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This post is in partnership with KKday, and of course, all opinions are my own. KKday connects travelers with local tour and activity operators in over 170 cities! And PS: This post does contain some affiliate links. 

camel, sunset, Morocco, spend the night in the Sahara, camping Morocco, camp in Morocco, Sahara desert, desert, Merzouga, Erg Chebbi, campaign Africa

Merzouga Tips: My Best Recommendations to make your Sahara Experience that much Better

Updated January 2024, Merzouga Tips: Recommendations for Moroccan Desert Tours was originally written in December 2017

On my first trip to the Sahara, I took a 3-day Merzouga Desert tour arranged by KKday during my trip to Morocco. After my experience, here are my best Merzouga tips and more information to know before you go. I also recommend picking up a copy of Bradt’s Morocco handbook to help you plan.

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Where is Merzouga?

Merzouga is a village on the edge of the Moroccan Sahara that serves as a great jumping-off point for greater adventures into the Sahara Desert.

Many people take 3-day desert tours from Marrakech that include one-night camping at a Berber desert camp in Erg Chebbi nearby to Merzouga.

A night in the Sahara will give you phenomenal stargazing as well as a small look into the lifestyle of the nomadic Berber people.

More of a DIY-style traveler? Check out my Southern Morocco road trip itinerary

Why Merzouga?

There are tons of desert camps in Morocco when you start searching on google.

If you don’t have much time to dedicate to thoroughly exploring the Sahara and want to get the most out of your experience a tour to Merzouga comes most recommended, especially over Zagora.

Weather in the Moroccan Sahara

Let’s cut to the chase: The best months to visit are February-April and September-November. Why? Because that’s when temperatures are most pleasant, spring and fall.

Deserts are a land of extremes, temperatures can range from dangerously hot in the summertime to downright freezing cold in the winter! Here is a handy chart for temperatures in a nearby city in Algeria (yes, Merzouga is very close to the Algerian border).

Average min and max temperatures in Merzouga, Morocco, merzouga weather

What does a 3-day Merzouga Desert Tour usually include?

You’ll start by departing Marrakech early on day one towards the Atlas Mountains where you will make several stops for scenic viewpoints before descending out of the mountains and onto Ait Ben Haddou.

Ait Ben Haddou is an ancient village that is famous for appearing in several big-name movies. After exploring a bit of the Kasbah at Ait Ben Haddou head toward Ouarzazate: the Gate of the Sahara, a large city.

After leaving Ouarzazate roll down your windows as you head into the Valley of Roses (it really does smell like roses!). You will arrive in the evening to Boumalne Dades for the evening.

Day 2 is a jam-packed day, in the morning you will head off for the oasis town of Tinghir via the ‘Road of 1001 Kasbahs’.

After exploring the lush, green oasis of Tinghir, and a demonstration on how traditional Berber carpets are made you’ll head to Todgha Gorge to briefly explore the monstrous canyon before making way to Merzouga.

In Merzouga, you will meet your camels and nomadic guides and set off for a camel ride into the sunset and to camp at a Berber camp in Erg Chebbi for the night.

Day 3 will begin before dawn so that you can leave by camel as daylight breaks and make it to the biggest sand dune around to catch the sun as it rises over the horizon. Day 3 is mostly spent in transit back to Marrakech with scenic stops along the way.

Starting or ending in Marrakech? Check out my girls’ guide to the city

Shop Merzouga Desert Tours

General Merzouga tips for the tour

  • Bring an external battery for charging electronics and extra batteries for cameras! If you didn’t book the luxury camp you won’t have access to electricity the night you sleep in Erg Chebbi. You’ll likely be taking lots of photos and videos of your trip, so better safe than sorry!
  • If you’ve not booked a luxury desert camp: Pack a small backpack with necessary items the morning before you leave your accommodation in Boumalne Dades and head for Merzouga (ie: change of clothes, toothbrush, etc). Our driver failed to tell everyone this, which lead to everyone having to pack a small backpack when we arrived in Merzouga. Not the end of the world, just a little chaotic and a waste of time, that could’ve easily been avoided by simply telling the group to pack a bag at dinner the night before.

Tips for the Sahara

  • You'll start by departing Marrakech early on day one towards the Atlas Mountains where you will make several stops for scenic viewpoints before descending out of the mountains and onto Ait Ben Haddou. Ait Ben Haddou is an ancient village that is famous for appearing in several big-name movies. After exploring a bit of the Kasbah at Ait Ben Haddou head toward Ouarzazate: the Gate of the Sahara, a large city. After leaving Ouarzazate roll down your windows as you head into the Valley of Roses (it really does smell like roses!). You will arrive in the evening at Boumalne Dades for the evening. Day 2 is a jam-packed day, in the morning you will head off for the oasis town of Tinghir via the 'Road of 1001 Kasbahs'. After exploring the lush, green oasis of Tinghir, and a demonstration on how traditional Berber carpets are made you'll head to Todgha Gorge to briefly explore the monstrous canyon before making way to Merzouga. In Merzouga, you will meet your camels and nomadic guides and set off for a camel ride into the sunset and to camp at a Berber camp in Erg Chebbi for the night. Day 3 will begin before dawn so that you can leave by camel as daylight breaks and make it to the biggest sand dune around to catch the sun as it rises over the
  • Look at daytime highs and nighttime lows during the period of time you plan to take a Merzouga Desert tour. I visited in mid-November and temperatures ranged from about 0°C (32°F) at night to 20°C (68°F)- warm days and chilly nights.
  • Pack necessary layers to accommodate the weather. It can be scorching hot in the summer to downright freezing in the winter. One woman on our trip had brought a winter jacket with her- was she glad she had it!
  • Bring water! Getting dehydrated is no joke. Some tours will provide water (best to ask beforehand), but it’s still better to bring more just in case. This is the desert and it’s extremely dry out here.
  • Bring a long scarf. The local nomadic men who will take you out to camp on camelback will wrap your scarf on your head for you to keep sand from pelting you. It was very windy the evening I went by camelback, so I was glad to get to camp without sand in my hair and mouth!
  • Bring sunglasses. This pairs great with the scarf mentioned above to keep blowing sand out of your eyes, and of course the bright sun. If I hadn’t worn glasses I’d have not seen most of the journey with the sand flying around.
  • horizon. Day 3 is mostly spent in transit back to Marrakech with scenic stops along the way.

Read: What it was like to spend the night in the Sahara

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Camel riding tips

  • For many of you this will be the first time you ride a camel. Comparatively, I find travel by camelback more comfortable than travel by horseback.
  • Stretch your legs before, especially your inner thighs. You’ll likely be engaging these muscles to help you balance as you mosey along.
  • Hold on! It can be a bumpy ride and require a bit of balance on going downhill. There are handles on the saddle to hold onto.
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Tinghir & Todgha Gorge Tips

  • Bring a water bottle. In the morning you’ll walk through the oasis of Tinghir. Luckily for you, you’ll be in a nice shaded oasis but it’s a decent amount of walking (nothing strenuous).
  • Make sure to have money to tip your guide here. This guide is included in the tours and ours was great. Very informative and entertaining.

Need more inspiration? Read 19 things to do in Morocco

Todgha Gorge, Morocco, Merzouga Tips

Ait Ben Haddou tips

  • This one is more of a recommendation than a tip: The local guide in Ait Ben Haddou is not included in the 3-day tour prices. This is stated in the description, and that it would cost 2€ per person, which is fine. However, I found the local guide that we were very much pushed to go with by our driver to have been completely unnecessary. He didn’t describe anything that wasn’t easily readable online in about 30 seconds time on the Internet. The part I found annoying was that our driver kind of pushed us that we had to. My recommendation is to skip the guide unless you can confirm you’re being set up with someone that gives good information and does more than cross the riverbed with you and tell you to walk to the top on your own and meet him back in 15 minutes. He also demanded tips on top of the 2€ per head. He walked us through the old Kasbah and spoke for about 3 minutes. 2€ x 17 people for about 10 minutes total of work is pretty high, so asking for tips demanding tips on top was asinine in my opinion.
  • Avoid the hotel restaurant in Ait Ben Haddou next to the bridge. This is where we were dropped off by the Ait Ben Haddou guide and told to eat. Two things that I found bothersome: 1) They would not allow anyone to share meals. We were told no as many people in our group were paired and weren’t that hungry. 2) The most unprofessional restaurant move I had ever seen. One couple that was in our group split off from us and ate upstairs in the same restaurant. They paid THEIR waiter upon leaving. After we were all loaded up on the van to leave. The waiter that catered to the remainder of the group rushed onto the van stating that two people did not pay, pointed them out, and started demanding money. The couple insisted they paid their waiter. The man then informed them that they were to pay him directly and not the staff member who handled their meal. (There was never any mention of this before, during, or after the meal). It finally ended with the couple having to leave the van to settle the matter, in which they did absolutely nothing wrong. Not only was it embarrassing for the couple for being accused of stealing, but it was also ludicrous that a restaurant of that scale would have staff that behaves this way. My point: There are other dining options in Ait Ben Haddou.
Ait Ben Haddou, Ben Haddou, Morocco, Merzouga tips

Merzouga tips for packing

Not sure what clothes to bring with you on tour?

Summertime

  • 1-2 loose fitting, light shirts. Aim for breathable fabrics.
  • 1-2 pairs of loose, lightweight trousers.
  • 1 sarong. Can be worn as a scarf, to cover shoulders or as a skirt.
  • 1 scarf. Keep that blowing sand out of your hair and face.
  • Sunglasses. Block the bright light and the blowing sands.
  • Socks and underwear.
  • 1 sweater/jumper or light jacket. Because it does cool off some in the evenings.

Spring and Fall

  • 1-2 loose fitting shirts.
  • 1-2 pairs of trousers.
  • 1 sarong.
  • 1 scarf.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Socks and underwear.
  • 1 sweater/jumper.
  • 1 jacket, it gets chilly in the evenings.
  • 1 hat, because majority of your body heat leaves from your head.
  • 1 pair of light mittens.

Wintertime

  • 1-2 loose shirts. At least one long sleeve is a good choice.
  • 1-2 pairs of trousers.
  • 1 sarong.
  • 1 scarf.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Socks and underwear.
  • 1 sweater/jumper.
  • 1 insulated jacket.
  • 1 hat.
  • 1 pair of mittens.
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Ready to book a Moroccan Desert Tour?

Start your search here!

Where To Stay In Merzouga

Camping

Budget

Camel Trekking Desert Camp
| Booking.com |

Midrange

Merzouga Desert Camp Bazin
| Booking.com |

Glamping

Bihi Camp
| Booking.com |

Dihya Desert Camp
| Booking.com | Agoda.com |

Riads

Budget

Riad Hotel Les Flamants
| Booking.com | Hotels.com |

Midrange

Riad Dar Hassan
| Booking.com |

Luxury

Riad Chebbi
| Booking.com | Hotels.com |

Have any questions about my Merzouga tips?

Ask your Merzouga questions in the comments section below.

More Posts from Morocco:

51 thoughts on “Merzouga Tips: Recommendations for Moroccan Desert Tours”

  8. assou

    A heartfelt thank you for sharing “The Adventure of Nicole in Morocco.” Nicole’s journey through Morocco, as depicted in this article, is a captivating tale that transports readers to the enchanting landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences she encountered. Through your storytelling, you’ve allowed us to be a part of her adventure, inspiring us to seek our own thrilling escapades. This article not only shines a spotlight on Morocco but also ignites the spirit of exploration within all of us. Nicole’s adventure is now an inspiration for many, and we’re grateful for this wonderful narrative that brings the magic of travel to life! 🌟🌍✨

    Reply
  9. Mustapha

    Dear Nicole,
    I recently came across your fantastic article on Merzouga tips, and I must say, it’s incredibly insightful and helpful! Your tips and recommendations are sure to enhance anyone’s experience in this beautiful desert destination.
    I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude and appreciation for your excellent work. Your passion for travel and dedication to sharing valuable information shine through your writing. Keep up the great work!
    Moreover, I couldn’t help but notice that your article focuses on Merzouga, and I believe my piece, “ What’s Merzouga known for?” would be a perfect complement to your work. It delves deeper into the unique cultural aspects, natural wonders, and historical significance that make Merzouga a truly enchanting place.
    Once again, thank you for your inspiring contribution to the travel community.
    Best regards,

    Reply
  10. Lora

    Incredible blog 😁👏 very much appreciated for this amazing article full of value thanks for sharing it with us keep up posting please

    Reply
  30. Ambra

    Hi, I would be interested in doing the same tour as you, but on booking the Zahra Luxury Desert Camp costs € 81 and does not correspond with the amount you described, how did you book?

    Reply
  32. james

    Morocco is one of the unique countries in the world and a country of dizzying diversity. You may wander through spice markets, explore sweeping deserts and enjoy warm hospitality. Morocco is roughly the size of California, this is why day tours are so popular! Perhaps this is one of the most exciting Morocco Desert Tours.

    Reply
  33. Joseph Jones

    Appreciating the time and effort you put into your website and in depth information you offer. Awesome places to explore. I would like to suggest it to my friends so that we can plan a trip and take a time for ourselves in this busy schedule. Keep posting such wonderful places. Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  36. Lisa

    Hey,
    I Really like your Blog,
    We did the 3 day Tour to Merzouga and it was a nice trip…
    But There was something very negative about this Trip:
    the Camels are treated SO bad! The ropes are so tight that their noses Had scars and the rope to the next camel is way to short, so they hurt Every time when they get up or down.
    They make terrible noises, dont want to be touched because they feel pain, when they Lay down they fix their legs with ropes so they won‘t move….
    I think this is animal cruelty and nobody should support this!

    Reply
    1. Nicole

      I agree, however I think it’s heavily dependent on which local company handles the tour. Ive seen some camels that are treated very poorly and others that are better taken after.

      Reply
  39. Dubai Dune Safari

    Nice Blog, I love traveling like cruises, city tours, visiting new places it the greatest but safaris are just majestic, Rather it’s the savanna safari in Africa, jungle safari in Asia or a desert safari from Dubai.

    Reply
  40. Stevenn Plaisy

    Thanks for this information-packed post. I am planning to visit Morocco this spring and am most likely including Merzouga on my itinerary.

    Reply
  41. Kaylynn

    I am about to head to Morocco in a couple weeks and this post along with your others on Morocco and Marrakech have been a godsend. I hope you’re having an amazing time, wherever in the world you are 🙂

    Reply
    1. Nicole

      I hope you have an amazing time in Morocco, I am actually at home In Alaska right now, but soon to be off to Egypt and then further afield into the Middle East and Central Asia!

      Reply
  42. Fadahunsi Baez

    Wow, What an amazing post you have shared here. Every word on your post is recalling my few old memories of my Moroccan desert trip which I had booked with the help of a nice travel agent named Sahara Bliss Tours. I had really enjoyed a lot & collected so many golden memories with my cousin brothers & sisters on the sand of the Sahara desert. It was really an awesome trip for us.

    Reply
    1. Nicole

      Glad to hear you enjoyed your trip to the Sahara and that this post brings back good memories. Looking up at the stars at night was definitely my favorite part.

      Reply
    1. Nicole

      Hi Tiril,
      I can’t remember off the top of my head at the moment, but I do have it wrote down back home somewhere- will try in get the info to you when I am back!

      Reply

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