The route in short
The road from Marrakech to Merzouga crosses the High Atlas by the Tizi n’Tichka pass, then continues through Ouarzazate, the Dades valley, the Todra gorge and Erfoud before reaching the dunes of Erg Chebbi.
Without stops the drive takes about 9 to 10 hours. Most travellers split the journey in two days, with a night in the Dades valley, to enjoy the kasbahs and the gorges on the way.
Option 1: a private tour with driver
The easiest and most comfortable way. Your driver picks you up at your riad, stops wherever you want and takes you directly to the camp. Popular itineraries are 3 days (Marrakech – Merzouga – Marrakech) or 3 days from Marrakech to Fes through the desert.
All our private tours include a night at Camel Trips Luxury Camp with a camel ride at sunset.
Option 2: by bus
Long-distance buses connect Marrakech with Merzouga and Rissani. The journey takes around 12 to 13 hours and is the cheapest option. Ask us how to reach the camp from the bus stop.
Option 3: by rental car
The roads are good and the route is easy to follow. Drive carefully on the mountain pass and avoid driving at night. The camp can be reached by car and parking is free for our guests.
Option 4: fly to Errachidia
There are flights from Casablanca to Errachidia, about 130 km from Merzouga. From the airport you can continue by taxi or with a private transfer.
Our advice
Take at least 3 days for the round trip from Marrakech. The road is part of the adventure: snow-capped mountains, palm groves, kasbahs and canyons before the golden dunes of the Sahara.
