Marrakech to Merzouga: The Complete Route Guide to the Sahara
Over the Atlas Mountains to the dunes of Erg Chebbi
The road from Marrakech to Merzouga is one of the most beautiful journeys in Morocco. In a few days you cross the High Atlas, pass ancient kasbahs and green valleys, and arrive at the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi.
Distance and driving time
Merzouga is roughly 550–600 km from Marrakech. Without stops the drive takes around 9–10 hours, which is why most travellers split it over two days and spend a night on the way.
The best stops on the way
Tizi n'Tichka pass
The road climbs through Berber villages to the Tizi n'Tichka pass, at about 2,260 metres one of the highest road passes in Morocco. In winter the peaks around can be covered in snow.
Ait Ben Haddou
This fortified village of earth buildings is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has appeared in many famous films and series. Walk up to the granary at the top for the view.
Ouarzazate
Known as the "door of the desert", with film studios and the Taourirt kasbah.
Dades Valley and the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs
Palm groves, rose fields around Kelaat M'Gouna and dramatic rock formations. The Dades Gorge is a popular place to spend the night.
Todra Gorge
Near Tinghir, the river has cut a narrow canyon between towering rock walls. A short walk inside the gorge is a highlight.
Arrival in Merzouga
After Erfoud and Rissani the dunes of Erg Chebbi appear on the horizon. Time for a sunset camel ride and your first night in the desert.
How many days do you need?
- 3 days / 2 nights – the classic tour: one night in the Dades or Todra area and one night in a Merzouga desert camp.
- 4 days / 3 nights – more relaxed, with a full day in Merzouga for a 4x4 tour, quad biking or sandboarding.
- From Merzouga you can continue to Fes instead of going back to Marrakech.
Where to sleep in the desert
Pick the camp that fits your style: our Merzouga luxury camp with private bathrooms, the authentic standard camp, or a quiet wild camp.
We organise private tours from Marrakech with a driver and flexible stops. Contact us for a personal itinerary.