Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Discovery of Erg Chebbi
- Camel ride
- Night in a Berber bivouac
- 4×4 excursion
- Visit to nomadic villages
- Stargazing
- Sports activities (quad biking, sandboarding)
- Practical advice for your stay
- FAQs
Introduction
Wondering what to do in Merzouga during your trip to southern Morocco? This oasis on the edge of Erg Chebbi offers a magnificent setting, and staying there is a bit like living in a dream of sand and silence. You can visit the Merzouga desert at dawn to capture the most beautiful colors of the sunrise, or stay late to see the sky covered with stars. The region is also lively with a variety of activities, from camel rides to bivouacs and quad biking. Here you will find a clear and useful guide, without fuss, to plan your stay. Be sure to bring water and a sturdy hat: it gets hot in the desert. And if you’re looking for something truly unique, the dunes await you for thrills.
Discovery of Erg Chebbi
Erg Chebbi, this vast field of dunes, forms the heart of the desert near Merzouga. Each dune reaches up to 150 meters high and changes color depending on the time of day, offering a unique natural spectacle. To immerse yourself in this vast expanse, you can hike at sunrise or climb to the summit to admire the panorama. Some locals even offer camel rides for an effortless exploration of the erg, which remains an experience worth living. Remember to wear closed-toe shoes and bring a scarf: the sand flies quickly when the wind picks up. It’s also an ideal place for a first encounter with Berber life. The landscape seems endless, almost unreal, but it’s there.
Dunes and journeys
To explore the erg, several itineraries are possible, ranging from 1 hour to 3 days. Each option offers a different perspective on the dunes.
Flora and fauna
- Fennec and reptiles.
- A few scattered acacias.
- Observation of migratory birds.
Best time
The months from October to April are recommended to avoid extreme heat and enjoy cool nights.
Camel ride
Taking a camel ride in Merzouga is almost a rite of passage for any traveler. The camel’s pace is slow, allowing for ample time to admire the scenery and take photos without sudden jolts. Excursions generally last between 1 and 2 hours, but you can also opt for a ride to the overnight camp. Prices vary depending on the duration and number of people; don’t hesitate to haggle a little before setting off. Some guides, of Berber origin, recount local legends and anecdotes about life in the desert, which adds a human touch to the outing. Bring a scarf to protect your eyes from the sand, especially at sunset.
Choosing your guide
- Check online reviews.
- Compare several offers.
- Favor a local guide to support the community.
Mandatory equipment
A water bottle, sunglasses and a scarf are essential to protect against the sun and sand.
Night in a Berber bivouac
Spending a night in a bivouac is one of the highlights for anyone wanting to know what to do in Merzouga after sunset. Camps are set up away from the villages to ensure a sky free of light pollution. You sleep in a traditional tent, on mattresses laid on the sand, surrounded by the cries of fennec foxes and absolute silence. Meals often consist of tagine or couscous prepared directly over the campfire, accompanied by mint tea. Berber entertainers sometimes play drums around the fire to end the evening with music. Bring warm clothing: nights can be chilly, especially between November and February.
Camp organization
Tents are set up and taken down by the hosts. All equipment is provided, from bedding to meals.
Traditional menu
- Chicken tagine with olives.
- Vegetarian couscous.
- Mint tea and local pastries.
Temperature and clothing
Warm days contrast with cool nights. Bring a light sweater or windbreaker.
4×4 excursion
To cover more ground and vary the pleasures, opt for a 4×4 excursion . Tours often include visits to canyons, palm groves, and dry lakes. Off-road vehicles allow access to less-frequented areas and the opportunity to observe wild landscapes. An experienced guide shares his knowledge of geology, history, and nomadic life. You can book this type of excursion from Marrakech Desert Excursion , although the departure point is in Merzouga. Be careful of the jolts: bring sunglasses and a scarf to avoid breathing in too much sand. The ideal is to leave early in the morning to take advantage of the mild weather.
Classic route
Visit the Tafilalet palm grove, then drive to Erg Chebbi and distant viewpoints.
Prices and reservations
Allow 500–800 MAD per person for a half-day, less if you are in a group.
Safety tips
- Fasten your seatbelt.
- No phone in hand.
- Avoid long excursions after 4 p.m. in summer.
Visit to nomadic villages
Around Merzouga, several nomadic hamlets offer a glimpse into Berber life. Here, you can discover local crafts: pottery, carpet weaving, and silver jewelry. Locals readily welcome visitors for tea or coffee in their tents. Some families even open their homes to demonstrate how bread is baked under the ashes. To support the local economy, you can purchase handcrafted pieces directly without going through a middleman. It’s a simple activity, but one that enriches your understanding of the region. Remember to respect local customs: ask permission before taking photos.
Artisanal
- Berber rugs.
- Silver jewelry.
- Traditional pottery.
Tea ritual
Mint tea, a symbol of hospitality, is prepared according to a precise ceremony, pouring from a height.
Local purchases
Favor bartering or paying in dirhams, and avoid forced prices to take advantage of the real price.
Stargazing
The sky above Merzouga is one of the clearest in Morocco, ideal for observing the Milky Way and constellations. With no light pollution, thousands of stars and sometimes the planet Saturn can be seen with the naked eye. Amateur astronomers and photographers find this a perfect testing ground. Several tours even offer a telescope for a close-up view of the lunar craters. A guide will help you identify Orion, the Big Dipper, and the Southern Cross, making the experience very enriching. Don’t leave without a blanket and a thermos of hot tea: the nights are cool, even in summer. This is a must if you’re looking for things to do in Merzouga off the beaten track.
Best seasons
The dry months, from October to March, offer clearer skies and less humid nights.
Necessary equipment
- Blanket or sleeping bag.
- Thermos and hot drink.
- Red headlamp to preserve night vision.
Astronomical photography
Use a tripod and high ISO to capture the sky without blur.
Sports activities (quad biking, sandboarding)
For thrill-seekers, Merzouga offers quad bike tours and sandboarding. Quad biking allows you to traverse the erg at high speeds, while sandboarding replicates the experience of surfing on a gentle slope. Several providers rent equipment and offer supervised sessions. Quad bikes are replaced regularly to ensure safety, and quad bike and sandboard combos are often available. Bring goggles and a scarf: the wind kicks up a lot of sand. These activities are ideal for an afternoon, between noon and 5 p.m., when the light is at its most beautiful on the dunes. It’s another way to discover Merzouga away from the camel.
Quad biking in the dunes
- Sessions of 1 to 2 hours.
- Helmet and goggles provided.
- Mandatory safety briefing.
Sandboarding initiation
Board and bindings suitable for sand, quick beginner lesson included.
Adventure Combo
Quad + sandboard option to vary the pleasures in half a day.
Practical advice for your stay
To make your stay a success and know what to do in Merzouga , it’s best to prepare a few things in advance. First, book your accommodation and excursions before arriving, especially during the high season (December to February). Then, bring suitable clothing: a scarf, sunglasses, and UV protection are essential. The phone network is limited outside the village, so bring a local SIM card or a portable Wi-Fi router. Budget-wise, expect to pay around 200–300 MAD for a typical activity, and up to 800 MAD for extended 4×4 tours. Finally, pay attention to the weather: sandstorms can occur without warning. With these tips, your adventure in Erg Chebbi will be smooth and memorable.
Best time to visit
October to April for pleasant weather and less scorching days.
Budget estimate
- Camel ride: 200 MAD.
- Bivouac: 500 MAD.
- 4×4 half-day: 800 MAD.
Health and safety
Hydrate regularly and limit sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
FAQs
- What is the best season to visit Merzouga?
From October to April to avoid the summer heat. - Do I need to book excursions in advance?
Yes, especially in high season to guarantee your place. - Can you sleep under the stars without a tent?
Some campsites offer this option, but the sandstorm can be annoying. - How much does a camel ride cost?
Around 150–200 MAD per person for 1 hour. - Is there medical care on site?
Merzouga has a small clinic, but for serious emergencies, you have to go to Erfoud or Rissani.
