Merzouga 4x4 excursion
What will the excursion be like?
This Merzouga 4x4 excursion is a unique and enriching experience that will take you to discover the Sahara's most authentic and fascinating corners. You will start the day crossing the majestic dunes of Erg Chebbi, where the silence of the desert is only interrupted by the sound of your vehicle.
Along the way, you will have the opportunity to meet nomadic families, who will show you their traditional way of life and invite you to share stories about life in the desert.
You will then enjoy an exclusive Gnawa music performance in the picturesque village of Khamlia, immersing yourself in the ancient rhythms of this Saharan culture. After a stop at the historic Khemliya mines, where you will learn about ancient mining practices, you will conclude the day at the lake of Merzouga, an oasis of calm surrounded by the vast desert, before returning to Merzouga.
This Merzouga 4x4 desert excursion not only allows you to explore the natural beauty of the desert, but also to experience a cultural immersion that will connect you deeply with the traditions and spirit of the Sahara.
Duration: 1 day
Departure: Merzouga
Destination: Tour of Erg Chebbi
Highlights
- Drive through the imposing dunes in a 4x4 and discover the beauty of the Sahara with unique panoramic views.
- Discover the traditional lifestyle of nomadic families and how they survive in the desert.
- Immerse yourself in the local culture with a live performance of Gnawa music, a traditional Saharan style.
- Visit the old mines of the region and discover its mining history.
- Enjoy the tranquil scenery of Lake Merzouga, an oasis in the middle of the desert.
What is included?
- All transfers to the hotel/riad.
- Private 4x4 desert excursion from Merzouga in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle.
- English and Spanish-speaking driver/guide.
- Lunch.
- Bottle of water per person.
Itinerary
Merzouga 4x4 excursion
Morning: Start of the tour and exploration of Erg Chebbi
Start your Merzouga 4x4 excursion early in the morning with a 4x4 tour of the breathtaking Erg Chebbi dunes, one of the largest and most spectacular sand formations in the Sahara Desert.
On the Merzouga tour, you will make strategic stops to admire the panoramic views and take pictures of the dunes that change colour as the day progresses. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to stop at key points, allowing you to appreciate the desert's magnificence and the dunes' contrasting golden hues.
Visit the nomadic families
During the Merzouga 4x4 excursion in the desert, you will stop to meet some nomadic families who still live in the desert, maintaining their traditional way of life. Here, you will be able to interact with them, and learn about their ancestral customs, how they adapt to the harsh desert conditions and the techniques they use to survive. This desert experience will give you an insight into the nomadic way of life and how they have remained connected to nature and tradition over the centuries.
Noon: Music in Khamlia and lunch
Next, the Merzouga 4x4 excursion through the Merzouga desert will head towards the small village of Khamlia, known for its vibrant Gnawa music. This musical style, originating in sub-Saharan Africa, is a blend of African, Berber and Arabic rhythms, and is central to the local culture.
In Khamlia, you will enjoy a live music session, where local musicians will immerse you in their traditional sounds, a unique experience in the heart of the desert. After the performance, you can relax and enjoy a delicious traditional Moroccan lunch, enjoying the local flavours in a picturesque setting.
Afternoon: Khemliya Mines and Lake Merzouga
After lunch, you will continue your Merzouga 4x4 excursion to the ancient mines of Khemliya, once an important centre for the extraction of salt and other minerals. Here you will learn about the mining history of the region and how local people have worked in these mines for generations.
Next, you'll head to Lake Merzouga, a small expanse of water in the middle of the desert. Although it is not always full, it is a peaceful place to enjoy the desert scenery and observe the local wildlife, such as migratory birds passing through the area.
Return to Merzouga
Finally, after a full day of exploration and discovery, you will return to Merzouga, where your Merzouga desert 4x4 excursion will come to an end. On the way back, you will be able to reflect on the experiences you have had and the vast landscape you have travelled through.
This adventure will give you an authentic and profound insight into the Merzouga desert, combining nature, culture and tradition.
Image gallery
Explore the places you can visit
El tour de 3 días desde Marrakech a Merzouga toma alrededor de 9 horas para llegar al desierto de Merzouga. Sin embargo, incluimos la primera noche en las gargantas del Dades para reducir las horas de conducción.