Riding a camel into the dunes at sunset, eating dinner under the stars and waking up to a silent sunrise over the sand: a night in the Sahara is something most travelers never forget.
But Morocco has several desert areas, and choosing the right one depends on how much time you have and what kind of experience you want.
Merzouga and Erg Chebbi: the classic choice
Merzouga sits at the edge of Erg Chebbi, a sea of golden dunes that rise up to about 150 metres. This is the image most people have of the Sahara, and it is the most popular desert destination in Morocco.
The drive from Marrakech takes about 9 to 10 hours, so most trips take 3 days or more, with a night in the Dades or Todra area on the way. From Fes, it is about 7 to 8 hours.
Zagora: the shorter option
Zagora is closer to Marrakech (about 7 hours) and can be visited in 2 days. The drive through the Draa Valley and its palm groves is beautiful, but the dunes are much smaller than in Merzouga. Choose Zagora only if you are short on time.
Erg Chigaga: the wild desert
Erg Chigaga, beyond M'Hamid, is the most remote and unspoiled desert in Morocco. The last part is reached by 4×4 across the hamada, and the camps are far from everything. It is perfect for travelers who want silence and adventure, with at least 4 days.
How many days do you need?
- 2 days: Zagora only, long driving days
- 3 days: Merzouga with one night in the desert, a good minimum
- 4 to 5 days: Merzouga with two nights in the desert or extra stops in the gorges, our favourite
- 6 days or more: combine the desert with Fes, the Atlas Mountains or Erg Chigaga
What is a desert camp like?
Desert camps are made of large Berber tents set among the dunes. Standard camps have real beds, blankets and shared or private toilets and showers. Luxury camps add private bathrooms, more space and gourmet dinners.
Your evening usually includes mint tea on arrival, a tagine dinner, drums and music around the fire, and time to watch the stars. Your main luggage stays in the vehicle, so bring a small bag for the night.
Things to do in the desert
- Camel trek at sunset and sunrise
- Sandboarding down the dunes
- Quad biking or a 4×4 tour around Erg Chebbi
- Visit Khamlia village and listen to Gnawa music
- Meet a nomad family and share tea
- Stargazing far from any light
Frequently asked questions
Is the camel ride uncomfortable?
The ride to camp usually takes 1 to 1.5 hours. It is a gentle walk, though the first minutes feel strange. If you prefer, you can reach the camp by 4×4 instead.
Is there electricity and Wi-Fi in desert camps?
Most camps have electricity in the evening, often from solar panels, and some have Wi-Fi, but the signal is limited. Bring a power bank.
Is the desert cold at night?
From November to March, nights can drop close to zero. Camps provide thick blankets, but bring a warm jacket and a hat.
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