Sahara guide
What is the best desert in Morocco?
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Morocco has several deserts and dune fields, but the two main ones are Erg Chebbi (Merzouga) and Erg Chigaga (Zagora). Each has its own charm.
Erg Chebbi - Merzouga
Erg Chebbi is the most famous desert in Morocco. Its dunes reach up to 150 metres high and stretch for 28 km. It's the ideal place for:
- Camel rides at sunset and sunrise
- A night at a camp under the stars
- 4x4 tours through the dunes
- Visiting nomad families and the village of Khamlia
It's about 9–10 hours from Marrakech or about 7 hours from Fes.
Erg Chigaga - Zagora
Erg Chigaga is wilder and less touristy. The dunes cover a larger area but are lower than in Merzouga. It's ideal for travellers looking for:
- More isolation and authenticity
- More adventurous 4x4 routes
- Reachable from Marrakech in 2 days
Which one to choose?
If it's your first time in Morocco and you want the classic experience of big dunes, a camp and camels, Merzouga (Erg Chebbi) is the best option. If you're after something more remote and have fewer days, Zagora is ideal.
Want to visit the desert?
We organise private routes to Merzouga and Zagora from any city in Morocco.
Frequently asked questions
Questions about trips to Morocco – best desert Morocco
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What are Morocco trips?
Morocco trips are routes and tours organised by a local Moroccan travel agency to discover the desert, the imperial cities and the coast.
What is a local travel agency in Morocco?
We are a local agency based in Merzouga with 8+ years of experience organising private tours, excursions and tailor-made trips all over Morocco.
What are the best tours in Morocco?
The best tours in Morocco are: 3 days Marrakech–Merzouga, 5 days Kasbahs, 8 days Complete Morocco and the 10-day Grand Tour. Private tour with a local guide.
What does an all-inclusive Morocco trip include?
It includes: private air-conditioned transport, a multilingual driver/guide, accommodation in riads/hotels, nights in a desert camp, breakfasts and 24h assistance. Flights are not included.
Which excursions in Morocco do you recommend?
Excursions in Morocco: a camel ride in Merzouga, a visit to Ait Benhaddou, a tour of the Fes medina, an excursion to the Dades Valley and a camp under the stars.
Is it safe to travel to Morocco?
Yes, Morocco is a safe country for tourists. Thousands of visitors travel every year without problems. The government values tourism and there is a police presence in tourist areas.
When is the best time to travel to Morocco?
The best seasons are spring and autumn (March–May, September–November), with pleasant temperatures of 20–28 °C throughout the country.
How do you get to the desert from Marrakech?
The distance is 560 km and the drive takes 9–10 hours. We recommend a private tour of 2–3 days with stops at Ait Benhaddou, Ouarzazate, the Dades Valley and the Todra Gorge.
Where can I exchange money in Morocco?
Best at official exchange offices, banks or ATMs. Avoid the black market. Dirhams cannot be exchanged outside Morocco.
What clothes should I bring to the desert?
Comfortable clothes, layers for the cold nights, closed shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and a light jacket for sunrise.
Frequently asked questions
Questions about the Moroccan desert
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Ask on WhatsAppWhat is the best desert in Morocco?
The two main ones are Erg Chebbi (Merzouga) and Erg Chigaga (Zagora). Merzouga is more famous, with 150 m dunes. Zagora is wilder and less touristy.
When is the best time to visit the desert?
The best time is spring and autumn (March–May, September–November). Temperatures of 20–28 °C. Avoid July–August because of the extreme heat (45 °C).
Merzouga or Zagora: which to choose?
Merzouga (Erg Chebbi): spectacular dunes, luxury camps, ideal for a first visit. Zagora (Erg Chigaga): more authentic, less touristy, 4x4 routes.
How do I get to Merzouga from Marrakech?
It's 560 km and 9–10 hours. Best done on a 2–3 day private tour with stops: Ait Benhaddou, Ouarzazate, the Dades Valley, the Todra Gorge.
How do I get to Merzouga from Fes?
It's 460 km and 7 hours. Route: Ifrane, the Cedar Forest, the Ziz Valley, Erfoud. Done over 2–3 days with stops.
What is there to do in Merzouga?
Camel rides at sunset/sunrise, a night at a camp under the stars, 4x4 tours through the dunes, visits to nomad families and the village of Khamlia.
Is it necessary to book in advance?
Yes, we recommend booking at least 1 week ahead, especially in high season (spring/autumn). The camps have limited capacity.
What kind of accommodation is there in the desert?
There are standard and luxury camps. Luxury camps have private bathrooms, limited WiFi and better food. Standard camps are cheaper and more authentic.
What clothes should I bring to the desert?
Comfortable clothes, layers for the cold nights (it's cold even in summer), closed shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and a light jacket for sunrise.
Is it cold in the desert at night?
Yes, nights are cold (10–15 °C in summer, 0 °C in winter). The camps provide blankets and heating in winter. Bring a warm coat.
Does the camp have electricity?
Yes, all camps have electricity to charge your devices. Bring your plug adapter. Luxury camps have limited WiFi.
Is it safe to camp in the desert?
Yes, completely. The camps are in controlled areas with local staff. They're safe for families, couples and solo travellers.
Can the route be done in winter?
Yes, winter is a good time. Sunny, pleasant days and cold nights, but the camps are heated. Avoid July–August because of the extreme heat.
Do you have to get up early for the sunrise?
Yes, sunrise over the dunes is unforgettable. The tour usually includes an early start with a camel ride or walk before breakfast. It's well worth it.
What does the desert tour include?
It includes: private air-conditioned transport, Spanish-speaking driver/guide, riad accommodation, a night at a camp, breakfasts and 24h assistance. Flights and dinners are not included.
Are there shared tours or only private ones?
We offer exclusive private tours (a vehicle just for your group). We can also look for shared tours if you prefer a cheaper option.
What vehicle do you use for the desert?
We use modern minivans or 4x4s with air conditioning. The driver is a professional guide who speaks Spanish and knows the route perfectly.
Can I see the starry sky in the desert?
Yes, the Sahara has some of the best night skies in the world for stargazing. With no light pollution, the Milky Way is spectacular.
Do you have to haggle over prices?
Tours have fixed published prices. In the souks and desert shops you do haggle. Our prices include everything listed, with no surprises.
What is there to see on the way to the desert?
Must-see stops: the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou (UNESCO World Heritage, setting for Gladiator), Ouarzazate, the Dades Valley, the Todra Gorge, the Cedar Forest.
Is the Moroccan desert the same as the Sahara?
Yes, the Moroccan desert is part of the Sahara. Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga are the most visited areas, easily reached from Marrakech and Fes.