Merzouga or Zagora: Which Part of the Sahara to Choose?

Most trips to the Moroccan Sahara start from Merzouga or from Zagora. Both let you ride a camel, sleep in a desert camp and watch the stars, but they are different places. The better choice depends on how much time you have and what you hope to see.

Merzouga is the gateway to Erg Chebbi, the best-known dune field in Morocco. The dunes are tall, orange and very photogenic, and they change colour at sunrise and sunset.

• Large dunes close to the camps, for a classic Sahara picture.
• The most popular choice, with a wide range of camps.
• Farther from Marrakech, so it needs more driving.

Zagora lies in the Draa Valley, a long ribbon of palm groves and old kasbahs. It is closer to Marrakech than Merzouga. The dunes near Zagora, such as Tinfou, are small. For bigger dunes you continue to the area of M’Hamid, where Erg Chigaga rises, and the last part of the way there is usually a track.

• Closer to Marrakech, so a shorter journey.
• A quieter, more remote feeling.
• Small dunes near the town, and bigger ones further on.

• First visit and you want the classic dunes: choose Merzouga.
• Short on time, or you prefer a quieter trip: choose Zagora or M’Hamid.
• Travelling with children or older relatives: a shorter drive can make the trip easier.
• Remember that the season matters. See our guide The Best Time to Visit Morocco.

Tell us your dates and how many days you have, and we will suggest the desert that suits your route. You can also read what to expect in Marrakech to Merzouga.