Destinations
Merzouga
The village at the edge of Erg Chebbi that gives its name to Morocco's best-known dune landscape — and the starting point for most desert camps.
Merzouga is a small village in south-east Morocco that has become the country’s best-known gateway to the Sahara. Its houses and guesthouses line the western edge of Erg Chebbi, a field of tall, orange sand dunes that rises abruptly from the surrounding stony desert.
Why travellers come
Erg Chebbi is the most accessible great dune field in Morocco. You can drive on paved roads right up to the sand, then continue by camel or 4x4 to a camp among the dunes. That combination — real dunes without days of off-road travel — is what makes Merzouga so popular.
Getting there
Most visitors arrive by road from Marrakech, Fes or Ouarzazate, often as part of a multi-day route. The journey from Marrakech crosses the High Atlas and is usually split into two days. Errachidia has the nearest airport, and long-distance buses also serve the region — check current timetables with the operators.
Where to stay
You can stay in a guesthouse in the village or, for the full experience, spend a night in a camp in the dunes. Our camp directory explains exactly what each camp and package includes.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Merzouga?
Merzouga is a village in south-east Morocco, in the Drâa-Tafilalet region, close to the Algerian border. It sits on the western edge of Erg Chebbi, the large field of sand dunes most travellers mean when they talk about 'the Sahara' in Morocco.
How do I get to Merzouga?
Most travellers arrive by road — on a private tour, by rental car or by long-distance bus. The nearest airport is Errachidia, roughly two to two and a half hours away by car. From Marrakech or Fes the drive takes a full day, so many people break the journey in the Dades Valley, Todra Gorge or the Ziz Valley.
Can I drive to Merzouga myself?
Yes. The roads to Merzouga are paved. Most camps meet guests in Merzouga or Hassi Labied, where you can usually leave your car while you spend the night in the dunes. We confirm the meeting point and parking for each booking.