How to Get from Casablanca to the Sahara Desert: A Complete Guide

Fantasizing about camel rides, golden dunes and starry nights? There is no way to visit morocco and not have Sahara desert tour. But if you start in Casablanca, the prospect of the voyage might feel overwhelming. Don’t fret — this guide explains exactly how to get from Casablanca to the Sahara Desert, including all your transport choices, most scenic routes to take, and must-know tips for an amusement-filled trip.

Why Visit the Sahara from Casablanca

Casablanca, Morocco’s economic powerhouse, is the site of the landmark Hassan II Mosque and a major international airport. Many travelers to Morocco fly here at the beginning of their trip. The Sahara may be a long way away, but it is worth it.

Which Part of the Sahara Desert?

The Sahara is the size of a small continent, but for the most part travelers go to two main places:

• Merzouga: Known for the Erg Chebbi dunes and well-liked for luxury desert camps and camel rides.
• Zagora: More easily accessible, but with smaller dunes; suitable for a short trip.

For the classic desert experience, Merzouga is probably your best option.

How to Get There: Casablanca to the Sahara Desert

By Car (Self-Drive or Private Transfer Only)

• Time: ~9–10 hours to Merzouga
• Great For: Flexibility, area to stretch out, and scenic stops
• Circuit: Casablanca → Marrakech → Ouarzazate → Merzouga

Tip: Split the trip with overnight stops in Marrakech or Dades Valley for a more immersive experience.

By Train + Bus

• Step 1: Board a train from Casablanca to Marrakech (2.5-3 hours)
• Step 2: Take a bus from Marrakech to Merzouga via Supratours (12 hours+)
• Pros: Budget-friendly
• Cons: Long journey, limited schedules

By Organized Desert Tour

Multiple-day Sahara Desert tours from Casablanca. Many travel agencies organize multi-day Sahara Desert trips from Casablanca. this includes transportation, guide, lodging, desert activities!

• Duration: 3 to 5 days
• What’s included: Transfers, camel ride, desert camp, meals
• Ideal For: Easy self-guided travel, cultural immersion

By Domestic Flight + Car

• Fly Casablanca to Errachidia (nearst airport to Merzouga, ~1.5-hour flight)
• Then grab a cab or transfer to Merzouga (2 hours)

Note: Flights could be restricted, and it is advisable for travelers to book as far in advance as possible.

Recommended Itinerary: 4-Day Sahara Trip from Casablanca

• Day 1: Casablanca → Marrakech
• Day 2: Marrakech → Dades Valley (High Atlas Mountains) Today, you will leave Marrakech to Dades Valley.
• Day 3: Dades Valley → Merzouga → Camel trek & desert camp – Early morning transfer to the dunes of Merzouga − Sunrise camel trek and desert campining.
• Day 4: Back via the same road or full over to Fes.

Last Minute Tips for Your Trip to the Sahara Desert

• Pack smart: Layers, sunscreen and a scarf for the sand.
• Make reservations in advance: Especially during peak season (March–May, September–November).
• Hydrate: The desert is dry, and temperatures range widely.

Conclusion

Congratulations! Now you know the exact routes you should take to get from Casablanca to the Sahara Desert — whether you’d rather do the journey by car, public transportation or guided tour. With a little forward thinking you’ll be riding camels across golden dunes in no time.