Airbnb in Merzouga: Where to Stay, What to Check and Desert Camp Alternatives
Is there Airbnb in Merzouga? Yes. You can find guesthouses, riads, small apartments and desert-style rooms listed on Airbnb in and around Merzouga, Hassilabied and Khamlia. It is a good option if you want a private room, a kitchen or a quiet base for several days. But for the classic night among the dunes, most travellers book a desert camp instead. This guide helps you compare both and avoid common mistakes.
Availability, listings and prices change often, so check the details on the booking page and confirm with your host before you travel.
Airbnb, Hotel or Desert Camp in Merzouga?
| Option | Best for | Things to know |
|---|---|---|
| Airbnb or guesthouse | Longer stays, families, private space | Check the exact location and how to reach it; many places are in villages, not in the dunes |
| Hotel or kasbah-style hotel | Comfort, pool, breakfast | Usually at the edge of the dunes, with a short camel or 4×4 transfer |
| Desert camp | The Sahara night: sunset, dinner, stars | Tent in the dunes, reached by camel; see our desert camps |
Where to Stay Around Merzouga
Merzouga Village
The closest base to the Erg Chebbi dunes, with small shops, cafés and many guesthouses. It is convenient if you want to walk to the dunes or arrange a camel ride at sunset.
Hassilabied
A quieter area next to the dunes, with many hotels and kasbahs. It is a good choice for a calm stay with easy access to the desert.
Khamlia
A small village known for Gnawa music and a traditional atmosphere. It is a nice base if you want a local feel and fewer crowds.
Rissani
A market town about 30 to 40 minutes away. It has more services and a famous souk, but you are farther from the dunes.
What to Check Before Booking an Airbnb in Merzouga
- Exact location: ask for the pin on the map and the distance to the dunes
- Access: some roads are tracks, so ask how to arrive and whether you need a transfer
- Air conditioning and heating: summer is very hot and winter nights are cold
- Hot water and Wi-Fi: confirm they work, as the desert has limited services
- Meals: check if breakfast or dinner is included, or if there is a kitchen
- Cancellation policy and reviews: read recent reviews, especially about cleanliness and communication
- Arrival time: tell your host when you will arrive, as the roads are long and dark at night
Should You Also Book a Night in a Desert Camp?
Even if you stay in an Airbnb, we recommend adding one night in a desert camp. The camel ride at sunset, dinner, music and the stars are the experience most visitors remember. You can sleep in your Airbnb for the other nights and keep your luggage there. See the 1 night in the Merzouga desert programme and our guide on booking a Merzouga desert tour.
How Many Nights Do You Need in Merzouga?
- 1 night: a camel ride and a night in the camp is enough for a short visit
- 2 nights: add a 4×4 tour, quad or buggy and a second sunrise
- 3 nights or more: good for hiking, fossils, oases and a slow pace, which is where an Airbnb or guesthouse makes sense
For ideas, read things to do in Merzouga and is the Merzouga desert worth it?.
Getting to Merzouga
| From | Approx. travel time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Marrakech | 9 to 10 hours | Split the trip in two days; see Marrakech to Merzouga |
| Fes | 8 to 9 hours | Through the Middle Atlas and Midelt |
| Errachidia | About 1.5 hours | See Errachidia to Merzouga |
Read more in how do I travel to Merzouga?. Times are approximate.
Tips for Staying in Merzouga
- Book ahead for spring and autumn, the busiest seasons
- Bring cash in dirhams, as there are few cash machines
- Wear layers, as desert nights are cold
- Carry water, sunscreen and a scarf
- Arrange transfers and the camel ride in advance, so you do not lose time on arrival
- Respect the local culture and dress modestly in villages
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I book an Airbnb in the dunes?
Most Airbnb listings are in villages or at the edge of the dunes. To sleep inside the dunes, book a desert camp.
Is an Airbnb cheaper than a desert camp?
It depends on the season, the room and what is included. Compare the full cost, including meals and transfers.
Can you arrange a camel ride if I stay in an Airbnb?
Yes. We can organise a sunset camel ride and a night in the camp, with a transfer from your accommodation in Merzouga or Hassilabied.
Is Merzouga safe for tourists?
Yes, in general. Choose well-reviewed hosts and reliable local operators.
What is the best time to visit?
From October to April the weather is the most comfortable. Summer is very hot during the day.
Stay in Merzouga With Local Help
We are a local team in Merzouga. Whether you choose an Airbnb, a hotel or a desert camp, we can organise your camel ride, your night in the dunes and your transfers. Message us on WhatsApp at +212 620 628 083 or use our contact page, and we will suggest the best plan for your dates.