🙂bonjour,
vaut-il mieux aller vers les dunes de Merzouga ou celles d'erg el yeoudi ? Merci pour vos réponses😉
Original post
Dunes de Merzouga ou d'Erg el Yeoudi au Maroc?
by Raiugnon
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Merzouga, on peut y aller seul !
Erg Lioudy, pour y arriver, on est à la merci des excursionnistes, de Marrakech, Ouarzazate, Zagora ou Mahmid.
Merzouga est devenu un grand parc d'attractions, quads, écoles de conduite 4x4 sur le sable, des centaines de personnes pour voir le lever du soleil, mais un certain charme quand on se met à l'écart.
Mahmid 'débute', la qualité des accueils s'en ressent, et de plus c'est une immense décharge à ciel ouvert. pour moi déception totale.
Erg Lioudy, pour y arriver, on est à la merci des excursionnistes, de Marrakech, Ouarzazate, Zagora ou Mahmid.
Merzouga est devenu un grand parc d'attractions, quads, écoles de conduite 4x4 sur le sable, des centaines de personnes pour voir le lever du soleil, mais un certain charme quand on se met à l'écart.
Mahmid 'débute', la qualité des accueils s'en ressent, et de plus c'est une immense décharge à ciel ouvert. pour moi déception totale.
Je ne connais pas Merzouga, mais c'est certainement le mieux pour les dimensions. L'erg Yehoudi n'est pas si spectaculaire, même si ça vaut le coup d'oeil. Petite rectification cependant : il est très facile d'y aller tout seul. Km 18 sur la route entre Tagounite et Mhamid, descendre sur le bas coté à droite et suivre la piste sur une dizaine de km. Faisable même à pied + taxi. Quand à la qualité de l'accueil, je l'ai trouvé excellente, pour peu que l'on prenne le temps de s'attarder. C'est sur que ces gros européens qui foncent à travers le désert, arrivent au campement avec leur bouffe dans le sac, tout juste pour prendre 3 photos, distribuer quelques dirhams et se barrer aussi vite ont de quoi faire peur. En tout cas je peux vous recommander deux amis installés à cet endroit. Quand à la décharge d'erg Yehoudi, je ne la connais pas... Parlons nous vraiment du même endroit ?
A+ Sam
A+ Sam
En parlant de décharge, je parle de Mahmid (relis !) et de ses environs genre Ouled driss, ou sur des Kms, on ne trouve que des boites de conserves rouillées, des bouteilles et des sacs plastique, des piles usagées, et autres gateries pour décorer, ca m'a vraiment choqué à chaque fois.
Tu connais peut etre, toi, habitué, le moyen de rejoindre l'erg lioudy, mais est ce le cas des gens qui nous posent la question?
Retrouve toi, seul à Mahmid, sans savoir, et affronte la foule de solliciteurs déguisés en hommes bleus, en ayant déja été coursé par les mobs depuis 10 km, ce n'est pas si facile que ça!
C'est pour ces raisons, que, malgré les défauts et le coté faux désert frelaté de Merzouga, je continue de recommander l'erg Chebbi, facile d'acces, plus propre, et ou les professionnels ont plus de métier et la qualité d'accueil est incomparable.
Attendons que les gens de Mahmid, se montrent raisonnables, et plus professionnels, ce n'est pas en montant une auberge campement, sans aucune connaissance des besoins des touristes, en les agressant à l'aide d'une nuée de rabatteurs, qu'ils progresseront, ils me font penser aux gens de Rissani, il y a 25 30 ans, qui vous coursaient, vous bloquaient et cherchaient à vous convaincre agressivement qu'on ne pouvait aller à Merzouga sans utiliser leurs servives.
Tu connais peut etre, toi, habitué, le moyen de rejoindre l'erg lioudy, mais est ce le cas des gens qui nous posent la question?
Retrouve toi, seul à Mahmid, sans savoir, et affronte la foule de solliciteurs déguisés en hommes bleus, en ayant déja été coursé par les mobs depuis 10 km, ce n'est pas si facile que ça!
C'est pour ces raisons, que, malgré les défauts et le coté faux désert frelaté de Merzouga, je continue de recommander l'erg Chebbi, facile d'acces, plus propre, et ou les professionnels ont plus de métier et la qualité d'accueil est incomparable.
Attendons que les gens de Mahmid, se montrent raisonnables, et plus professionnels, ce n'est pas en montant une auberge campement, sans aucune connaissance des besoins des touristes, en les agressant à l'aide d'une nuée de rabatteurs, qu'ils progresseront, ils me font penser aux gens de Rissani, il y a 25 30 ans, qui vous coursaient, vous bloquaient et cherchaient à vous convaincre agressivement qu'on ne pouvait aller à Merzouga sans utiliser leurs servives.
bonsoir!
Merzouga, les dunes de l'erg chebbi reste encore magiques..la piste Zaouia, chegaga, l'erg lihoudi avec ces petites dunettes et les tamaris est interessante et assez sympa a faire jusqu'à Mhamid, malgré le vent de sable qui nous a gaché un peu le plaisir, traversé de mhamid très très calme pour ce mois de mars 06.
Bonjour si tu es a Merzouga essaye de pousser jusqu a Begga au sud est village tranquille et a mon avis le coucher de soleil y est encore plus joli mais cela n engage que moi .
Cordialement Thierry
Cordialement Thierry
Thierry & Angelika
http://voyagedumonde.oldiblog.com
Et bien moi je suis du sud (bretagne)..... et ma fille est à Brest même....
Et puis tant que j'y suis, un petit conseil au maroc, n'hésite pas à dire que tu es bretonne car tu feras alors partie de la grande famille des berbères... j'en suis revenue avec le surnom de berberette et j'en suis fière !
Pour ma part, j'ai hate de repartir vers ses contrées car nous avons rencontré des gens d'un accueil incomparable, plein d'humour et des paysages magnifiques. Mais nous avons surtout eu l'immense chance de parcourir ce sud loin des routes et des lieux touristiques... Quel bonheur ! Maintenant, je suis en train de mettre à jour mes photos et de les trier. C'est fastidieux mais bien agréable !
A bientôt peut-être... 😏
Jocelyne
bonsoir!
Merzouga, les dunes de l'erg chebbi reste encore magiques..la piste Zaouia, chegaga, l'erg lihoudi avec ces petites dunettes et les tamaris est interessante et assez sympa a faire jusqu'à Mhamid, malgré le vent de sable qui nous a gaché un peu le plaisir, traversé de mhamid très très calme pour ce mois de mars 06.
Bonjour, je viens de trouver ce message (6 ans après...) car je cherche à faire Zagora M'hamid en 4x4 en passant par l'erg Lihoudi. Pouvez-vous me donner des indications sur cette piste, notamment sur la partie Lihoudi M'hamid ? Merci d'avance.
Bonjour, je viens de trouver ce message (6 ans après...) car je cherche à faire Zagora M'hamid en 4x4 en passant par l'erg Lihoudi. Pouvez-vous me donner des indications sur cette piste, notamment sur la partie Lihoudi M'hamid ? Merci d'avance.
bonsoir
cette année là , nous venions de Foum zguid en passant au nord de Iriki , la partie erg lehoudi Mhamid est vraiment sympa à faire la piste est bien tracé et on peut s' éloigner du sable côté Est si difficulté dans les passages sablonneux et pousser jusqu' à l'oasis sacré avant de rejoindre Mhamid.
Bonsoir, merci pour votre réponse, les photos incluses dans le post me rendent très ipatient d'y être...
Bonsoir, merci pour votre réponse, les photos incluses dans le post me rendent très ipatient d'y être...
la question de départ concerne le trajet entre Zagora et Mhamid en passant par l'erg lihoudi. Les photos incluses ne sont pas sur ce trajet, ce sont des vues de la piste qui borde l'erg Chegaga. L'erg Lihoudi se trouve à quelques km de la route entre Tagounite et Mhamid. On y arrive en passant par une piste qui part sur la droite quelques km après Tagounite. Pour faire le trajet Tagounite, erg Lihoudi, Mhamid il faut avoir quelques points GPS, il y a beaucoup de pistes dans ce secteur qui partent de tous les cotés.
la question de départ concerne le trajet entre Zagora et Mhamid en passant par l'erg lihoudi. Les photos incluses ne sont pas sur ce trajet, ce sont des vues de la piste qui borde l'erg Chegaga. L'erg Lihoudi se trouve à quelques km de la route entre Tagounite et Mhamid. On y arrive en passant par une piste qui part sur la droite quelques km après Tagounite. Pour faire le trajet Tagounite, erg Lihoudi, Mhamid il faut avoir quelques points GPS, il y a beaucoup de pistes dans ce secteur qui partent de tous les cotés.
Qui boit l'eau d'une terre étrangère doit en suivre les coutumes (proverbe Mongol)
Bonsoir, j'avais bien noté que la réponse de Gs portait sur l'itinéraire Chegaga - M'hamid, mais je vais aussi y aller. Pour revenir sur le trajet Lihoudi - M'hamid, merci du renseignement, je veillerai à suivre le bon cap. Avez-vous quelques points intermédiaires ?
bonjour
je vous conseil les dune de merzouga ces trés jolie
Bonjour,
la question que je me pose est de l'intérêt de faire Tagounite , Erg lioudi, Mhamid pour ensuite repartir Mhamid, chegaga , Foum-zguid.
Il est beaucoup plus simple de "zapper" Mhamid et faire tagounite, erg Lioudi, chégaga, Foum-zguid. Et si vraiment envie de passer par mhamid, aller de tagounite à Mhamid par la route et ensuite tirer sur chegaga, iriki , foum-zguid. je n'ai pas vraiment de points, connaissant bien le secteur est étant équipé d'un pc+gps+logiciel de navigation, je roule en cherchant les meilleures pistes. Par contre je peux donner les points ( tirés de la trace enregistrée) de mon derniers parcours dans ce secteur ( octobre 2012) , j'ai suivi le trajet Tagounite, erg Lioudi, chegaga, Iriki, ensuite j'ai fait le tour de l'erg par le sud, donc pas de points en direction de FZ, mais la piste est bien marquée dans la direction de cette ville.
la question que je me pose est de l'intérêt de faire Tagounite , Erg lioudi, Mhamid pour ensuite repartir Mhamid, chegaga , Foum-zguid.
Il est beaucoup plus simple de "zapper" Mhamid et faire tagounite, erg Lioudi, chégaga, Foum-zguid. Et si vraiment envie de passer par mhamid, aller de tagounite à Mhamid par la route et ensuite tirer sur chegaga, iriki , foum-zguid. je n'ai pas vraiment de points, connaissant bien le secteur est étant équipé d'un pc+gps+logiciel de navigation, je roule en cherchant les meilleures pistes. Par contre je peux donner les points ( tirés de la trace enregistrée) de mon derniers parcours dans ce secteur ( octobre 2012) , j'ai suivi le trajet Tagounite, erg Lioudi, chegaga, Iriki, ensuite j'ai fait le tour de l'erg par le sud, donc pas de points en direction de FZ, mais la piste est bien marquée dans la direction de cette ville.
Qui boit l'eau d'une terre étrangère doit en suivre les coutumes (proverbe Mongol)
Bonsoir, je pensais à M'hamid juste parce que c'est le seul trajet que je "connaisse" pour rejoindre l'erg Chegaga et que c'est une piste bien tracée et sablonneuse. Votre itinéraire m'intéresse, je prévois peu ou prou la même chose.
Cordialement
bonsoir,
voici les points de la piste qui quitte la route quelques après Tagounite et qui rejoint Sidi ab N'nebi (village au nord d'iriki sur la piste de Foum-zguid ). Elle passe vers l'erg Lioudi, chegaga et une zone qui semble être Iriki avant d'aller sur Sidi Ab N'ebi ( en fait tout le monde pense que cette zone plate et déserte est le lac Iriki, en fait celui-ci se trouve plus au sud-ouest)
Les points sont tirés de ma trace en octobre 2012. Le 1 est l'endroit où l'on quitte la route quelques km après Tagounite. Le dernier 44 étant le village.
voici les points de la piste qui quitte la route quelques après Tagounite et qui rejoint Sidi ab N'nebi (village au nord d'iriki sur la piste de Foum-zguid ). Elle passe vers l'erg Lioudi, chegaga et une zone qui semble être Iriki avant d'aller sur Sidi Ab N'ebi ( en fait tout le monde pense que cette zone plate et déserte est le lac Iriki, en fait celui-ci se trouve plus au sud-ouest)
Les points sont tirés de ma trace en octobre 2012. Le 1 est l'endroit où l'on quitte la route quelques km après Tagounite. Le dernier 44 étant le village.
Qui boit l'eau d'une terre étrangère doit en suivre les coutumes (proverbe Mongol)
Merci beaucoup, je posterai quelques photos après mon retour mi mai.🙂
bonjour
je vois que perju connaît très bien cette portion Tagounite checaga pour ma part c' est vrai nous n' avons que suivi la bordure de l' erg checaga iriki , pour les photos nous pourrons les partager car nous serons après la mi avril plutôt vers le plateau du rekkam merzouga et peut être zagora.
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From what I can tell, everything is well connected by bus (CTM) or train (ONCF). Another question: Is the vibe in Moroccan youth hostels for meeting people the same as what you’d find in Western Europe?
Thanks in advance for your replies and your kindness! 😊
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Hi everyone! :)
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Trip Proposal Summary: From May 13 (morning arrival) to May 26 (morning departure) Arrival and departure: Essaouira Day 1 (May 13): Arrival in Essaouira – Settling in / Exploring / Rest Day 2 (May 14): Essaouira – Water activities Day 3 (May 15): Essaouira to Tafraoute (~5h30) – route via Agadir – arrival and first exploration; Question: Is a detour to Taroudant worth considering? Day 4 (May 16): Tafraoute – Hike in the granite rocks – wild bivouac Day 5 (May 17): Tafraoute – Aït Mansour gorges – oasis – night in a hostel Day 6 (May 18): Tafraoute → Foum Zguid (~5h) – transition route – simple overnight or bivouac Day 7 (May 19): Foum Zguid → Zagora (~3h) – Draa Valley – desert prep Day 8 (May 20): Zagora → M'Hamid El Ghizlane → Erg Chigaga – departure with 4x4 guide – entering the dunes – bivouac Day 9 (May 21): Erg Chigaga – full desert day – walking, exploring – bivouac Day 10 (May 22): Desert → Ouarzazate (~5–6h) – leaving the desert – rest Day 11 (May 23): Aït Benhaddou – early visit – short hike – overnight stay Day 12 (May 24): Aït Benhaddou → Telouet – route toward the Atlas – start of trek – bivouac Day 13 (May 25): Atlas → Essaouira (~5–6h) – end of trek – return to Essaouira (overnight) Day 14 (May 26): Essaouira – free time + return flight
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Open to your great tips if there’s room for optimization!
All ears! :)
Thanks in advance and have a great day!
Clément
I’m finalizing the loop I’d like to do in May over 13 days, starting and ending in Essaouira.
We’re planning to rent a vehicle and are pretty active—we’re not really into crowds (that’s why I’ve decided to skip Marrakech).
Here’s my proposed itinerary:
Trip Proposal Summary: From May 13 (morning arrival) to May 26 (morning departure) Arrival and departure: Essaouira Day 1 (May 13): Arrival in Essaouira – Settling in / Exploring / Rest Day 2 (May 14): Essaouira – Water activities Day 3 (May 15): Essaouira to Tafraoute (~5h30) – route via Agadir – arrival and first exploration; Question: Is a detour to Taroudant worth considering? Day 4 (May 16): Tafraoute – Hike in the granite rocks – wild bivouac Day 5 (May 17): Tafraoute – Aït Mansour gorges – oasis – night in a hostel Day 6 (May 18): Tafraoute → Foum Zguid (~5h) – transition route – simple overnight or bivouac Day 7 (May 19): Foum Zguid → Zagora (~3h) – Draa Valley – desert prep Day 8 (May 20): Zagora → M'Hamid El Ghizlane → Erg Chigaga – departure with 4x4 guide – entering the dunes – bivouac Day 9 (May 21): Erg Chigaga – full desert day – walking, exploring – bivouac Day 10 (May 22): Desert → Ouarzazate (~5–6h) – leaving the desert – rest Day 11 (May 23): Aït Benhaddou – early visit – short hike – overnight stay Day 12 (May 24): Aït Benhaddou → Telouet – route toward the Atlas – start of trek – bivouac Day 13 (May 25): Atlas → Essaouira (~5–6h) – end of trek – return to Essaouira (overnight) Day 14 (May 26): Essaouira – free time + return flight
What do you think?
I aimed for an excursion to the Chigaga desert from M’Hamid because it seems less touristy and allows for a more compact loop. Is that a good idea? Is the drive to M’Hamid maybe too tedious?
Open to your great tips if there’s room for optimization!
All ears! :)
Thanks in advance and have a great day!
Clément
A lot of people find it important to stick to their budget when traveling—not to skimp, but to visit as many places as possible since traveling is their hobby.
In this post, I want to share some tips for those coming to Morocco who want their trip to be budget-friendly.
1. Prebook everything: hotels or riads, car rentals, or tours. If you book these in advance, it’ll make your life easier. You won’t have to deal with hagglers or people trying to overcharge you for services that are available online for free. Use platforms like Booking, Expedia, carsrental.ma, Airbnb, and other booking services to get this done properly.
2. Exchange your money to Moroccan dirhams as soon as you land. 1 € is always a little over 10 dirhams, but many people get charged as if it were exactly 10 dirhams per euro.
3. When visiting an old site or the old medina, avoid talking to vendors and shop owners—they’re really good at getting your attention and making you overpay for things.
4. Ask your tour guide to buy things for you. Yes, they do get a commission, but you’ll probably pay way more if you buy something yourself that they can get cheaply.
5. Walk everywhere. You don’t need a taxi for every little trip. Pick a good location and walk—most Moroccan cities are safe during normal hours.
6. Buy your food, drinks, etc., from supermarkets at normal prices. They can’t overcharge you since they scan every product.
I think that’s it for now.
Take care
In this post, I want to share some tips for those coming to Morocco who want their trip to be budget-friendly.
1. Prebook everything: hotels or riads, car rentals, or tours. If you book these in advance, it’ll make your life easier. You won’t have to deal with hagglers or people trying to overcharge you for services that are available online for free. Use platforms like Booking, Expedia, carsrental.ma, Airbnb, and other booking services to get this done properly.
2. Exchange your money to Moroccan dirhams as soon as you land. 1 € is always a little over 10 dirhams, but many people get charged as if it were exactly 10 dirhams per euro.
3. When visiting an old site or the old medina, avoid talking to vendors and shop owners—they’re really good at getting your attention and making you overpay for things.
4. Ask your tour guide to buy things for you. Yes, they do get a commission, but you’ll probably pay way more if you buy something yourself that they can get cheaply.
5. Walk everywhere. You don’t need a taxi for every little trip. Pick a good location and walk—most Moroccan cities are safe during normal hours.
6. Buy your food, drinks, etc., from supermarkets at normal prices. They can’t overcharge you since they scan every product.
I think that’s it for now.
Take care
Hi everyone! 😊
We’re traveling as a family to Marrakech from April 19 to 24, and there’ll be 15 of us (all ages), staying in the Targa neighborhood (El Idrissi Street).
I’d love your advice on a few things! 🙏
🚗 Vehicle rental
We’re thinking of renting 3 cars. We’ve seen really low prices online, but often without insurance.
👉 Do you have any reliable contacts or personal experiences to share?
👉 Would you recommend getting specific “tourist” insurance?
🏛️ Visits – Bahia Palace & Saadian Tombs
We’d like to visit the Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs, but:
We can’t find single tickets online We only see guided tours with fixed times (like 9:30 AM / 4-hour tours)
👉 Do you know if it’s possible to book without a guide? 👉 Or do we have to buy tickets on-site? (We’re a little worried about crowds and lines, especially with older folks in the group.) 🍽️ Restaurants / meals We’ve spotted the Grand Bazaar Marrakech for a meal. 👉 Any thoughts? 👉 Could you recommend other restaurants in the same budget? (We’re a big group, so it needs to stay reasonable.) For lunch/snacks, we’ve seen:
Snack Toubkal Goûter Saveur
👉 If anyone’s been, I’d love your feedback! 😊 🛒 Practical info – Targa neighborhood We’ll be in Targa (El Idrissi Street). 👉 Are there shops nearby for quick groceries (breakfast, water, etc.)?
If you’ve got any great tips, contacts, or little tricks, I’d love to hear them! 😍 Thanks so much for your help! 💖
We can’t find single tickets online We only see guided tours with fixed times (like 9:30 AM / 4-hour tours)
👉 Do you know if it’s possible to book without a guide? 👉 Or do we have to buy tickets on-site? (We’re a little worried about crowds and lines, especially with older folks in the group.) 🍽️ Restaurants / meals We’ve spotted the Grand Bazaar Marrakech for a meal. 👉 Any thoughts? 👉 Could you recommend other restaurants in the same budget? (We’re a big group, so it needs to stay reasonable.) For lunch/snacks, we’ve seen:
Snack Toubkal Goûter Saveur
👉 If anyone’s been, I’d love your feedback! 😊 🛒 Practical info – Targa neighborhood We’ll be in Targa (El Idrissi Street). 👉 Are there shops nearby for quick groceries (breakfast, water, etc.)?
If you’ve got any great tips, contacts, or little tricks, I’d love to hear them! 😍 Thanks so much for your help! 💖
As-salamu alaykum!
We’re heading to Morocco as a family from April 22 to May 8. It’s a bit short to explore such a beautiful and vast country, but school and work commitments, you know how it is... My partner is a musician and absolutely loves Gnawa music. Unfortunately, we won’t have time to visit Essaouira, as we’re heading south toward the Valley of the Roses...
Do you know of any places around Marrakech, Ouarzazate, or Kelaat M’Gouna where we might have the chance to meet Gnawa musicians? We’ll also be staying a few days in Aït Benhaddou and Skoura during our trip toward the Dadès Valley. If you have any good spots to buy a guembri along the way, I’d love to hear about them too! :)
Thanks in advance for your tips!
Mathieu
We’re heading to Morocco as a family from April 22 to May 8. It’s a bit short to explore such a beautiful and vast country, but school and work commitments, you know how it is... My partner is a musician and absolutely loves Gnawa music. Unfortunately, we won’t have time to visit Essaouira, as we’re heading south toward the Valley of the Roses...
Do you know of any places around Marrakech, Ouarzazate, or Kelaat M’Gouna where we might have the chance to meet Gnawa musicians? We’ll also be staying a few days in Aït Benhaddou and Skoura during our trip toward the Dadès Valley. If you have any good spots to buy a guembri along the way, I’d love to hear about them too! :)
Thanks in advance for your tips!
Mathieu
Mid-May: arriving alone (so, a "petit taxi"?) at Marrakech airport around 4:30 PM,
is it advisable to take a taxi at the airport (cost?) or is it wiser to book one through the hotel before departure (which would cost me 20 €)?
I think I’ve seen lower fares elsewhere (12 €?).
Destination: Riad Sijane near Djemaa El Fna square. Thanks!
hi there
we’re heading to Hammamet in a few months
what would you recommend visiting for a week?
best regards
Hi there,
I’m planning my next trip outside Europe for next year, but unfortunately, I don’t have a choice with the dates—it’s late June to early July. Last year, I went to Japan for three weeks, and it was constantly 36-37°C with over 90% humidity. It wasn’t easy, but it wasn’t impossible either.
For Egypt, I know it’s a period to avoid if possible, but I’m thinking that by the sea, it might be manageable. Otherwise, I’ll consider another destination.
Day 1: Arrival in Hurghada in the evening Day 2, 3, 4: Hurghada Day 5: Hurghada, then drive to Luxor in the early afternoon Day 6: Luxor Day 7: Luxor, then drive back to Hurghada in the late afternoon Day 8, 9, 10, 11: Hurghada Day 12: Return flight
For the Hurghada trip, either rent a car or—easier—a private car/van. Is it worth adding an extra day in Luxor?
During the stay, we’re planning activities like camel rides, quad biking, jeep tours, snorkeling, and jet skiing.
Thanks for your replies
I’m planning my next trip outside Europe for next year, but unfortunately, I don’t have a choice with the dates—it’s late June to early July. Last year, I went to Japan for three weeks, and it was constantly 36-37°C with over 90% humidity. It wasn’t easy, but it wasn’t impossible either.
For Egypt, I know it’s a period to avoid if possible, but I’m thinking that by the sea, it might be manageable. Otherwise, I’ll consider another destination.
Day 1: Arrival in Hurghada in the evening Day 2, 3, 4: Hurghada Day 5: Hurghada, then drive to Luxor in the early afternoon Day 6: Luxor Day 7: Luxor, then drive back to Hurghada in the late afternoon Day 8, 9, 10, 11: Hurghada Day 12: Return flight
For the Hurghada trip, either rent a car or—easier—a private car/van. Is it worth adding an extra day in Luxor?
During the stay, we’re planning activities like camel rides, quad biking, jeep tours, snorkeling, and jet skiing.
Thanks for your replies
Hi there,
We’re planning a trip to Morocco in September-October in our Fiat camper van, which isn’t a 4x4 but has already handled quite a bit of rough travel. While reading up on southern Morocco, we’ve been drawn to the Aguinane oasis but I’m having trouble locating it on the map. Is it possible to get there without a 4x4?
Thanks for your help
Hi,
Does anyone know the address of a rose flower distillery in the Valley of Roses / Kelaa M'Gouna? A traditional distillery, not just the tourist shop.
Thanks a bunch!
Nicolas :-)
Does anyone know the address of a rose flower distillery in the Valley of Roses / Kelaa M'Gouna? A traditional distillery, not just the tourist shop.
Thanks a bunch!
Nicolas :-)
Hi there,
Can anyone tell me if it's possible to travel from the Dades Gorges (Msemrir) to the Todra Gorges (Tamtatouche) on a paved road? Thanks in advance for any answers.
Hello,
We’d like to hire a French-speaking guide (agency, professional, or volunteer) to show us around Cairo over three days.
Trip planned for November 22, 23, and 24, 2026—four veteran French travelers.
We’re open to any leads, contact info, or suggestions.
Best regards,
Jacques
Hi there,
I have a layover in Algeria.
I won’t be leaving the airport.
The two tickets aren’t with the same airline.
Do I need a transit visa?
Thanks for any details and your help!
Hi there,
I live in Casablanca and my parents, who are 80, will be joining me in Marrakech at the beginning of May for a few days.
We’ll be renting a car to get around.
Do you have any suggestions for things to see or visit within a 2-3 hour drive max from Marrakech that aren’t too touristy?
My parents can walk a bit, but at 80, no climbing Mount Toubkal!
Thanks so much in advance for your ideas!
Hi everyone, just back from the 8-day Marrakech-Merzouga loop by car, and I’d love to share my feedback in case it helps some of you. Big thanks to all the forum members who kindly answered my questions!
Trip from Friday the 20th to Saturday the 28th, flying out of Marseille with Ryanair
- Landed late around 8 PM local time, exchanged some currency, and the rental agency (Magdaz Car, which I highly recommend) delivered the car straight to the airport with some great route tips (don’t blindly trust Maps.me). The night drive was a bit intense—lots of people out and about due to Ramadan. Stayed at Riad Midhou (really nice) on the outskirts of the city, which made it easy to hit the road the next morning.
- Day 1: Marrakech to Skoura. The drive was smooth, roads are great, but watch out for roundabout priority—it’s different from France. Beautiful route. Quick stop in Ouarzazate for lunch, Ait Benhaddou for the view (stunning), and the Fint Oasis (meh...). Spent the night at Taloute Ecolodge in Skoura, overlooking the palm grove (super cozy).
- Day 2: Skoura to Todgha Gorges via the Valley of Roses and Dades Gorges. Adventure-packed day! We crossed the Valley of Roses (pretty, but not as amazing as I’d hoped) and took a "shortcut" recommended by the *Routard* guide to reach the Dades Gorges without backtracking. After asking locals, they said, "It’s doable." Turns out it was a narrow, rocky cliffside track—no way to turn around! A stressful moment, with a nice scratch on the bumper and a good sweat. Fine in an SUV or 4x4, but not in a Logan... Then the Dades Gorges (nice) and a detour through the north to reach Todgha from above. Gorgeous mountain road and a quick stop on some snow patches—touching African snow! Spent the night at *Les Gorges de Todgha*—great place, except for the bathroom. The Todgha Gorges themselves are stunning!
Day 3: Todgha to Merzouga. Beautiful drive, and the view of the erg (sand dunes) on arrival is breathtaking! Totally worth the trip. Explored the desert and stayed at *Café du Sud* hotel just outside Merzouga—absolutely gorgeous.
Day 4: Merzouga. Desert exploration and chilling by the hotel pool (with a bonus sunburn). Lunch in Merzouga—I recommend *Dakar*—their lemon tajine was amazing. Spent the night in the hotel’s luxury camp, including a camel ride. The camp was beautiful, but I was disappointed we weren’t deeper in the desert given the price (100 € per person, including dinner, breakfast, and camel ride).
Day 5: Merzouga to Tamnougalt. Gorgeous route. First fine (a supposed stop sign...) but the officer was super nice—only 150 MAD. Stayed at *Kasbah Maktob*, right in the middle of ruins—really unique and beautiful!
Day 6: Tamnougalt to Marrakech. Another beautiful drive, and a second fine (minor speeding), same amount. Crossed a windy mountain pass during a big storm—traffic was blocked in the opposite direction (not sure why), causing massive jams for those coming from Marrakech. A few downed cables, but nothing serious. Arriving in Marrakech was tricky—hard to find the rental agency, and the traffic was intense (watch out for GPS trying to send you through the medina). Ask the rental company to meet you somewhere quiet. They didn’t even notice the damaged bumper... Stayed at *Riad Zifamo* in the heart of the medina. Big change of pace—so many people and so much hustle!
Day 7: Marrakech. Lots of wandering through the souk and a quick trip to Gueliz (not essential). A few tips for the medina: watch out for scooters weaving too fast, always negotiate prices (aim for at least 1/3 off what they ask, unless it’s a small amount), don’t buy spices—more expensive than in France! Head to the *Carrefour Market* in Gueliz for better prices. In the end, not many truly unique items—you’ll find more or less the same things everywhere.
Day 8: Early morning flight. We’d booked a car to the airport from the riad, but a taxi would’ve been fine—plenty available even at 7 AM. Security wasn’t an issue (we had lighters and liquids over 100 ml).
A few extra notes: Pleasantly surprised by the road quality—just a few potholes here and there, but overall very drivable. Watch out for the police—they’re everywhere! The car cost me 30 € per day (with the *Routard* discount) and about 90 € in gas. No safety concerns, no harassment, and no stomach issues, despite the ice in Marrakech. Breakfasts at the hotels were usually hearty—take advantage! The timing (end of February) was perfect—pleasant daytime temps and cool nights. Since it was Ramadan, nothing unusual to report, except it was hard to find food outside Marrakech at lunchtime. If I did it again, Merzouga is a must, but I’d spend a night in a real desert bivouac, deeper in the dunes. My stops (no more than 300 km a day) were well-paced, and with so few cars on the road, it wasn’t tiring—even though I’m not usually a fan of driving... Happy to answer any questions!
Trip from Friday the 20th to Saturday the 28th, flying out of Marseille with Ryanair
- Landed late around 8 PM local time, exchanged some currency, and the rental agency (Magdaz Car, which I highly recommend) delivered the car straight to the airport with some great route tips (don’t blindly trust Maps.me). The night drive was a bit intense—lots of people out and about due to Ramadan. Stayed at Riad Midhou (really nice) on the outskirts of the city, which made it easy to hit the road the next morning.
- Day 1: Marrakech to Skoura. The drive was smooth, roads are great, but watch out for roundabout priority—it’s different from France. Beautiful route. Quick stop in Ouarzazate for lunch, Ait Benhaddou for the view (stunning), and the Fint Oasis (meh...). Spent the night at Taloute Ecolodge in Skoura, overlooking the palm grove (super cozy).
- Day 2: Skoura to Todgha Gorges via the Valley of Roses and Dades Gorges. Adventure-packed day! We crossed the Valley of Roses (pretty, but not as amazing as I’d hoped) and took a "shortcut" recommended by the *Routard* guide to reach the Dades Gorges without backtracking. After asking locals, they said, "It’s doable." Turns out it was a narrow, rocky cliffside track—no way to turn around! A stressful moment, with a nice scratch on the bumper and a good sweat. Fine in an SUV or 4x4, but not in a Logan... Then the Dades Gorges (nice) and a detour through the north to reach Todgha from above. Gorgeous mountain road and a quick stop on some snow patches—touching African snow! Spent the night at *Les Gorges de Todgha*—great place, except for the bathroom. The Todgha Gorges themselves are stunning!
Day 3: Todgha to Merzouga. Beautiful drive, and the view of the erg (sand dunes) on arrival is breathtaking! Totally worth the trip. Explored the desert and stayed at *Café du Sud* hotel just outside Merzouga—absolutely gorgeous.
Day 4: Merzouga. Desert exploration and chilling by the hotel pool (with a bonus sunburn). Lunch in Merzouga—I recommend *Dakar*—their lemon tajine was amazing. Spent the night in the hotel’s luxury camp, including a camel ride. The camp was beautiful, but I was disappointed we weren’t deeper in the desert given the price (100 € per person, including dinner, breakfast, and camel ride).
Day 5: Merzouga to Tamnougalt. Gorgeous route. First fine (a supposed stop sign...) but the officer was super nice—only 150 MAD. Stayed at *Kasbah Maktob*, right in the middle of ruins—really unique and beautiful!
Day 6: Tamnougalt to Marrakech. Another beautiful drive, and a second fine (minor speeding), same amount. Crossed a windy mountain pass during a big storm—traffic was blocked in the opposite direction (not sure why), causing massive jams for those coming from Marrakech. A few downed cables, but nothing serious. Arriving in Marrakech was tricky—hard to find the rental agency, and the traffic was intense (watch out for GPS trying to send you through the medina). Ask the rental company to meet you somewhere quiet. They didn’t even notice the damaged bumper... Stayed at *Riad Zifamo* in the heart of the medina. Big change of pace—so many people and so much hustle!
Day 7: Marrakech. Lots of wandering through the souk and a quick trip to Gueliz (not essential). A few tips for the medina: watch out for scooters weaving too fast, always negotiate prices (aim for at least 1/3 off what they ask, unless it’s a small amount), don’t buy spices—more expensive than in France! Head to the *Carrefour Market* in Gueliz for better prices. In the end, not many truly unique items—you’ll find more or less the same things everywhere.
Day 8: Early morning flight. We’d booked a car to the airport from the riad, but a taxi would’ve been fine—plenty available even at 7 AM. Security wasn’t an issue (we had lighters and liquids over 100 ml).
A few extra notes: Pleasantly surprised by the road quality—just a few potholes here and there, but overall very drivable. Watch out for the police—they’re everywhere! The car cost me 30 € per day (with the *Routard* discount) and about 90 € in gas. No safety concerns, no harassment, and no stomach issues, despite the ice in Marrakech. Breakfasts at the hotels were usually hearty—take advantage! The timing (end of February) was perfect—pleasant daytime temps and cool nights. Since it was Ramadan, nothing unusual to report, except it was hard to find food outside Marrakech at lunchtime. If I did it again, Merzouga is a must, but I’d spend a night in a real desert bivouac, deeper in the dunes. My stops (no more than 300 km a day) were well-paced, and with so few cars on the road, it wasn’t tiring—even though I’m not usually a fan of driving... Happy to answer any questions!
Hi there,
I’m traveling solo to Egypt. Could you give me a rough idea of the budget for:
meals
hotels
taxis including tips
visits...
Just an estimate, of course.
For 15 days, what would the price range be, considering there’s an overnight train and a Nile cruise?
I’d like to compare with a travel agency. Is it more worthwhile to go through an agency despite the downsides of group travel?
Otherwise, if a travel buddy is interested in this country, why not?
Thanks a lot!