Top Things to Do in Merzouga

When you arrive in Merzouga, you step into one of Morocco’s most magical desert landscapes. Located on the edge of the spectacular Erg Chebbi, this small Saharan village offers unforgettable adventures, cultural encounters, and peaceful desert moments. Here are the top things to do in Merzouga for an authentic Sahara experience.

Camel Trek Across the Dunes

No visit to Merzouga is complete without a camel ride. You climb onto your camel in the late afternoon and slowly cross the golden dunes as the sun sets over the Sahara. The silence, the colors of the sky, and the rhythm of the ride make it a truly magical experience.

You can choose:

• 1-hour sunset ride
• Sunrise camel trek
• Overnight desert camp with camel transfer

Spend a Night in a Sahara Desert Camp

Sleeping in a desert camp in the heart of Erg Chebbi is one of the most unforgettable experiences in Morocco. After dinner under the stars, you gather around the campfire for traditional Berber music. At night, the sky fills with countless stars, creating a peaceful and romantic atmosphere.

You can choose between:

• Standard nomadic tents
• Luxury desert camps with private bathrooms

Watch the Sunrise and Sunset Over the Dunes

The dunes of Erg Chebbi change color throughout the day. At sunrise, soft golden light touches the sand. At sunset, the sky turns orange, red, and purple. Climbing a high dune for panoramic views is one of the best photo opportunities in Merzouga.

Explore the Sahara Desert by 4×4 in Merzouga

For a more adventurous experience, take a 4×4 desert tour around Merzouga. You can visit:

• Fossil sites
• Desert oases
• Nomadic families living in traditional tents
• The seasonal Lake Dayet Srij (when filled with water)

A 4×4 excursion allows you to explore hidden parts of the Sahara beyond the main dunes.

Visit Khamlia Village for Gnawa Music

Just a few kilometers from Merzouga, the small village of Khamlia is known for its traditional Gnawa music. Descendants of sub-Saharan Africans, the local community performs spiritual rhythms using drums and castanets.

It’s a unique cultural experience that connects you to Morocco’s diverse heritage.

Try Sandboarding

Adventure lovers can try sandboarding on the high dunes of Erg Chebbi. It’s similar to snowboarding but on soft desert sand. It’s fun, safe, and perfect for memorable photos.

Go Quad Biking or Buggy Driving

If you enjoy adrenaline activities, you can rent a quad bike or buggy and drive across the dunes. Guided tours are available and provide a thrilling way to explore the Sahara landscape.

Meet Nomadic Families

A visit to a local nomad family offers insight into traditional desert life. You can share tea, learn about their daily routines, and understand how people live in such extreme conditions.

Enjoy Stargazing in the Sahara

With almost no light pollution, Merzouga offers some of the clearest night skies in Morocco. On a clear night, you can see thousands of stars and even the Milky Way with the naked eye.

Relax and Experience Desert Silence

Sometimes the best activity in Merzouga is simply doing nothing. Walk barefoot on the dunes, sit quietly at the top of a sand hill, and enjoy the peaceful silence of the Sahara.

Final Tip

Whether you stay one night or several days, Merzouga offers a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. From camel trekking to desert camps and cultural visits, every moment in the Sahara becomes a memory you’ll never forget.