M’Hamid El Ghizlane, also called “the plain of gazelles”, is one of the most unique places to visit in Morocco. Located at the edge of the Sahara Desert, this quiet desert town was once an important caravan stop on the trans-Saharan trade route. Today, it is known as the gateway to Erg Chigaga, one of the largest and most remote sand dunes in Morocco.
In this ultimate travel guide, you will discover the best things to do, how to get there, where to stay, the most beautiful desert camps nearby, and the best time to visit. If you dream of riding camels over golden dunes, sleeping under the stars, and discovering Morocco’s nomadic culture, this guide is for you.
Best Things to Do in M’Hamid El Ghizlane
1. Walk Through the Ancient Town
Even though M’Hamid is small, it has a rich history. The town was once a busy trade hub. When you walk through the streets, you’ll see traditional mud-brick houses, a 14th-century ksar (fortified village), and a central mosque.
Every Monday, there’s a weekly market (souk) where people from nearby villages come to sell fruits, vegetables, spices, clothes, and crafts. It’s a great place to experience local life, buy snacks for your desert trip, and take colorful photos.
2. Camp Overnight in the Sahara Desert
This is the main reason people visit M’Hamid. Just beyond the town, the desert opens into massive dunes known as Erg Chigaga. These dunes are more peaceful and less crowded than the ones in Merzouga (Erg Chebbi).
You can ride a camel or take a 4×4 jeep to reach the desert camps. At night, you’ll sit around the fire, eat delicious Moroccan food, listen to Berber drumming, and watch the stars. Many travelers say this is the highlight of their trip to Morocco.
3. Explore Iriqui National Park
Just beyond Erg Chigaga is Iriqui National Park. This huge area was once a lake but is now a salt flat surrounded by desert. It’s a great place to spot acacia trees, desert foxes, and birds like the houbara bustard.
You can book tours to Iriqui National Park through your hotel or desert camp. Some guides also offer multi-day trekking tours on foot or by camel through the park’s wild landscapes.
4. Attend the Taragalte Festival
If you visit in October, don’t miss the Taragalte Festival. This three-day event celebrates the music, art, and traditions of nomadic tribes from Morocco and across the Sahara.
You’ll enjoy live music, storytelling, art exhibitions, food tastings, and workshops. The festival is a chance to connect with local culture and understand the deep history of the Sahara.
How to Get to M’Hamid El Ghizlane
By Car
The easiest way to get to M’Hamid is by rental car. The nearest airport is in Ouarzazate, which is a 4-hour drive away. Many visitors fly into Marrakech, which is about 7.5 hours away by car.
Driving through the Draa Valley is part of the adventure. You’ll pass ancient kasbahs, palm groves, and red mountains. The road is in good condition and follows the N9 highway most of the way.
By Bus
CTM and Supratours run daily buses from both Marrakech and Ouarzazate to M’Hamid. The trip takes longer but is affordable and comfortable. It’s best to book tickets in advance during busy seasons.
By Shared Taxi
You can also travel by shared taxi. These leave when full and can be found in Zagora, Ouarzazate, and sometimes Marrakech. You may need to switch taxis along the way. It’s a cheap and authentic way to travel.
By Guided Tour
Many people visit M’Hamid on a private or group tour from Marrakech or Ouarzazate. These tours include transport, meals, desert camp accommodation, and sometimes extra stops like Aït Ben Haddou or Zagora. This is a great option if you want everything arranged for you.
Best Places to Stay in M’Hamid El Ghizlane
Sbai Palace
This luxury hotel in M’Hamid is perfect for travelers who want comfort before or after their desert trip. It has a large swimming pool, air-conditioned rooms, and offers activities like yoga, cooking classes, and camel trekking.
Dar M’Hamid
A cozy and affordable guesthouse run by a former nomad named Omar. It’s located right on the town’s main street and offers traditional rooms, tasty meals, and desert excursions.
Riad Imuhar
This riad was built with local clay and is known for its peaceful setting near the Draa River. Meals are prepared using herbs from the on-site garden, and the staff can arrange desert tours.
Best Desert Camps Near M’Hamid El Ghizlane
Zaila Erg Luxury Camp
If you want comfort in the middle of the desert, this camp is perfect. It offers glamping tents with big beds, private bathrooms, and gourmet meals. Activities include camel riding, quad biking, and sandboarding.
Bivouac La Dune Blanche
This desert camp mixes adventure with comfort. Each tent has electricity and hot showers, and guests enjoy meals under a large desert tree. There are many activities like 4×4 tours, camel rides, and drumming under the stars.
Camp Chraika
This budget-friendly camp is just a short walk from M’Hamid, making it a great option if you don’t have time for a deep desert trip. It has shared facilities, a lounge area, and friendly staff who organize sunset camel rides and local excursions.
Best Time to Visit M’Hamid El Ghizlane
The best time to visit is between October and April. During this time, the weather is cool and pleasant, with sunny days and chilly nights. This is also the season for desert trekking, camping, and cultural festivals.
Avoid visiting in summer (June to August) as temperatures can go over 45°C (113°F) and make travel very uncomfortable.
If you want to attend the Taragalte Festival, plan your trip for October. Spring (March to May) is also beautiful, with blooming desert flowers and clear skies.
Final Tips for Visiting M’Hamid El Ghizlane
- Pack light, breathable clothes for the day and warm layers for night.
- Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a scarf to protect yourself from the sun and sand.
- Stay hydrated and carry a refillable water bottle.
- Don’t forget your camera – the desert landscapes are stunning.
- Be respectful of local customs and always ask before taking photos of people.
- If you can, support local businesses and guides – your visit helps this remote community thrive.
Why Visit M’Hamid El Ghizlane?
M’Hamid is more than just a starting point for desert trips. It is a place filled with history, culture, and beauty. Whether you’re watching the sunset over sand dunes, joining a nomadic music festival, or sipping mint tea by the fire, you will leave with unforgettable memories.
If you’re looking for a less touristy, more authentic desert experience, M’Hamid El Ghizlane is the perfect destination in Morocco.
Plan your adventure today, and discover the magic of the Sahara Desert like never before.