How Do I Get from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert? – The journey from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert is one of the most iconic adventures in Morocco. Whether you’re craving a camel ride across golden dunes, a night under the stars in a Berber camp, or a 4×4 drive through palm-filled valleys, this guide will explain exactly how to get to the Sahara Desert from Marrakech, with all the routes, stops, tips, and transportation options you need.
Which Part of the Sahara Should You Visit from Marrakech?
Morocco’s Sahara Desert isn’t just one place. There are two main desert regions that are easily accessible from Marrakech:
1. Merzouga (Erg Chebbi Dunes)
- Distance: ~560 km from Marrakech
- Travel Time: 9–10 hours
- Dunes: High and golden – classic Sahara look
- Best For: Multi-day trips, photography, luxury camps
2. Zagora Desert (Erg Chigaga outskirts)
- Distance: ~350 km from Marrakech
- Travel Time: 6–7 hours
- Dunes: Smaller and more rocky
- Best For: 2-day tours, short on time
Verdict:
- Merzouga = Best desert experience (go if you can spare 3–4 days)
- Zagora = Great for quick getaways (2 days)
How to Get from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert
Option 1: Guided Desert Tour (Most Popular & Hassle-Free)
Best for: First-time visitors, those who want everything planned.
What’s included:
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Transportation (minivan or 4×4)
- Camel ride into the dunes
- Overnight stay in a desert camp
- All meals during the desert stay
- Sightseeing en route (e.g., Ait Ben Haddou, Todra Gorge)
Recommended Tour Durations:
- 🕒 2 days: Marrakech → Zagora
- 🕓 3 days: Marrakech → Merzouga
- 🕔 4 days: More relaxed pace + cultural stops
Average Prices (2025):
- Budget: €100–€150
- Mid-range: €170–€250
- Luxury: €300+
Option 2: Self-Drive Rental Car
Best for: Adventurous travelers, photographers, flexible explorers.
Route to Merzouga:
Marrakech → Tizi n’Tichka Pass → Ouarzazate → Dades or Todra Gorges → Merzouga
Estimated Driving Time: 9–10 hours (one way)
What You’ll Need:
- Valid driver’s license (IDP for some countries)
- GPS or Google Maps
- Confidence in mountain and rural driving
Pros:
- Total freedom
- Stop whenever and wherever you want
- Option to book your own luxury camp
Cons:
- Long distances
- Requires planning and caution on winding roads
Option 3: Bus or Public Transport + Taxi
Best for: Budget travelers, backpackers
To Merzouga (Erg Chebbi):
- Take the Supratours night bus from Marrakech → Merzouga
- Departure: ~8:30 PM / Arrival: ~8:00 AM (11.5 hours)
- Cost: ~€25–€35 one-way
To Zagora:
- CTM or Supratours buses to Ouarzazate, then shared taxi to Zagora
- Not direct, may need to transfer
Tip:
If using public transport, pre-book your camp to arrange pickup from the bus station. Camps usually include camel rides and dinner.
📍 Recommended Stops Along the Way (Scenic + Cultural)
1. Ait Ben Haddou
UNESCO-listed village with ancient kasbahs – must-see on the way to either desert.
2. Ouarzazate
The “Hollywood of Africa” – visit film studios and Taourirt Kasbah.
3. Dades Gorges
Twisting roads and dramatic red rock canyons.
4. Todgha Gorges
A paradise for hikers and photographers.
Travel Tips for the Journey
- Pack layers: Desert temperatures swing from hot days to cold nights.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if self-driving.
- Avoid driving at night—roads can be winding and unlit.
- Travel insurance is a must, especially for adventure activities.
- Book in advance in high season (March–May, September–November).
Best Time to Visit the Sahara Desert
| Season | Weather | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | Pleasant & green | Peak travel season |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Very hot (40°C+) | Avoid unless staying in AC camps |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Mild & clear skies | Photography, stargazing |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Cold nights | Fewer crowds, great rates |
Best Camps & Tour Companies in 2025
Top-Rated Camps in Merzouga
- Luxury Desert Camp Merzouga (Private en-suite tents)
- Sahara Stars Camp (Family-friendly with great food)
- Ali & Sara’s Desert Palace (Authentic and intimate)
Recommended Tour Operators
- Morocco Desert Tours 4×4
- GetYourGuide (reliable bookings with reviews)
- Nomadic Trails Morocco
✅ Summary: Your Best Route to the Sahara Desert from Marrakech
| Your Travel Style | Best Way to Go |
|---|---|
| First Time Traveler | 3-Day Group Tour to Merzouga |
| Tight on Time | 2-Day Tour to Zagora |
| Flexible & Adventurous | Self-drive via Ouarzazate to Merzouga |
| Budget Backpacker | Supratours night bus + camp pickup in Merzouga |
How Do I Get from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert?
Important places to visit in Morocco:
- Rabat’s Best Beaches & Coastal Adventures
- Unforgettable Day Trip to Ouarzazate
- Hiking & Nature in Chefchaouen
- Essaouira: The Windy City’s Coastal Charm & Historic Medina
