Merzouga - Discovering Morocco

Travelling to Merzouga

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Merzouga, a pretty good destination in Morocco (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Merzouga and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Merzouga, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Morocco, here's everything to know about Merzouga for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Merzouga

Merzouga is a small town located in southeastern Morocco, near the border of Algeria. It's famous for its towering sand dunes, which are some of the tallest in the Sahara Desert. Visitors can take camel rides through the sandy landscape, go sandboarding, and experience traditional Berber hospitality in campsites set up among the dunes. The town itself is home to several small shops and cafes, as well as a weekly market where local goods are sold. Merzouga is also a gateway to other destinations in the region, such as the Todra Gorge and the Dades Valley.

What to visit in Merzouga

1. Erg Chebbi Dunes: The Erg Chebbi Dunes are the biggest dunes in the Sahara Desert. These golden sand dunes are towering, reaching up to 150 meters in height. Visitors can take a camel trek over the dunes, camp under the stars, or simply explore this incredible natural wonder.
2. Rissani Market: Rissani Market is the largest and most traditional market in the area, where locals gather to sell their wares. Visitors can find everything from spices and food to clothing and jewelry. The market is most active on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday.
3. Mfiss Oasis: The Mfiss Oasis is a hidden gem located just a few kilometers south of Merzouga. This lush and verdant oasis is surrounded by palm trees and is home to several small villages. Visitors can hike through the oasis, take a dip in one of the natural pools, or enjoy an authentic Berber meal.
4. Khamlia Village: Khamlia is a small village that is home to the Gnaoua people, a tribe known for their musical heritage. Visitors can explore the village, listen to some traditional Gnaoua music, or take a drumming lesson.
5. Dayet Srji Salt Lake: Dayet Srji is the only lake in the area, located just 5 kilometers from Merzouga. This beautiful lake is surrounded by sand dunes and is a popular spot for bird watching. It's also a great place to watch the sunset over the desert.
6. Merzouga Museum: The Merzouga Museum is a small but interesting museum that showcases the cultures and traditions of the local Bedouin people. Visitors can learn about traditional crafts like jewelry-making and carpet-making, as well as the history of the area.
7. Ali Baba's Cave: Ali Baba's Cave is a unique attraction in Merzouga, a traditional desert home that has been converted into a cave-like dwelling. Visitors can explore the cave and learn about the history of traditional desert living.
8. 4x4 Desert Tours: Visitors can take a 4x4 tour of the desert, exploring the stunning landscapes and remote villages of the area. These tours are a great way to experience the desert from a unique perspective, and to learn more about the local culture and traditions.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Morocco, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Merzouga.

When to go on holiday to Merzouga

The best time to visit Merzouga is during the cooler months of October to February, when the temperature ranges from around 20°C to 25°C during the day and drops to around 5°C to 10°C at night. This time of year is especially good for outdoor activities such as camel trekking, hiking, and exploring the surrounding desert. Avoid visiting Merzouga during the summer months (June to September) when temperatures can exceed 40°C, and the heat can be overwhelming.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Merzouga

Merzouga is a small village located in southeastern Morocco. Here are some possible ways to get there: 1. By Car: You can rent a car and drive to Merzouga. The route from Marrakech to Merzouga takes about 9-10 hours and from Fes to Merzouga takes about 8-9 hours.
2. By Bus: There are several bus companies that operate routes to Merzouga from major cities in Morocco. You can take a bus from Marrakech or Fes to Rissani and then take a grand taxi or a local bus to Merzouga.
3. By Shared Taxi: You can also take a shared taxi from Marrakech or Fes to Erfoud, and then take a local taxi to Merzouga.
4. By Guided Tour: If you want to explore Morocco as part of a tour, consider booking a tour that includes a visit to Merzouga. Many tour operators offer multi-day tours that include a stay in the Sahara Desert and a visit to Merzouga.
No matter which option you choose, it’s important to plan ahead and allow plenty of time for travel, as the roads in Morocco can be unpredictable and the journey to Merzouga can be a long one.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Merzouga, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Merzouga

Merzouga is a beautiful desert town in eastern Morocco that has a rich food culture. Here are some typical foods you must try during your visit: 1. Tagine - A traditional Moroccan dish cooked in a clay pot with vegetables, chicken, or beef.
2. Couscous - A North African staple of steamed semolina grains served with meat and vegetables.
3. Pastilla - A pastry filled with minced pigeon or chicken, almonds, and spices, topped with cinnamon and powdered sugar.
4. Mechoui - Lamb or goat roasted over an open fire until tender and juicy.
5. Harira - A hearty soup made of lentils, chickpeas, and tomatoes, served with dates and bread.
6. B'stilla - A savory pie made of thin layers of phyllo dough filled with chicken, eggs, and almonds.
7. Msemen - A flaky and buttery flatbread that is served for breakfast with honey or cheese.
8. Tajine Kefta - A meatball dish made with ground beef or lamb, blended with herbs, and cooked in a clay pot.
9. Zaalouk - A side dish that features eggplant and tomato slow-cooked with garlic and cumin.
10. Mint tea - A refreshing tea steeped with fresh mint leaves and served hot with sugar.
You can find general info about typical foods in Morocco here.

Is Merzouga an expensive destination for tourists?

Merzouga is not generally considered an expensive destination for tourists when compared to other popular destinations in Morocco. However, the cost of visiting Merzouga can vary depending on factors such as the time of year you visit, the type of accommodation you choose, and the activities you plan on undertaking.
In general, visiting Merzouga during the off-peak season (November to February) can be less expensive than visiting during the high season (June to August). Additionally, choosing budget-friendly accommodation options such as hostels or camping can also help to reduce costs. Overall, with some careful planning and budgeting, it is possible to enjoy a visit to Merzouga without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Merzouga

To visit Merzouga in Morocco, the best areas to find accommodations are in the nearby towns of Erfoud, Rissani, and Merzouga itself. These towns offer a range of accommodation options, including guesthouses, hotels, and campsites. However, staying in Merzouga itself provides easy access to the famous Erg Chebbi dunes and camel treks into the desert.
You can check hotel prices at Merzouga here:
Booking.com

Is Merzouga a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Merzouga is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The local people are friendly and hospitable to visitors, and the area is known for its hospitality, kindness and generosity. However, as with all travel destinations, it is important to exercise common sense and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night and in unfamiliar areas. It is also a good idea to take basic precautions such as not walking alone at night, keeping valuables secure, and being cautious when approached by strangers. Overall, Merzouga is a safe and beautiful destination that is well worth visiting.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Morocco here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Merzouga.

What type of travelers will enjoy Merzouga the most?

Merzouga, a small village located in the Sahara desert, is a great place for different types of travelers. However, it is more popular among adventurous tourists who like to experience a unique desert experience. Couples will enjoy the romantic ambiance of the desert as they ride through the dunes on camels and watch the sunset together. It can also be a great place for families who want to experience a different vacation with their children and educate them about the Berber culture. Young people looking for fun will enjoy the various activities such as sandboarding, quad-biking, and camping under the bright stars. Merzouga is a popular destination for backpackers who want to experience the beauty of the desert on a budget. Overall, Merzouga is a destination that offers something for everyone, but it is best enjoyed by people who are ready to leave their comfort zone and experience an adventure in the desert.

How to get around Merzouga

The most common modes of transportation to move around Merzouga in Morocco are by camel, 4x4 SUVs and on foot. Camel rides are the traditional way to explore the desert and can be arranged with local guides. 4x4 SUVs are also popular and can be rented or hired with guides or drivers for both day trips and longer excursions. Walking is another great way to explore the sand dunes and surrounding areas, and many guided tours will include a mix of walking and other modes of transportation.

What to see around Merzouga

Sure, here are some nice places to visit for a day trip from Merzouga (Morocco): 1. Rissani: It's a small town located just 30 minutes from Merzouga, where you can see ancient ruins and explore the traditional souks.
2. Erfoud: It's a larger town located about 40 minutes from Merzouga, where you can visit the fossil museum and the palm groves.
3. Todra Gorge: It's a spectacular canyon carved by the Todra River and located about 2 hours from Merzouga, where you can go for a hike and enjoy the stunning views.
4. Tinghir: It's a town located about 30 minutes from Todra Gorge, where you can visit the Jewish quarter and the local souks.
5. Dades Gorge: It's a scenic canyon located about 3 hours from Merzouga, where you can go for a hike and admire the rock formations.
6. Ait Benhaddou: It's a UNESCO-listed ksar (fortified village) located about 4 hours from Merzouga, where you can explore the mud-brick buildings and enjoy the panoramic views. 7. Ouarzazate: It's a city located about 5 hours from Merzouga, where you can visit the famous Kasbah Taourirt and the Atlas Film Studios.
For every travel information about Morocco you can click here.

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