Sahara Desert Map of Morocco

Morocco's two great dune seas are Erg Chebbi, near Merzouga, and the more remote Erg Chigaga, beyond M'Hamid. Nights in a desert camp are a highlight of any trip.

Main dunesErg Chebbi, Erg Chigaga
From Marrakech9–10 hours to Merzouga
From FesAbout 8 hours to Merzouga
Best monthsOctober–April

Erg Chebbi (Merzouga)

Erg Chebbi is the most accessible of Morocco's dune seas: a range of orange dunes rising above the village of Merzouga, with a paved road all the way. Camel rides at sunset to a desert camp, a night under the stars and sunrise on the dunes are the classic experience.

Erg Chigaga (M'Hamid)

Erg Chigaga is larger and more remote. It is reached by 4×4 from M'Hamid El Ghizlane at the end of the road through the Draa Valley and Zagora, so it feels wilder and less visited.

Getting there

Most visitors take a tour of two to four days from Marrakech or Fes. From Marrakech, the route crosses the High Atlas to Ouarzazate and continues through the Dades and Todra gorges; see Marrakech to Merzouga. Supratours also runs long-distance buses to Merzouga.

When to go

October to April is the most comfortable season. Desert nights are cold from December to February, while summer days are extremely hot.

Plan Your Trip

🐪 Sahara tours3-day tours from Marrakech and Fes🌅 Camel rides & campsSunset rides and desert camps

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to the Sahara from Marrakech?

Most people join a 3-day tour, which drives via Aït Benhaddou, Ouarzazate and the Dades or Todra gorges to Merzouga, with a night in a desert camp. Driving yourself takes 9 to 10 hours each way.

Is a 2-day Sahara tour from Marrakech worth it?

Two-day tours go to Zagora, where the dunes are small. To see Erg Chebbi or Erg Chigaga you need at least three days.

When is the best time to visit the Moroccan Sahara?

October to April. Bring warm clothes for the nights in December to February.

Related Maps

Marrakech to MerzougaThe classic route over the Atlas to the Sahara dunes.OuarzazateGateway to the desert, the kasbahs and Aït Benhaddou.Atlas MountainsMount Toubkal, Imlil, the Ourika Valley and the Tizi n'Tichka pass.FesThe world's largest car-free medina and its famous tanneries.