Where To Stay In Merzouga
Merzouga is a small village in Morocco, located near the famous Erg Chebbi dunes. These dunes are one of the top reasons travelers visit Merzouga. They are high, golden, and stretch for miles, making the desert look endless. The Sahara Desert offers a unique experience with breathtaking landscapes, and Erg Chebbi is one of the most beautiful places to see in the Moroccan desert.
When you visit Merzouga, you can explore the desert dunes, ride camels, and even stay in desert camps. Whether you enjoy stargazing, watching the sunrise, or walking across the sand, Merzouga has something for everyone. The fascinating landscape and quiet atmosphere give visitors a chance to relax, unwind, and experience nature’s beauty in a very special way.
But to enjoy all of this, you need to pick the right place to stay. The accommodation you choose will make your trip more comfortable and memorable. There are many types of stays in Merzouga, from luxury hotels with swimming pools to cozy traditional riads and affordable guesthouses. You can even sleep under the stars in a desert camp!
Types of Accommodations in Merzouga
Merzouga offers a variety of accommodation options, catering to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious getaway, a cultural experience, or a budget-friendly stay, there’s something for everyone. The main types of accommodations include luxury hotels, traditional riads, desert camps, and guesthouses. Each offers a unique way to enjoy the beauty of the Sahara Desert and the towering Erg Chebbi dunes.
Luxury hotels in Merzouga provide modern amenities such as air-conditioning, swimming pools, and organized desert tours, with prices ranging from $150 to $400 per night. These hotels are ideal for those who want comfort and stunning views of the desert. On the other hand, riads offer a more authentic Moroccan experience. These traditional homes feature beautiful courtyards and cozy rooms, giving you a glimpse of Moroccan culture. Riads usually cost between $80 to $250 per night.
For adventurous travelers, staying in a desert camp is a great option. You can sleep in Berber tents under the starry sky, with prices ranging from $70 to $350 per night. These camps offer a chance to experience the desert up close, with camel rides and sandboarding activities. Lastly, for those on a tighter budget, guesthouses provide affordable and comfortable stays, with prices starting at $30 per night, offering simple rooms and local hospitality.
Best Luxury Hotels in Merzouga
If you’re looking for a stay that offers comfort, elegance, and fantastic views of the Erg Chebbi dunes, luxury hotels in Merzouga are an excellent choice. These hotels provide modern amenities like air conditioning, swimming pools, and traditional Moroccan cuisine while giving you access to the beauty of the desert. Many of these places also organize activities such as camel treks, 4×4 tours, and stargazing. With spacious rooms and panoramic views, these hotels are perfect for those who want to enjoy the Sahara Desert in style. Below, we’ll explore the top luxury hotels in Merzouga, with prices ranging from $150 to $400 per night.
Hotel Kanz Erremal (From $180 per night)
Hotel Kanz Erremal offers guests a luxury stay right at the foot of the Erg Chebbi dunes. The hotel’s swimming pool has a direct view of the towering sand dunes, allowing you to relax while soaking in the desert landscape. Rooms are spacious, air-conditioned, and decorated in a traditional Moroccan style. The hotel also has a rooftop terrace where you can enjoy sunsets over the dunes.
- Key Features:
- Swimming pool with dune views
- Air-conditioned rooms
- Panoramic views from the rooftop terrace
- Organized desert activities, including camel rides and desert trekking
Guests at Hotel Kanz Erremal can also enjoy traditional Moroccan dishes such as tagines and couscous, served in the on-site restaurant. With prices starting at $180 per night, this hotel offers both luxury and access to the desert.
Nomad Palace Hotel (From $160 per night)
Nomad Palace Hotel blends traditional Moroccan features with modern comfort, making it a top choice for travelers who want both adventure and relaxation. The hotel offers spacious rooms with air conditioning, ensuring you stay cool even in the heat of the desert. Guests can enjoy the large ground-floor terrace, perfect for lounging after a day of exploring.
- Key Features:
- Traditional Moroccan decor mixed with modern amenities
- Air-conditioned rooms and ground-floor terraces
- On-site restaurant serving local specialties
- Desert excursions, including 4×4 tours and camel treks
With rooms starting at $160 per night, Nomad Palace Hotel provides an excellent balance of comfort and adventure, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a luxurious stay in the Sahara Desert.
Kasbah Hotel Mohayut (From $150 per night)
Located just a short walk from the high dunes, Kasbah Hotel Mohayut offers a peaceful and comfortable setting with a touch of traditional charm. The hotel is built in the style of a desert kasbah, with spacious rooms and several terraces offering views of the desert landscape. It has a swimming pool and organizes various desert activities, including guided camel treks into the dunes.
- Key Features:
- Desert kasbah architecture
- Spacious rooms with traditional decor
- Swimming pool with desert views
- Organized desert tours and activities
With prices starting from $150 per night, Kasbah Hotel Mohayut provides a luxurious yet traditional stay, allowing guests to experience the Moroccan desert in comfort.
Best Traditional Riads in Merzouga
For travelers seeking an authentic Moroccan experience, staying in a riad is a perfect choice. Riads are traditional Moroccan homes, often designed around a central courtyard, offering a cozy and personal atmosphere. Many riads in Merzouga are decorated with intricate Moroccan features, such as mosaic tiles, colorful fabrics, and Berber rugs. These places give you the chance to enjoy Moroccan hospitality while staying near the desert dunes. You can relax in peaceful courtyards, enjoy homemade meals, and easily access desert activities like camel riding and stargazing. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best riads in Merzouga, with prices ranging from $80 to $250 per night.
Riad Madu (From $150 per night)
Riad Madu is known for its luxurious yet traditional feel. Located close to the Erg Chebbi dunes, this riad offers spacious rooms with a mix of modern comfort and traditional design. Guests can enjoy sweeping views of the desert from the rooftop terrace or relax in the calm courtyard. The riad also offers organized desert excursions, including camel treks and 4×4 tours.
- Key Features:
- Large, comfortable rooms with Moroccan decor
- Rooftop terrace with panoramic desert views
- Courtyard for relaxation
- Organized desert activities like camel treks and sandboarding
Starting at $150 per night, Riad Madu is a great option for travelers looking for a blend of culture, comfort, and adventure.
Riad Azawad (From $120 per night)
Riad Azawad is a charming riad with a Berber-inspired design that immerses guests in Moroccan culture. The rooms are decorated with traditional Moroccan art and textiles, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere. This riad is known for its excellent service, with the staff making sure guests feel at home. The ground-floor terrace is a perfect spot to enjoy tea while looking at the desert landscape.
- Key Features:
- Traditional Berber-style decor
- Cozy rooms with authentic Moroccan features
- Friendly, attentive service
- Rooftop terrace with desert views
At $120 per night, Riad Azawad offers an affordable yet memorable stay, combining culture and comfort near the dunes.
Riad Aicha (From $100 per night)
Riad Aicha provides a welcoming environment with its rooftop terrace offering breathtaking views of the Erg Chebbi dunes. The rooms are decorated in a traditional Moroccan style, with colorful rugs and patterned tiles. Guests can also enjoy delicious Moroccan cuisine at the riad, including dishes like tagines and couscous.
- Key Features:
- Rooftop terrace with desert views
- Authentic Moroccan-style rooms
- Homemade Moroccan meals
- Close proximity to the dunes
With rooms starting at $100 per night, Riad Aicha is a wonderful choice for those looking to enjoy a traditional Moroccan stay at an affordable price.
Top Budget-Friendly Stays in Merzouga
Not every trip needs to be expensive, and Merzouga offers plenty of budget-friendly accommodations without sacrificing comfort. These guesthouses and lodges are perfect for travelers who want to explore the Sahara Desert without overspending. Most of these places provide simple but cozy rooms, local meals, and often organize activities like camel treks and 4×4 tours. Even on a budget, you can enjoy the beauty of the Erg Chebbi dunes and experience the warm hospitality of the Moroccan people. Prices for budget stays generally range from $30 to $70 per night, making them great options for both solo travelers and families.
Auberge Les Roches (From $40 per night)
Auberge Les Roches is a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers. Located near the desert dunes, this guesthouse offers simple yet comfortable rooms. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the staff is known for their friendly and helpful service. Guests can enjoy free breakfast, and the guesthouse also organizes desert activities like camel riding and sandboarding.
- Key Features:
- Affordable rooms start at $40 per night
- Free breakfast included
- Located close to the Erg Chebbi dunes
- Organized desert activities such as camel treks and sandboarding
For travelers looking for an inexpensive but cozy place to stay, Auberge Les Roches offers excellent value with easy access to the desert.
Chez Les Habitants (From $35 per night)
For those wanting to experience local life, Chez Les Habitants offers a unique stay with a Berber family. This guesthouse is known for its warm, homely atmosphere, where guests can enjoy home-cooked meals and learn about Berber culture. The rooms are basic but clean and comfortable, with stunning views of the surrounding desert. Meals are traditional, often featuring vegetable tagines and other Moroccan specialties.
- Key Features:
- Stay with a local Berber family
- Rooms start at $35 per night
- Home-cooked traditional Moroccan meals
- The personal connection to Moroccan culture
Chez Les Habitants is ideal for travelers who want to experience the Moroccan desert in a more personal and cultural way, without spending a lot.
Haven La Chance Desert Lodge (From $45 per night)
Haven La Chance Desert Lodge is another great budget option that offers comfort and convenience at a low price. The lodge is located near the desert, providing easy access to activities like camel riding and desert hikes. The rooms are air-conditioned, and there’s free WiFi available, which adds extra comfort for travelers. The lodge also has a ground-floor terrace where guests can relax and enjoy the fascinating landscape.
- Key Features:
- Rooms from $45 per night
- Air-conditioning and free WiFi
- Ground-floor terrace with desert views
- Activities like camel rides and desert excursions
For a budget stay that still offers modern amenities, Haven La Chance Desert Lodge is a great choice for travelers looking to experience the desert without spending too much.
Unique Desert Camps for an Immersive Experience
If you’re looking for a truly special experience, staying in a desert camp is the way to go. These camps offer a chance to sleep in traditional Berber tents, surrounded by the peacefulness of the Sahara Desert. You’ll be far from the noise of the city, with nothing but the starry sky and towering sand dunes around you. Many camps come with added comforts, like private bathrooms and gourmet meals, while others focus on a more authentic, rustic experience. Activities like camel riding, sandboarding, and campfires with traditional music are common. Prices for desert camps range from $70 for more basic setups to $350 per night for luxury camps with modern facilities.
Luxury Desert Camp (From $300 per night)
For travelers wanting both adventure and luxury, the Luxury Desert Camp provides a high-end desert experience. The tents are spacious and come with private bathrooms, ensuring comfort in the heart of the desert. Guests can enjoy gourmet meals and are offered activities like camel treks, stargazing, and sandboarding. The camp is secluded, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of the Sahara.
- Key Features:
- Spacious tents with private bathrooms
- Gourmet meals served under the stars
- Activities like camel riding, sandboarding, and desert hikes
- Secluded location for a peaceful stay
At $300 per night, this camp is perfect for travelers who want to combine adventure with the comforts of luxury.
Merzouga Camp Xaluca (From $250 per night)
Merzouga Camp Xaluca is another excellent choice for those wanting to enjoy the desert in comfort. The tents are equipped with comfortable beds, and the camp offers traditional Moroccan cuisine. Guests can take part in guided desert excursions, or simply relax by the campfire at night. The location, deep in the Erg Chebbi dunes, makes it perfect for watching the sunset or sunrise over the sand.
- Key Features:
- Comfortable tents with modern amenities
- Authentic Moroccan meals
- Sunset and sunrise views from the dunes
- Organized desert tours and camel treks
At $250 per night, Merzouga Camp Xaluca offers an ideal mix of comfort and adventure for those looking to explore the Sahara Desert.
Affordable Desert Camp (Standard) (From $70 per night)
For a more budget-friendly option, there are affordable desert camps that offer a simple, yet unforgettable experience. These camps provide basic tents, usually shared bathrooms, and communal meals. You’ll still have the chance to enjoy the high dunes, sandboarding, and camel treks, but without the added luxury. These camps are perfect for travelers who want to experience the desert without spending too much.
- Key Features:
- Basic tents with shared facilities
- Communal meals around a campfire
- Camel rides and desert hikes are available
- Budget-friendly at $70 per night
If you’re looking for an affordable way to enjoy the desert adventure, these standard camps offer great value while keeping you close to the Sahara’s beauty.
How to Choose the Right Accommodation for Your Merzouga Stay
Choosing the right place to stay in Merzouga depends on your budget, the experience you’re looking for, and your preferred level of comfort. Whether you’re drawn to the luxury of hotels, the cultural charm of riads, or the adventure of desert camps, there are plenty of options to fit every traveler’s needs. It’s important to consider what type of trip you want to have—whether you seek relaxation by a swimming pool, an authentic stay in a traditional riad, or sleeping under the starry sky in the Sahara Desert. Here’s how to decide which type of accommodation is best for you.
Consider Your Travel Style
Your travel style plays a big part in choosing where to stay. If you enjoy luxury and comfort, a luxury hotel with modern facilities like air conditioning and gourmet meals might be your best option. These hotels also offer organized desert tours and great views of the desert dunes. For those who prefer a more cultural experience, traditional riads are a great choice. Riads give you a taste of Moroccan culture, with beautiful courtyards and homemade meals.
- Luxury Travel: Choose a high-end hotel with swimming pools and desert views.
- Cultural Travel: Pick a riad for an authentic Moroccan experience with local hospitality.
- Adventure Travel: If you’re adventurous, stay in a desert camp to be close to the dunes and enjoy camel treks and desert hikes.
Factors to Consider: Budget, Location, and Services
Before booking, it’s important to think about your budget and what you want from your stay. If you want to splurge on comfort, luxury hotels are a great option, but they come at a higher price, typically ranging from $150 to $400 per night. For a more budget-conscious trip, guesthouses and desert camps provide excellent value, often costing between $30 to $70 per night.
- Budget: Decide how much you want to spend. Luxury hotels offer more amenities, while guesthouses and desert camps are better for budget travelers.
- Location: Do you want to stay near the Erg Chebbi dunes or closer to town? Some accommodations are located right on the edge of the dunes, offering direct access to desert activities.
- Services: Think about what services are important to you. Do you want air conditioning, free breakfast, or access to desert excursions like camel rides or sandboarding?
By understanding your travel style, budget, and what you want from your trip, you can easily choose the best place to stay in Merzouga. Whether you want luxury, adventure, or a cultural experience, there’s something for everyone in this desert village.
How to Choose the Right Accommodation for Your Merzouga Stay
Choosing the right place to stay in Merzouga depends on your budget, travel style, and desired experience. For those seeking comfort, luxury hotels offer modern facilities like air-conditioning, swimming pools, and gourmet meals, making them perfect for relaxation. If you’re interested in Moroccan culture, staying in a traditional riad provides a unique experience with Moroccan décor and local cuisine.
For adventurous travelers, a stay in a desert camp is ideal. These camps offer a chance to sleep under the stars, experience camel rides, and explore the desert dunes. Finally, if you’re on a budget, guesthouses provide affordable yet comfortable stays with a homey atmosphere. Consider factors like location, amenities, and the type of desert experience you want when booking.
Booking Tips and When to Visit Merzouga
The best time to visit Merzouga is between October and April when the weather is cooler and perfect for exploring the Sahara Desert. Summer months can be sweltering, but accommodation prices are usually lower.
For booking, popular platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb offer a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to desert camps. It’s essential to book early, especially during peak season, to ensure availability. Also, check reviews and confirm any desert tours or activities your accommodation might offer.
Fun Facts About Staying in the Sahara
Staying in the Sahara Desert is a unique experience, full of surprises. Berber tents, used in desert camps, have been part of nomadic life for centuries. They are made from woven goat hair, designed to withstand the desert’s extreme conditions.
The Sahara offers some of the best stargazing in the world due to the lack of light pollution. At night, the starry sky is breathtaking, and many camps organize stargazing activities. Additionally, even in the heart of the desert, you can enjoy delicious Moroccan cuisine, like tagines and couscous, cooked traditionally over an open fire.
Conclusion
Staying in Merzouga offers a unique opportunity to explore the Sahara Desert and enjoy one of Morocco’s most breathtaking landscapes. Whether you choose a luxury hotel, a traditional riad, or an adventurous stay in a desert camp, you’re sure to create lasting memories. The experience of being surrounded by the Erg Chebbi dunes, combined with the warmth of Moroccan hospitality, makes Merzouga an unforgettable destination.
Each accommodation type offers something special. Luxury hotels provide modern comforts like air conditioning and swimming pools, while riads give you a taste of Moroccan culture with their traditional decor and welcoming courtyards. For those looking to experience the desert more intimately, Berber tents in desert camps allow you to sleep under the stars and feel truly connected to nature.
With so many options available, finding the perfect place to stay in Merzouga is easy. Whether you’re traveling for adventure, culture, or relaxation, Merzouga has a variety of accommodations to match your needs and budget. Book your stay in advance, especially during the cooler months, and prepare for an amazing journey into the heart of the Sahara.
FAQs
How do I get to Merzouga from Marrakech or Fez?
You can reach Merzouga by bus or private car. Many travelers take a bus from either Marrakech or Fez. The journey can take between 8 to 10 hours.
Is it safe to visit Merzouga?
Yes, Merzouga is generally very safe for travelers. The local people are friendly and used to tourists. However, like anywhere, it’s important to follow standard safety precautions.
Can I visit Merzouga as a solo traveler?
Absolutely! Merzouga is a popular destination for solo travelers. Many guesthouses and camps cater to solo adventurers and offer group desert tours.
What should I pack for my stay in Merzouga?
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for the day, and warmer layers for the evening, as temperatures drop significantly at night. Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the desert sun.
