The Village of Merzouga

Merzouga is a small Moroccan village situated in the

Southeastern partof the Alaouis’ Kingdom,about thirty kilometers southeast of Rissani and almost forty five kilometers from Erfoud, and only 55 kilometers from the Algerian border. This marvelllous village is quite famous for Erg Chebbi, a Saharan erg, and for such a bio diversity and for many other reasons, Merzouga always makes part of the itineraries of both foreign and local tourists visiting this part of Morocco. Merzouga also has the largest natural body of water in Morocco.

 

 

How to get there

You can get to Merzouga from Marrakech, then you have to drive East to Erfoud for one day, but you may of course stop for a break in Ouarzazate. You can also drive from Fes, South to Erfoud for one day. Once in Erfoud, you just continue South for almost 20 Km towards Rissani, then go through this small village and drive for approximately 40 km South East until you reach your destination: Merzouga.

You may also opt for the plane as a means of transportation, and fly to Ouarzazate from Casablanca, and then continue to Erfoud, Rissani and eventually come to Merzouga.

What to see there

The Sunrises and the Sunsets in Merzouga are really worth seeing, especially if you are located over the dunes. Music is also another cultural aspect that attracts more and more tourists to this southern city: Folk dances and Gnawa music are having annual festivals there, and both locals and foreign people visiting Merzouga seem to enjoy such a cultural diversity. Merzouga is actually a sort of exotic place where most of tourist’s dreams come true: a great scenery, a warm and healthy weather, and some wonderful monuments. You may also visit nearby to see the ducks, and in early spring, the flamingos. Indeed, so many bird species have chosen this area to settle down after their periodical immigration. Other animals such as the desert hedgehog, the desert foxes, the field mice and the scarab can also be seen around there in Merzouga.

What to do there

• Camel trips in the nearby Erg Chebbi, within the Sand dunes

• Drive around the dunes using a robust 4x4

• Camping in the middle of the desert.

• Sand skiing

• Visits to Berber local homes in order to get in touch with the people living there, and get more familiar with the different customs and traditions.