Original post
quelqu'un connaitrait-il un hôtel convenable à METLAOUI ?
Merci
Jean-marc LAFFARGUE - association LES PARRAINS DU DESERT
" un jour, j'irai encore plus loin ..."
Hôtel à Metlaoui? (Tunisie)
by Jml07
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Il y avait 2 hôtels à Métlaoui mais l'un était fermé cet été. De toutes façons, il vaut mieux oublier et faire la route jusqu'à Tozeur. C'était moche, moche ! Allez à Tozeur à la maison d'hote. pour le même prix un très très bel endroit où on s'occupera de vous.
Si c'est pour le voyage où vous êtes 17, impossible il n'y a que 2 chambres !
Dans ce cas voyez hôtel El Amen (le plus calme) , El Arish, Warda, Niffer... Tous à peu près au même prix. Où bien cherchez sur le site "Tunisie chez l'habitant" il y a peut-être des grandes maisons.
Bon voyage.
La terre entière est ma patrie et la famille humaine est ma tribu.
Je confirme ce que dit Mraïssa, oubliez Metlaoui pour séjourner et filez à Tozeur. Dans les petites résidences, moi j'ai un faible pour Warda en prenant des chambres qui donnent sur la cour intérieure. Par contre, au passage à Metloui, achetez des zlabias (gateaux tunisiens, très caloriques), dans une petite échoppe sur la gauche en direction de Tozeur, ce sont les meilleurs.
Bon séjour
Monique
www.jeancamillelouit.blogspot.com
Bonjour
Voici les coordonné de l'hôtel "Thélja" à Metlaoui:
Tél: +216 76 241 570 , fax: +216 76 241 486
C'est un hôtel 2* avec une capacité de 60 lits, idéal pour une nuit de passage.
Amitiés
Si celui là est un 2 * tous les hôtels de tunisie sont classés !
Idéal seulement si vous n'avez pas l'intention de dormir ni même de petit déjeuner.
Merci de nous tenir informés des changements.
La terre entière est ma patrie et la famille humaine est ma tribu.
Je confirme un peu tout ce qui a été dit avant.......
Cependant, il existait pas très loin, à Tamerza, un "hôtel camping" des Cascades.....Je ne sais pas si c'est toujours d'actualité ? Il y avait ce téléphone:
+216 6 45365 ??
Il y a aussi "l'Hôtel des Oasis montagneuses"......Mais je connais pas ?
Et tu es tout proche de la frontière !
Un voyage de 1000 lieues commence toujours par un pas !
(proverbe chinois)
Très bien l'hôtel des oasis montagneuses mais à une soixantaine de km de Métlaoui. Dans ce cas, autant aller à Tozeur. Beaucoup de choix.
Tout cela dépend de la suite du voyage !
La terre entière est ma patrie et la famille humaine est ma tribu.
Je ne connais pas les hôtels de Metlaoui car je n'ai souvent fait qu'y passer (la route entre Métlaoui et Gafsa est très belle).
Par contre, à Metlaoui ce qui est sympa c'est de faire la ballade avec le train Le Lézard rouge.
Si c'était votre intention, je veux juste vous avertir qu'il y a eu récemment de nombreux dégats suite aux pluies diluviennes et le train ne fonctionnait plus au mois d'octobre.
Aussi, renseignez vous avant !
Bon voyage
Bon voyage
Idéal seulement si vous n'avez pas l'intention de dormir ni même de petit déjeuner
Je te rappelle que même dans les hôtel non classé on peut dormir et avoir le petit déj Je vois aussi que tu donne pas de nom d'hôtel à n'importe quel endroit ( sujet du post) mais en même temps tu critique 🤪
Je te rappelle que même dans les hôtel non classé on peut dormir et avoir le petit déj Je vois aussi que tu donne pas de nom d'hôtel à n'importe quel endroit ( sujet du post) mais en même temps tu critique 🤪
Je te rappelle la question : "Quelqu'un connaitrait-il un hôtel convenable à Métlaoui ?"
Pas besoin de donner des noms il n'y en a pas.
J'ai tout à fait l'habitude de dormir dans des hôtels non classés, pour ex dans cette région, j'ai dormi à Tozeur à l'hôtel Warda, El Amen, El Arish, résidence Niffer, à Tamerza aux cascades et aux oasis montagneuses, à Douz au 20 Mars, à Zaafrane et partout ailleurs en Tunisie. Et dans tous ces endroits, un petit déjeuner nous a été servi, plus ou moins riche.
S'il y a besoin de donner des noms d'hôtels pour critiquer, allons-y ! Le choix n'est pas très important, il n'y a que 2 adresses... A Métlaoui j'ai tenté de dormir à l'hôtel Selja et à l'hotel Ennacim, Impossible et je vais te dire pourquoi. Ce sont 2 endroits ou l'alcool est autorisé au bar du rez de chaussée et il y a du monde qui va et vient très bruyamment jusqu'à 2 heures du mat Ce sont des hôtels en bord d'une route très bruyante, (celui qui est à côté du poste de police est encore plus bruyant car il y avait eu des sorties toutes la nuit) A l'hôtel Selja, on aurait pu croire que le poste de télé d'une chambre voisine était dans la notre, tellement c'était fort jusqu'à très très tard, Les chambres étaient sales, les draps trop courts, pas de papier ni de serviettes de toilette et il n'y avait quasiment pas d'eau, chaude ou froide. Et pour le petit déj, je peux te dire qu'à l'hôtel Selja, il n'y avait personne pour le préparer, que nous l'avons préparé nous-mêmes et j'aurais aimé que tu vois l'état de la cuisine. Nous avons pu seulement (après nettoyage d'une casserole dans un évier bouché où surnageaient les restes des repas de la veille) faire chauffer de l'eau et y ajouter les sachets de thé et de café que nous avions.
Dans ce cas précis, j'ai dormi dans les 2 endroits et cela s'est si mal passé que maintenant à chaque fois que je vais et que j'ai l'intention de faire l'excursion avec le train du bey, je vais dormir à Tozeur ou à Chébika et je reviens le matin pour l'heure du train, soit 2 fois une cinquantaine de km supplémentaire. Je veux bien croire que ce sont 2 expériences malheureuses mais en ce qui me concerne je n'y retournerai pas et je ne les conseille pas tant que des retours ne seront pas meilleurs. Il faut arrêter de parler de généralité, les forumeurs demandent à ceux qui y sont allés des retours d'expérience. Merci de nous dire quand tu es allé et comment c'était.
J'ai tout à fait l'habitude de dormir dans des hôtels non classés, pour ex dans cette région, j'ai dormi à Tozeur à l'hôtel Warda, El Amen, El Arish, résidence Niffer, à Tamerza aux cascades et aux oasis montagneuses, à Douz au 20 Mars, à Zaafrane et partout ailleurs en Tunisie. Et dans tous ces endroits, un petit déjeuner nous a été servi, plus ou moins riche.
S'il y a besoin de donner des noms d'hôtels pour critiquer, allons-y ! Le choix n'est pas très important, il n'y a que 2 adresses... A Métlaoui j'ai tenté de dormir à l'hôtel Selja et à l'hotel Ennacim, Impossible et je vais te dire pourquoi. Ce sont 2 endroits ou l'alcool est autorisé au bar du rez de chaussée et il y a du monde qui va et vient très bruyamment jusqu'à 2 heures du mat Ce sont des hôtels en bord d'une route très bruyante, (celui qui est à côté du poste de police est encore plus bruyant car il y avait eu des sorties toutes la nuit) A l'hôtel Selja, on aurait pu croire que le poste de télé d'une chambre voisine était dans la notre, tellement c'était fort jusqu'à très très tard, Les chambres étaient sales, les draps trop courts, pas de papier ni de serviettes de toilette et il n'y avait quasiment pas d'eau, chaude ou froide. Et pour le petit déj, je peux te dire qu'à l'hôtel Selja, il n'y avait personne pour le préparer, que nous l'avons préparé nous-mêmes et j'aurais aimé que tu vois l'état de la cuisine. Nous avons pu seulement (après nettoyage d'une casserole dans un évier bouché où surnageaient les restes des repas de la veille) faire chauffer de l'eau et y ajouter les sachets de thé et de café que nous avions.
Dans ce cas précis, j'ai dormi dans les 2 endroits et cela s'est si mal passé que maintenant à chaque fois que je vais et que j'ai l'intention de faire l'excursion avec le train du bey, je vais dormir à Tozeur ou à Chébika et je reviens le matin pour l'heure du train, soit 2 fois une cinquantaine de km supplémentaire. Je veux bien croire que ce sont 2 expériences malheureuses mais en ce qui me concerne je n'y retournerai pas et je ne les conseille pas tant que des retours ne seront pas meilleurs. Il faut arrêter de parler de généralité, les forumeurs demandent à ceux qui y sont allés des retours d'expérience. Merci de nous dire quand tu es allé et comment c'était.
La terre entière est ma patrie et la famille humaine est ma tribu.
Votre récit me fait penser à mon expérience de l'hotel Amaidra à Kasserine (pas trop éloigné de Metlaoui)
C'était un 2* avec bar à alcool...
L'enfer, le bruit, les odeurs, et la saleté!
Il y avait des traces de pneus (des vrais OUI OUI- pas de mauvaises pensées) sur les draps jetés en boule dans un coin de la chambre, et la serviette de toilette devait avoir au moins 1 mois de service... Pas grave, l'eau ne fonctionnait pas!
Un chouette 2* qui était encore recommandé par le fameux Routard de 2006! (je devrais mettre à jour mes guides plus souvent)
Le Lezard rouge est une chouette excursion mais comme il démarre à 10h du matin, les touristes ont largement le temps de venir depuis Tozeur...
J’ai bien lu le sujet du post et je ne modifie pas beaucoup mon méssage 😉 Je vois que tu veux généraliser ton propre expérience, cet hôtel reçois tous les jours des clients de passage, j'y était en Mars 2009 pour une nuit et je le trouvé moyen par rapport à ce qu'on a payé, quelques jeunes le fréquente, c'est vrai car c'est le seul hôtel dans la région qui sert de l'alcool mais ils y restent pas jusqu'a une heure tardive à ce que les clients de l'hôtel serons déranger, on ne les laisse pas......Quant à la propreté des chambres voila quelques photos ci dessous. Il suffit de demander au personnelles un petit service, ils y sont très serviable, le petit déj pour eux ça commence dés 06h00 du matin.
C'est pas bien aussi d'inciter les voyageurs de faire une cinquantaine de kilomètre pour dormir à Tozeur dans les hôtel que tu as proposé ( Warda, Ariche…) et qui se situent aussi au bord de la route devant des café ou il y a le bruit des gens qui fument les chichas avec des voitures qui passent tout le temps.
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Thanks in advance for your replies and your kindness! 😊
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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
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!