Marrakech to Merzouga road trip: the Sahara desert in 3 days

Seeing the great Sahara dunes is a dream for many travellers. From Marrakech, Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi can be reached by car on one of Morocco's most beautiful roads. It's about 550 km and 9–10 hours of driving, so plan at least 3 days.

Day 1: Marrakech – Ouarzazate – Dades

• Cross the Tizi n'Tichka pass (2,260 m) with spectacular mountain views.
• Stop at the UNESCO-listed ksar of Aït Ben Haddou.
• Drive through Ouarzazate, Skoura and Kelaat M'Gouna, the valley of roses.
• Overnight in the Dades Gorges (about 6 hours of driving without stops).

Day 2: Dades – Todra – Merzouga

• Morning on the famous Dades hairpin bends.
• Stop at the Todra Gorges near Tinghir: cliffs up to 300 m high.
• Drive via Erfoud to Merzouga (about 4–5 hours).
• Sunset on the dunes and a night in a desert camp. Leave the car at your camp's parking: the rest is by camel or guided 4x4.

Day 3: back or onwards

• Sunrise over the Erg Chebbi, with dunes over 150 m high.
• Drive back to Marrakech in one long day — or better, spend another night in Ouarzazate.

Driving tips

• The road is paved all the way to Merzouga: you don't need a 4x4.
• Never drive into the dunes with a rental car.
• Fill up whenever you can: petrol stations get rarer between towns.
• Avoid driving at night and carry water.
• Tizi n'Tichka can be snowy in winter: check the weather.

Which car to choose?

For a long drive, go for comfort: Dacia Duster, Hyundai Tucson or Volkswagen T-Roc. For families, the 7-seat Skoda Kodiaq.

With Branded Rental Cars: unlimited mileage (essential for this trip), no deposit and free delivery. Book your car.