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Sahara Voyage - Sahara prestige

Une société marocaine créée dans les années 90 par M. Abdelouhaed Attari. Avec une expérience de plus de 30 ans dans le domaine du transport, Sahara Voyage est devenue une référence incontournable dans le secteur du transport des voyageurs au Maroc.

Sahara Voyage couvre un vaste réseau de lignes, desservant 142 villes et villages à travers le Maroc, notamment Agadir, Casablanca, Rabat, Essaouira, Marrakech, Tan Tan, Tiznit, Guelmim, et bien d'autres encore.

La flotte de Sahara Voyage est composée de 42 autocars de dernière génération, renouvelée tous les 5 ans pour garantir confort et sécurité à ses passagers. Sahara prestige accorde une importance particulière au confort des voyageurs, privilégiant les trajets directs via autoroute et évitant les arrêts fréquents.

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13 Top Things To Do In Tiznit, Morocco.

• By Sarah Steiner
• Updated On April 30, 2024

Welcome to Tiznit, Morocco.  Located in the peaceful Souss Valley between the Anti-Atlas Mountains the Atlantic coast of Morocco, Tiznit is another of the country’s understated small city destinations. 

The city is cheerful and colourful.  And the labyrinth of narrow alleyways in the historic medina entwines both charm and chaos while wandering from shops to souk.

Whether you are stopping for a day or have a few days to spare, there is plenty to take in with the history of this small city, treats to taste and friendly people. 

Read all about the best things to do in Tiznit, Morocco. 

About Tiznit Morocco – history and location 

Tiznit is an old, fortified city consisting of the historic medina and surrounded today by the more modern city outside. 

The site of Tiznit was originally a group of forts dating to the early 19 th  century when they were surrounded by seven kilometres of city wall over eight metres high(!).  

At that time the city boomed and quickly rose to power as the commercial centre of the Souss Massa region.  

Today it remains a beautiful stopover between the Atlantic coastal beaches and the Anti-Atlas Mountains.  There is ongoing restoration and care of the Tiznit history, and the city has benefited from a major rehabilitation effort. 

Getting TO Tiznit,  Morocco

One of the best things about the location of Tiznit in Morocco is that it makes a perfect stopover between the Anti-Atlas region (Tafraoute) and the beachy destinations of the Atlantic coast (Sidi Ifni, Agadir, Taghazout). 

SupraTours  and  CTM  are two of the large intercity bus companies in Morocco.  Tickets for a bus to Tiznit can be booked directly on their website and prices vary slightly according to the time of travel on the day. 

If you are driving your own vehicle or a rental car, the distances, and roads from Agadir to Tiznit or Tafraotue to Tiznit are pleasant and interesting. 

Driving distances to Tiznit: 

• Agadir to Tiznit:  1 hr 42 min  (96.3 km) via N1
• Tafraoute to Tiznit:  2 hr 1 min  (106.2 km) via R104
• Taroudant to Tiznit:  2 hr 20 min  (149.6 km) via P1714 and N1
• Sidi Ifni to Tiznit:  1 hr 16 min  (74.4 km) via R104

Best time to visit Tiznit, Morocco

Geographically being located between the Anti-Atlas Mountains, the Atlantic coast, and the Sahara Desert further beyond sees Tiznit enjoy a pleasant climate most of the year.  

It can be hot in the summer months, but it is not far from the ocean and the breezes beaches of Aglou, Sidi Ouassay, Mirleft and Sidi Ifni. 

Things to do in Tiznit,  Morocco

With recent renovations to the medina and surrounding modern city, tourists are keenly welcomed and there are lots of things to do in Tiznit that make it a fantastic (and understated) destination. 

Here are 12 of our top-rated things to do in Tiznit, Morocco. 

1. Tiznit Medina 

The medina of Tiznit is one of the many drawcards of this small, southern city.  Tiznit is renowned for its history and heritage.  And although today the modern city of Tiznit spills out far beyond the historic medina walls, there is much to stroll and see inside the old city. 

The first foundations of the old medina were erected in the late 19 th  century under the rule of Sultan Moulay Al Hassan (1873 – 1894).  The Sultan founded Tiznit as a base to manage his authority over tribes to the south.  And to do this he built the strong city walls that have lasted until today. 

Inside the medina are souks and small produce and handicrafts markets.  There is the central Blue Spring original water source and the historic Kasbah.  The central Place El Mechouar is a good place to start. Or simply head through one of the many Bab (Gates) and enjoy the sprawl of the historic old walled city. 

2. Souk des Bijoutiers / Tiznit Jewellery Souk 

With a long history of goldsmiths and fine metalwork, the Jewellery Souk in Tiznit is one of the largest in Morocco.  

This region of the country is renowned for the style and detail of handcrafted traditional silver jewellery.  (There are more than 100 silver jewellery stores in the souk!). 

Just off Plaza El Mechouar is the large undercover Kissaria (Jewellery Souk).   It is a delightful place to stroll.  The traditional Berber style of silver jewellery is totally unique.  There are several floors of jewellers and each offers a different niche of wares. 

Check out the enormous ornamental necklaces that are common in guesthouses and traditionally decorated homes in Morocco.  Plus, the triangular shaped handmade silver breastplates that were part of typical Berber women’s dress.  These are still worn today for weddings and ceremonial occasions. 

• Tip:  The Tiznit Jewellers Souk is located (29.696809 – 9.731643) adjoining the Place de El Mechouar. 

3. Place El Mechouar / Plaza Mechouar

Place El Mechouar really represents the heart and centre of Tiznit.  It is a large city square built at the end of the 19 th  century that was used historically as a place of allegiance where religious ceremonies and royal speeches were held in public audience. 

The Place Du Mechouar extends from the old medina of the city and provides access to the central Khalifa Palace.  

Today the square is edged by shops, cafes, and restaurants.  This is a popular coffee-hub in Tiznit and gives the aura of a café-culture (albeit perhaps up and coming). 

The square is sometimes compared to Jemaa El Fnaa in Marrakech or Jenan Jamaa in neighbouring Taroudant .  This comparison may be a little overzealous for a normal weekday but on a Thursday the square is transformed with the weekly Tiznit souk. 

• Tip:  There is parking available in the square and it is a good, central base for exploring the other best things to do in Tiznit. 

4. Marche Municipal / Tiznit Municipal Market

Outside Bab Ljdid, one of the main gates into the medina on Avenue Hassan II you will find the large, undercover market.  This is one of the historic city markets of Tiznit and although the weekly souk far outshines the municipal market in size.  The undercover market has a different buzz to it. 

There is some fresh produce but it’s the dried goods, nuts, and Amlou that this market warrants a wander for. 

Even if you aren’t in the market for any of that stuff it would be a good place to try some locally made Amlou.  And if you haven’t already jumped aboard with Moroccan dates then ask any vendor for a taste of Medjool ones.  These are Morocco’s pride and joy of dates and the biggest and juiciest you’ll find.   

5. Chebakiya and Khringos

In Tiznit there are several patisseries that specialize in the iconic Moroccan sweet treat of Chebakiya and the taste delight of Khringos .

Chebakiya is a Moroccan sweet commonly served as a daily part of breaking fast during Ramadan. It is made from strips of dough rolled to resemble a rose and deep-fried before being sprinkled with honey and orange blossom syrup.

It’s a must-try in Morocco. 

And if you haven’t yet heard about Khringos you are in luck.  Your search starts today to find Demanati Sweets , the friendliest patisserie in Tiznit.  

Khringos are a type of Moroccan donut like Spanish churros. They aren’t in typical circular donut-style. But the taste is of handmade and well-crafted, fried dough sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon. Its far beyond what any word description can allure.

You need to try it.

THIS is the sweet scent of the back streets of a Moroccan medina.

• See our YouTube video featuring Demanati Sweets and the best tastes of Tiznit, Morocco.

Make a stop is at Demanati Sweets for some Khringos and Chebakiya. And if in doubt, follow your nose. Be sure to say hi to Aissam and the team. You won’t be disappointed.

• Demanati Sweets : (29.6983575, -9.7294286)
• Read our guide to finding Khringos (and best things to do) in Mohammedia , Morocco.

6. Ain Akdim / La Source Bleu 

Ain Akdim is known by visitors as the Blue Spring in Tiznit.  According to legend the original city of Tiznit was built around a water spring that continuously gushed forth with fresh water even after prolonged drought.  

There is a story of how traveller Lalla Zninia rested at the site on her way through what was then desert.  And as she repented her sins for three days, God was so impressed that he showed her forgiveness by having a water spring gush beneath her feet. 

The location of TIznit on this natural water source has brought economic growth to the region since.  And Ain Akdim has become a place of cultural significance for the community. 

This is one of the main tourist ‘sights’ and things to do in Tiznit.  The water spring is well signposted with an information board translated into Arabic and French.  

Albeit now the once-blue spring is more of a shallow, green pool.  However, the story inspires wonder, and it is an otherwise interesting place to see and people-watch as the locals take shelter from the heat of the sun. 

• Tip:  Try Google Translate on your phone for the full rundown on Ain Akdim. 

7. Kasbah Aghennaj / Tiznit Citadel 

Located just off the square of the famous blue sprint, the old TIznit Citadel is undergoing careful restoration. 

The Kasbah Aghennaj is touted as a heritage gem of the city.  And rightly so.  The Kasbah (citadel) cover over 6700 square metres with an impressive five watchtowers. 

The strategic choice of location near Ain Akdim meant the Kasbah had easy and immediate accessibility to water.  Although interestingly the current Kasbah undergoing restoration isn’t as old as others in Morocco. 

The name of Kasbah Aghennaj is associated with Mohammed Aghnaj who under the orders of Sultan Moulay Slimane in 1810 took Tiznit as a garrison town.  The town was used as a starting point to establish the power of the royal authority at the time.  And the troops of Mohammed Aghnaj were stationed in the Kasbah around 1820. 

There is no entry fee to the citadel.  You can enter through the large gates from the Blue Spring.  And although there isn’t much obvious information (in English) about the Kasbah and its importance to the city, it feels eerily fascinating to walk around.  

Both times we’ve visited there were no other tourists at either the Blue Spring or the Kasbah.  (Somewhat paradoxical to wander such grandeur without bother?).  

• Tip:  The Kasbah is being restored and transformed to accommodate the city’s heritage museum. Let us know if it is opened when you visit! 

8. Try Tagine In Tiznit

We reckon we found it.   The best tagine in Tiznit.  

By now you should have sampled some of Tiznit’s best chebakiya and Khringos.  And maybe you’ve tried a Moroccan tagine somewhere in your travels.  But we reckon this one is one of the best.  

The humble restaurant of Café Layali just across the main road and past the huge Tiznit roundabout is not somewhere that leaps out as striking for memorable cuisine.  Albeit it is next door to the busier (tourist-busier) Hotel Mauritania (likely because it sells takeaway beer and wine).  But following the best travel advice ever of eating where the locals eat, we recommend the tagine next door. 

Before you head inside and choose a table.  Ask the server Karim to lift the lids on the tagines on the smoldering charcoals just by the door.  

Here you will have the choice of what has been prepared in the morning and likely simmering for a few hours now. 

The choice isn’t easy to make.  And not one we can make for you.  (We have tried beef, chicken, and vegetable here!).  But if we had to recommend one, the beef tagine at Café Layali is outstanding. 

B’saha! 

9. Municipal de Tiznit Jardin / Tiznit Municipal Garden 

Not far from the best tagine in Tiznit is the Municipal de Tiznit Jardin (Tiznit Municipal Garden).  The park isn’t huge, and it probably isn’t on every list of things to do in Tiznit.  But that’s what we are here for.  To show you some of the special things about Tiznit so you don’t leave without checking them out. 

After eating a delicious tagine lunch, we recommend grabbing an ice cream and taking a stroll or a sit in the sunshine in the Municipal Garden.  

It’s a secluded kind of quiet oasis in the bustling small city of Tiznit.  There isn’t much else to do except take a stroll or simply sit and enjoy the sunshine. 

And do keep an eye out for wandering tortoises in the garden. This only added to a great day out in Tiznit to find a tortoise each time we visited the Jardin.  (We don’t come across tortoises in New Zealand!). 

10. Tiznit Moroccan Carpets

Tiznit is another town famed for the beautifully handmade Moroccan carpets.  These come in a range of sizes from metres-wide full carpets to small handmade rugs and throws. 

The medina of Tiznit is overflowing with beautiful and brightly coloured Moroccan rugs. The challenge is deciding on which colour to buy. 

• Tip:  You still need to barter a little but if you’re in the market to buy a Moroccan rug this is a good place to do it and won’t be as expensive as the larger tourist cities of Marrakech or Fes.

And as a side note if you do have the  serious addiction  challenge of facing the task of choosing.  We totally sympathise and understand the addiction to Moroccan rugs.  (Speaking from a family with an official floor space of less than 2m squared and enough Moroccan rugs to carpet a house).

But if you do find yourself falling in love with the colours of style of a too-large carpet.  Don’t be shy ask the vendors if the rug can be cut down to size.  This is something they are sometimes prepared to do. 

• Tip:  The best shopping street in Tiznit for rugs (and where we found one of our favourites) is between Place El Mechouar and Avenue Sidi Abderrahmane. 

I know we go on about Sfenj and its value on the list of absolute best things to do in Tiznit.  But it’s true.  THIS Moroccan street food warrants its place on the list, and we can tell you just where in Tiznit to find it. 

Sfenj  is a type of Moroccan donut.  It’s not quite like the sugary or iced American donut.  This is a lightly friend dough without too much added sweetener.  Its best eaten fresh and while still warm.  And it particularly tastes even better standing on the streetside of a Moroccan medina. 

It is a low-cost street food to try at just 1 – 2 MAD (10 – 20c) each.  But well worth hunting down while you are Tiznit.

• Tip:  Head towards Snap Pizza and in the direction of Idzekri Mosque. Because it’s hard to find but worth the mission; the geographical coordinates are 29.6972138 – 9.7295556.

12. Babouches

Along with Taroudant and Tafraoute , Tiznit and this region of Morocco is known for its leatherwork and handicrafts.  

One of the most popular items made in Tiznit is the traditional style Berber shoes.  These are slipper-style shoes made of leather (and they are undeniably comfortable to wear). 

On the small road between Place Al Mechour and Avenue Sidi Abderrahmane in Tiznit medina you can see cobblers working on the shoes.  They are all handmade and handstitched with the leather outer and a choice of leather or rubber soles.  

• Tip:  A pair of handmade Babouches costs between 100 – 150 MAD (10 – 15 EUR) and makes a very cool (unique) wearable souvenir to take home. 

13. Tiznit Souk / Weekly Market 

The weekly Tiznit Market (Souk) is held every Wednesday and Thursday on the main street of the medina and overflowing from Place El Mechouar.  

Thursday is the busiest day and the official market day for Tiznit.  And like all of Morocco’s regional markets it is the best day of the week to come and experience a slice of local life. 

There are stalls of fresh produce, fruits, and vegetables.  And mats rolled out on the roadside for the day to sell herbs and fresh mint for tea from nearby farms.  There are almonds and walnuts from the Anti-Atlas Mountains.  And fresh fish from the coastal port cities of Agadir and Sidi Ifni. 

On Avenue Sidi Abderrahame near the beautiful Idzekri Mosque the usual produce vendors overflow onto what would be the pavement.  And the whole street becomes and unofficial but vibrant souk. 

• Read about the large regional weekly markets in Tafraoute and Sidi Ifni here. 

Where to eat / Best cafes in Tiznit , Morocco

Tiznit does have a bit of a café culture.  It’s not quite keeping up with the Jonses (or Tangier or Tetouan).  But it does have the main plaza Place du Mechouar which is edged by local coffee shops and a few touristic cafes. 

• Café El Mechouar Right in the main plaza of Tiznit this is a popular local and tourist café.   There is a set menu with several options for breakfast as well as a lunchtime menu and continuous mint tea and coffee. 
• Assia Food  In case you are tagined-out or just after a snack-type meal, there are numerous coffee shops surrounding Place El Mechouar that do tea, coffee, and basic snacks.  We tried the paninis and wraps at Assia Food which for 20 MAD (2 EUR) was pretty good value.
• Café Layali We’ve already rated Café Layali as the best tagine in Tiznit and recommend you check it out for a simple, local, and hearty Moroccan tagine. 
• A l’Ombre du Figuier Well-priced Moroccan cuisine with the treat of peaceful ambience in a courtyard inside the medina. Ahmed and his family run the popular restaurant and tastefully prepare what is often dubbed as the best choice for Moroccan cuisine in Tiznit. (And PS. If you time your visit for a Friday don’t miss the couscous).

ATM’s in Tiznit , Morocco

There is a concentration of banks and 24-hour ATMs along Boulevard Hassan II outside of Bab Ljdid gate to the medina.  

Supermarkets in Tiznit,  Morocco

Tiznit has lots of Hanout.  These are the common convenience stores all over Morocco.  The local Hanout sell day to day items like milk and soft drinks,  Khboz  (bread) and limited every household cleaning items like toilet paper and dishwashing liquid.  

• Tip:  These kinds of convenience shops are open until late and night and usually open in the morning from around 9am (varying on whether it is Ramadan in Morocco). 

The largest (nearby) supermarket we found in Tiznit is the Idou Tiznit Supermarche.  The supermarket is well-stocked and only a few hundred metres from the Municipal Campsite in Tiznit. 

Supermarche Al Izdihar Tiznit on Boulevard Hassan II is another well-stocked medium sized supermarket. 

Laundry in Tiznit 

There is a friendly family-run laundry service on Avenue Sidi Abderrahmane just inside Bab Oulad Jerrar (Oulad Jerrar Gate).  

The cost is 60 – 80 MAD (6 – 8 EUR) for a large load of laundry washing and dried. 

Where to stay in Tiznit, Morocco 

There is a mixture of low to mid-range hotels bordering the old medina in Tiznit as well as a selection of lower cost accommodation surrounding Place El Mechouar.  

• Tip:  We book all our accommodation for travel through Booking.com with the largest range of accommodation and flexible cancellation policy. 

Where to stay in Tiznit in a motorhome

Tiznit has a large municipal campground just beyond the walls of the medina and entrance of Bab Oulad Jerrar. 

CAMPING MUNICIPAL DE TIZNIT

• Location:  Avenue Sidi Abderrahmane, Tiznit 
• Type:  Campsite
• Park4Night:  #388299
• Cost:  95 MAD per night (discounts for long stay)
• Facilities:  Toilets, showers, and all motorhome services (black, grey, and fresh water). 

About:  This is a huge campsite and particularly popular with European motorhomes staying for an extended time in Morocco.  Despite having over 200 spaces the site can be booked out during the busy motorhome season from December to February. 

The location is ideal for exploring Tiznit.  And nearby workshops specializing in upholstery make this a popular stop to get motorhome canvas work done. 

Read more about travel in Tiznit, Morocco and beyond

• 20 Unique Things To Do In Taroudant.
• 20 Best Things To Do In Tangier. 
• 14 Best Things To Do In Tafraoute, Morocco.
• Driving in Morocco: Everything you wanted to ask.
• Crossing the Morocco Mauritania border from Dakhla.
• Motorhome services in Morocco: What is it like?
• Campsites in Morocco.
• Buying a SIM card in Morocco (and how to get unlimited data!).

Wondering about itineraries?  Questions about schooling?  See our Family Travel Guides and FAQ here . 

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Tiznit is in northern coastal part of the Anti Atlas .

Tiznit does not offer much for typical short-term tourists except silverware. But it is a great town for a few hours wander or stocking up when on longer trips and to enjoy some civilization again.

Temperatures in Tiznit can be really high - often above 40°C in the summer months! Go there either early morning or after 3PM to avoid these brutal temperatures. It is much more pleasant to visit in the early spring when temperatures are around 25°C.

When in town, take a local bus to Aglou which is just a few kilometres away but at least 10°C cooler and with a nice breeze from the sea.

Tiznit is located on the N1 and is easily accessible by car. Parking is easiest outside the town walls, particularly in the Boulevard Hassan II area to the south west.

CTM [ dead link ] and Supratours stop here on all trips south into Western Sahara . Note that CTM buses have a 30- to 45-minute stop at a gas station/restaurant just a few kilometers before Tiznit and thus the trip takes longer than the distance suggests. You might be lucky enough to catch a shared taxi that passes the gas station, but chances are very, very slim.

By shared taxi

A seat in a shared taxi from Agadir is 35dhs (as of 2023). Shared taxi station is in Inezgane, a bit out of town. We were told local buses 8 and 9 came here, but opted for a grand taxi from town (10 dirham per person)

The walled town area is quite compact and easily walkable though can be disorientating off the main routes

Unmetered local taxis are available, the price is fixed at 7dhs during the day and 10dhs at night.

Any type of household item - this is the place where Moroccans who live within 70-km radius do their shopping.

Silverware is sold by the gram and some nice designs can be found.

Hotel Bellevue: Small and basic hotel in center- cheerful and clean with a friendly, though hands-off owner. Strong wifi and a rooftop terrace, which was not open for use in 2023. 150 dirham for two people in a double. French spoken.

• North to Agadir
• South to Mirleft , Sidi Ifni , Guelmim or on to Western Sahara
• East to Tafraoute , on the "road of 400 turns" with beautiful scenery (about 3 to 4h).

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Tiznit, the Jewel

Tiznit, located between the sea, the Sahara, and the mountains, is one of Souss Massa’s natural wonders. The silver city, known for its history and cultural heritage, was founded in 1882 by Sultan Moulay al-Hassan and is both authentic and modern. Its ramparts cover an ancient medina where craftsmanship has been practiced for almost a century and a half. The medina is home to architectural marvels as well as kind and inviting locals, in addition to silver jewelry. Furthermore, because of its great location between the Anti-Atlas and the Atlantic coast, the city has a pleasant weather.

All the elements are there to guarantee an extraordinary city getaway, from which you will not leave empty-handed!

A stroll that exudes serenity

Tiznit’s walls are an attraction themselves, crenellated in ocher and pink. The 8-meter-high wall is bordered by 56 towers and pierced by 5 gates. The escape begins at the gate of Bab Jdid. From there, continue to Place Al Michouar, which is located beside Dar al-Makhzen (the former royal residence) and is the heart of the medina, where there are many handicraft stores.

Through the alleys, make your way to Ain Aqdim, a source from which the city was built. The Bleu Spring, located between the pond and the garden, is a relaxing area with a unique atmosphere, especially in the evening. A few yards away are two architectural marvels: The Great Mosque and the Kasbah of Aghanaj. The first is notable for its tower bristling with wooden poles, similar to Timbuktu’s minaret in Mali, while the second is a massive 19th-century fortress that currently hosts a museum and a cultural complex.

Then head to Bab Lakhmiss for an amazing sunset. From the top of the of the ramparts, you will have the privilege of enjoying a magnificent panoramic view of Targa’s market garden.

Discover more

Taroudannt and the great wall, aglou, the desert beach, the medina of taroudannt, silverware, the art of elegance.

Goldsmithing is ancestral in Tiznit, and craftsmen have been able to follow the evolution of jewelry while retaining the region’s unique touch.

The city has around 150 jewelers, who sell a wide range of ornaments, cases, bracelets and necklaces, daggers, in addition to the famous Tazerzit “fibulae”. You will undoubtedly fall in love with many pieces while strolling in front of the shops. Enjoy your time while there. Prices are affordable, and the quality is always excellent. You can also personalize your jewelry when making an order. Since the artisans are so skilled, no request is rejected!

Did you know?

When the 1912 protectorate treaty was signed, Tiznit witnessed the emergence of a resistance movement led by Moulay Ahmed Al Hiba Maa Al Ainine, known as the Blue Sultan. Supported by the tribes of the Souss and the Sahara, Al Hiba led a huge army towards Marrakech to resist the protectorate’s authorities, but he was defeated by the French at the battle of Sidi Bou Othmane north of the ocher city. He eventually took refuge in the Anti-Atlas, where he continued the resistance until his death from an illness in 1919.

the surroundings

Jbel lkest, the guardian of tafraout, illigh’s house.

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• Merzouga / Erg Chebbi

  Last Updated: 2021-04-28

Click Moment: an experience that happens along a journey, whether planned or not, that leaves a lasting impression first on your eyes and then on your heart. After a click moment you’re never the same again.

Travel Dictionary by Maria Luz Bejarano

I find it hard to understand a trip if I don’t experience moments that shake me. Don’t get me wrong: I’ve also enjoyed my holiday at a resort, spending half the time on a sun lounger in front of the pool face up and the other half face down.

But I don’t consider it strictly a journey; because for me it doesn’t just happen on the physical plane; it’s also an experience of the mind.

My travels to Morocco have always stimulated my mind, but my first trip to Merzouga was especially inspiring. Hopefully this article will convince you to give this off-the-beaten-path destination a try. Let’s get started!

Although we usually call it Merzouga, in reality this changing landscape is called Erg Chebbi . Chebbi is the proper name and erg is a type of desert composed completely of sand dunes. The more common type of desert, hard and stony with hardly any sand, is called a hamada .

Undoubtedly, this is the most famous desert of Morocco, and if you can’t tell why from the accompanying photos, check out the numbers: it’s about 30 km (20 miles) long and 8 km (5 miles) wide on average; in addition some dunes can reach up to 150 meters (500 feet) high. Another notable Erg from Morocco, although not as popular, is Erg Chigaga . 

Travelers depart for Erg Chebbi from Merzouga and other nearby villages such as Hassi-Labiad , Tanamous t and Takoujt . However, Merzouga has most of the available accomodations, so most people stop off there. Therefore, saying “the dunes of Merzouga” is common but inaccurate (although I even say it myself).

Getting There

There are several ways to get to Merzouga, the most common being from Marrakech or Fez . It’s an eight hour road trip from Fez and from Marrakech it’s ten hours.

If you decide to take public transport from Fez it will take you one day; a guided trip will take you two. This is not, in my opinion, a disadvantage, because the journey is as important and enjoyable as the destination: adobe cities, kasbahs, palm groves, gorges,… all a visual spectacle to enjoy along the way.

From Marrakech, we usually stop the first night in Dades (stopping before at Aït Ben Haddou ) and the second night at a tent camp in Erg Chebbi. The next day, we get up early and return to Marrakech in a single day. Most travelers snooze on the way back, since the night in the tent settlement is normally filled with stargazing and deep conversation and not much sleep. Plus, the return route is practically the same as the route we take to get there, unless you visit Ouarzazate on the way back.

However, there are those who choose to take a more personal and leisurely journey, either in their own 4×4 or with a private tour, visiting Ait Ben Haddou on the way back and staying at one of their kasbahs, this way they can spend an entire morning on the dunes instead of leaving first thing in the morning.

On the journey from Fes the natural scenery is more varied and interesting, crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains, with their evergreen trees and occasionally some snow. Then, as we approach Merzouga the rough landscapes begin to emerge. The main places where we usually stop on this route are Rissani , Ifrane and Midelt.

Where to Stay

Most travelers choose to spend the night in a tent in Erg Chebbi. These tents are simple portable structures usually made of wood, but sometimes metal or masonry and covered in fabric. Since there are so many different types of tents, many travelers are curious what to expect. 

With this in mind, here is a list of features that contribute to a different tent experience:

• Construction Quality:  there are simple traditional tents or luxury tents which are industrially manufactured and more spacious.
• Location: some are adjacent to an inn, others are at the foot of the dunes.
• Services: some have continuous electricity, others have solar power; some have heating, some don’t (it can get cold in the desert at night).
• Shared Areas:  some tents just have a common dining room, some have canopies, others have common toilets. Others have private toilets and showers.

As you might have guessed, these options come at different price points: from 300 dirhams per person per night for a standard tent to 600 for a luxury tent, or even 2000 for a deluxe multi-tent camp with all the trimmings. Of course, feel free to choose the option that best suits you, but I recommend at the bare minimum a traditional tent with a bed frame and mattress and shared toilets.  They often just lay a mattress right on the sand, which is not a good option, because it can be bone chillingly cold being that close to the ground at night. 

Another option is staying at one of the inns located in one of the cities that surround Erg Chebbi. This option is more comfortable and affordable but not as adventurous of course. If you plan to spend several days in the desert I recommend spending your first night in a tent and the rest of your time in an inn. Although sleeping in a tent is a wonderfully authentic experience, it’s not exactly comfortable, so if you spend several days in a tent you’ll start to feel it, believe me. 

What to do in Merzouga

The best thing to do at Erg Chebbi is simply to relax and enjoy the immensity of the desert. But for travelers who like having a packed schedule, here is a list of activities you can plan:

Traveling over the dunes

There are multiple ways to travel over the dunes. In my case, there are two options I enjoy the most. 

• 4×4: Flying over the dunes is great for adrenaline junkies like me. 
• Quads (ATVs): a caravan of riders follows a guide. If you worry you might fall, don’t. It’s impossible to fall, I assure you.

Sandboarding

You don’t need a vehicle to feel the emotion of the desert. Even if you do not have a board designed for it, in all likelihood one of the inns in Merzouga can provide you with one, either for a price or free if you have contracted some other service with them, for example.

Camel Rides

Nearly everyone goes to the tent camp via camel caravan . Many people have misgivings in the beginning, since the camels are huge and climbing up on them requires some skill, but after the first 10 minutes the tension disappears and you can enjoy the rest of the ride.

I recommend wearing baggy, comfortable pants specifically for the camel ride, because you probably don’t want to smell camel for the rest of the trip (no worries, just bring a plastic bag to keep them until you can wash them when you get home).

Animal Watching

The desert has its peculiar and varied fauna, from insects to foxes . Even if the explorer spirit does not run through your veins, you can at least try to deduce what animals the footprints and burrows you find belong to.

Sunset and Sunrise

At Erg Chebbi the landscape doesn’t just change in form, but also in color : at dawn the sand turns reddish, and as the sun rises, it becomes more yellow. So, from moment to moment you can enjoy a unique scene of desert beauty.

Nightlife around the Campfire

During the day the landscapes of Erg Chebbi are like living artwork, but it doesn’t end there. When the sun sets, there’s nothing left but the most absolute blackness , the coldness of the sand and the star-filled sky. Enjoy it around a campfire with your traveling companions and the gentle sounds of live Moroccan music.

Learning about another Culture

I always say Morocco’s greatest asset is its people. The desert people with their unique worldview and their special sense of the passing of time are especially interesting . I don’t know if maybe the harsh environment teaches them to be so wise and easy-going, but I assure you that if you pay attention to them, you can learn some great life lessons.

What to see in and around Merzouga

Erg Chebbi is not only an important destination in and of itself, but also a strategic base for exploring several nearby places of interest. As previously mentioned, from the second night it’s best to stay in accommodations in Merzouga. This way you can explore the terrain while being well-rested.

Nomad Families

It’s fascinating to see how there are those who decide to live in the desert with some livestock for sustenance, living in one or two tents with a small adobe room to cook and preserve food; although, as they will tell you that their home is much larger than ours, since the sky is their roof. You should not be afraid to approach them: most likely they’ll gladly accept your presence and treat you to a delicious cup of tea.

Sub-Saharan Africans are an integral part of the Moroccan people, especially as we head southward. This is because their ancestors were brought as slaves from Central and West Africa.

After their emancipation and a period of nomadism, they ended up forming settlements. This is how Khamlia was founded, a town that I strongly recommend visiting and where Gnawa music is omnipresent with influences, as you may have guessed, both from traditional Arab music and from African percussion.

Dayet Srij Lake and Yasmina Lake

Dayet Srji Lake is located in the southwest and it is only possible to appreciate it in rainy seasons (otherwise it’s more like a swamp), but it is especially recommended in June and September, as it receives many migratory birds, including pink flamingos.

Another lake with similar characteristics is the Yasmina lake , located to the north and that although it is somewhat smaller, its location at the foot of the dunes offers at the same time two apparently contradictory manifestations of nature.

Orion City, the Stairway to Heaven and the Golden Spiral

For those passionate about architecture and art in natural areas (commonly known as Land Art ), located on the Marha plateau, there are three objects (or sculptures, depending on how you look at it) that, at the same time, impact the terrain but seem to belong to it.

Erfoud and the Fossils

One of Erfoud’s main attractions is the extraction and polishing of fossils from nearby quarries (if you like adventure you can go hunting for fossils scattered between the outskirts of the city and Erg Chebbi).

The visit to the craft workshop begins with an explanation and a glimpse of the polishing process that turns the stones into the most varied objects (figures, plates, sinks…) and then they take you to the store and hope you make a purchase.

The Kohl Mines of M’Fis

These mines were opened by the French to extract mainly lead and zinc . Although practically abandoned, it is not difficult to imagine the harsh conditions that the workers were subjected to due to the high temperatures and the more than 40 meter (130 feet) depth of the shafts.

Its name derives from the fact that kohl, a cosmetic used by most Moroccan women as eyeshadow, is blackish and has lead sulfide as its main component, although the nature of this place has little to do with this product.

Rissani Market

If you are in Erg Chebbi on Tuesday, Thursday or Sunday , you have to check out the Rissani Market . These are the days when the most authentic and lively market in the area takes place. If your tastes are as particular as mine, you’ll definitely need to get a picture of the donkey parking lot, as this is the means of transportation for most of the merchants who attend the event.

Taouz. Necropolis and Cave Drawings

On the outskirts of Taouz there is a series of prehistoric dwellings formed by vertical flagstones with a small door and a window being the only openings to the exterior. Nearby there are also testimonies from another era in the form of rock engravings , with hunting as the main motif.

The difference between Zagora and Merzouga

I want to finish this post talking about a Plan B for if you don’t have time to go to Merzouga from Marrakech. I’m talking about Zagora, a town much closer to Marrakech (6 hours away, almost half the time) and that allows you to experience a similar experience as it offers a desert area for travelers with limited time. 

However, it’s important to note that it doesn’t have the same bucolic landscape. It’s much more arid and rocky and has lower dunes . Therefore, I recommend it strictly if your time is limited. Once you make the decision, just know that although it’s not as spectacular as Merzouga, Zagora still allows you to experience two of the main characteristics: the beauty of the journey and the magical night under the stars with your travel companions. 

Although they probably converge into a third peculiarity: you get an experience that marks you for life. The first time I saw the sunrise in the Merzouga desert, a thought invaded my mind: “Did it really take me more than 20 years to see something so breathtaking? ”

I also went during the holidays when logic and tradition dictate that you should stay with your family. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made. On that day, I decided to give my body and soul to Morocco.

If I could give you one piece of advice, it would be this: if you hesitate between making the same decision as always or a different and more risky option, get out of your comfort zone and opt for the second one . It’s probably the best way to spend your time and cultivate your mind. Much love to all and see you in the next article!

If you want to know more, visit our page on the Sahara .

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