OVERVIEW OF 2 DAYS TOUR FROM ERRACHIDIA TO MERZOUGA

The 2 Days Tour from Errachidia to Merzouga Desert and back is the ideal option for travelers arriving in Errachidia who wish to experience the magic of the Sahara within a limited timeframe. Carefully designed for those on a tight schedule, this journey allows you to discover the striking landscapes of southeastern Morocco while enjoying an authentic desert adventure.

The route takes you through the magnificent Ziz Valley, home to the second-longest river in Morocco, where lush palm groves stretch dramatically across arid terrain. The contrast between fertile greenery and rocky plateaus offers a spectacular introduction to the region’s natural diversity.

A central highlight of this experience is camel trekking across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. You will witness both sunset and sunrise over the Sahara—two of the most breathtaking natural spectacles Morocco has to offer. The night is spent in a traditional Merzouga desert camp, where you will enjoy a warm welcome with mint tea, a traditional dinner, Berber drumming around the campfire, and a serene night beneath a sky illuminated by countless stars.

On the second day, the journey returns to Errachidia via the historic town of Rissani, including a visit to its traditional weekly market (depending on the market day). Scenic stops along the route allow time to admire the landscapes and capture memorable photographs. By afternoon, you will arrive back in Errachidia, where you will be transferred to your hotel or airport, concluding your desert experience.

 HIGHLIGHTS OF 2 DAYS TOUR FROM ERRACHIDIA TO MERZOUGA

• Scenic drive through the breathtaking Ziz Valley
• Authentic Berber villages and desert landscapes
• Stunning panoramic viewpoints
• Memorable camel trekking experience in the Sahara
• Spectacular sunset and sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes
• Overnight stay in a traditional Merzouga desert camp
• Visit to the historic Rissani traditional market

ITINERARY FOR: 2 DAYS TOUR FROM ERRACHIDIA TO MERZOUGA

DAY 1: ERRACHIDIA – ZIZ VALLEY – ERFOUD – CAMEL TREK AND OVERNIGHT IN MERZOUGA DESERT CAMP

Your journey begins at 9:00 a.m., when your driver-guide will collect you from your hotel (or airport) in Errachidia. The adventure commences with a scenic drive southward toward the Sahara.

The first major stop is a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the magnificent Ziz Valley. This valley, carved by one of Morocco’s longest rivers, reveals vast palm groves nestled between rugged cliffs and desert plateaus. The sweeping view offers an impressive introduction to the ecological richness of the region.

Continuing the drive, you will pass through the village of Aoufous and reach Erfoud, a town internationally known for its fossil workshops and annual date festival. If you wish, you may visit a local fossil craft workshop to observe the transformation of ancient marine fossils into decorative stone pieces—a reminder of the Sahara’s prehistoric past.

From here, the landscape gradually transitions into the iconic dunes of Erg Chebbi, also known as the Merzouga Dunes. Upon arrival at your hotel near the dunes, you will have time to prepare for your camel trekking experience.

In the late afternoon, you will begin a camel ride lasting approximately one and a half hours, guided by an experienced camel handler. The ascent across the golden dunes culminates at a high vantage point, where you will pause to witness the sunset as it bathes the desert in warm shades of amber and crimson. For those interested, sandboarding may be attempted on the slopes of the dunes.

After sunset, you will continue riding toward the desert camp. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed with traditional mint tea before settling into your private nomadic-style tent. A freshly prepared Moroccan dinner will be served, followed by live Berber drumming around the campfire. As night falls, the Sahara reveals its extraordinary stillness and an exceptionally clear sky filled with stars. Overnight stay in the desert camp.

DAY 2: ERG CHEBBI DUNES – RISSANI – RETURN TO ERRACHIDIA

Early rising is highly recommended to experience the sunrise from the top of a nearby dune. As the first light spreads across the desert, the dunes shift in color, creating a peaceful and unforgettable moment.

After breakfast and a shower at the camp, you will return to the original departure point either by camel or by 4WD vehicle, depending on your preference.

The return journey toward Errachidia includes a stop in Rissani, the historical cradle of the Alaouite dynasty. If your visit coincides with one of the weekly market days (Sunday, Tuesday, or Thursday), you will have the opportunity to explore its lively souk, where local traders gather to sell spices, dates, livestock, textiles, and handcrafted goods.

Along the way, additional scenic stops will allow you to admire panoramic views, take photographs, and enjoy a relaxed lunch break.

By the afternoon, you will arrive back in Errachidia. You will be transferred to your hotel or directly to the airport according to your travel schedule, marking the conclusion of your 2-day Errachidia to Merzouga desert experience.