Merzouga
📍 Location
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Merzouga is a small village in southeastern Morocco, about 560 km from Marrakesh and 50 km from Erfoud.
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It lies on the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes, one of Morocco’s largest and most beautiful dune systems.
🏜️ Natural Highlights
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Erg Chebbi dunes: golden sand dunes reaching up to 150 meters high and stretching for about 30 km.
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Famous for sunrises and sunsets over the dunes.
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Nearby Dayet Srij Lake (seasonal salt lake) attracts flamingos and other migratory birds.
🌡️ Climate
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Desert climate: hot summers (up to 45°C in July–August) and cold nights in winter (as low as -5°C in December–January).
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Best times to visit: March–May and September–November (pleasant temperatures).
🚐 Getting There
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By road: accessible from Marrakesh, Fez, or Errachidia via private car, bus, or guided tours.
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The nearest airport is Errachidia (ERH), about 2 hours away.
🏕️ Activities
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Camel trekking into the dunes.
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Overnight stays in desert camps (luxury or traditional).
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Sandboarding on the dunes.
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4×4 desert tours to explore nearby oases, nomadic villages, and fossil areas.
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Cultural visits: meet local Berber (Amazigh) families and Gnawa musicians.
🌍 Culture & People
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Inhabited mainly by Berber (Amazigh) communities, who have a rich tradition of music, hospitality, and desert life.
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Gnawa music is an important part of Merzouga’s cultural experience.
⚠️ Travel Tips
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Bring light clothing for the day and warm clothes for the night.
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Carry enough water and sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen).
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Sandstorms can happen, especially in spring and Summer.
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Cash is useful: few ATMs (best to withdraw in Rissani or Erfoud).
