Merzouga (Berber languages: ⵎⵔⵣⵓⴳⴰ, Arabic: مرزوقة) is a small village in southeastern Morocco, about 35 km (22 mi) southeast of Rissani, about 55 km (34 mi) from Erfoud and about 50 km (31 mi) from the Algerian border.

The village is located near the Erg Chebbi dunes, which are among the tallest in the Sahara. Known for its landscapes and Berber culture, Merzouga serves as a key base for travelers seeking adventure in the desert. Visitors can explore the sand dunes, experience camel treks, and engage with the unique traditions of the local communities. The village offers a blend of popular sights, cultural experiences, and opportunities for stargazing in one of the clearest night skies in the world, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring Morocco.

Some of the other villages near the dunes of Erg Chebbi are Hassilabied 4 km (2.5 mi) away, Tanamoust 3 km (1.9 mi) away, Takoujt 1.5 km (0.93 mi) away, Khamlia 7 km (4.3 mi) away, and Tisserdmine 15 km (9.3 mi) away.

Approximately 9,000 to 10,000 years ago, the region was likely a verdant, tropical jungle teeming with trees and water, coinciding with a period when the Sahara Desert was characterized by abundant vegetation and lakes.^[1]

Merzouga was an uninhabited oasis, but later became a transit point for merchants heading to Timbuktu. It later became a pilgrimage for the nomads of Ait Atta tribes and eventually became a tourist destination.

During French colonial rule, fortifications were built by troops of the French Foreign Legion after the battles of Taflalet, which occurred between 1916 and 1932.

On 26 May 2006, during the night, Merzouga experienced devastating flash floods causing severe damage to buildings, cars, and the traditional irrigation system. The flood left 1200 people displaced and three people died. Animals also died in their collapsed stables.

Merzouga faces several environmental challenges, particularly related to tourism and waste management. The increase in visitors has led to concerns about littering in the dunes and improper waste disposal, which impacts the region's fragile ecosystem. Local authorities have taken measures to regulate tourism activities, including closing unlicensed desert camps in 2019 due to concerns over waste disposal, water usage, and infrastructure sustainability. These closures sparked debate among local communities, as tourism is a significant part of the area's economy.^[2]

The region has also experienced rare environmental events, such as unexpected flooding. In October 2024, heavy rainfall led to formation of temporary lakes in normally dry areas, a phenomenon not observed in decades.^[3][4] Such occurrences highlight the nature of Merzouga's desert environment and the ongoing need for sustainable land and water management practices.

• Sahara
• Sahara desert
• African humid period
• Morocco

• Media related to Merzouga at Wikimedia Commons