How to Get to Merzouga Desert from Ouarzazate

Ouarzazate, the “gateway to the Sahara”, is about 360 km (225 miles) west of Merzouga. The road between them is one of the most beautiful in Morocco, following the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs” through valleys, gorges and palm groves. Here are your options.

1. By private car or private tour (recommended)

The drive takes about 6 hours without stops – but you will want to stop. The classic route:

• Skoura – a large palm grove with old kasbahs such as Amridil.
• Kelaat M’Gouna – the “valley of roses”, famous for its rose festival in May.
• Dades Valley – striking rock formations and a famous winding road; a lovely place to spend a night.
• Todra Gorge – red canyon walls up to 300 m high, perfect for a short walk.
• Tinghir → Erfoud → Merzouga – arrive in time for a camel ride at sunset.

Before you leave Ouarzazate, it is worth seeing the Taourirt Kasbah, the film studios and, 30 km away, Aït Benhaddou. See our tours from Ouarzazate.

2. By bus

Supratours and CTM run buses from Ouarzazate towards Tinghir, Rissani and Merzouga. The trip takes about 7–9 hours with few photo stops. It is the cheapest option; book ahead in high season.

3. By rental car

The N10 road is in good condition and easy to follow. Fill up whenever you can, take your time in the gorges and avoid driving at night.

4. By plane

There are no flights from Ouarzazate to Errachidia, and driving is faster than any connection. If you are flying into Morocco, Ouarzazate airport itself is a good gateway: from there, the desert is a day’s drive away.

Which option is best?

• Comfort and scenery: a private tour of 2–3 days with a night in the Dades Valley.
• Tight budget: the bus.
• Round trip: Ouarzazate – Merzouga – Ouarzazate, or continue north to Fez.

Practical tips

• Spring is the most colourful season, with roses in bloom in Kelaat M’Gouna.
• Bring a warm layer: evenings in the Dades Valley and desert nights are cool.
• Carry cash in dirhams – card payment is rare outside the towns.

This is a private tour, so you travel only with your own group. Groups of friends, students and families get a discount – contact us on WhatsApp or by email for a quote.