Merzouga Sahara Desert
Merzouga Sahara Desert · Merzouga, Errachidia Province, Morocco
Last updated 2026-10-30
By Global Travel Guide Editorial Team
Introduction
Erg Chebbi is one of Morocco's two great sand seas, its ridges running about 28 kilometres north to south and rising to roughly 300 metres. Merzouga, a small town on its western edge, is the usual starting point, reached by road from Marrakech in nine or ten hours or from Fes in seven or eight; Errachidia has the nearest airport. Camel treks of an hour or two end at tented camps among the dunes, and 4x4 excursions, sandboarding and stargazing fill the days. October to April is the workable season. Summer daytime temperatures regularly exceed 40C.
Ticket Price
Free to visit the desert and village. Camel treks, 4x4 excursions and desert camps charge separately; a 3-day tour from Marrakech costs about USD 120-180.
Opening Hours
Accessible 24 hours; excursions run at sunrise and sunset, and overnight camps are standard. Summer midday heat is extreme.
Transportation
Reach Merzouga by road from Marrakech (about 9-10 hours) or Fes (about 7-8 hours), or fly to Errachidia and drive; 4x4s and camels continue from the village.
Best Season
Oct-Apr for desert trips; Jul-Aug is extremely hot.
Pro Tip: Choose a camp by dune access, not just price: Camps deeper in Erg Chebbi mean a longer camel ride but quieter dunes. Ask whether the camp sits at the dune edge or a 30-minute ride in.
Local Tips You'd Only Learn After Visiting
The details official guides skip — save time, avoid crowds, and get better photos.
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Choose a camp by dune access, not just price
Camps deeper in Erg Chebbi mean a longer camel ride but quieter dunes. Ask whether the camp sits at the dune edge or a 30-minute ride in.
Member-Only Tips
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Frequently Asked Questions3 questions
A camel trek is the classic way to reach a desert camp at sunset; 4x4 transfers are faster and better for luggage or mobility issues. Many camps offer both.
October-April for cooler days and cold nights; July-August is extremely hot. Spring can bring sandstorms, so allow flexibility.
Warm layers for the night, a scarf, sunglasses, a torch and cash for tips. Camps usually provide blankets and dinner; check whether water and showers are included.