9 BEST Things to Do in Merzouga – Morocco Desert Activities

Merzouga, a small village on the edge of Morocco’s Erg Chebbi dunes, is one of the most magical places you can visit in the Sahara Desert. With its towering golden sand dunes, nomadic culture, and thrilling desert activities, Merzouga is more than just a stop on your Morocco itinerary — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

If you’re planning a trip and wondering about the best things to do in Merzouga, this guide covers everything: from camel trekking and camping under the stars to quad biking, sand-boarding, and exploring Berber culture. Whether you’re an adventurer, a photographer, or simply seeking peace in the desert, Merzouga has activities for everyone.

No trip to Merzouga is complete without a camel trek across the Sahara dunes. The gentle sway of the camel, the endless horizon, and the dramatic colors of sunset or sunrise create a surreal atmosphere you’ll never forget.

Most treks take you deep into Erg Chebbi, where you can climb the dunes and watch the desert glow with shades of orange, pink, and gold. Guides ensure your ride is safe and comfortable while sharing stories of Berber life in the Sahara.

Tip: Sunset camel treks are the most popular, but sunrise rides are quieter and equally breathtaking.

For adrenaline seekers, quad biking in Merzouga is a must. Ride powerful ATVs across Erg Chebbi’s rolling dunes, control your own speed, and feel the thrill as you conquer steep sandy slopes.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, guides provide safety gear and show you the best routes for an unforgettable ride.

If quad biking isn’t enough, try a dune buggy adventure in Merzouga. These powerful off-road vehicles let you explore further into the Sahara, climbing dunes and crossing rugged desert landscapes.

It’s an action-packed activity that combines speed, freedom, and stunning views of the desert horizon.

Tip: Self-drive dune buggy tours are available, but guided trips ensure safety and show you the best routes.

After your camel trek, spend the night in a desert camp. You can choose between:

• Traditional Berber tents for an authentic cultural touch
• Luxury Sahara camps with private tents, ensuite bathrooms, and gourmet meals

As night falls, enjoy Berber drumming, mint tea, and stargazing in complete silence — the desert sky reveals more stars than you can imagine.

Tip: Book at least one night in the desert to fully experience the magic of Merzouga.

Who says you need snow to go boarding? In Merzouga, you can try sand-boarding down the massive dunes of Erg Chebbi. It’s easy, fun, and suitable for all ages. Just grab a board, climb to the top of a dune, and slide down — the desert version of snowboarding!

Tip: Combine sand-boarding with a sunset camel trek for a perfect desert adventure.

Just a few kilometers from Merzouga lies Khamlia village, home to the Gnawa people. Known for their hypnotic spiritual music, Gnawa musicians perform with drums, castanets, and rhythmic chants passed down for centuries.

Visitors are welcomed with mint tea and live performances, making this cultural stop one of the most unique things to do in Merzouga.

The region around Merzouga, especially Erfoud, is famous for its ancient fossils and minerals. Local workshops carve them into decorative pieces, and you can even go fossil hunting tours to discover your own.

Don’t miss a trip to a nearby Sahara oasis, where palm groves and natural springs offer a peaceful contrast to the desert dunes.

For a true cultural experience, visit a nomadic Berber family still living in the Sahara. Share tea with them, learn about their traditions, and see how they survive in one of the world’s harshest environments.

This activity goes beyond sightseeing — it’s a chance to connect with Morocco’s living heritage.

One of the simplest yet most magical activities in Merzouga is to climb a dune and watch the sunrise or sunset. At sunrise, the desert is calm and painted in soft golden light. At sunset, the dunes transform into fiery shades of red and orange.

Tip: For the best view, climb to the top of the highest dune near your camp or hotel.

From camel trekking and camping under the stars to quad biking, dune buggies, sand-boarding, and cultural immersion, Merzouga is the ultimate Sahara destination. These best things to do in Merzouga combine adventure, relaxation, and culture in one unforgettable desert journey.

Whether you’re seeking adrenaline, romance, or authentic Berber traditions, the Merzouga desert activities in this guide will make your Morocco trip truly unforgettable.