The Merzouga Desert, home to the legendary Erg Chebbi dunes, is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating landscapes in Morocco and all of North Africa.
Located in the far southeast of the country, very close to the Algerian border, Merzouga represents the Sahara in its purest form: immense dunes, endless horizons, and a silence that seems to stop time.
Walking on its golden sand or watching the sun set behind the dunes, tinting everything in orange and reddish hues, is an experience hard to forget. That’s why every year thousands of travelers come here seeking adventure, disconnection, and contact with the wildest nature.
Although Merzouga is in a remote region, getting there is not as complicated as it seems. There are several airports in Morocco that connect easily to this area, and different road routes that let you enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
Choosing the right airport—whether Errachidia, Ouarzazate, Discover the nearest airports to the Merzouga Desert (Erg Chebbi) in Morocco, including Errachidia, Ouarzazate, Fez, and Marrakech. Learn about distances, travel times, and the best routes to reach the golden dunes of Merzouga. Marrakech, or even Casablanca—depends on the type of experience you want: a quick arrival, a scenic route through the Atlas, or a cultural journey through the south of the country.
Getting to the Merzouga Desert, one of Morocco’s most impressive landscapes, might seem like a long trip, but there are several well-connected airports nearby.
Depending on your starting point and preferred travel style, you can land closer or combine your arrival with a scenic route through mountains, oases, and charming Berber villages.
Below you will find a complete guide with the airports closest to Merzouga, available flights, and the best tips to plan your arrival to the Moroccan Sahara.
The Closest Airport to the Merzouga Desert
Moulay Ali Cherif Airport (ERH) is located in the city of Errachidia, about 130 kilometers from Merzouga, making it the most direct gateway to the Sahara Desert.
Thanks to its strategic location in the Ziz Valley, this small but functional airport is the best option for those who want to reach the heart of the desert quickly without having to travel long distances by road from Marrakech or Fez.
Flights Marrakech → Errachidia (RAK → ERH)
The direct route by Ryanair (flight FR8501) between Marrakech Menara (RAK) and Errachidia (ERH) takes about 1 hour.
Flights operate 3 times a week: Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
Typical schedules:
- Early morning departure (~05:45) arriving at 06:45.
- Another flight later, around 14:05 arriving at 15:05.
Prices vary but fares as low as around €15 one way have been seen, depending on the date.
Note: Royal Air Maroc official sites do not show active direct flights on this route recently, suggesting the service might be seasonal or irregular.
Some flights with stops are listed, but direct flights may be limited.
Flights Rabat → Errachidia (RBA → ERH)
Royal Air Maroc operates direct flights between Rabat (Sale, code RBA) and Errachidia (ERH).
Flight duration is about 1 hour 25 minutes.
Frequency: 2 flights per week, Wednesdays and Fridays (flight AT1448).
Example: Flight AT1448 leaves Rabat at 08:15, arriving in Errachidia at 09:40.
Casablanca Mohammed V Airport (CMN)
Direct connection to the desert via Errachidia.
Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) is Morocco’s main and largest airport. It’s the usual entry point for international travelers coming from Europe, America, or Africa who plan to visit Merzouga Desert.
From Casablanca, you can take a direct flight to Errachidia (ERH) operated by Royal Air Maroc, which is the fastest and most practical way to get closer to the desert.
- Airline: Royal Air Maroc
- Flight number: AT1446
- Duration: approximately 1 hour
- Typical schedule: Departure from Casablanca at 23:00, arriving at Errachidia at 23:59
- Frequency: daily (7 days a week)
The night flight is ideal if you arrive in Casablanca during the day from another country, allowing you to connect eastward and wake up at the edge of the desert the next day.
Extras: Practical Guide to Enjoy Merzouga
Must-do activities in Merzouga Desert:
- Camel rides at sunset: magical and highly photogenic.
- Night in a Berber camp: sleep under the starry sky in traditional tents, enjoy local dinner and music around the fire.
- 4×4 or quad excursions for adventure seekers inside the desert.
- Visits to nearby Berber villages like Khamlia and Rissani to soak in local culture.
- Sandboarding: sliding down the dunes, fun for all ages!
Where to Stay in Merzouga
- Desert camps: from simple options to luxurious ones with full amenities.
- Riads or guesthouses in the village: ideal if you want to relax before or after your desert adventure.
Recommended Agency & Transport (Including Sahara Trip Morocco)
If you’re planning your trip to Merzouga Desert, several agencies can help organize your transfers, tours, and accommodation.
Among them, Sahara Trip Morocco is highly recommended. It’s a local Moroccan company, 100% specialized in creating authentic and memorable desert trips. They offer personalized tours, transport from various cities, camel rides, nights in traditional camps, and cultural visits. Plus, their guides speak Spanish, English, and French.
Why choose Sahara Trip Morocco?
- They know the area and local traditions very well.
- They tailor every trip to your style: adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences.
- They offer close, multilingual support.
You can visit their official page for more info or to book directly: www.saharatrip-morocco.com.
1. Best Time to Visit Merzouga
- Temperatures vary by season (spring and autumn are ideal; summer can be very hot).
- Mention local events like Berber festivals or traditional celebrations.
- Recommend what to bring: light clothing, sunscreen, hat, and warm clothes for the night.
2. How to Get There from Different Cities
Common routes:
- From Marrakech (passing through Ouarzazate and Todra Gorges).
- From Fez (passing through Midelt and Errachidia).
Include travel times and whether it’s worth making stops along the way.
You could add a map or image of the route.
3. What to See and Do Near Merzouga
Besides the desert, interesting nearby places:
- Berber villages like Khamlia (Gnawa music) or Rissani (traditional market).
- Dayet Srji Lake, where flamingos can sometimes be seen.
- Todra Gorges and Ziz Valley, spectacular landscapes perfect for photos.
4. Unique Experiences
- Sleeping under the stars in a camp.
- Watching the sunrise from atop a dune.
- Joining an authentic Berber meal.
- Playing traditional drums around the fire.
5. Practical Tips
- How to care for the desert environment.
- Avoid excess luggage (only what you need for one night in the camp).
- How to keep your phone or camera charged.
- How much cash to bring (mostly cash since there aren’t many ATMs).
6. Culture and Curiosities
- Brief history of Berber nomads and their lifestyle.
- Meaning of the name “Erg Chebbi.”
- Local customs to respect (for example, greeting with the right hand, modest dress, etc.).
7. Visual Inspiration
Add your photos or tour images (especially from Sahara Trip Morocco).
Create a gallery of sunrises, camels, dunes, and starry nights.
Include a short video or reel summarizing the tour.
Suggested Itineraries from Errachidia and Ouarzazate
2-day tour from Errachidia to Merzouga (ideal if arriving by plane):
- Day 1: Errachidia – Ziz Valley – Erfoud – Merzouga
Pick up at the airport or hotel in Errachidia.
Panoramic stop at the Ziz Valley, famous for its palm groves.
Continue to Erfoud, known for fossils and dates.
Arrive at Merzouga, camel ride on Erg Chebbi dunes, night in a Berber camp under the stars. - Day 2: Merzouga – Rissani – Errachidia
Sunrise in the desert and breakfast at the camp.
Return by camel or 4×4 to the village.
Visit the traditional market in Rissani, birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty.
Transfer back to Errachidia or onward to another city.
Perfect for those arriving on a domestic flight wanting the desert experience without long transfers.
3-day, 2-night tour in Merzouga Desert:
Enjoy a unique experience among Erg Chebbi dunes, witnessing sunrise, stars, and Berber hospitality.
- Day 1: Errachidia – Ziz Valley – Erfoud – Merzouga
Pickup at airport or accommodation.
Stop at Ziz Valley.
Continue to Erfoud and Merzouga.
Sunset camel ride, traditional dinner, night in Berber camp with music around the fire. - Day 2: Exploring Merzouga Desert
Early sunrise over dunes.
Breakfast, then 4×4 tour exploring the desert.
Visit Khamlia (Gnawa musicians).
Discover nomad life visiting local families.
Typical lunch and free time for sandboarding or relaxing.
Second night in desert camp or riad in town. - Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani – Errachidia
Breakfast, morning walk or camel ride.
Visit Rissani’s traditional market.
Transfer to Errachidia or next destination.
3-Day Tour from Ouarzazate to Merzouga
Day 1: Ouarzazate – Dades Valley
Departure in the morning from Ouarzazate. Visit the famous Taourirt Kasbah and the Atlas Film Studio. Drive through the Valley of the Roses and arrive at the Dades Valley. Dinner and accommodation in a traditional riad or kasbah.
Day 2: Dades – Todra Gorges – Merzouga
Breakfast and departure to the impressive Todra Gorges. Free time to walk between the canyons. Continue to Erfoud and arrival at the Merzouga desert. Camel ride at sunset and overnight in a camp under the starry sky.
Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani – Ouarzazate
Breakfast at the camp and departure to Rissani. Possible stop at Alnif or Tazzarine for rest. Arrival in Ouarzazate in the afternoon.
A perfect route for those looking for varied landscapes: oasis, gorges, kasbahs, and desert. Ideal if you want to offer it directly with your agency Sahara Trip Morocco.
4-Day, 3-Night Tour from Ouarzazate to the Merzouga Desert
Explore the most impressive landscapes of southern Morocco with this circular tour from Ouarzazate to the Erg Chebbi desert. Discover valleys, kasbahs, gorges, and the magical dunes of Merzouga, all accompanied by Berber hospitality.
Day 1: Ouarzazate – Dades Valley
Morning departure from your accommodation in Ouarzazate. Visit the Taourirt Kasbah and the Atlas Film Studio, famous movie locations. Drive through the Valley of the Roses with photo stops on the way to the Dades Valley, known for its unique rock formations. Dinner and accommodation in a traditional riad or kasbah in the valley.
Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga
Breakfast and departure to the impressive Todra Gorges, where you can walk between the high rock walls. Continue to Erfoud and Rissani with panoramic stops. Arrival in Merzouga in the afternoon. Camel ride to enjoy the sunset over the Erg Chebbi dunes. Traditional dinner and magical night in a Berber camp with local music under a starry sky.
Day 3: Merzouga – Khamlia – Erfoud – Ziz Valley – Ouarzazate
Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the dunes. Breakfast and return by camel or 4×4 to the village. Visit the village of Khamlia, famous for its Gnawa music. Continue to the Ziz Valley with stops to enjoy the landscape. Arrival in Ouarzazate in the afternoon. Dinner and accommodation in a riad or hotel.
Day 4: Ouarzazate – Aït Ben Haddou – End of the Tour
After breakfast, visit the famous Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk through its alleys and free time for photos. Return to Ouarzazate in the afternoon and end of the tour.
9. Ideal Trip Duration
Explain how many days are recommended to spend in Merzouga and what can be done if you have more or less time. For example:
1 Night: Basic desert experience.
2-3 Nights: Perfect time to explore and relax.
4+ Nights: Ideal to combine with other regions (Ouarzazate, Fez, etc.).
10. What to Bring to the Desert
Here’s a useful checklist people can save or download:
- Light clothing for the day and warm clothes for the night.
- Sun protection (sunglasses, hat, sunscreen).
- Reusable water bottle.
- Portable charger.
- Scarf or shawl for the desert wind.
- Comfortable shoes (no flimsy sandals).
11. Safety and Health
Many people wonder if the desert is safe, so you can reassure them with real information:
- Merzouga is a very peaceful and safe area for tourists.
- It’s recommended to travel with registered local agencies (you can highlight Sahara Trip Morocco here).
- Carry travel insurance, and in summer, protect yourself well from heat and stay hydrated.
12. Tips for Connectivity and Money
- Internet connection in the desert is limited, but many camps offer basic Wi-Fi.
- There are some ATMs in Merzouga, but it’s best to carry cash.
- Most payments (tours, meals, souvenirs) are made in dirhams (MAD).
13. Quick Guide in FAQ Format
How many hours does it take from Marrakech to Merzouga?
The journey from Marrakech to Merzouga takes between 8 and 10 hours by car, depending on stops and transportation type.
The route crosses the Atlas Mountains, the Dades Valley, and the Todra Gorges, so many travelers prefer to split the trip into two days to enjoy southern Morocco’s landscapes.
Is it cold in the desert at night?
Yes, desert nights can be cold, especially during winter months (November to February).
Daytime temperatures can exceed 30–40°C (86–104°F), but at night they can drop to 5°C (41°F) or lower.
Spring and autumn have milder weather with cool and pleasant nights.
Summer nights (June–August) are usually warm, though the temperature difference between day and night is always noticeable.
Tip: Always bring a light jacket or sweater, even if you travel in summer. Desert camps usually provide extra blankets for comfortable sleeping.
Are there bathrooms in desert camps?
Yes, most camps in Merzouga’s desert have bathrooms and showers.
There are two types of camps:
- Standard camps: shared bathrooms, usually very clean, with limited running water.
- Luxury camps: private bathrooms inside each tent, with shower, sink, and hot water.
Sahara Trip Morocco offers both options depending on your budget and preference.
In all cases, the experience remains comfortable and authentic, preserving the desert’s charm.
Is a 4×4 needed to reach Merzouga or the desert?
No, a 4×4 vehicle is not necessary to reach Merzouga.
The road from Errachidia, Fez, Ouarzazate, or Marrakech to the village of Merzouga is fully paved and in good condition, so you can get there comfortably by normal car, minibus, or tourist transport.
Inside Merzouga, trips into the desert dunes are done by camel or 4×4 because the deep sand is unsuitable for regular cars.
Sahara Trip Morocco provides comfortable transfers up to the desert’s edge, then camel or 4×4 rides to the camp, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
Is there phone signal in the desert?
In the village of Merzouga and nearby areas, there is mobile coverage with major Moroccan carriers (Maroc Telecom, Inwi, and Orange).
However, once inside the desert, signal may weaken or disappear depending on location and operator.
Some luxury camps offer basic satellite Wi-Fi, enough for messaging or checking email, but not for social media or video calls.
Sahara Trip Morocco recommends enjoying this moment to disconnect from the digital world and connect with the Sahara’s nature and silence an experience many travelers find unforgettable.
Explore the enchanting desert of Merzouga: a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich indigenous culture, and Sahara magic. Whether you come from Marrakech, Ouarzazate, Fez, or Errachidia, get ready for breathtaking landscapes, camel rides over golden dunes, unforgettable nights in traditional camps, and warm local hospitality.
Our complete guide answers all your questions about weather, what clothes to bring, transport options, camp services, and much more everything you need to plan your perfect desert adventure.
Disconnect, discover, and feel the soul of the desert with Sahara Trip.
Book your trip now at www.saharatrip-morocco.com.
