Merzouga
Merzouga
Merzouga, a small town in southeastern Morocco, sits right at the edge of the Sahara Desert. It's the gateway to Erg Chebbi, a stunning stretch of golden sand dunes that rise up to 150 meters high. These massive dunes change color throughout the day, from pale gold in the morning to deep orange at sunset.
The town itself is home to mostly Berber people who have adapted to the harsh desert environment over centuries. Their traditional music, crafts, and cuisine are deeply connected to desert life. You'll find small cafés serving mint tea and tagine, alongside shops selling colorful textiles and handicrafts.
Merzouga has become famous for its desert experiences - camel treks across the dunes, nights spent in desert camps, and spectacular stargazing opportunities away from city lights. The area is also known for sand baths, a traditional therapy where people are buried in hot sand to treat various ailments.
In spring, the nearby temporary lake Dayet Srji attracts flamingos and other migratory birds, creating an unusual sight of water in the desert. Despite growing tourism, Merzouga maintains its authentic character, offering visitors a glimpse into the traditional desert way of life while surrounded by some of the most dramatic landscapes in North Africa.
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Things to do in Merzouga
Top things to do in Merzouga by www.thecrazytourist.com
Where to stay in Merzouga
Best hotels in Merzouga:
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Hotel Les Roses des Dunes (budget hotel)
Hotel Les Roses des Dunes is a charming spot located on the edge of the Sahara in Merzouga. The rooms offer stunning views of the towering sand dunes, just a few steps from your door. You can walk straight from the hotel and find yourself on the soft red sands of the desert.
The hotel features a lovely pool area, perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring the dunes. The restaurant serves delicious Moroccan dishes, with options to accommodate various dietary preferences. The rooms are comfortable and clean, each with a private bathroom and a terrace where you can enjoy the desert views.
The friendly and helpful staff can arrange camel treks or 4x4 excursions to take you deeper into the dunes. It’s an ideal spot to experience the magic of the Sahara while enjoying comfort and convenience. The location is perfect for those wanting to be close to the desert landscape.
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Sunrise Palace (luxury hotel)
Sunrise Palace in Merzouga is a beautiful desert escape surrounded by the golden dunes of the Sahara. The hotel offers elegantly decorated rooms and suites equipped with modern amenities, each one providing stunning views of the vast desert. The outdoor pool is a great place to relax and cool off after a day spent exploring the dunes.
What truly makes this hotel stand out is the exceptional Moroccan hospitality. The staff is dedicated to making guests feel welcome, offering services like camel treks into the desert and cooking classes that highlight the region's cuisine. The on-site restaurant serves tasty traditional Moroccan dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
Watching the sunset over the Sahara from the hotel’s terrace is a moment you won’t want to miss. It’s a perfect place to unwind and fully immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of the desert landscape.
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Kanz Erremal (medium range hotel)
Kanz Erremal is an incredible desert escape located at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga. With its prime location, you can enjoy stunning views of the Sahara right from your room balcony or while relaxing by the pool. The pool is a refreshing spot to cool off while taking in the vast desert landscape.
The rooms are spacious and comfortable, featuring traditional Moroccan decor that enhances the authentic desert experience. The friendly staff goes above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay, helping with arrangements for camel treks, desert tours, and other exciting activities. The on-site restaurant offers delicious Moroccan dishes as well.
Kanz Erremal is the ideal place to experience the magic of the Sahara with the comfort of modern amenities. The combination of a beautiful desert setting and cozy accommodations makes it a standout choice for visitors.
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Best hostels in Merzouga:
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RiadSuerteloca (boutique hostel)
RiadSuerteloca is a beautiful oasis in the Moroccan desert of Merzouga. It features a welcoming outdoor pool surrounded by lush gardens, providing a refreshing escape from the desert heat. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and terraces that offer stunning views of the dunes.
The location is ideal, just a short walk to the famous Erg Chebbi sand dunes where you can take in the breathtaking desert landscape. After a day of adventure, you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a delicious Moroccan meal at the on-site restaurant. The friendly staff ensures that every guest has a memorable experience.
With its mix of modern comforts and traditional Moroccan charm, RiadSuerteloca is a great starting point for exploring the Sahara. Whether you’re riding camels, stargazing, or soaking in the serene desert atmosphere, this charming spot offers an authentic and comfortable experience in Merzouga.