If there is a destination that embodies the magic of the Sahara desert, it is undoubtedly the desert ofMerzouga. Located in the southeast of Morocco, this small town is the gateway to the impressive Erg Chebbi dune complex. In this guide to “Member’s Leisure”, we will show you how to live the ultimate desert experience and how to combine it with an essential stop in the vibrant city of Marrakech.
The adventure in the dunes of Merzouga: What to do in the desert
The great attraction of Merzouga is its spectacular golden sand dunes that can reach up to 150 meters high. Here, time seems to stop and nature is shown in its purest state.
To go, I went from Marrakech taking an excursion like this:3-Day Desert Tour From Marrakech To Merzouga Dunes And Camel Ride 2026. This tour made stops at other beautiful points like the one I explained in this post:Aït Ben Haddou: Hollywood movie setting, Historical Treasure in the Heart of Morocco – Member’s leisure.
It is quite economical, approximately 100 euros for two nights plus transportation and the experience is quite good, but it is a beating. Especially because from Marrakech to the desert it is about 7-8 hours and the journey is made with stops but the return is done in one go, only stopping to eat and the road as you ascend through the Atlas can get dizzy.
Many people prefer to go to a desert without so many dunes but closer to Marrakech, like AgafayPrivate Marrakech Desert Dinner with Transportation 2026.
Below, I list the activities that can be done in the Merzouga desert.
1. Camel trek through the Erg Chebbi
There is no more iconic experience in the desert than entering the immensity of the dunes on the back of a camel. It is the traditional way in which nomadic caravans have crossed these lands for centuries. The slow pace allows you to connect with the silence of the desert.
2. Unforgettable sunsets and sunrises
Watching the sun set behind the sandy horizon is a must-see visual spectacle. The orange, red and gold tones dye the dunes creating an almost unreal landscape. We recommend you climb one of the highest dunes to enjoy the moment.
3. Spend the night in a Berber camp (Haimas)
Sleeping under a blanket of millions of stars is the finishing touch to your trip. Campsites in Merzouga range from traditional options to authentic luxury accommodation (glamping) with all the comforts. You will enjoy a typical dinner next to a bonfire to the rhythm of Berber drum music.
4. Adrenaline in Quad or 4×4
For lovers of speed and adventure, exploring the dunes on a quad or in a 4×4 vehicle is an extremely fun experience that will allow you to explore more remote areas of the desert. The tours are not included in the Merzouga activities, I paid approximately 100 euros and it was very worth it because I drove at dawn and the sand looked beautiful. If you do not pay this extra, they usually take you by car to a dune from which you can see the border with Algeria.
Traveling to Merzouga crossing the Atlas from Marrakech is one of those experiences that every traveler should do at least once in their life. Changing landscapes, incomparable starry nights and gastronomy rich in nuances await you in the heart of Morocco.
Keep an eye on my posts for more information on places and activities to do in Morocco. Soon on Tiktok and YouTube I will publish the videos I made going by quad and by car through the dunes. All the best!