Circuit en voiture dans le sud de la Tunisie
by IsaHerve
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
Bonjour,
J'organise un voyage pour la semaine du 12 au 19 Mars 2009. Nous atterrissons à Tozeur à 13H30 et récupérons une peugeot 206. De là, nous pensons rejoindre directement Douz. J'ai lu que le trajet dure environ 2H, ce qui nous permettrait d'être à Douz en fin d'après-midi, d'y faire un petit tour du marché puisque ce sera jeudi. Le marché dure-t-il toute la journée ? Combien de temps en voiture faut-il depuis l'aéroport de Tozeur pour rejoindre Douz sans trop speeder et en profitant du paysage ?
Après une nuit à Douz, pourquoi pas en Bivouac (si vous avez des bonnes adresses, ça m'intéresse), nous envisageons d'aller à Ksar Ghilane. La route entre Douz et Ksar Ghilane est-elle maintenant accessible en voiture de tourisme ? Combien de temps faut-il prévoir pour le trajet ? Nous pensions dormir là-bas, mais je suis un peu hésitante car l'hôtel Pansea est assez cher (109€ la nuit), et je n'ai pas trouvé d'autres adresses, donc si vous en avez, ça m'intéresse vivement. Egalement, que conseillez-vous : est-ce sympa de dormir à Ksar Ghilane ? Est-ce que ça vaut le coup ?
Ensuite, de Ksar, l'idée est de rejoindre Tataouïne via Chenini. Est-ce faisable en voiture de tourisme ? Combien de temps prévoir ? Nuit à Tataouïne, je pensais à ce gîte troglodyte : http://www.tunisiechezlhabitant.fr/chambre-hote-douiret-01.htm Gîte douiret. Est-ce que vous connaissez ? Est-ce bien ?
Puis, le lendemain, départ pour Matmata via Ksar Hadada, Beni Kheddache et Toujane. Ce trajet est-il faisable dans la journée en prenant un peu de temps sur les sites sympas ? A Matmata, j'ai vu 2 hébergements troglodytes : le Marhala du touring club et Sidi Driss. Lequel recommandez-vous ?
Ensuite, direction Metlaoui. L'idée serait de dormir pas trop loin pour faire le lendemain la ballade en train "le lézard rouge". Est-ce que cette ballade vaut le coup ? Ou est-ce que l'on peut voir les mêmes choses en voiture ? Où dormir à proximité ?
Puis, après la ballade en train, direction Mides et Tamerza via Moulares. Déjeuner à Tamerza. Il paraît que le Tamerza palace est génial pour sa vue sur le village, mais vu le prix pour une nuit !... Ensuite, retour sur Tozeur/Nefta avec la dernière nuit dans cette zone.
Dans ce projet d'itinéraire, il me reste une Nuit pas encore casée. Selon vous, d'une part cet itinéraire est-il correct, réaliste et bien construit ? Où passer la nuit qu'il me reste ? Quels conseils pouvez-vous me donner ?
Merci par avance pour vos réponses.
Isa
Bonsoir
Le jour de votre arrivée (jeudi) il y aura présque rien dans le souk de Douz …vu l’heure ..(le marché ne dure pas toute la journée) et la distance entre Tozeur et Douz est de 120 km ..donc il vous faut +/-2 h … en tous cas la traversé de chott Ejerid sera manifique ..(lac salé)..
Pour la nuit à Douz et en bivouac est possible …car vous serez à la porte de désert et je connais quelqu’un que pourras vous organiser ça …(MP)
La route pour KG est bien …aucun problème …sauf le 5 derniers Kilomètres ..vous pouvez l’eviter en entrant dans le village …facile ..vous verrez …pensez au maillot de bain pour la baignade là bas … 150 km séparent les 2 endroits ..
Dormir à Ksar Ghilane et la visiter est très bien il faut vivre une nuit sous une tente berbères dans l’un des campement ..c’est magique l’oasis entourée des dunes ..Oui l’hôtel Pan Sea est très cher …cet hôtel est pratique lorsque il fait très chaud en été (tentes climatisée) sinon une tente berbère avec sa originalité offre plus de charme et beauté…
La route entre Ksar Ghilane et Tataouine est bien en passant par Chennini et Douiret …le gîte de Douiret je vous conseille pas ….à évité !!!!
Hôtel Gazelle à Tatouine me semble un bon endroit …
Le jour suivant est bien sauf qu’il faut éviter l’hôtel troglodyte Sidi Driss …Marhala vaut mieux avec ses bons prix et leurs services…Sidi Driss endroit de tournage de film Stars War …les touristes les visitent en masse ..
Ensuite Tozeur …se loger labas ..car le lézard rouge est à 60 km de cette ville ..en plus le train part vers 10 …11 h du matin …vous aurez le temps …( Résidence Warda est bien à Tozeur ..ou bien une nouvelle Résidence très neuve et propre nommée Ahlam)
La ballade en train est très bien …en voiture on pourra pas accéder à la gorge de Selja ..il faut réserver d’avance !!!
Après le train continuation vers Mides –Temerza et Chebika ..pour être à Tozeur vers la fin …
Vous pouvez admirez le paysage de l’ancienne Temerza en entrant dans l’hotel Termza palace en de coté piscine le vue est agréable …sans être résidents ..
Pour la nuit qui reste pourquoi pas 2 nuit de bivouac au lieu d’une ????
J’espère que toue ça va vous aider
Cordialement
Ali
bonjour, vou serez le bien venu a douz🙂.
le trajet entre toz douz c entre 1h30 2h d route sa depend le pilot🙂. les route sont bone tinkiete pa.
une nui ds le desert c possible ossi, vou pouvez profiter du maharée av une nui sou la bel etoil. apre avoir fair le marché vers lapremidi vou pouvez prendre direction porte de desert pour une nui o ds le desert le trajet sera effectué sur le do d dormadair. ( chui oraganisateur d meharée et rando chamelieres) j p bien vou offrir le service nuit ds le desert et pour la voitur el sera garage) pour douz gsar guilane, possible en voitur la route assé bone le trajet c 150km c a peut pre deu heur d route. il ya des autre adress pour les hotel a gasr guilane ya le paradis guilane e elbibane les trarif sont moin cher k hotel panssea, c ver 40 dinars pension complet/ persone. c tres sympa d dormir la bas e profiter d la souce chaude c un pecine gratui.
rejoindre ta tawine c faisable ossi par la voiture 206, le gîte troglodyte cbien. le départ pour Matmata via Ksar Hadada, Beni Kheddache et Toujane. Ce trajet est faisable san problem. pour lehebergemen j voi k Sidi Driss c bien.
la ballade en train "le lézard rouge" vaut le coup, c presk deu heur d trajet av les arré pour prendr d foto. j pense k vou devez fair une reservasion davance pour le lezar.
je voi k votr projet d'itinéraire e sup e faisable ossi, pour la nui k reste vou pouvez passer cette nuit ds lendroi kil vou plai le + ou si vou sentez le fatigué a cause d route vou pouvez passer encor une nui ds le meme endroi pour le repot, c a vou le choix
bien a vou
une nui ds le desert c possible ossi, vou pouvez profiter du maharée av une nui sou la bel etoil. apre avoir fair le marché vers lapremidi vou pouvez prendre direction porte de desert pour une nui o ds le desert le trajet sera effectué sur le do d dormadair. ( chui oraganisateur d meharée et rando chamelieres) j p bien vou offrir le service nuit ds le desert et pour la voitur el sera garage) pour douz gsar guilane, possible en voitur la route assé bone le trajet c 150km c a peut pre deu heur d route. il ya des autre adress pour les hotel a gasr guilane ya le paradis guilane e elbibane les trarif sont moin cher k hotel panssea, c ver 40 dinars pension complet/ persone. c tres sympa d dormir la bas e profiter d la souce chaude c un pecine gratui.
rejoindre ta tawine c faisable ossi par la voiture 206, le gîte troglodyte cbien. le départ pour Matmata via Ksar Hadada, Beni Kheddache et Toujane. Ce trajet est faisable san problem. pour lehebergemen j voi k Sidi Driss c bien.
la ballade en train "le lézard rouge" vaut le coup, c presk deu heur d trajet av les arré pour prendr d foto. j pense k vou devez fair une reservasion davance pour le lezar.
je voi k votr projet d'itinéraire e sup e faisable ossi, pour la nui k reste vou pouvez passer cette nuit ds lendroi kil vou plai le + ou si vou sentez le fatigué a cause d route vou pouvez passer encor une nui ds le meme endroi pour le repot, c a vou le choix
bien a vou
revdesert
Pour y être allée plusieurs fois et l'avoir conseillé avec réponses positives je vous conseille je gite de Douiret, accueil chaleureux, mais un gîte génial c'est à Toujane toujours au sud
En effet on mets moins de 2h de Tozeur à Douz il n'y a plus de piste c'est une belle route maintenant.
Quand au marché du jeudi...dommage il finit vers 13h
Pour la dernière nuit vous pouvez dormir au fort de Sabria à 30km de Douz, vous renseigner pour savoir s'il est ouvert!!
La route de Ksar Ghilane n'est plus une piste et vous pouvez également y aller en voiture de tourisme et en 4X4 pas de pb.
Bon séjour
Marie
Pour la dernière nuit vous pouvez dormir au fort de Sabria à 30km de Douz, vous renseigner pour savoir s'il est ouvert!!
La route de Ksar Ghilane n'est plus une piste et vous pouvez également y aller en voiture de tourisme et en 4X4 pas de pb.
Bon séjour
Marie
N'hésites pas à aller à Diouret c'est super, village calme, paysages magnifiques et promènes-toi au-dessus de l'hotel, je te joins deux photos
J'avais aussi beaucoup aimé le coté Est de Tataouine, tu peux faire une boucle par Ksar Ouled Soltane (bien indiqué et remonté par Ksar Jelidat) dans ce coin, chaque village a son quartier de greniers à grains, c'est superbe !
Chenini ++ fais la visite avec un guide et n'hésite pas à t'arrêter dans des villages pas tj touristiques
http://album.aufeminin.com/album/see_258278/Petit-sejour-tunisien.html
http://album.aufeminin.com/album/see_258278/Petit-sejour-tunisien.html
La liberté, c'est un cadeau qu'on se fait à soi-même - (L.Gauthier)
mon blog : http://lesvoyagesdemamina.blogspot.com/
mon blog : http://lesvoyagesdemamina.blogspot.com/
Bonjour,
Je vous donne mes points de vue sur ce que je connais sur le terrain. Douz Ksar Ghilane, c'est 149 kms de route bitumée et peu encombrée, pour ne pas dire déserte. En roulant à 80, c'est faisable en 2 heures. Passer la nuit à Ksar Ghilane, Le Pansea est cher. Les autres, le confort est rudimentaire. Voir sur place si ça vous plait tout en ayant préparé un plan B. Pour aller de Ksar Ghilane à Tataouine, il faut passer par Matmata. Par Chenini, c'est plus court certes, mais c'est une piste très éprouvante pour la mécanique: Pierres et tole ondulée. Un mon avis un véhicule de tourisme ne pourra pas faire ce trajet. Je parle en connaissance de cause, j'ai fait cette piste et j'y ai laissé un amortisseur. Mon véhicule est un 4x4 préparer pour affronter dunes et pistes. Le gite Douiret je le trouve très sympa. Le confort y est rudimentaire certes mais à mon avis plus acceptable que les celui des campements de Ksar Ghilane. A Matmata, le seul hotel où j'y suis descendu et le DIAR EL BARBAR****. Ils ont des chambres troglodites et d'autres conventionnelles. Préciser à la réservation une chambre troglodite. Le lézard rouge vous emmène dans des endroits magnifiques, inaccessibles autrement.
Es ce faisable dans le temps imparti? Tout dépend de vos interets. Il se peut que vous vous arretez sur un truc qui vous accroche et l'heure tourne, ce qui met tout en vrille. Pour moi, partez sur ce programme, que vous adapterez en cours "d'exécution".
Bon voyage et bienvenue chez nous.
Es ce faisable dans le temps imparti? Tout dépend de vos interets. Il se peut que vous vous arretez sur un truc qui vous accroche et l'heure tourne, ce qui met tout en vrille. Pour moi, partez sur ce programme, que vous adapterez en cours "d'exécution".
Bon voyage et bienvenue chez nous.
Mehdi SELLAMI
A chacun son avis ..
c'est pas la question tu conseille ou tu conseille pas !!!!
et je sais très bien pourquoi j'ai dis ( à éviter )
Cordialement
Ali 😉
Bonjour,
Nous sommes justement sur un forum pour échanger nos impressions...quand je n'aime pas un hôtel, un gîte ou un lieu je le dis et je dis pourquoi je n'aime pas, mais chaque personne est libre de choisir!!
Cordialement,
Nous sommes justement sur un forum pour échanger nos impressions...quand je n'aime pas un hôtel, un gîte ou un lieu je le dis et je dis pourquoi je n'aime pas, mais chaque personne est libre de choisir!!
Cordialement,
Toute à fait d'accord avec vous..sauf que c'est pas la fait de j'aime pas ..là bas c est très beau ça est sure ...déconseillé pour des faits et des actes tout au long de ces derniers mois ...je connais cette endroit, ce gîte je sais les histoires des voyageurs ..
Sans pouvoire parler de détailles ..
Cordialement
Ali
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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!








