4x4 in the sahra desrt of morocco - Merzouga

4×4 Excursion Details

Tours in Merzouga typically use comfortable, air-conditioned 4×4 vehicles with experienced local drivers/guides. Excursions usually range from half-day (2-4 hours) to full-day trips, and prices generally start around €40-€70 per person, varying by group size and duration.

Highlights of a typical 4×4 excursion often include:

Dune Bashing & Off-Roading: Experience the thrill of driving over the massive golden sand dunes of Erg Chebbi, following routes once used by the Paris Dakar Rally.
Khamlia Village (Gnawa Music): Visit the “Black Village” to listen to and enjoy traditional Gnawa music performed by locals descended from sub-Saharan slaves.
Nomad Visits: Stop to meet Berber nomadic families living in traditional tents in the desert and share a cup of mint tea to learn about their way of life.
Mifis Mines & Fossil Sites: Explore the old, open-cast mines near the black desert plateau, where minerals and fossils have been extracted since the French colonial era.
Seasonal Lake (Dayt Srij): When there has been enough rain, visit the seasonal salt lake which attracts various migratory birds, including pink flamingos, offering excellent photo opportunities.
Oases and Panoramic Views: Discover small, lush oases and stop at various viewpoints for breathtaking photographic opportunities of the desert landscape.

Planning Your Adventure

Accommodation & Booking: Most desert camps and hotels in the Merzouga area can arrange 4×4 excursions, often including pickup and drop-off services. You can also book in advance through various tour operators found on platforms like Viator or GetYourGuide.
Best Time to Visit: The cooler months from October to April are the best time to visit to avoid the extreme summer heat.
What to Bring: Wear comfortable clothing and closed shoes, and bring sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) and plenty of water.
Combinable Activities: 4×4 tours can be combined with other popular desert activities such as camel trekking, sandboarding, or quad biking for a comprehensive Sahara experience.

A 4×4 excursion offers a comprehensive and comfortable way to explore the vast and diverse landscapes surrounding the Erg Chebbi dunes, providing both adventure and cultural immersion.