Merzouga

Merzouga has an ever-expanding strip of hotels and guesthouses, with options ranging from simple to sublime. The village’s main draw, though, is the easy access it offers to Erg Chebbi, and its magnificent dunes. A dawn or dusk trip to the dunes has become a classic Moroccan adventure, and is worth the effort. A series of café-restaurant-hotels overlooks Erg Chebbi, and most run camel excursions to the top as well as to oases where you can spend the night in permanent bivouacs. Many tour operators now offer exclusive and luxurious camps tucked in dunes away from the crowds—picture tents kitted out with woven carpets, antiques, lanterns, four-poster beds strewn with rose petals, and en suite washing facilities. You can also expect chilled champagne and fine dining by candlelight, but be prepared—paradise doesn’t come cheap! If you have some extra time it is worth taking a day trip to the colorful local market at Rissani and the ruins of the once-great city of Sijilmassa—now just a few remaining walls but with a great sense of history.