10 Best Merzouga Desert Activities & Things to do

Although many people travel to Morocco to visit their favorite kasbah, spend time at the beach, or shop for gifts or souvenirs at the market or souk, few realize that the Merzouga desert is one of the best places to visit. It is a well-known desert with golden, mountainous dunes, breathtaking sunsets, and serene starry nights. In addition to many other incredible attractions, taking in the scenery and the expansive open areas surrounding you is one of the best things to do in the Merzouga desert.

There are plenty of things to do once you arrive, regardless of your reason for traveling. Whether you want to learn more about the oasis and ancient villages, meet nomads, ride a camel across the Erg Chebbi dunes, watch the sunset over the Sahara, or spend the night in a traditional Berber camp, your trip will be an adventure you won’t soon forget.

Why Should You Visit Merzouga Desert?

Located in the southeast of Morocco, Merzouga is a small village perched on the edge of the Erg Chebbi, a stunning series of 160-meter-tall dunes that offer a spectacular view of the desert. With its towering dunes, vibrant cultural traditions, and thrilling adventures, this place will capture your heart and imagination.

Best Time To Visit

If you are making travel plans, you undoubtedly want to consider the ideal time of year to visit the Moroccan desert. The cooler months of september through may are the best times to visit the Merzouga desert because the weather is more suitable for desert exploration. However, it is advised that you refrain from going there in the summer because of the extremely high temperatures.

10 Best Things to Do In Merzouga Desert

Whether you prefer to travel in luxury or on a budget, Merzouga has a variety of exciting activities to offer.

Camel Trek In Sahara

We all agree that one of the best activities in the Merzouga desert is camel trekking. Nomads have been using camels for transportation for centuries, so it’s not only a fun activity for tourists but also part of the nation’s tradition.

A camel ride across the tall orange dunes of Erg Chebbi is a must-do activity for anyone seeking a genuine adventure in Merzouga. Traveling to a remote desert camp, where you can eat traditional Moroccan food, sleep under the stars, and watch a breathtaking sunset, you can take in the rhythmic sway of your camel. Spending the night in a luxurious camp with live Berber music and en-suite tents will also enhance your experience.

Although it’s not the most comfortable way to get around, it’s amazing to ride a camel as it moves through the sandy landscape. You can feel their strength and majesty with every step, and they provide a distinctive viewpoint of the desert and surrounding area.

Camel Ride At The Sunrise

On a camel, one of the most picturesque times to see the Merzouga desert is when the sun is almost set. This is because the temperature will be cooler than it will be later in the day, making it more comfortable to explore the desert and engage in different activities without feeling very hot.

You can also take in the breathtaking desert landscape while strolling across the glittering golden sands. The sensation of the morning breeze caressing your body allows you to appreciate the stunning desert beauty fully.

Camel Ride At The sunset

Directly in front of Merzouga’s main gate is a stunning dune with a view of the desert horizon. The dune is one of the tallest, so you will be able to see it as soon as you arrive in Merzouga.

Take in the breathtaking views of the desert and the sunset by walking to the top of the dune. It takes about 30 to 40 minutes to reach the top, and walking up is difficult due to the sand, but if you’re up for a little challenge, it’s well worth it

Sandboarding between the dunes

Another activity in the Merzouga Desert is sandboarding, which is a great way to explore the desert’s dunes. In this adventure, you ride a board that resembles a snowboard down dunes. Erg Chebbi’s soft dunes in Merzouga are perfect for sandboarding because they reduce the chance of falling and are a great activity to do with loved ones. However, make sure to shield your eyes from the sand with protective such as goggles.

Simply fasten your sandboard and glide down Merzouga’s towering dunes with the assistance of a guide. As you descend these natural wonders, you will feel the rush of wind against your face; every slope offers a different and thrilling experience.

Overnight camel ride in the desert

Also, among the best things to do in Merzouga is spend one night at the desert camp. The camps are located deeper into the desert, surrounded by the Erg Chebbi Dunes, and will allow you to experience the Sahara at night, have a bonfire with the locals, eat a delicious dinner, listen to Berber music, and have the most beautiful stargazing experience of your life.

Numerous camps are available, with prices ranging from low to high, depending on the level of luxury desired.

4x4 Merzouga Desert Tour

A 4×4 desert tour offers an experience that is impossible to overlook. We will start by going to the oasis, a community-maintained garden close to the sand dunes, where you can observe how the locals use a traditional irrigation system to gather water from the dunes.

Once we arrive in Khamlia village, you will have the opportunity to hear and appreciate Gnawa music performed by residents with Sub-Saharan ancestry. Their history and customs, which go back to when their ancestors were enslaved, are reflected in their dance and music.

We will reach a mountain viewpoint that provides an amazing overview of the region as we continue our journey into the Black Desert, which is famous for its volcanic stones. Afterward, we will travel to Mifis Village, a historic location that the French constructed during their colonization. Because of its mineral mines, where some Moroccan laborers are still employed today, this area is also known as the Mines Village.

Although you can do this activity at any time of day, we advise doing it around 11:00 AM. If you’re interested, please let us know in advance so we can prepare a 4×4 vehicle for you.

Merzouga ATV quads biking adventure

Without a doubt, ATV Quad Biking is the most enjoyable way to explore the dunes and experience the wind in the desert. There will be one or two guides taking the lead in front of you because you will realize how big the desert is.

The duration of this activity is roughly one to two hours, and reservations can be made online or in person when you get to Merzouga. Do not worry if you have never used it before; the guides will share their knowledge while keeping you safe.

Buggy Driving Experience in the Desert

You will be led deep into the magnificent Merzouga desert by a guide after receiving a series of safety instructions and practical tips. You will ride the buggy through the dry regions at the foot of the Erg Chebbi dune chain during this activity. Also, you don’t have to be a professional to participate in this activity.

Horse Riding in Merzouga Desert

A memorable horseback riding adventure through the Merzouga Desert will allow you to discover its breathtaking beauty. Guided by local experts, you will ride across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi to experience the calmness and spectacular scenery of the Sahara. Regardless of your level of riding experience, this unique experience provides a serene and compelling way to experience the desert’s timeless beauty.

Merzouga Birding Adventure

With binoculars in hand, you will travel through the black desert and arid plains of the Erg Chebbi desert, which is home to a variety of interesting bird species. You can look for Egyptian nightjars, raptors, desert larks, and desert sparrows. By sharing their extensive knowledge, the tour guides will assist you in recognizing and comprehending the behaviors of these fascinating animals.

You will end the day in a cozy desert camp where you can unwind beneath the stars, enjoy authentic Moroccan food, and exchange tales of the day’s birdwatching adventures.

What should I wear for desert activities?

Dresses, skirts, long-sleeved shirts, and pants are examples of lightweight, breathable apparel.
A broad hat and UV-protective sunglasses to protect your face from the sun.
High SPF Sunscreen: Always carry enough sunscreen to reapply, and the higher the SPF, the better.
Bandana or scarf: For extra defense against the sun and sporadic sandstorms.
Sandboarding, camelback riding, and desert walks are all best done with closed-toe shoes, so don’t forget to bring them.
Don’t forget to pack extra pairs of moisture-absorbed socks!
Come with a lightweight jacket or sweater for the winter season.
Sandboarding Gear: For maximum mobility, wear athletic apparel and supportive footwear.

How long does it take to ride a camel to the desert camp?

The ride to the Merzouga camp will take one to two hours but note that riding a camel doesn’t harm them as long as they are carrying the right loads properly.

Can I bring luggage to the camel?

Yes, you can put luggage on the camel, but it must be a small backpack; if you have additional luggage, we will place it on the 4×4 vehicle.

Are the activities suitable for kids and families?

There are a few things to consider when taking your children to explore the magnificent Merzouga desert landscapes. First, while the activities listed above are appropriate for children, ATV quad biking and buggy riding are only permitted for children under the age of 18, and for safety reasons, an adult must accompany them.

Conclusion

Merzouga desert does not try to impress; rather, it is an impression in itself. So, with the activities mentioned above, you can relax and be confident that this tour will provide you with long-lasting memories. Also, keep in mind that for this luxury trip, you can tailor your desert safari experience by selecting specific activities, meal options, and timings, and we will create the best itinerary for you.