How Do I Travel to Merzouga? The Complete Guide From Every Starting Point
Merzouga sits at the edge of the Sahara, at the foot of the Erg Chebbi dunes in southeastern Morocco. It is not the easiest place to reach, but that is part of its magic. As a local family who live here, we have helped thousands of guests plan their journey, so here is everything you need to know about how to travel to Merzouga, wherever you are starting from.
Quick Answer
- Fastest: fly to Errachidia, then about 2 hours by road.
- Most scenic: drive or take a tour from Marrakech over the High Atlas (best over 2 days).
- Cheapest: Supratours bus from Fes, Meknes or Errachidia.
- Not possible: there is no train to Merzouga.
Distances to Merzouga
| From | Approx. distance | Approx. drive | Best way |
|---|---|---|---|
| Errachidia | About 130 km | About 2 hours | Transfer, taxi or bus |
| Ouarzazate | About 360 km | 5 to 6 hours | Car or driver via Dades and Todra |
| Fes | About 460 km | 7 to 8 hours | Car, driver, tour or Supratours bus |
| Marrakech | About 560 km | 9 to 10 hours | 2-day road trip or tour, or fly to Errachidia |
| Casablanca | Long drive | Most of a day or more | Fly to Errachidia |
Times are approximate, without stops. For a full overview of nearby towns, read Which City Is Closest to the Sahara?
From Marrakech
The classic route crosses the High Atlas by the Tizi n’Tichka pass, then passes Ait Benhaddou, Ouarzazate, the Dades Valley and the Todra Gorge. We recommend splitting the drive over 2 days. There is no train and no direct public bus. Read:
- Is there a train or bus from Marrakech to Merzouga?
- Is it safe to drive from Marrakech to Merzouga?
- The best desert tour from Marrakesh
From Fes
The road south crosses the Middle Atlas, with its cedar forests around Ifrane, then Midelt, the Ziz Valley and Erfoud. It is about a day’s drive. Supratours buses also connect Fes with Merzouga. A popular plan is to continue from Merzouga to Marrakech afterwards, so you do not repeat the same road.
By Plane via Errachidia
Errachidia’s Moulay Ali Cherif airport is the closest to Merzouga, usually reached via Casablanca. From there it is about 2 hours by road. This is the best choice if you are short on time or coming from abroad.
From Abroad
Most international travellers fly into Marrakech, Fes or Casablanca. From the USA, Royal Air Maroc flies nonstop to Casablanca from several cities; see Travel to Morocco From the USA.
Tips for Your Journey
- Plan to arrive before dark.
- Withdraw cash in a bigger town before arriving; ATMs are limited in Merzouga.
- Do not drive a normal rental car into the sand; continue by camel, 4×4 or quad.
- Let your camp or guide know your arrival time so they can meet you.
Once You Arrive
Welcome to the Sahara! Start with a sunset camel ride and a night in a desert camp, then discover all the things to do in Merzouga. Wondering how long to stay? Read How Many Days to Stay in Merzouga?
We are a local Berber family in Merzouga. Tell us how and when you are travelling, and we will help you plan the best route. Contact us on WhatsApp.