Merzouga, at the foot of the great Erg Chebbi dunes, is about 560 km from Marrakech (9 hours’ drive, often as a 3-day tour). This is the real Sahara: crushing summers above 45 °C, mild winter days with cold nights, and sandstorms in spring.
The Saharan climate
It almost never rains in Merzouga. From June to August afternoons regularly pass 40 °C and the sand becomes scorching. From November to February days are pleasant (18-22 °C) but nights in the dunes can approach 0 °C. Spring brings windy spells that lift the sand and haze the sky.
When to go
The best period is October to April. October-November and March-April offer the best balance: moderate daytime heat and bearable nights at camp. In summer only the evenings are comfortable.
Tips for a night in the dunes
Bring warm clothes for the night and dawn, a scarf (chèche) against sand and sun, sunglasses and plenty of water. Sunrise over the dunes is the highlight: our forecast shows the expected cloud cover. If strong wind is forecast, the camel ride may be shortened.