Is There a Train or Bus From Marrakech to Merzouga? How to Get to the Sahara Without a Car
Morocco’s trains are comfortable and affordable, so it is natural to ask: is there a train from Marrakech to Merzouga? Here is the short answer, plus every realistic way to reach the dunes, from a local family who live in Merzouga.
Quick Answer
No. There is no train to Merzouga. Morocco’s railway network serves the north and west of the country (Tangier, Rabat, Casablanca, Fes, Meknes and Marrakech) but does not cross the Atlas to the Sahara. There is also no direct public bus from Marrakech to Merzouga. You can still get there by combining train and bus, by flying to Errachidia, or by road with a car, private driver or tour.
All the Ways to Get From Marrakech to Merzouga
| Option | Approx. time | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Train to Fes or Meknes + Supratours bus | Around 15 hours or more | Budget travellers without a car |
| Flight to Errachidia + bus or taxi | A few hours plus connections | Short on time |
| Rental car | 9 to 10 hours (better over 2 days) | Independent travellers |
| Private driver | 9 to 10 hours (better over 2 days) | Comfort and flexibility |
| Organised tour | 2 to 4 days | Everything included, scenic stops |
Times are approximate and timetables change, so check current schedules with ONCF (trains), Supratours and CTM (buses) and Royal Air Maroc (flights).
1. Train + Bus via Fes or Meknes
The only rail-based option: take the train north from Marrakech to Fes or Meknes, then a Supratours bus south through the Middle Atlas to Merzouga. It is cheap but long, often 15 hours or more in total, and works best if you were planning to visit Fes anyway.
2. Fly to Errachidia
The fastest option. Fly to Errachidia (Moulay Ali Cherif airport), usually with a connection through Casablanca, then continue about 2 hours by road to Merzouga by bus, taxi or a pre-arranged transfer. Ideal if you only have a few days.
3. By Road: Car, Driver or Tour
The most popular and scenic option. The road crosses the High Atlas by the Tizi n’Tichka pass and passes Ait Benhaddou, Ouarzazate, the Dades Valley and the Todra Gorge. It is about 560 km, so we strongly recommend splitting it over two days. Read Is It Safe to Drive From Marrakech to Merzouga? and the best desert tour from Marrakesh.
Once You Arrive in Merzouga
However you get here, we take care of your desert experience: a sunset camel ride, a night in a desert camp, quads, buggies or a 4×4 tour. Tell us how and when you are arriving and we will help you plan the rest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a train station in Merzouga?
No. The nearest railway stations are in the north, such as Fes and Meknes.
Is there a direct bus from Marrakech to Merzouga?
There is no direct public bus. Most travellers without a car go via Fes or Meknes, or via Errachidia.
What is the fastest way to get to Merzouga?
Flying to Errachidia, then about 2 hours by road.
Need Help Planning Your Route?
We are a local Berber family in Merzouga. Contact us on WhatsApp and we will give you honest advice on the best way to reach the dunes from wherever you are.