth it for a change of scenery.
Instead of retracing your steps through endless barren landscapes, this route takes you through dramatic canyons, little towns, and a slice of Morocco’s countryside you might’ve otherwise missed. It’s a great way to see a different part of this beautiful country.
How Many Days to Spend in Merzouga?
I stayed in Merzouga for just one night, and it felt a little rushed – especially since one of the main reasons I came was to see the blanket of stars above, but it was cloudy that evening. Driving all the way from Marrakech for a quick stop-off made it feel like we were just passing through.
Personally, I think 2–3 days in Merzouga is ideal, especially if you’re staying somewhere with comfortable rooms, good food, and a pool. There aren’t a ton of activities, but that’s the beauty of it – it’s the perfect place to slow down and truly immerse yourself in the Sahara experience. Plus, staying longer gives you more chances to catch a clear night sky and marvel at the stars.
Best Time to Visit Merzouga
Spring: Lows 4-15°C | Highs 23-36°C
Summer: Lows 15-20°C | Highs 36-40°C
Autumn: Lows -2-15°C | Highs 17-36°C
Winter: Lows -2-4°C | Highs 17-23°C
There were three reasons we decided to road trip from Marrakech to Merzouga. First, the sheer adventure – driving over 800 miles from Morocco’s capital to the edge of the Sahara was extremely exciting. Second, the chance to step foot in one of the world’s largest and most iconic deserts. And third, the stars – escaping city lights to hopefully see the Milky Way in all its glory.
Now… we managed to tick off the first two. But the third? Yeah, that didn’t quite go to plan. We got caught in a full-on sandstorm. And let me tell you – a sandstorm in the desert is no joke. The tents were absolutely battered, the wind was howling, and we ended up spending most of our time hiding away inside. Safe to say, there wasn’t much chance of any stargazing happening that night.
But to be honest, I don’t think the sandstorm was the only thing getting in the way of those starry skies. We never really got a clear night sky the whole time we were in Morocco – and I reckon that was down to the time of year we visited. We went in July when it was absolutely scorching every single day (40°C+), and the heat created this constant hazy sky.
If you want to see the Sahara’s starry skies, skip summer – the heat can be unbearable. Winter is ideal for clear skies and spotting the Milky Way, while the shoulder seasons are also great for visiting Merzouga and Morocco.
How to Get from Marrakech to Merzouga
Book a Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga
One of the best ways to visit Merzouga is on this 3-Day Merzouga and Sahara Desert Tour. It’s one of the most popular tours from Marrakech. On your way to Merzouga, you’ll explore Ouarzazate, visit the ancient city of Ait Ben Haddou, discover the incredible Todra Gorge, and stop off in Boumalne Dades.
Once you reach Merzouga, the real desert adventure begins: camel treks over rolling dunes, sandboarding down the sandy slopes, mint tea shared with warm hosts, and nights spent under a blanket of stars. It’s the perfect way to capture the very best of southern Morocco in one unforgettable journey (without the stress of driving!).
Hire a Car in Marrakech and Drive to Merzouga
I hired a car in Marrakech and road-tripped all the way to Merzouga – and honestly, it was one of the best decisions of my whole Morocco trip.
On the way there, we drove from Dades Valley to Merzouga, taking the most direct route (about four hours). Then, on the way back, we mixed things up and took the more scenic route through Ziz Canyon to Tinghir, which took slightly longer than four hours.
One thing to know about driving in Morocco – getting from place to place always takes hours. The country is huge, and the roads can be pretty slow-going at times. But having a car gave us total freedom to explore at our own pace, stop off wherever we fancied, and take those random detours. So for me, it was absolutely worth it!
If you’re thinking of doing the same, check out DiscoverCars or AutoEurope for car rental quotes. And don’t forget to read my guide to driving in Morocco, so you’re fully prepped before you hit the road!
Take the Marrakech to Merzouga Bus
Taking the bus from Marrakech to Merzouga isn’t exactly the most glamorous way to travel – but if you’re on a budget, it’s definitely a solid option.
Sure, you won’t get to stop off at those epic scenic viewpoints along the way, but you can still sit back, relax, and watch Morocco’s stunning landscapes roll by from the comfort of your seat (or, well… as comfortable as Moroccan buses get!).
There’s only one bus company that goes directly from Marrakech to Merzouga:
- Supratours: Runs one bus per day at 2.50pm | Direct | Costs about £34/€40 one-way | Takes around 15-16 hours
🚌 Top Tip: Instead of heading straight from Marrakech to Merzouga in one long, mind- and bum-numbing journey, why not break it up a bit? You could hop on a bus from Marrakech to Ouarzazate, then make your way from Ouarzazate to Dades Valley, and so on. It’s a great way to see a bit more of Morocco along the way!
Go on a Private Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga
If the thought of driving in Morocco fills you with dread, squeezing onto public transport isn’t exactly your idea of fun, or you just can’t face being herded around on a group tour, then a private tour from Marrakech to Merzouga might just be the dream solution.
You can sit back, relax, and watch the scenery roll by – no dodging potholes, no fighting for legroom on a bus, and no forced small talk with random strangers (unless you’re in the mood!).
And the best part? You can ask your driver to stop whenever you fancy — whether that’s for a jaw-dropping photo spot, a roadside snack, or just to get out and have a little wander. Total freedom without the stress!
Where to Stay in Merzouga: Desert Camps and Hotels
My experience with Sahara Desert Camps in Merzouga: A Word of Warning!
Our stay in Merzouga was hands down the worst accommodation of our Morocco trip. And guess what? The place had a 9.3/10 rating on Booking.com. I’m 1,000% convinced they’ve bought their reviews – and I’m sure other hotels in Merzouga do the same!
The place doesn’t deserve such a high rating. For starters, the reception was in the middle of nowhere. With no proper road, we had to go off-road for 10 minutes to reach it. The staff seemed more interested in selling us extras than welcoming us. And the food? Absolutely awful – up there with the worst I’ve ever eaten.
Watch out for sneaky extra charges. Many things you’d expect to be included aren’t. For example, transfers to desert camps (by 4×4 or camel) often aren’t part of the listed price. Our stay was £40 per person. However, we were hit with an extra £34 each for the transfer – almost the same price as the overnight stay!
If you’re heading to Merzouga, properly read reviews before booking. Look out for red flags like multiple reviews with the same title, vague comments, or no negatives at all – these often mean the reviews aren’t real. Check reviews across multiple websites; a sky-high rating on one site doesn’t guarantee legitimacy. Double-check what’s included in the price to avoid hidden costs.
And don’t worry – I haven’t linked the place we stayed at below!
Budget Hotels in Merzouga (£0-50 per night)
- Riad Mamouche: With this place, you really do get the best of both worlds – a gorgeous spot to stay, and it’s right on the edge of the Sahara Desert, so you can still head off on all those epic desert adventures. Oh, and it’s budget-friendly and has a pool? Total win-win!
- Boho Glamping: If you’re dreaming of spending a night actually in the desert, then this place (and the one below) is your budget-friendly option. The rooms here look clean and stylish. Plus, if the weather’s on your side, you can even dine outside for a super memorable night.
- Luxury Berber Style: The rooms here look super comfy, and each one even comes with its own little outdoor patio – perfect for sitting, enjoying your morning coffee or watching the sunset. There’s also a coffee shop on-site and loads of activities to keep you busy, from sandboarding to yoga… though you’ll need to pay extra for those!
Mid-Range Hotels in Merzouga (£50-100 per night)
- Riad Madu: This place is the perfect balance if you fancy being close to the Sahara, but don’t quite fancy spending the night in a desert camp. You’ll get epic views of the dunes, a pool to cool off in, and spacious rooms with that all-important air con (trust me, if you’re staying in the summer, you’ll need it!). Some rooms even come with a balcony – ideal for watching the sunset over the Sahara.
- Sky View Camp: You’ll definitely feel the step up in quality here compared to the more budget-friendly desert camps. Each unit has a huge comfy bed, sky-gazing windows, plus both indoor and outdoor seating areas to kick back and relax. Oh, and there’s a heater too – perfect if you’re visiting during the chillier months!
- Kasbah Mohayut: All the rooms are arranged around a lovely swimming pool or patio, giving the place a really chilled-out vibe. If you’re after a good night’s sleep before your big desert adventure, you might want to splash out on the room with the extra-large double bed — plenty of space to sprawl out and fully relax. And the best bit? You can still soak up the stunning night sky from the terrace.
Luxury Hotels in Merzouga (£100 or more per night)
- Sahara Pearl Hotel: If I ever find myself back in Merzouga, I’d totally treat myself to an overnight stay here. Sure, it’s a bit on the pricey side, but it’s absolutely stunning! There’s an outdoor pool with jaw-dropping views of the dunes, and the rooms are styled to perfection, with some even having their own balcony. Oh, and to kickstart your morning, your room comes with a coffee machine!
- Imperial Glory Lodges: The superior bungalows here look out of this world. Sure, they aren’t the cheapest option, but when else are you going to have the chance to stay in the Sahara?! Just imagine running yourself a bath in the middle of the desert, then stepping outside to watch the sunset over the dunes. Sounds absolutely perfect!
- Aiour Luxury Camp: Each tent is decked out with gorgeous decor and comes with air conditioning to keep things cool in the summer and warm in the winter (yep, air con in the Sahara — how wild is that?!). Plus, you’ve got your own little outdoor seating area to soak up the views over the endless dunes.
Top-Rated Restaurants in Merzouga
Since most of the Merzouga Desert camps are pretty remote, they usually take care of all your meals while you’re there. But, if you’re heading into Merzouga when you arrive or depart and fancy grabbing a bite to eat, here are some top-rated restaurants you should definitely check out:
- Restaurant Nora: Moroccan and African Cuisine | Vegan, Vegetarian and Halal Friendly | Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner Options
- Café Restaurant Chez Ibrahim: Moroccan and African Cuisine | Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly | Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, and Early Dinner Options
- Restaurant Hassilabiad Appart Chez Toupie: Moroccan and Mediterranean Cuisine | Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly | Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Options
- Café Restaurant Alla: Moroccan and African Cuisine | Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly | Lunch and Dinner Options
- Restaurant Café Fatima: Moroccan and African Cuisine | Vegan, Vegetarian and Halal Friendly | Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner Options
Essential Tips for Visiting Merzouga and the Sahara Desert
I’ll be honest: my experience in Merzouga was a bit of a love-hate. So, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your time in Merzouga.
- Know when to visit. Cool seasons are the best time to visit the Sahara. October to April delivers warm days and clear nights. Summer is a firm no in my book. The heat doesn’t just rise; it rules with zero mercy.
- Pack light, pack smart. Loose cotton clothes keep you cool. A scarf or Moroccan cheche shields you from the sun and sand, and sunglasses are a must! For nighttime, bring a jumper or cardigan as temperatures will drop.
- Drink before you’re thirsty. Make sure you are drinking water throughout the day, as dry air takes moisture away. Always carry extra water with you, just in case – you don’t want to run out in the Sahara Desert.
- Sand gets everywhere. You’ll be finding sand for days, even weeks, after your visit. I’d suggest using packing cubes to divide your items in your backpack or suitcase, and having a specific packing cube for the Sahara Desert. So, you aren’t getting everything sandy.
- Stay powered up. Many camps run on generators or solar. If you’re worried about running out of battery, then I’d suggest bringing a power bank just in case.
- Respect local culture. A few Arabic or Tamazight greetings go a big way:
• “Salam!” (Hello)
• “Shukran” (Thank you) - Sunscreen is non-negotiable. Even if it feels like the sun isn’t that strong or it’s a cloudy day, trust me, these are usually when you get burnt the most. The sun hits differently here. Always wear sunscreen. The higher the SPF, the better.
- Read reviews carefully. As mentioned, I think some of the accommodation in Merzouga buy their reviews, so do your proper research before booking somewhere.
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Kirsty x
