About M'Hamid El Ghizlane
M'Hamid El Ghizlane is a small town in southeastern Morocco, located at the end of the Draa Valley. It's the last inhabited oasis before the Sahara Desert begins, making it the primary gateway for camel treks and 4x4 expeditions into Erg Chigaga and beyond.
The town has basic amenities including riads, guesthouses, shops, and restaurants. Most desert tour operators, including Sahara Wonders, are based here. From M'Hamid, the adventure truly begins.
Quick Facts
| Location | Draa-Tafilalet region, southeastern Morocco |
| Coordinates | 29.8256°N, 5.7234°W |
| Distance from Marrakech | ~550km (8-9 hours) |
| Distance from Ouarzazate | ~280km (5-6 hours) |
| Distance from Zagora | ~95km (1.5 hours) |
| Population | ~7,000 |
| Elevation | ~450 meters |
From Marrakech to M'Hamid
Marrakech is the most common starting point for travelers heading to M'Hamid. The journey takes you through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka pass (2,260m), then through the dramatic Draa Valley with its palm groves and ancient kasbahs.
Transportation Options from Marrakech
| Option | Duration |
| CTM Bus (Daily) | 10 hours |
| Morning Bus (Bab Doukala) | 11 hours |
| Night Bus (Bab Doukala) | 12 hours |
| Private Transfer | 8-9 hours |
| Rental Car | 8-9 hours |
Bus Travel Tips
The CTM bus is the most reliable public option. Book tickets in advance during peak season (October-April). The bus station in M'Hamid is small—Sahara Wonders can arrange pickup from the station.
- CTM tickets can be booked online at ctm.ma or at the bus station
- Buses have air conditioning but can be cold at night—bring a layer
- The route includes a rest stop in Ouarzazate (1-2 hours from M'Hamid)
- Keep small change (MAD) for snacks and bathroom breaks
From Ouarzazate to M'Hamid
Ouarzazate is a common stopover point, known as the 'African Hollywood' for its film studios. From here, M'Hamid is about 5-6 hours south through the Draa Valley.
- Grand taxi: Shared taxis depart when full (~€10-15 per person)
- Private transfer: Arrange through your hotel or tour operator
- By car: Follow N9 south through Agdz and Zagora to M'Hamid
From Zagora to M'Hamid
Zagora is the closest major town to M'Hamid, about 1.5 hours away. If you're coming from elsewhere in Morocco, you may connect through Zagora.
- Taxi/minibus: Every 30 minutes from Zagora taxi station (~€2.50)
- Private transfer: Can be arranged through hotels
- Journey time: Approximately 1-1.5 hours
Driving to M'Hamid
If you're driving yourself, the route from Marrakech follows the N9 highway south through the High Atlas Mountains. The road is paved all the way to M'Hamid. Past M'Hamid, you'll need a 4x4 for any desert travel.
- Route: Marrakech → Tizi n'Tichka Pass → Ouarzazate → Agdz → Zagora → M'Hamid
- Fuel: Fill up in Ouarzazate or Zagora—limited options past there
- Road conditions: Generally good, but mountain passes can be tricky in winter
- Parking: Available at most riads and guesthouses in M'Hamid
Sahara Wonders can arrange private transfers from Marrakech, Ouarzazate airport, or any city in Morocco. Contact us for a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
The journey takes 8-12 hours depending on your mode of transport. Private transfers take about 8-9 hours with stops. Buses take 10-12 hours. The CTM bus departs Marrakech at 11:30 and arrives at 21:30.
No, there is no airport in M'Hamid. The nearest airports are Ouarzazate (5-6 hours by road) and Marrakech (8-9 hours). Most international travelers fly into Marrakech (RAK) or Casablanca (CMN) and travel overland.
No, M'Hamid is too far for a day trip from Marrakech. You should plan at least 2-3 days: one day to travel there, at least one day in the desert, and one day to return. Most visitors stay 3-7 days total.
No, the road to M'Hamid is paved and accessible by regular car or bus. You only need a 4x4 for traveling beyond M'Hamid into the desert (e.g., to Erg Chigaga).
For most travelers, the CTM bus from Marrakech offers the best balance of cost and convenience. For more comfort and flexibility, a private transfer allows scenic stops and door-to-door service. Sahara Wonders can arrange either option.