The Dunes of Merzouga: Morocco’s Gateway to the Sahara

In the southeastern part of Morocco, not far from the Algerian border, lies one of Africa’s natural wonders: the Dunes of Merzouga. Towering up to 150 meters and stretching for over 50 kilometers, these golden-orange sand dunes epitomizes the beauty and mystique of the Sahara Desert. The name of the dunes comes from the small village that serves as the entry point to this spectacular landscape. An essential stop on any Moroccan itinerary.

What Are the Dunes of Merzouga?

The Dunes of Merzouga are part of the Erg Chebbi dune field, which is one of two major ergs (large seas of dunes formed by wind-blown sand) in the Moroccan Sahara. Unlike the flatter, rockier desert landscapes found in many parts of North Africa, Ergs like Chebbi are known for their dramatic, undulating sand dunes that change color throughout the day—from pale gold at sunrise to fiery orange at sunset and deep ochre at twilight.

Formed over thousands of years by the prevailing winds of the Sahara, the dunes around Merzouga are among the highest in Morocco, and some of the most accessible for travelers. Their surreal beauty has been featured in countless travel documentaries, photographs, and films, cementing their place as one of the country’s most iconic natural landmarks.

Why Visit Merzouga?

If you like nature, Morocco has a lot to offer. From the Dades Gorges to the Agafay Desert, from the Argan forests to the Ouzoud Falls, to the Ourika Valley and the Atlas Mountains. However, the Sahara is something special.

For us, these are a few reasons why the Dunes of Merzouga are worth the trip:

Spectacular Scenery: Of course, the views over the dunes, especially at sunrise or sunset, are nothing short of magical. The colors and the silence offer a serene contrast to Morocco’s bustling cities like Marrakesh and Essaouira.
Cultural Experience: The village of Merzouga is home to Berber communities who have lived in the region for generations. Staying in traditional desert camps or visiting local villages offers insight into their music, cuisine, and way of life.
Adventure and Solitude: Whether you’re trekking on camelback or hiking barefoot along the ridgelines, the dunes offer both exhilaration and peaceful solitude. It’s a destination that feeds the soul.

Top Attractions in and Around Merzouga

While the dunes themselves are the main draw, there are several other attractions and points of interest worth exploring during a visit to Merzouga:

Lake Dayet Srij: Located just west of Merzouga, this seasonal salt lake is a haven for birdlife, especially flamingos during the winter and spring months.
Khamlia Village: Just south of Merzouga, this small village is known for its population of Gnawa musicians, descendants of Sub-Saharan African slaves. A visit here often includes traditional music performances.
Fossil Sites: The surrounding desert is rich in ancient marine fossils, a remnant of the fact that the Sahara was once an ocean. Local guides can take you to fossil quarries and workshops.
Rissani: A historic market town 30 minutes from Merzouga, Rissani was once a major caravan trading post. Its souk is still active and makes a great stop for local crafts, spices, and traditional goods.

Activities to Do in Merzouga

Don’t just take pictures and admire the view! You can enjoy the Merzouga Dunes in very different and fun ways.

Camel Trekking: Perhaps the most iconic way to experience the dunes, camel treks usually begin in the late afternoon, taking travelers into the heart of the desert to spend the night in a traditional Berber camp.
Sandboarding: Thrill-seekers can rent a sandboard and glide down the steep slopes of the dunes—like snowboarding, but on hot, golden sand.
4×4 Excursions: For those wanting to explore deeper into the desert or visit remote Berber villages and fossil sites, 4×4 jeep tours are a great option.
Stargazing: The lack of light pollution in the Sahara makes Merzouga an exceptional location for stargazing. Many camps provide telescopes or guided astronomy talks.
Music and Dance: At night, many desert camps feature traditional Berber drumming and dance around the campfire—an unforgettable way to end a day in the desert.

How to Get to Merzouga

From Marrakech, it’s about a 9-hour drive (560 km) via the High Atlas Mountains and the scenic Dades or Ziz valleys. From Fes, the journey is shorter—around 7 hours (470 km). Renting a car offers flexibility and allows for scenic stops along the way.

Many people opt for organized tours from Marrakech or Fes that include transportation, guided activities, meals, and accommodations for a night in the desert. These may include also private luxury expeditions.

Do you prefer to fly? The nearest airport is Errachidia Moulay Ali Cherif Airport (ERH), about 2 hours north of Merzouga. Domestic flights are available from Casablanca. From Errachidia, you can hire a taxi or arrange a transfer.

Despite its remote location, for travelers seeking awe, adventure, and authentic Moroccan charm, few places rival the golden waves of the dunes of Merzouga.