How To Get To Merzouga Desert From Tangier ?

Merzouga, with its breathtaking dunes of Erg Chebbi, lies approximately 790 kilometers (490 miles) southeast of Tangier. Here’s how you can reach this iconic desert from Tangier:

1. By Car

Driving from Tangier to Merzouga takes around 10-12 hours, passing through Morocco’s scenic landscapes, including the cities of Chefchaouen and Fez. Recommended stops include:

• Chefchaouen – The famous Blue City nestled in the Rif Mountains.
• Fez – Known for its ancient medina and rich history.
• Erfoud – The gateway to the Sahara, surrounded by stunning desert terrain.

Suggested Route: Tangier → Chefchaouen → Fez → Midelt → Erfoud → Merzouga.

2. By Bus

You can take a bus from Tangier to Merzouga with Supratours or CTM, although it may require transfers and takes about 15 hours. Make sure to book in advance, especially during busy tourist seasons.

3. By Organized Tour

Many tour operators offer multi-day tours from Tangier to Merzouga, often including stops at Chefchaouen, Fez, and other cultural sites along the way. These tours provide an easy and immersive way to experience the journey, with transport, accommodation, and guides.

Tangier to Merzouga Desert Tour Options

Explore the Moroccan desert with our exclusive tours departing from Tangier:

• 3-Day Tangier Desert Tour
  Duration: 3 Days
  Price: From €500

• 4-Day Tangier to Merzouga Desert Tour
  Duration: 4 Days
  Price: From €700

• 5-Day Tangier Desert Tour
  Duration: 5 Days
  Price: From €1100

• 8-Day Tangier to Marrakech Desert Tour
  Duration: 8 Days
  Price: From €600

Sample Itinerary for 8-Day Tangier Private Desert Tour

Day 1: Tangier – Chefchaouen – Fez
Pick up from Tangier’s airport, port, or hotel. Explore Chefchaouen’s blue streets before continuing to Fez. Overnight at Riad Dilar.

Day 2: Fez
Guided tour of Fez with a local guide. Overnight at Riad Dilar.

Day 3: Fez – Merzouga
Journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains and Ziz Valley, arriving in Merzouga by sunset.

Day 4: Merzouga
Explore nomadic culture, visit Khamlia village for Gnawa music, enjoy a 4WD tour over sand dunes, and camel trek to the luxury camp.

Day 5: Merzouga – Dades Gorges
Visit Rissani market, Erfoud’s fossil museum, and Todra Gorges before reaching Dades Gorges.

Day 6: Dades Gorges – Marrakech
Travel through the scenic “One Thousand Kasbahs Road,” visit Aït Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate, then continue to Marrakech.

Day 7: Marrakech
Tour the old medina of Marrakech with a local guide. Overnight at a traditional riad.

Day 8: Marrakech – Airport
Transfer to Marrakech Airport for departure.

What to Expect on the Tour

During this 8-day journey from Tangier to Marrakech via Merzouga Desert, you’ll experience:

• Chefchaouen’s Blue City charm
• A guided tour in Fez
• Camel rides, sunset, and sunrise in the Erg Chebbi dunes
• Visits to Rissani market, cedar forests, and the Ziz Valley
• Gnawa music in Khamlia village, Berber pizza lunch, and sandboarding
• Stops at Todra Gorges, Aït Ben Haddou, and Ouarzazate’s Cinema Studio

Tour Inclusions

• Private transportation with an experienced driver
• 6 nights in hotels, 1 night in a luxury desert camp
• Breakfasts, 3 dinners, 1 Berber lunch in Merzouga
• Local guides in Fez and Marrakech
• Camel ride, sandboarding, and Berber music in the desert