Merzouga, Morocco: All You Must Know Before You Go (2025)

Introduction to Merzouga

Welcome to Merzouga, the breathtaking gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes in the Sahara Desert. This remote village in southeastern Morocco offers an authentic desert experience that attracts adventurers, photographers, and culture enthusiasts from around the world. This guide covers everything you need to know before visiting this magical destination.

Quick Facts

• Location: Southeastern Morocco, near the Algerian border
• Nearest Major City: Errachidia (3 hours by car)
• Population: Approximately 1,500
• Language: Arabic, Berber (French widely spoken, some English)
• Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
• Time Zone: GMT+1 (No Daylight Saving Time)
• Electricity: 220V, Type C & E plugs

Best Time to Visit

Ideal Seasons

• Spring (March-May): Pleasant temperatures (20-30°C/68-86°F), wildflowers bloom
• Autumn (September-November): Warm days, cool nights, fewer crowds

Shoulder Seasons

• Winter (December-February): Chilly nights (can drop to 0°C/32°F), pleasant days
• Summer (June-August): Extremely hot (up to 45°C/113°F) but great for night activities

Getting There

By Air

• Nearest Airports:
  • Errachidia Airport (ERH) - 3 hours by road
  • Ouarzazate Airport (OZZ) - 5 hours by road
  • Fès-Saïss Airport (FEZ) - 8 hours by road

By Road

• From Marrakech: 9-10 hours via N9 and N10
• From Fès: 8-9 hours via N13
• From Errachidia: 2.5-3 hours via N13

Public Transport

• Buses: CTM and Supratours serve nearby towns
• Grand Taxis: Shared taxis available from major cities

Where to Stay

Luxury Desert Camps

• Luxury Oasis Camp: Private tents with en-suite bathrooms
• Desert Luxury Camp: Premium experience with private terraces
• Merzouga Luxury Desert Camp: Stunning dune views, gourmet dining

Mid-Range Hotels

• Riad Madu: Authentic Berber architecture
• Hotel Kasbah Mohayut: Pool with dune views
• Auberge Le Petit Prince: Great value, traditional atmosphere

Budget Options

• Auberge Les Dunes d'Or: Basic but comfortable
• Hotel Yasmina: Simple rooms, great location
• Desert Hostel: Budget-friendly dormitories

Top Things to Do

1. Camel Trekking

• Duration: 1 hour to overnight
• Best Time: Sunset or sunrise
• Price: 200-400 MAD per person

2. Stay in a Desert Camp

• Options: From basic to luxury
• Included: Dinner, breakfast, entertainment
• Price Range: 300-2,000 MAD per person

3. 4x4 Desert Tour

• Highlights: Visit nomad families, fossil sites
• Duration: Half-day to full-day
• Price: 400-800 MAD per person

4. Sandboarding

• Where: Erg Chebbi dunes
• Equipment Rental: 50-100 MAD
• Best for: Adventure seekers

5. Visit Khamlia Village

• Distance: 7km from Merzouga
• Known for: Gnawa music and dance
• Experience: Traditional tea with locals

Local Cuisine

Must-Try Dishes

1. Tajine: Slow-cooked stew with meat and vegetables
2. Couscous: Traditional Friday dish
3. Mechoui: Slow-roasted lamb
4. Harira: Hearty soup (especially during Ramadan)
5. Mint Tea: The national drink

Best Restaurants

• Restaurant Panorama: Dune views, traditional food
• Café Restaurant Atlas: Local and international dishes
• Café des Dunes: Great for breakfast and sunset views

Practical Information

Money Matters

• Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
• ATMs: Available in Merzouga village
• Credit Cards: Accepted in most hotels and camps
• Tipping: 10% in restaurants, small change for guides

Health & Safety

• Water: Drink only bottled water
• Sun Protection: Essential (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
• Medical Facilities: Basic clinic in Merzouga, hospitals in Errachidia
• Emergency Numbers: 190 (Police), 150 (Ambulance)

Internet & Communication

• WiFi: Available in hotels and some cafés (can be slow)
• Mobile Coverage: Good in the village, limited in the desert
• SIM Cards: Purchase at airports or in major cities

Cultural Etiquette

Do's

• Dress modestly, especially in the village
• Ask permission before photographing people
• Remove shoes when entering homes
• Use your right hand for eating and greeting
• Try to learn basic Arabic greetings

Don'ts

• Don't show public displays of affection
• Avoid drinking alcohol in public
• Don't point with your finger (use your right thumb)
• Avoid discussing sensitive topics (politics, religion)

Packing List

Essentials

• Passport (with photocopies)
• Travel insurance documents
• Cash (small bills preferred)
• Copies of reservations

Clothing

• Light, breathable clothing (daytime)
• Warm layers (for cold nights)
• Scarf or shesh (for sun and sand protection)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sandals (for the camp)

Accessories

• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Wide-brimmed hat
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Reusable water bottle
• Power bank

Toiletries

• Sunscreen (high SPF)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Moisturizer (desert air is very dry)
• Hand sanitizer
• Wet wipes
• Basic first aid kit

Budgeting

Daily Costs (Per Person)

• Budget Traveler: 300-500 MAD

  • Dorm bed: 100-150 MAD
  • Meals: 100-150 MAD
  • Activities: 100-200 MAD

• Mid-Range Traveler: 800-1,500 MAD

  • Private room: 300-600 MAD
  • Meals: 200-300 MAD
  • Activities: 300-600 MAD

• Luxury Traveler: 2,000+ MAD

  • Luxury camp: 1,000-2,000 MAD+
  • Meals: 300-500 MAD
  • Private tours: 700+ MAD

Common Scams to Avoid

1. Fake Guides: Only use licensed guides
2. Overpriced Taxis: Agree on fares in advance
3. "Free" Gifts**: Politely decline to avoid pressure to buy
4. Incorrect Change**: Count your change carefully
5. Fake Accommodation**: Book through reputable sources

Sustainable Travel Tips

1. Respect the Environment: Take all trash with you
2. Support Locals: Stay in locally-owned accommodations
3. Conserve Water: The desert is a fragile ecosystem
4. Cultural Sensitivity: Learn about Berber traditions
5. Wildlife: Observe without disturbing

Itinerary Suggestions

2 Days/1 Night

• Day 1: Arrive, sunset camel trek, overnight in desert camp
• Day 2: Sunrise over dunes, visit Khamlia, depart

3 Days/2 Nights

• Day 1: Arrive, explore village, sunset camel trek
• Day 2: 4x4 desert tour, visit nomad families
• Day 3: Sunrise, sandboarding, depart

4 Days/3 Nights

• Day 1: Arrival, relax, sunset camel trek
• Day 2: Full-day 4x4 tour, fossil sites
• Day 3: Khamlia village, free time, stargazing
• Day 4: Sunrise, depart

Health & Safety

Vaccinations

• Routine vaccines (MMR, DTP)
• Hepatitis A & B recommended
• Typhoid (for adventurous eaters)
• Rabies (for extended stays)

Desert Safety

• Stay hydrated (3+ liters of water per day)
• Protect against the sun
• Be cautious of extreme temperatures
• Never wander into the desert alone
• Inform someone of your plans

Language Guide

Essential Arabic Phrases

• Hello: Salam alaikum
• Thank you: Shukran
• How much?: B'shhal?
• Water: L'ma
• Yes: Na'am/Yeah
• No: La'
• Please: Min fadlak (m) / Min fadlik (f)
• Goodbye: Ma'a salama

Photography Tips

1. Golden Hours: Early morning and late afternoon for best light
2. Dune Shadows: Capture the dramatic shadows at sunrise/sunset
3. Night Photography: Amazing starry skies (use a tripod)
4. Portraits: Always ask permission first
5. Equipment Protection: Keep sand out of your gear

Shopping

What to Buy

• Argan oil products
• Berber carpets and rugs
• Leather goods
• Pottery and ceramics
• Silver jewelry
• Spices and saffron

Bargaining Tips

• Start at 30-40% of the asking price
• Be polite and friendly
• Be prepared to walk away
• Don't show too much interest
• Cash works better for bargaining

Local Festivals & Events

• International Nomads Festival (April)
• Date Festival (October)
• Camel Festival (March)
• Gnaoua Music Festival (June)

Final Checklist Before You Go

1 Month Before

• Book flights and accommodations
• Check passport validity
• Get travel insurance
• Research and book tours

1 Week Before

• Confirm all reservations
• Check weather forecast
• Download offline maps
• Inform your bank of travel plans

Day Before Departure

• Charge all devices
• Pack your bags
• Print important documents
• Check in for flights

Emergency Contacts

• Police: 190
• Ambulance: 150
• Tourist Police: +212 5355-73160
• Your Country's Embassy: Check before travel

Conclusion

Merzouga offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the magic of the Sahara Desert. With proper planning and preparation, your trip can be comfortable, safe, and truly unforgettable. Remember to respect the local culture, protect the fragile desert environment, and take time to connect with the warm and welcoming Berber people.

For personalized travel advice and booking assistance, contact us at [email protected] or call +212675203319. Our team of local experts can help you plan your perfect Merzouga adventure.