Merzouga 4×4 Desert Tours Excursion

Overview:

Our Merzouga 4×4 Desert Tours Excursion takes you around the beautiful Erg Chebbi dunes.

We’ll visit small Berber villages and a seasonal lake and enjoy amazing views of the Sahara desert. Each stop offers something unique, giving you a taste of life and culture in Morocco’s desert.

Highlights:

  • cross erg chebbi dunes
  • visit merzouga lake "dayet srij"
  • visit khamlia village "gnawa music"
  • visit & discover the berber nomade family in "erg chebbi"
  • visit M'Ifis mines in "M'Ifis"
  • explore Hassi Labied Oasis

Informations:

  • Place to begin: your riad/hotel/camp in "hassi labied / merzouga"
  • Place to end: your riad/hotel/camp in "hassi labied / merzouga"
  • Period: 4 - 5 - 6 Hours
  • Departure time: morning / afternon
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Merzouga 4×4 Desert Tours Excursion

THIS IS THE ITINERARY OF Merzouga 4×4 Desert Tours Excursion:

hassi labied – merzouga lake (dayet srij) – khamlia – m'ifis mines (m'ifis) – visit berber family (erg chebbi dunes):

1. Hassi Labied Oasis
Our first stop is Hassi Labied, a quiet village with green fields and gardens. This oasis has canals for watering the plants and is a beautiful spot to see farming in the desert. Located just 5 km from Merzouga, it’s also where many people start camel trips into the dunes.

2. Dayet Srij Lake – A Seasonal Lake
Next, we will visit Dayet Srij, a lake that appears only in certain seasons, near the village of Tamzgidat. It’s often filled with water during winter and spring (November to May) and attracts desert birds like nightjars, desert warblers, and colorful bees. Enjoy the view of dunes on one side and mountains on the other.

3. Khamlia Village – Gnaoua Music
In Khamlia, we’ll hear Gnaoua music, a special African music style that is important to the people here. Many years ago, their families came from places like Sudan and Mali. They still perform this music to keep their culture alive. Every summer, Khamlia has a Gnaoua festival to celebrate this music.

4. M’fis Mines
We will then go to M’fis Mines, which is set on a hill with views of the dunes and desert. These mines are known for fossils and minerals, and local Berber people still work here. The mines are open pits, some as deep as 30 meters, showing the tough work of the people here.

5. Tea with a Nomad Family at Erg Chebbi
Finally, we’ll meet a nomadic Berber family living in the Sahara. We’ll be welcomed with mint tea and learn about the simple life of these families in the desert. Their hospitality and way of life offer a warm and memorable experience.

After this day of exploring, we’ll return to Merzouga and drop you off at your hotel or camp.

know before you go

  1. Weather
    The desert is hot during the day and cooler at night. Wear light clothes for the day and bring a jacket for the evening. Comfortable shoes are a must.

  2. Dayet Srij Lake
    The lake is seasonal and may be dry in summer. From November to May, it usually has water and is great for birdwatching.

  3. Food and Water
    Meals are not included, so bring snacks or food if needed. Always carry enough water to stay hydrated.

  4. Respect Locals
    Please dress modestly and respect the culture. Ask before taking photos of people in villages or the nomad family.

  5. Bring Some Cash
    You might want to buy small items or snacks during the tour. Cash is helpful as many places don’t accept cards.

  6. 4×4 Vehicle
    The tour is done in a 4×4 car to travel through the desert. It starts in the morning and ends in the afternoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is included in the Merzouga 4×4 Desert Tours Excursion?
    The tour includes transportation in a 4×4 vehicle, an experienced local guide, and stops at key desert sites. Meals and personal expenses are not included, so plan to bring your own food or purchase meals.

  • What should I bring on the Merzouga 4×4 tour?
    We recommend bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, comfortable clothing, and a jacket for cooler times. Also, pack water, snacks, and some cash, as credit cards are rarely accepted in desert areas.

  • Can I visit the seasonal Dayet Srij Lake on this tour?
    the tour includes a stop at Dayet Srij Lake when it has water, typically between November and May. It’s a great spot for photography and birdwatching.

  • Is the Merzouga 4×4 tour suitable for families?
    this tour is family-friendly and offers a comfortable 4×4 experience with short stops to explore villages, the lake, and nomadic life. Kids will enjoy the desert scenery and seeing local animals.

  • How long is the Merzouga 4×4 Desert Tour?
    The tour lasts around a full day, usually starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon. It includes multiple stops, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy each location.

  • Do I need any special skills to join the 4×4 desert tour?
    No special skills are required. This is a sightseeing tour in a 4×4 vehicle, making it suitable for most people, including those who may not want to walk long distances.

  • Can I meet local Berber families on this tour?
    Yes, one of the highlights is visiting a nomadic Berber family. You’ll get a chance to enjoy mint tea with them and learn about their life in the Sahara desert.

  • What is the best time of year for the Merzouga 4×4 tour?
    The best times are spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when temperatures are mild. Summer can be very hot, while winter nights can be quite cold in the desert.

  • Is there a chance to listen to traditional Gnawa music?
     the tour includes a stop in Khamlia village, where you can listen to Gnawa music, a unique African-Moroccan style kept alive by the local community.

  • How should I prepare for the weather on this tour?
    Desert temperatures can vary greatly. Bring layers, as it can be hot during the day but cool at night, especially in winter months. Sunscreen and a hat are recommended for sun protection.

details:

Includes:
  • pick up and drop-off at your hotel/riad
  • our A/C modern 4x4.
  • drivers/guides speaking English....
  • clean vehicle A/C with air condition along the way
  • visit some interesting place on the area
  • fuel
Not Includes:
  • lunch, drinks
  • personal expenses
Day Tours:
Extended Tours:
Activities: