Marrakech to Merzouga: the desert road, stop by stop

The golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, near the village of Merzouga, are the picture most people have in mind when they think of the Moroccan Sahara. They are also a long way from Marrakech: about 560 km by road, or 9 to 10 hours of driving with stops. The good news is that the road itself is one of the most beautiful in the country.

The route, stop by stop

Tizi n’Tichka (2,260 m). Leaving Marrakech, the road climbs through Berber villages and walnut groves to the highest paved pass in the High Atlas. In winter there is often snow on the peaks around it.

Aït Benhaddou. This fortified village of earth houses is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved ksour in Morocco. Allow at least an hour to walk up to the old granary at the top.

Ouarzazate and Skoura. Ouarzazate is the gateway to the south and home to large film studios. Just after it, the palm grove of Skoura hides some of the finest kasbahs in the region.

The Dades and Todra gorges. The Dades Valley is known for its winding road and red cliffs. A little further east, the Todra Gorge narrows to about 10 m between walls 300 m high.

Erfoud, Rissani and Merzouga. After the gorges the landscape opens into stony desert, until the dunes appear on the horizon, rising to around 150 m.

How many days do you need?

• 2 days: too short for Merzouga. If you only have two days, choose the Zagora desert, which is closer.
• 3 days: the classic option, with one night in the Dades Valley and one in a desert camp. The last day is a long drive back.
• 4 days or more: the most comfortable choice. You can split the return through the Draa Valley, or carry on to Fes instead of going back to Marrakech.

Practical tips

The best months are October to April. From December to February the nights in the desert are cold, so bring a warm layer. In summer the dunes are very hot in the middle of the day, which is why the camel ride takes place at sunset and sunrise. Pack a scarf for the wind and sand, sunglasses and a small bag for the night at the camp, so your suitcase can stay in the car.

Travel the road with a local driver-guide

All our desert tours are private: the car and the driver-guide are just for you, and you stop wherever you like. See our 3-day Marrakech to Merzouga tour, the 4-day Sahara loop or all our desert tours.