Best Things to Do in Merzouga
Best Things to Do in Merzouga
If you’re in Merzouga, well done—you’ve literally set foot in one of the Sahara Desert’s most breathtaking corners. This is not somewhere you come; this is somewhere you feel in your marrow. With its golden, mountainous dunes, cinematic sunsets, and peaceful starry nights, Merzouga doesn’t nudge for your notice—it bellowed. But don’t assume it’s all sand and selfies. This little desert village punches well above its weight when it comes to unforgettable experiences.
1. Camel Trekking into the Dunes (Yes, it’s a must)
Is it touristy? Sure. But it’s also completely worth it. Getting on a camel and swaying your way into the Erg Chebbi dunes is like being deposited into the pages of a fairy tale. The ride itself is surprisingly soothing—like a desert massage if you don’t mind a few muscle complaints the next day. Most treks include a night in a Berber camp, complete with local music around a fire, tajine under the stars, and enough mint tea to hydrate a small village.
2. Sunset Sandboarding (Because walking down dunes is so last year)
Merzouga’s dunes aren’t just for gazing at—they’re for riding down. Strap on a sandboard (or just grab a piece of cardboard—hey, it works) and slide your way down a sun-warmed slope. The best time is right before sunset, when the dunes light up in wild shades of orange and red, and every photo looks like a National Geographic cover.
3. Stargazing That’ll Make You Forget Wi-Fi Exists
You think you’ve seen stars before? Think again. The night skies in Merzouga are next-level. With almost zero light pollution, you get a Milky Way so bright it’s like someone spilled glitter across the sky. Lay back on a dune, wrap up in a blanket, and let the universe do the rest. Pro tip: Go during a new moon for peak cosmic wow.
4. Get Lost in Gnawa Music in Khamlia
About 7 km from Merzouga is the tiny village of Khamlia, where music isn’t just entertainment—it’s soul. The people here are descendants of West African slaves, and their Gnawa music is hypnotic, powerful, and deeply spiritual. The best part? You can sit in a local home, sip tea, and watch a live performance that hits you right in the chest (in the best way).
5. Drive Like Mad Max in the Desert
If you’ve ever dreamed of unleashing your inner desert adventurer, now’s the time. Hire a quad bike or jump into a 4×4 and bounce through the dunes like you’re the boss. Just remember—this is still nature, not a racetrack. Ride with respect, but don’t forget to let loose a little. That wind-in-your-face moment? It’s pure freedom.
6. Watch the Sunrise in Silence
This might be the simplest, but most magical thing you can do. Get up before dawn, climb a dune, and just… sit. As the sun peeks up over the sand, the world goes from deep blue to gold in a matter of minutes. No sound but the soft wind. No crowds. Just you, the sand, and the sun making a quiet promise of a new day.
Final Thought:
Merzouga doesn’t try to impress—it just is. Raw, bold, and quietly profound. If you arrive searching for something you won’t ever forget, don’t worry—you’ll find it. Most likely barefoot on a sand dune, giggling at the stars, or having tea with strangers who are suddenly like friends.
