Explore the Wonders of the Moroccan Sahara

Getting There

• Car

  If you are starting your journey from Casablanca, you will want to take the A1 highway towards Marrakech. The drive is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours (around 240 km). Once you reach Marrakech, continue on the N9 road towards Ouarzazate. The journey from Marrakech to Ouarzazate will take about 4 hours (approximately 200 km). From Ouarzazate, you can take the N10 road towards Merzouga, which is the closest town to the Sahara Desert, taking another 6 to 7 hours (around 370 km). Make sure to refuel and take breaks, as this route has limited services. Upon reaching Merzouga, you can arrange for a local guide to take you into the desert.

• Public Transportation

  To travel by public transportation, you can take a CTM bus from Casablanca to Marrakech. The bus ride takes approximately 3 hours and costs around 70 MAD. From Marrakech, take another CTM bus to Ouarzazate, which takes about 4 hours and costs approximately 100 MAD. Finally, from Ouarzazate, you can take a shared taxi to Merzouga, which will cost about 200 MAD per person and take around 6 hours. In Merzouga, you can find local tours that will take you into the Sahara Desert, usually starting at around 500 MAD for a half-day camel trek.

• Private Transfer

  For a more comfortable option, consider booking a private transfer from Casablanca to Merzouga. This can be arranged through various travel agencies online and will take approximately 10 to 12 hours depending on traffic and stops. Prices vary based on the service provider but expect to pay around 2000 MAD or more for a private car. This option is ideal if you prefer a direct route without the hassle of multiple bus transfers.