The journey from Marrakech to Merzouga is one of the great road trips of North Africa. Here is what to expect and how to plan it.
How far is it?
Merzouga is roughly 560 km from Marrakech. Without stops the drive takes around 9 hours, so almost every itinerary splits it with a night in the Dades Valley or near the Todra Gorge.
The route
The road crosses the High Atlas by the Tizi n'Tichka pass, at about 2,260 metres, and descends to Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate. It then follows the valley of a thousand kasbahs through Skoura, Kelaat M'Gouna and the Dades Valley, before reaching Tinghir and the Todra Gorge. The last stretch passes Erfoud and Rissani to the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes.
How many days do you need?
- 3 days: the minimum, with a long drive back on the last day. See Sahara Golden Horizons.
- 4 days: the return is split in two, much more comfortable. See Beyond the Atlas.
- 5 days or more: time for a full day in the desert and the Draa Valley.
The night in the desert
You usually reach camp by camel at sunset. Camps range from simple traditional tents to luxury camps with private bathrooms. Bring a warm layer: even after a hot day, desert nights can be cool.
Ending in Fes
Many travellers continue from Merzouga to Fes instead of returning to Marrakech. It is about 470 km through the Ziz Valley and the Middle Atlas, a beautiful way to cross the country.
