WELCOME TO THE MERZOUGA DESERT: DISCOVERING ITS WONDERS

In the southeastern corner of Morocco, near the Algerian border, lies the village of Merzouga, long known as the "Gateway to the Sahara." Though this area of the Drâa-Tafilalet region is remote and has a fairly small population, it’s a popular location for tourists from around the world, offering incredible scenery and a range of activities throughout every season of the year. This post will introduce you to the Merzouga desert and some of the exciting things you can do on holiday there.

THE MERZOUGA DESERT: A LANDSCAPE LIKE NO OTHER

Situated on the edge of Erg Chebbi, Merzouga is famed for its iconic, towering dunes, which can reach heights of up to 150 metres. Originating from the Arabic word irq ( عرق) meaning "dune field," an erg is a large, flat area of desert covered with wind-blown sand. Ergs are also found on Mars, Venus, and Saturn’s moon Titan. In Merzouga, these natural wonders change hues from soft gold to warm amber to fiery orange throughout the day as they reflect the sun and moon. Beyond the dunes, the region also features a mix of desert plains, rocky plateaus, and seasonal salt flats. Recent torrential rains even created a new lake among the sands, which creates quite a magical effect when reflecting the surrounding scenery.

SUNNY SUMMERS TO COLD WINTER NIGHTS: MERZOUGA'S CHANGING WEATHER

Merzouga is classified as Köppen BWh, an arid, hot desert climate. In the summer months, average temperatures reach as high as 43ºC (109ºF) during the day and 29ºC (84ºF) at night. In the winter, daytime temperatures are more tolerable (19ºC / 66ºF) and the nights can become quite chilly (6ºC / 43ºF).

Though the autumn and spring months are the most popular times for international tourists to visit, Merzouga still receives plenty of tourism during June, July, and August, especially Moroccan tourists from other parts of the country. During the summer, the sweltering sands are used for the little-known traditional therapeutic practice of psammotherapy, or hot sand bathing.

Psammotherapy is believed to cure or improve the symptoms of chronic diseases, such as rheumatism, arthritis, and musculoskeletal pain, as well as increase lymphatic flow and blood circulation. Local men dig shallow holes in the dunes, then bury the tourists with hot sand up to their necks. For those tourists who are more interested in cooling off, most of the hotels and riads offer large swimming pools and air-conditioned rooms. You can also take a trip to the Lake Dayet Srij or a quiet oasis shaded by palm trees.

THE WESTERN SAHARA: A RICH TAPESTRY OF HISTORY

This desert haven is also steeped in history. For centuries, it served as a vital stop along ancient caravan routes that connected sub-Saharan Africa to Northern Africa and Europe. Traders brought goods such as spices, gold, and salt and have left behind traces of their cultural influences. Today, Merzouga continues to reflect this rich heritage, blending Berber, Arab, Gnawa, and nomadic traditions.

THE ERRACHIDIA PROVINCE: EXPERIENCES TO REMEMBER

Though this region is far from the bustling cities of Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, Marrakesh, and Tangier, you can fill your days here with a variety of activities and events. Merzouga is the most popular tourist town due to its proximity to Erg Chebbi, but the nearby towns and cities of Rissani, Erfoud, and Errachidia also offer beautiful landscapes, vibrant souks, and historical attractions. Tourists of all ages are guaranteed to find activities to their liking, such as:

• Thrill-Seeking: ATVs, dune buggies, and sandboarding are exciting ways to race through the dunes and changing landscapes.
  

• Cultural Immersion: Visit nearby villages and meet local Berber families to learn about their way of life, traditional crafts, clothing, and music.
  

• Food and Drink: Sample the local cuisine in restaurants and coffee shops. Berber pizza, couscous, tagine, and mint tea are some of the most popular offerings.
  

• Luxury Desert Camps: Imagine this: you arrive to Merzouga as the autumn day is waning. The sun is still warm but dropping lower in the sky. A small herd of seven camels is kneeling in a circle and a friendly Berber local helps you climb up into the saddle and hold on tightly as the camel lurches to its feet. You’re now sitting over two metres high, but you feel secure in the wide saddle. The Berber guide ties the camels nose-to-tail in a long line and sets off into the ochre dunes. Though the camels have massive, flat feet, they walk silently through the sands. Everything is quiet and still. The sun begins to set, streaking the expansive sky with pink and purple and changing the dune colours to reddish gold. Eventually, night falls and dark surrounds you, but the moon glows above and the guide knows the way by heart. The gentle swaying of the camel’s gait lulls you into a sense of absolute tranquillity.

  An hour later, you arrive at a desert camp, the white tents set in orderly rows, glowing from within. Dinner is served under the stars: freshly-baked bread, olives, chicken tagine, spiced carrots, and potatoes. Berbers play the drums and guitar, and you dance around a crackling fire, entranced by their singing and chanting. With dozens of camps in Merzouga to choose from, there is sure to be one to fit your needs, whether you prefer something more rustic or a deluxe tent with a private shower. This is more than just a night in the desert—it’s a magical, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

THE HEART OF THE SAHARA

Merzouga isn't only a destination; it’s a journey into the heart of a wild, beautiful world that will provide you with memories to last a lifetime. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquillity, or a deep-dive into Moroccan culture, this enchanting village has something to offer every traveller.

Can you hear the desert winds calling you to experience this incredible piece of Earth? Embrace the spirit of adventure, pack your bags, and let Sand Fox Journeys help take you there. Our 4x4 vehicle can travel safely and efficiently on desert roads—even through the deep sands. We're here to help you make your dreams of the desert into a reality!