Merzouga is a small village at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes in south-east Morocco. Most travellers come for one or two nights, so it helps to know what is worth your time. Here is our local team’s list, with honest tips on when to go and how long each activity takes.
1. Ride a camel into the dunes at sunset
The classic Merzouga experience. You ride into the dunes in the late afternoon, climb a dune on foot and watch the sand change colour. It usually takes 1 to 2 hours. See the sunset camel ride.
2. Or go at sunrise
Quieter and cooler than sunset, and the light on the dunes is beautiful. Ideal if you sleep in Merzouga or in a camp. See the sunrise camel ride.
3. Sleep in a desert camp
A night in the dunes is the highlight for many visitors: dinner, Berber music around the fire and a sky full of stars. Luxury camps offer tents with a private bathroom. Compare desert camps.
4. Ride a quad or a buggy
For an adrenaline rush, guided quad and buggy tours cross the dunes and the flat desert around Erg Chebbi. Helmets are included and a guide rides with you. Quad and buggy tours.
5. Take a 4×4 tour around Erg Chebbi
A 4×4 tour is the easiest way to see the area in a few hours: nomad families, the Khamlia village and wide desert landscapes. 4×4 desert tour.
6. Try sandboarding
Slide down the dunes on a board. It is fun for families and friends and no experience is needed. Sandboarding in Merzouga.
7. Have dinner in the desert without staying overnight
If you sleep in a hotel or riad, you can still enjoy a traditional dinner at a desert camp and come back the same evening. Desert dinner experience.
8. Ride a horse along the dunes
A calm way to see the dunes with a local guide. Horse riding in Merzouga.
9. Explore by bicycle
Half-day or full-day rides on desert tracks and through the villages around Merzouga. Bicycle excursions.
10. Visit Erfoud and the fossils
The Erfoud area is known for its fossils and marble workshops. Fossils excursion.
11. Go further south to Taouz
A day trip through rocky desert landscapes towards Taouz, often with a picnic. Taouz excursion.
12. Get a henna design
A traditional henna design is a nice souvenir of your stay. Henna in Merzouga.
How many days do you need?
One night is enough for a camel ride and a camp. With two nights you can add a 4×4 tour, a quad ride or sandboarding without rushing.
Ready to plan? Book online with a 20% deposit, pay the rest in Merzouga. Free cancellation up to 72 hours before.