Best Things to Do in Merzouga, Complete Backpacking Guide
Merzouga, a small desert village on the edge of the vast Erg Chebbi dunes in southeastern Morocco, is the ultimate gateway to the Sahara. This magical destination offers more than just camel rides and sand dunes. From rich cultural encounters to thrilling desert adventures and eco-conscious travel experiences, Merzouga is a treasure trove for every type of traveler.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the best things to do in Merzouga to help you plan an unforgettable desert escape.
Sunset Stroll with Camel in Merzouga
17 Things to Do in Merzouga
Experience a Camel Trek into the Sahara Desert
Camel Caravan at Sunrise in Erg Chebbi
No visit to Merzouga is complete without a camel ride across the towering orange dunes of Erg Chebbi. Enjoy the rhythmic sway of your camel as you head to a remote desert camp, where you’ll witness a breathtaking sunset, feast on traditional Moroccan cuisine, and sleep under a canopy of stars.
Pro Tip: Opt for an overnight stay in a luxury camp for an enhanced experience with en-suite tents and live Berber music.
The sunrise and sunset in Merzouga are pure magic. Climb one of the tallest dunes early in the morning or late in the evening for panoramic views of the Sahara painted in brilliant hues of gold, orange, and pink.
Visit Khamlia Village – Home of Gnawa Music
Gnawa Cultural Performance in Merzouga
Head to the nearby village of Khamlia to immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the Gnawa people. Originally of sub-Saharan descent, the Gnawa community is famous for its hypnotic spiritual music. Enjoy live performances and engage with locals to learn about their history and daily life.
Meet Nomadic Berber Families
Take a guided 4×4 tour into the desert to meet real nomadic families living in traditional tents. These encounters offer a rare chance to understand how they adapt to harsh desert conditions and maintain their centuries-old way of life.
The Sahara’s clear skies make Merzouga an ideal location for stargazing. Away from city lights, the desert offers unobstructed views of constellations and celestial events. Many camps organize stargazing sessions, enhancing your desert experience.
Explore the Desert by 4×4 or Buggy
Merzouga Dune Bashing in Action
Craving more speed? A 4×4 or buggy adventure is a thrilling way to explore the remote corners of the Sahara. Visit fossil beds, abandoned mines, or enjoy a rollercoaster ride over the sand dunes.
Try Sandboarding on the Dunes
Sunset Sandboarding in the Sahara
For adrenaline seekers, sandboarding is a must-try activity. Rent a board and slide down the golden slopes of Erg Chebbi – no snow required!
This activity offers an exhilarating way to engage with the desert terrain, suitable for both beginners and seasoned adventurers.
Soar Above the Sahara in a Hot Air Balloon
Add a touch of romance to your journey with a sunrise hot air balloon ride. Glide gently over the dunes and desert villages for unforgettable aerial views of the Sahara’s beauty.
Discover Fossils and Desert Wildlife
Merzouga Fossil Excavation Site
The Sahara desert is home to ancient marine fossils and unique flora and fauna. Take a fossil hunting tour or keep an eye out for desert foxes, scarab beetles, and migratory birds that rest in the oasis near Merzouga. Fossil hunting tours allow you to explore ancient sea beds turned desert, where you can find trilobites, ammonites, and other prehistoric remains. There are also fossil shops where enthusiasts can purchase ethically sourced specimens as souvenirs.
Savor the flavors of the desert with classic Moroccan dishes:
Berber Pizza (Medfouna) – a stuffed bread baked in hot sand.
Lamb or Chicken Tagine – slow-cooked with local spices.
Mint Tea – a Moroccan staple, often served sweet and hot.
You can also join a local cooking class to learn how to prepare these dishes from scratch!
Attend a Local Festival
Merzouga Luxury Desert Camp from Above
If your visit coincides with a local festival, you’re in for a real cultural treat. Merzouga and nearby villages occasionally host vibrant celebrations showcasing Berber music, dance, and age-old traditions. The most notable is the Merzouga International Music Festival, which attracts artists and travelers from around the world. These gatherings provide a unique chance to connect with locals and experience Moroccan hospitality in its most joyful form.
Discover Rissani’s Historical Significance
M’Ifis Ghost Mine town – Relics of Merzouga
Venture to Rissani, a town steeped in history and culture. Explore bustling markets, ancient ruins, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif. This excursion offers a deeper understanding of the region’s historical tapestry.
Visit the Hassilabied Oasis
Dayet Srji Lake Flamingos in Merzouga
Just a short distance from Merzouga, the village of Hassilabied boasts a lush oasis amidst the desert. Stroll through palm groves, interact with locals, and experience the harmonious blend of greenery and sand—a testament to nature’s resilience.
Try Traditional Sand Bath Therapy
Embrace the local wellness practice of sand bathing, believed to alleviate various ailments. Buried in warm sand, this unique therapy offers both relaxation and a cultural experience rooted in Saharan traditions.
Art enthusiasts should not miss Galerie Laoun, showcasing a collection of local artworks and crafts. The gallery offers insight into the region’s artistic expressions and provides an opportunity to acquire unique pieces.
Enjoy a Desert Bonfire Night
Many desert camps organize bonfire nights where guests gather around the fire, listen to traditional music, share stories, and enjoy Moroccan mint tea under the stars. It’s a cozy and communal way to wind down after a day of adventure and experience true Saharan charm.
Relax at a Desert Spa
Some luxury camps offer spa services amidst the dunes. From traditional hammams to massage therapies, these facilities provide relaxation and rejuvenation after a day of desert adventures
When is the Best Time to Visit Merzouga?
Spring (March–May): Ideal weather, blooming desert plants.
Autumn (September–November): Cooler temps and fewer tourists.
Winter (December–February): Cold nights, but magical starry skies.
Summer (June–August): Scorching heat – avoid if possible.
Merzouga caters to a diverse range of travelers, offering accommodations suited to various preferences and budgets. Whether you seek a luxurious retreat or a traditional Moroccan guesthouse, the town provides an array of options to enhance your stay:
Palais Des Dunes:
Revel in the rustic charm of Palais Des Dunes, boasting stunning views of the Erg Chebbi Dunes, spacious rooms, and a serene ambiance, complemented by a pool and a rooftop terrace, perfect for stargazing. We use this charming lodge for our group desert tours from Marrakech when guests ask to extend their stay for a 4 days tour from Marrakech to Merzouga.
Indulge in the comforts of Xaluca Tomboctu, a 4-star hotel offering luxurious amenities, including a garden, outdoor pool, and an inviting lounge area, where you can unwind and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings.
Experience the traditional Moroccan hospitality at Auberge Café Du Sud, a hotel renowned for its warm hospitality, delectable cuisine, vibrant ambiance, and spending pool views that capture the essence of Merzouga.
How to Get to Merzouga Desert
From Marrakech: Merzouga is a 9–10 hour drive from Marrakech, passing through the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the historic town of Ouarzazate, and the lush Dades Valley. This route is not just a transfer — it’s an adventure in itself! If you’re looking to make the most of the journey, our 3 Days Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga is the perfect way to experience these highlights, including guided stops, cultural visits, and an unforgettable night in a desert camp.
From Fes: The drive from Fes takes around 7–8 hours through the cedar forests and Berber villages of the Middle Atlas Mountains and the striking Ziz Valley.
Private transfers, buses (Supratours), and organized desert tours are all popular options.
Greet locals with a smile and a respectful “Salam Alaikum.”
Ask before photographing people.
Tipping guides and camp staff is customary.
Friday is a holy day – some shops or restaurants may close midday.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re seeking spiritual connection, outdoor thrills, or cultural immersion, Merzouga offers something for every type of traveler. This awe-inspiring corner of the Sahara desert is not just a destination – it’s a journey into the soul of Morocco. In this guide, we have covered best things to do in Merzouga.
FAQ’s
How many days do you need in Merzouga?
2 to 3 days are ideal to enjoy the dunes, desert camp, and activities. This allows enough time for a camel trek into the dunes, a night in a desert camp, stargazing, and optional activities.
What is the Merzouga famous for?
Merzouga is best known for the stunning Erg Chebbi sand dunes. It’s also famous for its camel treks, luxury desert camps, sunrise and sunset views, Berber hospitality, and the chance to experience authentic nomadic culture under a sky full of stars.
What to see in Merzouga?
Erg Chebbi dunes, nomadic camps, Khamlia village, Lake Dayet Srij, and fossil shops.
Can you see the Milky Way in Merzouga?
Yes, absolutely! Merzouga is one of the best places in Morocco for stargazing. With minimal light pollution in the heart of the Sahara, the Milky Way is often clearly visible.
Which month is best for Merzouga?
The best time to visit Merzouga is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
What is the closest city to Merzouga?
The closest major city to Merzouga is Errachidia, located about 2 hours away by car. Errachidia has a small airport (Moulay Ali Cherif Airport) with domestic flights from Casablanca.
