Southern Morocco: Desert, Oases and Ocean
The south is Morocco at its most cinematic - golden Sahara dunes, palm oases, mud-brick kasbahs, the Anti-Atlas and a long Atlantic surf coast. Here's how to explore it (and see also northern Morocco for the other half).
The Highlights
| Place | Why go |
|---|---|
| Merzouga & Erg Chebbi | The classic Sahara dunes and desert camps |
| Ouarzazate & Ait-Ben-Haddou | Film studios and the famous kasbah, gateway to the desert |
| Agadir & Taghazout | Beaches and Morocco's surf capital |
| Draa & Dades valleys | Palm groves, the Todra and Dades gorges |
| Anti-Atlas (Tafraoute) & Taroudant | Almond blossom, painted rocks, a walled town off the trail |
| Dakhla | Deep-south desert lagoon, a kitesurfing paradise |
A Suggested Route
From Marrakesh: over the Tizi n'Tichka to Ait-Ben-Haddou and Ouarzazate - the Dades and Todra gorges - Merzouga for the dunes - back via the Draa valley, or loop to the Souss and the coast at Agadir. It's the spine of our 7-day and Sahara tour.
When to Go
Autumn to spring is ideal - the desert is punishing in summer (best time for the Sahara), while the coast stays mild year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to see in southern Morocco?
The Sahara dunes at Merzouga, kasbahs and film studios around Ouarzazate, the Todra and Dades gorges, palm valleys, the surf coast at Agadir and Taghazout, and the Dakhla lagoon in the deep south.
How many days do you need for southern Morocco?
A desert loop from Marrakesh takes 3-4 days; adding the coast and Anti-Atlas needs a week or more.
When is the best time to visit southern Morocco?
Autumn to spring - the desert is too hot in summer, though the Atlantic coast stays pleasant year-round.
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