To visit the Sahara Desert in Morocco, you can take an organized tour from Marrakesh or Fes (8-12 hours driving), hire a private driver, or rent a 4×4 for self-driving. The most popular and cost-effective option is an organized tour where local guides take you to desert camps in Merzouga (Erg Chebbi dunes) or Zagora (Erg Chigaga dunes), offering camel rides and overnight stays under the stars.
Getting to the Sahara Desert in Morocco
Morocco offers visitors access to the majestic Sahara Desert, the world’s largest hot desert and one of the country’s most sought-after destinations. There are three main ways to experience the Moroccan Sahara:
Option 1: Organized Tours (Most Popular)
The most popular and convenient option is joining an organized tour where:
- A local guide picks you up from either Marrakesh or Fes
- You’re driven to a desert camp (typically near Merzouga or Zagora)
- Your experience includes camel rides across spectacular sand dunes
- You spend evenings under the star-filled desert sky
- The journey includes multiple stops at cultural and natural attractions along the way
Option 2: Private Driver and Guide
For more flexibility, groups can hire a private driver and guide, though this option:
- Costs more as you’ll pay daily driver wages
- Requires you to cover your own food, accommodation, and site entry fees
- Offers more customization for your itinerary
Option 3: Self-Driving Adventure
Renting a 4×4 vehicle allows you to explore at your own pace:
- Ideal for traveling with friends who want independence
- Requires navigation skills and comfort with Moroccan roads
- Lacks the cultural insights a local guide provides
- May be less economical for smaller groups
Distances to the Sahara Desert
Understanding distances is crucial for planning your Sahara adventure:
- From Marrakesh:
- To Merzouga (Erg Chebbi dunes): approximately 600km (370 mi)
- To Zagora (Erg Chigaga dunes): approximately 360km (225 mi)
- From Fes:
- To Merzouga: approximately 470km (290 mi)
- To Zagora: approximately 670km (415 mi)
- From Errachidia:
- To Merzouga: 126km (78 mi)
Don’t let these distances mislead you. Travel times are substantial because much of the journey traverses Atlas Mountain passes on well-maintained but winding highways and rural roads. Plan for at least one full day of driving (8-12 hours) one-way from either Marrakesh or Fes.
Time-Saving Alternative: Flying
For those with limited time, consider flying from Casablanca to Errachidia, the nearest city to Merzouga with a national airport, then arranging transportation for the final 126km to the desert.
We provide Errachdia Airport Transfer.
Planning Recommendations
For the most rewarding Sahara experience:
- Budget 3-4 days total for your desert excursion
- Allow time to appreciate the cultural sites and landscapes encountered en route
- Consider the season (avoid summer months when temperatures can be extreme)
- Pack appropriately for desert conditions (temperature swings between day and night)
Whichever option you choose, the Moroccan Sahara offers an unforgettable adventure with its vast dunes, traditional Berber culture, and spectacular desert landscapes.
