Two Saharas to Choose From
Morocco has two famous dune fields, both reachable from Agadir by rental car. They're very different experiences:
- Erg Chebbi (Merzouga) — taller, more iconic dunes. ~12 hour drive (better split into 2 days via Ouarzazate).
- Erg Chigaga (M'Hamid) — wilder, less touristy. ~8 hour drive via Ouarzazate then Zagora.
Recommended Route: Agadir → Erg Chebbi (3-4 days)
- Day 1: Agadir → Marrakech (3h, A7 motorway) → night in Marrakech
- Day 2: Marrakech → Ouarzazate via Tizi n'Tichka pass (4h) → night in Ouarzazate or Aït Ben Haddou
- Day 3: Ouarzazate → Merzouga (5h via Dades and Todra gorges) → camel ride and overnight in desert camp
- Day 4: Sunrise on the dunes → drive back via the same route or fly out from Errachidia/Fes
What Car Do You Need?
An SUV or 4x4 is strongly recommended. The roads to the dune entry points include some unpaved stretches, and the Tizi n'Tichka pass involves serious mountain driving. Our Hyundai Tucson or Dacia Duster 4x4 is ideal. See our SUV fleet →
Important Tips
- Don't drive the dunes themselves with your rental car — use camels or 4x4 tours from the camp.
- Fuel up at every opportunity — stations are sparse.
- October-April is the best season. Summer Sahara is brutally hot (50°C+).
- Always carry water, snacks, and a fully charged phone with offline maps.