M’Hamid El Ghizlane is the last town before the open Sahara, and the starting point for our desert tours and camel treks toward Erg Chegaga. It’s remote by design, which is part of its appeal, but that also means getting here takes a bit of planning. Here’s how to reach M’Hamid from Morocco’s main cities.
Where Is M’Hamid El Ghizlane?
M’Hamid sits at the southern end of the Draa Valley, roughly 100 kilometers south of Zagora, in southeastern Morocco. It’s often described as the “gateway to the Sahara,” since the paved road effectively ends there and the desert begins.
From Marrakech
The most common route is by road via Ouarzazate and Zagora, roughly 6–7 hours of driving covering around 370 kilometers. Many travelers break the journey with an overnight stop in Ouarzazate or the Draa Valley to see the scenery along the way, including the Tizi n’Tichka mountain pass, Ait Ben Haddou, and the palm groves of the Draa Valley. Shared grand taxis, CTM or Supratours buses, and private transfers all run this route, or you can rent a car and self-drive.
From Ouarzazate
If you fly into Ouarzazate directly, M’Hamid is about 4 hours away via Agdz and Zagora. This cuts significant travel time compared to starting from Marrakech and is a good option if flight schedules allow it.
From Fes or Merzouga
Coming from the Fes or Merzouga side of Morocco is a longer journey, typically requiring a route back through Ouarzazate, since there’s no direct road across the desert between the two dune regions. If your itinerary includes both Erg Chebbi and Erg Chegaga, plan for a full day of travel between them.
Transport Options
- Private transfer: The most comfortable and flexible option, often arranged directly with your tour operator, with stops along the way as you like.
- Shared grand taxi: An affordable local option between towns along the route, though it involves changing vehicles in Zagora.
- CTM/Supratours bus: Budget-friendly and reaches Zagora, with local transport needed for the final stretch to M’Hamid.
- Self-drive: Roads are paved and in good condition all the way to M’Hamid, making a rental car a practical option for independent travelers.
Do I Need to Arrange Transport Myself?
Not necessarily. Many of our guests book a private transfer directly with us from Marrakech or Ouarzazate as part of their trip package, which removes the hassle of coordinating multiple buses or taxis and often includes scenic stops along the Draa Valley.