Ever dreamed of watching the sun rise over golden dunes, sipping sweet Moroccan tea under the stars, or riding a camel across the Sahara desert like in the movies? I certainly did. But I also thought such a trip would be way beyond my budget. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t. Travelling from Marrakech to Merzouga can be surprisingly affordable and magical if you know a few tricks!
So, if you’re dreaming of a desert adventure but worrying about your wallet, stick around. I’m sharing how I managed to enjoy the Sahara experience without spending a lot. Yes, you can do it too, without cutting corners on the experience. To do so, Morocco Tours Agency can help you a lot in many ways.
Let’s start with the basics. Merzouga is a small village located on the edge of the Sahara Desert, renowned for its towering Erg Chebbi dunes, which are among the highest in Morocco. It’s one of the best places in the country to experience a real desert vibe: endless sandscapes, Berber music by a campfire, and a peace that’s hard to describe unless you’ve felt it yourself.
Unlike Zagora or Ouarzazate, which are closer to Marrakech but less “desert-like,” Merzouga gives you the classic Sahara postcard experience. And the good news? You can get there on a budget. Here’s how.
The journey from Marrakech to Merzouga covers about 560 kilometers (around 350 miles) and usually takes 8 to 10 hours, depending on your mode of transport. The route winds through the High Atlas Mountains, charming Berber villages, lush oases, and eventually the flat rocky plains that melt into soft dunes.
But don’t let the long journey discourage you, it’s part of the adventure. You just need to make the road trip fun. And the landscape changes so dramatically that you’ll want to keep your camera ready the entire time.
Let’s break down the most affordable (and practical) ways to get to Merzouga.
If you’re traveling solo or want to save the most money possible, the Supratours bus is your best bet. It leaves from Marrakech once a day and heads straight to Merzouga.
Tip: Book your seat at least a day in advance, especially in high season (March - May and September - November). Supratours tickets can be purchased at the bus station or online.
Travelling with friends? Renting a car could be a surprisingly budget-friendly option when the cost is split.
This is the option I chose with two travel buddies, and it made the whole trip feel like a road movie. We stopped at the Tizi n’Tichka pass, Aït Benhaddou, and Dades Gorge, places we wouldn’t have seen on a strict tour schedule.
Note: Driving in Morocco is safe, but expect winding mountain roads and occasional speed bumps in the middle of nowhere!
If you prefer not to worry about transport, meals, or finding accommodation, an organised budget tour is a great choice. Many companies offer 2- to 4-day Marrakech to Merzouga tours starting from around 100 USD.
Why Merzouga?
Let’s start with the basics. Merzouga is a small village located on the edge of the Sahara Desert, renowned for its towering Erg Chebbi dunes, which are among the highest in Morocco. It’s one of the best places in the country to experience a real desert vibe: endless sandscapes, Berber music by a campfire, and a peace that’s hard to describe unless you’ve felt it yourself.
Unlike Zagora or Ouarzazate, which are closer to Marrakech but less “desert-like,” Merzouga gives you the classic Sahara postcard experience. And the good news? You can get there on a budget. Here’s how.
The Route: From Marrakech to Merzouga
The journey from Marrakech to Merzouga covers about 560 kilometers (around 350 miles) and usually takes 8 to 10 hours, depending on your mode of transport. The route winds through the High Atlas Mountains, charming Berber villages, lush oases, and eventually the flat rocky plains that melt into soft dunes.
But don’t let the long journey discourage you, it’s part of the adventure. You just need to make the road trip fun. And the landscape changes so dramatically that you’ll want to keep your camera ready the entire time.
Budget Travel Options to Merzouga
Let’s break down the most affordable (and practical) ways to get to Merzouga.
1. Take the Public Bus (Budget-Friendly but Long)
If you’re traveling solo or want to save the most money possible, the Supratours bus is your best bet. It leaves from Marrakech once a day and heads straight to Merzouga.
- Cost: Around 25–30 USD (or 250–300 MAD)
- Duration: About 12 hours (with stops)
- Perks: Affordable, direct, and comfortable enough for long-distance travel.
Tip: Book your seat at least a day in advance, especially in high season (March - May and September - November). Supratours tickets can be purchased at the bus station or online.
2. Car Rental (For Small Groups or Independent Travelers)
Travelling with friends? Renting a car could be a surprisingly budget-friendly option when the cost is split.
- Cost: around 25 - 40 USD per day (plus fuel and insurance)
- Fuel: budget around 60–80 USD for the round trip
- Perks: full flexibility. Stop anywhere for tea, photos, or just to soak it all in.
This is the option I chose with two travel buddies, and it made the whole trip feel like a road movie. We stopped at the Tizi n’Tichka pass, Aït Benhaddou, and Dades Gorge, places we wouldn’t have seen on a strict tour schedule.
Note: Driving in Morocco is safe, but expect winding mountain roads and occasional speed bumps in the middle of nowhere!
3. Join a Budget-Friendly Tour
If you prefer not to worry about transport, meals, or finding accommodation, an organised budget tour is a great choice. Many companies offer 2- to 4-day Marrakech to Merzouga tours starting from around 100 USD.
This often includes:
One of the most trusted providers is Morocco Tours Agency. They offer well-priced packages with excellent reviews and authentic experiences. If you're not sure where to start, this agency is a solid first step.
The journey from Marrakech to Merzouga has so many scenic stops, you’ll feel like you’re in a travel documentary. Here are budget-friendly highlights:
This UNESCO World Heritage site is a ksar (fortified village) made of clay and stone. It looks like something straight out of Game of Thrones, because it is! Entry is free or just a small donation.
These dramatic red rock canyons are perfect for budget travellers. You can hike for free, enjoy cheap roadside snacks, and take photos that’ll make your friends jealous.
These two towns near Merzouga are known for dates, fossils, and traditional markets. They're worth a stop if you’re driving yourself or your tour includes them.
You might think staying near the Sahara would cost a fortune. It doesn’t! Here are a few wallet-friendly options:
These are the real deal: tents in the dunes, campfires, and drumming under the stars.
You can also book desert camps directly through the Morocco Tours Agency to avoid hidden costs and ensure quality service.
Moroccan food is delicious and affordable. Here's how to eat like a local without emptying your wallet:
Tip: Always ask for the price before ordering if there’s no menu. And carry small change!
Forget fancy gear. Here’s what you really need for a desert trip:
Bringing these basics from Marrakech will save you from having to buy expensive items once you’re in the desert.
While Merzouga is beautiful year-round, the best seasons for budget travellers are:
Avoid July - August if you're sensitive to heat. The dunes can feel like ovens, and many accommodations raise prices due to demand.
Here’s how I avoided unnecessary spending on my desert trip:
And most importantly, don’t sacrifice safety or comfort just to save a dollar. Budget travel is about being smart, not risky.
Absolutely. My night in the Sahara was one of the most memorable moments of my life. The stillness of the desert, the Milky Way stretching overhead, and the warm hospitality of the Berber hosts; it was surreal. And knowing I did it all on a modest budget made it even sweeter.
You don’t need to be billionaire rich to have rich experiences. You just need to plan well, travel smart, and stay open to adventure!
So, is it really possible to go from Marrakech to Merzouga without spending a fortune? 100% yes.
Whether you’re hopping on a bus, joining a budget tour, or doing a DIY road trip, the Sahara is within reach. And trust me, it’s worth every dusty, windy, sun-soaked mile. Ready to make it happen? Start by checking out the affordable desert tours at Morocco Tours Agency. They’ve helped countless travellers (like me!) make the most of their desert adventure - without breaking the bank.
- Transport in an air-conditioned van
- Accommodation for 1–2 nights
- Camel greeting in the desert
- Dinner and breakfast
- One magical night in a desert camp
One of the most trusted providers is Morocco Tours Agency. They offer well-priced packages with excellent reviews and authentic experiences. If you're not sure where to start, this agency is a solid first step.
Where to Stop on the Way (And Still Save Money)
The journey from Marrakech to Merzouga has so many scenic stops, you’ll feel like you’re in a travel documentary. Here are budget-friendly highlights:
Aït Ben Haddou
This UNESCO World Heritage site is a ksar (fortified village) made of clay and stone. It looks like something straight out of Game of Thrones, because it is! Entry is free or just a small donation.
Dades Valley & Todra Gorge
These dramatic red rock canyons are perfect for budget travellers. You can hike for free, enjoy cheap roadside snacks, and take photos that’ll make your friends jealous.
Erfoud and Rissani
These two towns near Merzouga are known for dates, fossils, and traditional markets. They're worth a stop if you’re driving yourself or your tour includes them.
Budget Accommodation in Merzouga
You might think staying near the Sahara would cost a fortune. It doesn’t! Here are a few wallet-friendly options:
1. Guesthouses and Riads
- Price: $10–$30 per night
- Amenities: wi-fi, home-cooked meals, often family-run
- Perks: many of these places can arrange camel rides or connect you with local guides.
2. Budget Desert Camps
These are the real deal: tents in the dunes, campfires, and drumming under the stars.
- Price: $25–$50 per night (including dinner and breakfast)
- Tip: check whether the price includes camel transport to the camp.
You can also book desert camps directly through the Morocco Tours Agency to avoid hidden costs and ensure quality service.
Food: Eating Well Without Spending Big
Moroccan food is delicious and affordable. Here's how to eat like a local without emptying your wallet:
- Street food: try harira soup, Moroccan sfenj (doughnuts), or grilled vegetable skewers for just a few dirhams.
- Local restaurants: A hearty tajine or couscous dish will set you back $3–$5.
- Desert camp meals: Usually included in your stay. Don’t skip the mint tea, it’s both refreshing and symbolic of Moroccan hospitality.
Tip: Always ask for the price before ordering if there’s no menu. And carry small change!
What to Pack (So You Don’t Spend Extra)
Forget fancy gear. Here’s what you really need for a desert trip:
- A scarf or turban (can double as sun protection)
- Layers - it gets hot during the day and chilly at night
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- A headlamp or flashlight (desert camps are dark!)
- A refillable water bottle
- Wet wipes
Bringing these basics from Marrakech will save you from having to buy expensive items once you’re in the desert.
When to Go for Budget Travel
While Merzouga is beautiful year-round, the best seasons for budget travellers are:
- March to May: Mild temperatures, fewer crowds, better deals.
- September to November: Cooler weather, lower prices than summer.
Avoid July - August if you're sensitive to heat. The dunes can feel like ovens, and many accommodations raise prices due to demand.
How to Avoid Extra Costs
Here’s how I avoided unnecessary spending on my desert trip:
- Book in advance - especially for buses and tours.
- Travel with a group - share transport and lodging.
- Use local SIM cards - for internet and map access.
- Carry snacks and water - especially for long bus rides.
- Negotiate respectfully - it’s normal in markets and for taxis.
And most importantly, don’t sacrifice safety or comfort just to save a dollar. Budget travel is about being smart, not risky.
Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. My night in the Sahara was one of the most memorable moments of my life. The stillness of the desert, the Milky Way stretching overhead, and the warm hospitality of the Berber hosts; it was surreal. And knowing I did it all on a modest budget made it even sweeter.
You don’t need to be billionaire rich to have rich experiences. You just need to plan well, travel smart, and stay open to adventure!
Your Desert Dream Is Closer Than You Think
So, is it really possible to go from Marrakech to Merzouga without spending a fortune? 100% yes.
Whether you’re hopping on a bus, joining a budget tour, or doing a DIY road trip, the Sahara is within reach. And trust me, it’s worth every dusty, windy, sun-soaked mile. Ready to make it happen? Start by checking out the affordable desert tours at Morocco Tours Agency. They’ve helped countless travellers (like me!) make the most of their desert adventure - without breaking the bank.
