kempinski hotel al houara-tangiers

Tangier Property You would have probably seen the beautiful places and scenery when you spent your holidays to Morocco. The beauty of this country is truly undeniable, and one clear evidence of this fact is the increasing number of guests who are buying properties here. These guests have now made this country their second home. If you are also interested in buying a real estate property here, then you should definitely read the information below. Al Houara is a spectacular, world-class Atlantic resort that blends Moroccan culture with European sophistication. The resorts range of residential and tourist real estate properties are located across key locations within attractive beach, Kasbah, golf course and forested areas. Insight Morocco are proud to present Phase 1 and 2 of this spectacular resort with residential properties to suit every taste and budget.

Property in Tangier

Al Houara lies on Morocco's lush Atlantic coast, nestled along 2.5 kilometres of stunning North African coastline stretching from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic, with the towering Atlas Mountains only a few hours away. Al Houara is ideally located with the cities of Tangier and Asilah both under an hour's drive. The resort also has easy access to Tangier International Airport. Phase 1 of Al Houara was launched in July 2007 and is located on the beachfront of the resort. Phase 2 will include Golf Villas & Apartments has just launched in June 2008. Subsequent phases include Forest Villas & Apartments and Kasbah Apartments.

Al Houara caters to exquisite taste, exuding a sense of timeless elegance. In Phase 1 choose from luxurious Beach Villas, enchanting Ocean View Palaces or spectacular Beach Apartments all of which benefit from panoramic views of the fantastic beachfront and Atlantic Ocean. The materials used throughout Al Houara are all of the highest quality and in sympathy with the surrounding habitat. Environmental sensitivity, attention to design and detail, and construction quality blend together harmoniously.

Click here to receive the Al Houara Property Brochure

GOLF APARTMENTS AND VILLAS

Insight Morocco are delighted to bring you the latest release of luxurious golf apartments in the unparalleled world class Al Houara Resort in Tangier, Morocco. This is a first stage pricing release for the golf apartments and only 20 properties are being launched at these prices.

  

Golf Apartments - Prices from £120,000

Located in a fantastic setting with fabulous golf course views, these 1,2,3 and 4 bedroom apartments are very attractively priced for a resort of this quality and indeed compare very favourably with other property types within the development. These spacious apartments, starting from 96 sqm, also include outdoor terraces and underground parking.

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Golf Villas - Prices from £615,000 - AUGUST PRICES NOW FROM £555,000!

GOLF VILLA PROMOTION AUGUST 2008

Insight Morocco are now offering 14 golf villas which have just been released at a 20% discount as a special summer promotion from the developer. All 14 golf villas on the VJ Singh 18 hole championship golf course will have unobstructed views of the course and lakes plus access to the clubhouse.

All villas have either 3 or 5 bedrooms (plus maid's room) with habitable areas of 252-352 sqm on plots spanning 601-822 sqm. All villas have a 2 car garage, a swimming pool and terraces. Access to Al Houara’s first class amenities are available, including the 5-Star Kempinski Spa hotel, Equestrian Centre and Moroccan Kasbah.

Send me more information about the Golf Villa Promotion and the latest prices and availability

  

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Ocean View Palaces

Luxury oceanfront living is redefined in these 6 bedroom, Ocean View Palaces at the exclusive Al Houara Resort. Designed to accommodate a large family, staff and guests, your palace residence will befit your vision of the authentic royal Moroccan lifestyle.

Relax among the 1,844 square metres (19,850 square feet) of habitable space on 3 storeys centred around a traditional Moroccan courtyard. The residence’s sleeping quarters consist of 6 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms which include a generous master suite and secondary master bedroom. Two distinctly separate wings and a third level for library and kitchen areas. Fitness and Spa areas are additional benefits of this spacious palace. Staff quarters will accommodate house maids, driver and guard with sleeping and food preparation area. The palace unfolds to beautifully landscaped gardens and fountains which can be enjoyed from several exterior terraces, covered walkways and a private swimming pool with views to the Atlantic Ocean.

Architectural exteriors and interiors will blend together to reflect the ease and comfort of Moroccan living. The furnishing and interiors will be executed with an uncompromising commitment to quality and luxury. The use of traditional patterns, materials and colours represents the essence of a grand Moroccan palace. Timber ceilings, local tiles and Moroccan fountains reflect the luxurious lifestyle at Al Houara Resort. The palace comes fully furnished in a contemporary Moroccan style that reflects a sophisticated and discreet colour palette. The beautifully-designed collection includes details such as lanterns, handcrafted hardwood chairs and richly patterned ottomans.

Prices from £6.4 Million - Please contact us for prices and availability

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Beach Villas

The villas lie along beautiful stretching arcs anchored by enchanting palaces, all benefiting from unobstructed panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and enjoying direct access to a pristine 2.5 Km beach.

Each private villa is a luxurious spacious and expertly crafted residence. The living areas are all wonderfully full of natural light. Each villa has multiple bedrooms wih en-suite bathrooms. The comfortable lifestyle is increased by fabulous walk in wardrobes. Each villa is centred around a traditonal Moroccan courtyard which features a swimming pool, verdant gardens and unfettered views of the Atlantic. All Villas come with parking and staff quarters. The villas have been designed with family living and generous entertaining in mind. A truly wonderous abode for all the family.

There are 4 types of villas available with either 4 or 5 bedrooms.

Prices from £1.4 Million Please contact us for prices and availability

  

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Beach Apartments

The beach apartments are situated in the most distinctive beachfront location of the Al Houara resort.

The apartments are influenced by classic Moroccan riad design and built around central courts featuring a garden of exotic Moroccan flora and an expansive swimming pool. Palm tree shaded terraces welcome quiet evening walks and social gatherings. Each apartment comprises spacious and light filled living, kitchen and dining areas. All apartments feature master bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms while some offer additional house maid accommodation. The apartments encompass either one or two spacious exterior terraces with panoramic ocean views.

The apartments available include 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms with multiple choice of designs for the 2 and 3 bedroom units.

Prices from £140,000 Please contact us for prices and availability (Only 2 and 3 bedrooms available)

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The Developer - Qatari Diar

Qatari Diar Morocco is a subsidiary of Qatari Diar, which is a wholly owned entity of the Qatar Investment Authority. Qatari Diar was established in December 2004 to support Qatar's growing economy and to coordinate the country's real estate development priorities. Qatari Diar is responsible for creating and coordinating financially sound property development opportunities that will generate sustainable and tangible socio-economic benefits. Qatari Diar's vision is to become the region's most trusted and effective real estate investment company by focusing its value proposition on the creation of quality, well-planned and desirable communities.

Payment Terms

In accordance with Moroccan law, there are 5 steps to securing ownership of a property at Al Houara:

1. Reserve a property with a refundable deposit of 50,000 Moroccan Dirhams (approx. €5,000/£3,300)
2. Formal reservation with a deposit of 20% of the purchase price (less the 50,000MD deposit) payable on signing.
3. Preliminary Sales Contract is signed with 30% payment of the purchase price due when the foundations are laid.
4. Intermediate Payment of 20% of the purchase price upon completion of the property's roof.
5. Final Sales Contract with remaining 30% payment of the purchase price payable upon final completion.

Mortgages are available -

Escrow and Bank Guarantee

Qatari Diar strives to offer the highest level of buyer protection as possible, either placing all payments in escrow or offering a bank guarantee with every real estate purchase to back up its construction and delivery promise to every buyer. The bank guarantee will be provided through a respectable Moroccan bank upon signature of a Preliminary Sales Contract. Should the developer default on its promise to deliver a buyer’s property for any reason, all capital payments held in escrow or secured by a bank guarantee will be returned in full to the buyer (less any bank charges).

Buyer Options

Properties in Al Houara are offered on two different terms: Personal Use, Rental and Exchange (PURE) and Private Use.

Personal Use, Rental and Exchange Option - PURE

Under this option, properties are sold on the basis of resort leaseback schemes found at select luxury resorts in Europe. Owners reserve time throughout each year for personal use at the resort or at other affiliated global resorts and hand over the rest of the time to be professionally managed and rented. All properties are furnished to match the design aesthetic and high quality standards of Al Houara.

Private Use Option

Some select properties will not be sold as PURE to allow the owners to use their property for private use and not for commercial use. Private owners can opt for limited Club Diar concierge services, but will not enjoy the commercial or travel opportunities of full Diar Club membership.

Diar Club

All residences in Al Houara come affiliated to a distinctive and exclusive private members club, the Diar Club. Membership with the Diar Club brings an array of services and facilities exclusively to owners of Qatari Diar's luxury real estate communities around the world and as an owner at the prestigious Al Houara resort, you automatically qualify for membership.

Diar Club 'Investor' membership is for owners who wish to derive rental income from their property, whilst at the same time having access to their villa or apartment in selected periods of the year for personal use. For 'Investor' members your villa or apartment will be maintained to the finest detail - from the highest quality furnishings sourced by the Diar Club to hospitality services such as cleaning, linen change and any necessary property maintenance. At every visit, you'll also enjoy private limousine transfers from Tangier airport to and from your residence.

Through the Diar Club 'Investor' level membership, you can exchange holiday time in your Al Houara residence with 'Investor' members in other Qatari Diar communities, giving you the chance to experience the same levels of comfort and luxury at other locations. You get to travel the world on your terms, enjoying many beautiful and exotic locations through the Diar Club's perfect mix of hand picked properties around the globe.

kempinski hotel al houara-tangiers interior designer

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The Moroccan economy is generally diverse but very fragile. About 40% of Moroccans cannot read or write, and the country has high levels of extreme poverty and health care deprivation. Morocco also has a high level of economic inequality. The unemployment rates under the highly educated as well as the unskilled are very high and cause consistent social unrest in many cities and villages. In 2011, the UN's Human Development Index ranked Morocco as the 130th most developed country in the world.

Almost all Moroccans speak Berber, Moroccan Arabic or French as mother tongues. Arabic, sometimes considered as a variety of Moroccan Arabic, is spoken in the southern provinces (Western Sahara) in the country by a small population.

Currency of Morocco.. Dirham

Morocco, Dirham

The Moroccan Dirham is the currency of Morocco. Our currency rankings show that the most popular Morocco Dirham exchange rate is the MAD to EUR rate. The currency code for Dirhams is MAD. Below, you'll find Moroccan Dirham rates and a currency converter. You can also subscribe to our currency newsletters with daily rates and analysis, read Moroccan Dirham News, or take MAD rates on the go with our XE Currency Apps and website.

Top MAD Cross Rates

Top MAD Cross Rates

Auto-refresh 13x 0 : 47		EUR	USD	GBP	CAD	AED	SAR	CHF	QAR	AUD
	1 MAD	0.08990	0.11699	0.07275	0.11504	0.42969	0.43872	0.10869	0.42588	0.11387
	Inverse:	11.1232	8.54801	13.7451	8.69271	2.32728	2.27938	9.20044	2.34806	8.78156

 Currency 

The official currency of Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham, denoted as MAD or Dhs. The Moroccan Dirham is composed of 100 centimes; notes are available in denominations of (Dhs) 200, 100, 50, 20 and (very rarely now) 10 and coins are available in denominations of (Dhs) 10, 5, 2 and 1, or 50, 20, 10 and 5 centimes. Travellers should be aware that there are 4 types of 5 Dirham coin in circulation.

 

The Dirham is officially designated as a closed currency meaning it can only be traded within Morocco , however, Dirhams are being sold and bought in travel agencies and at major airports in several countries (notably the UK). The import and export of the currency is tolerated up to a limit of 1000DH. Currency purchased during a visit to Morocco should be converted back before departing the country, with the exception of the 1000Dh level. Travellers should be advised to keep the receipts of currency exchange, as these will be required for the conversion of Dirham back to foreign currency prior to departure. You can change as many Dirhams as you have left.  At Marrakech airport the exchange rate is very similar to that in the town centre, so there is not much loss in waiting to the last minute to change your remaining Dirhams. 

In Casablanca airport some of the snacks downstairs and the eatery on the main concourse in the departure lounge now accept Dirhams as do some outlets in Marrakech airport though duty free shops will not accept Dirhams at any airport in Morocco.

Most of the main foreign currencies may be exchanged at a Bureau de Change in the airport or port upon arrival, at a bank and in most hotels although smaller hotels in more remote areas may not be able to exchange large amounts at one time without prior notice.

Most hotels will exchange at the same rate as banks and without charging commission. Exchanging money in the street is illegal, so travellers should look for an official Bureaux de Change which is identifiable by a golden sign.

When bringing paper currency into Morocco (U.S. Dollars, British Pounds, Euros etc.), these must be in good condition--no tears or ink marks. Do not bring Scottish or Irish Sterling notes as they are impossible to cash  as are Australian and New Zealand notes.  Beware of bringing in brand new designs of banknotes, for example when the Bank of England introduced the new 'Adam Smith' £20 note in March 2007, the Moroccan banks would not change them as their records only showed the older, and at that time still legal, 'Sir Edward Elgar' £20 notes.

Don't bring coins in your currency to use as tips as they are hard for the locals to exchange and they get a very poor rate of exchange so have to pester other tourists to try and change them.

Some shops, Riads/hotels and especially restaurants quote prices in Euros and Dirhams; in the days where there were 10 dirhams to the euro it made conversion easy, now 1€ (Euro) is approx. equivalent to 11Dh but some traders still prefer to use the rate of ten to one which means you are slightly overcharged. If your Riad or hotel has only quoted in Euros (many do to make it easier for guests to understand) ask for the price in Dirhams so you can pay in the local currency. Current exchange rates can be checked at http://www.xe.com/ucc

Please remember that the rates provided by xe.com are for wholesale transfers but are generally close to the exact rates of exchange found in Morocco. 

Credit Cards

Most credit cards are accepted (especially Visa, MasterCard), although surcharges will likely apply as the cost of credit card processing in Morocco is fairly expensive for businesses. Do be aware that only a relatively small amount of businesses in Morocco have the ability to accept credit cards, although the number is growing slowly.

Advise your bank or card issuer that you intend to travel abroad so that no block will be put on the usage of your credit or ATM cards. Notify the issuer and give them a 'phone number where you can be contacted abroad.

Before travelling, ensure you make a note of all credit card numbers and associated contact numbers for card issuers in case of difficulty. The numbers are usually free to call as you can reverse the charges, make it clear to the operator at your hotel, riad etc that you wish the call charge to be reversed. Preferably get a pre-paid card, with good exchange rates and low withdrawal fees eg fairFX.

When making payments with a credit card, for example at a hotel for services, it is vital to memorise the PIN as signatures in many instances are no longer accepted, however certain establishments such as restaurants may still use the old method of signing.

Many people now use a prepaid FairFX or Caxton card. Theses offer good exchange rates, are safe and money is protected if the card gets lost or stolen. These are accepted in Moroccan ATMs anywhere you see the Mastercard logo and in some shops too.

ATMs can now be found in abundance in most towns and accept Visa, Maestro, Cirrus etc but these will usually incur charges of around 5%. You should check with your bank as charges for using ATMs abroad may make exchanging cash a better option.

Popular destinations such as Tangier, Marrakech, Agadir etc have ATM's in large tourist international hotels as well as on all main roads. The medina of Marrakech has in excess of 20 ATMs. 

Using a credit card (VISA etc) to obtain money from ATM's is also possible but one must remember that interest is charged from the moment money is dispensed. The normal practice of an interest-free period which applies to purchases, typically over 50 days, made on the card does NOT apply to cash withdrawals. Banks will allow cheques to be cashed but must be supported by a guarantee card.

ATMs generally dispense only 100 and 200 dirham notes so getting change for small everyday purchases like water, taxis etc can be a challenge. At weekends you may have difficulty acquiring cash as machines are not generally restocked until the following Monday. Sometimes your card may work in some machines and not others, or may support smaller withdrawals rather than larger ones, and may work at some times and not others. You should ensure you have a backup means of funding your visit. ATMs usually dispense a maximum of 2000Dh but other limits may apply dependent on your bank.

Be prepared for a complete meltdown of ALL the ATMs in Essaouira which may be working fine the following day.

Travellers Cheques

It is advisable not to take travellers cheques as it is very difficult to find a bank that will cash them and although some hotels may still cash these, the commission rates are high. If you do take them, take larger value denominations to reduce the commission as this is charged per cheque.

TCs are becoming less popular in North Africa and Middle Eastern countries such as Tunisia and Egypt .

Possibly an Interesting Little Fact

In markets, currency can be referred to in three different ways.  For ten dirhams, a trader may shout:

"dix dirhams" or "achra dirham" (ten dirhams)

or

"alf franc" (one thousand francs=1000 centimes=10 dirhams)

or 

"miateen d'rial"( 200 rials [one rial = 5 centimes] = 10 dirhams)

 Prices in local shops (such as small supermarkets) may also not be calculated in Dirham, but in alf franc.  

Moroccan Flavours..Morocco Holidays

Moroccan Flavours..Morocco Holidays

Morocco holidays..ouarzazate city

Morocco holidays..ouarzazate city
The tiny Moroccan town of Ouarzazate is a caramel-colored oasis set against a clear blue African sky. Be inspired by Ait Benhaddou, a beautifully preserved Kasbah that's a UNESCO World Heritage site, or walk in the starry path of celebrities by taking a tour of one of Ouarzazate's two movie studios.



Vacation Overview
Exotic and fascinating, the Kingdom of Morocco is rich in history and culture, offering travelers intriguing historical sites, authentic cuisine, and changing scenery that is perfect for travelers wanting to explore and learn about a new destination. In Marrakesh, step back in time as you wander through the Jemaa-el-Fna, a square and exotic bizarre offering some of the greatest open-air entertainment. Listen to the storytellers—an integral part of the culture—and browse for handicrafts. It’s not hard to imagine what it was like in the past, a time when caravans loaded their camels with food and goods to sell at the markets.

In Fez, take an optional tour to see the ancient medina. Founded in the 9th century, it is one of the largest medieval cities in the world and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through its souks (markets) and alleys, which are virtually unchanged since the Middle Ages. Taste authentic Moroccan cuisine and take in the sites and sounds of this fascinating city.

On this tour you’ll also visit Casablanca, Meknes, Ouarzazate, Ifrane, Erfoud, and Rabat, Morocco’s vibrant capital. Admire changing scenery as the Middle Atlas mountain range transforms to desert as you approach the Erfoud oasis. This affordable vacation to Morocco is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.



Always feeling free to write about travel ideas, I now come up with a nice new hotel in Ouarzazate, 200km south of Marrakech in Morocco. This new hotel is called Riad Dar Rita and is a 7 room private guest house – bed & breakfast style located in the old district of Tassoumaat, on the entrance of the city of Ouarzazate.
This Ouarzazate hotel now holds the 1st position in Trip Advisor (please check out the Trip Advisor page here: Hotel Ouarzazate). This position is not surprising taking in consideration the extreme care and total professional service of the manager Mrs. Rita. This guest house in Ouarzazate fully opened back in February 2011 and is now working and offering comfort and exceptional accommodation.

Ouarzazate Morocco

  

Dar Rita Ouarzazate

• Address: Rue de la Mosquée 39
• Tassoumaât district, city of Ouarzazate, Morocco
• Phone: +212.654.164.726
• Email: darritamaroc@gmail.com
• Web: Ouarzazate Hotel

More tips about Morocco: If you’re looking for more riads in Morocco try the website 31best (Guest House Marrakech), or directly visit the website of Riad Paula located in the old Medina of Marrakech (Riad Marrakech). Enjoy your vacations in Morocco.

Get in

Buses from:
Inezgane (close to Agadir ) twice a day 80 MAD (prices are negotiable, can be reduced till 50 MAD)
Marrakesh- C.T.M Bus 70 MAD (twice a day, morning, evening), grand taxi 100 per person
Regional bus is cheaper, but not as nice, and runs more often. Two bus stations.
often two flights a day during the week from Casablanca. Note that as with the rest of the town, the airport shuts down in the middle of the day for siesta (at least during the summer), so make sure you have cash with you when you arrive, or you may find yourself stranded at the airport!
Get around

The area around Mohammad V is very walk able. The C.T.M station is there as well. Petits taxis for within the city (no more than 10Dh from the airport to the hotel), grands taxis for between cities (no more than 300Dh to Ait Benhaddou and back...though you can probably get it lower), including to Ait Benhaddou and surrounding Kasbahs.
Don't be surprised if during a local taxi ride the driver requests you to "transfer taxis" or has "a friend to pick up on the way." When this happens, a friendly English (or other language) speaking person will start pitching you outings, most of them to Erg Chebbi near Merzouga or Zagora. If you are not interested, just politely tell them so, but if you are, you can negotiate a reasonable price with them.
Ouarzazate is very safe, but don't wander into weird corners at night. Crime throughout the Moroccan south is minimal, but its best not to take (too many) chances.
Do

Visit Ait Benhaddou - one of the best preserved Kasbahs . Taxi can take you there for 300 MAD (probably possible to haggle cheaper price), driver will wait couple of hours. Very picturesque place, lots of movies were shot there (Gladiator). 10 dirham to visit kasbahs. You don't need a guide, but locals will follow you pretending to help and at the end will ask for money. Careful not to get too wet from the river when crossing it, since there's been reports of Schistosomiasis contracted from the water.
Walk along the central square behind Muhammad V at night when everyone comes out. The kids go out to play football on the square, people go eat and socialize, and you'll get a feel for the community just walking around.
Plan an expedition out to Merzouga, M'Hamid and the Dunes of Erg Chebbi. A night in the Sahara is unforgettable and can be the best part of your Moroccan adventure. Ourzazate is the last big town in the south where this is easy and cheap to do. There are lots of agencies around that can arrange a trek like this, though this is the more expensive way to do it. A cheaper way, if you don't mind worrying about a few details, is to rent a car, go out there yourself, and negotiate an overnight in the desert with a Merzougan auberge (most of them offer overnights in the dessert). Renting a car and driving the way is relatively easy if you drive a stick. The roads out that way are very good and easy to navigate. The overnight in the Dunes should only cost about 400-500Dh. A grand taxi will also take you out that way and back for 1500-2000Dh. Everything out here is negotiable, so shop around for the best price.
Buy

Whatever you buy, it is likely you can't find it cheaper in Marrakech orFes. Realize everything is negotiable!
Eat

Plenty of cheap restaurants along Mohammad V. Normal price for tagine should be about 30Dh.
Drink

Bottled water is cheap (10Dh) and widely available.
Sleep

Plenty of hotels of all ranges around town. Ask a cabby to bring you to one, but realize he'll pocket commission for bringing you there.
La Gazella- clean, cheap hotel (156Dhm double room with hot shower), safe parking in the courtyard, ATM just next door, bakery across the road.
Hotel Saghro A bit out of town across the river (you'll need a grand taxi to get there), but the rooms are nice and there's a restaurant on site. They even have a pool.
Nearby

Dar Ahlam is a spectacular 10-room hotel in Skoura, about 40 km from Ouarzazate. It is expensive, but distinctive in every element: architecture, style, service, and food. Possibly the best hotel in Morocco. Ask to stay in one of the villas.
I Roccha (Irocha), Tiseldey/Tisselday. Extremely friendly hosts and international mix of travellers. Quiet and relaxing place overseeing a valley in a small village of Tisselday. For New Year holidays, normally confirms booking only for those who visited previously (and hosts liked them).



Ouarzazate is a city on the Saharan side of the Atlas Mountains. It is also known as "Quallywood". The city, its studios, film museum, and landscape are the reasons why such movies as "Babel", "Gladiator", "Kundun", "Lawrence of Arabia". and other desert-themed movies are made here.

The person who sold me the tour assured me the van would be air-conditioned and the driver would speak English. It van was air-conditioned. It just didn't work. As for the driver he was good and safe, his English consisted of "Huh?".

The trip in a rented van takes four hours one way over the Atlas Mountains with hundreds of switchbacks, missing guard rail sections, trucks, and large tour buses. Of the starting eight people, one couple got out early to catch a bus back to Marrakesh after the woman vomited at the side of the road for twenty minutes, another young man passenger simply vomited in the van and continued.

Mary took and passed out to others her Peace Corps motion sickness pills. Other than bruises on my thigh and her gasps, the trip went well.

Merzouga Vacations..MERZOUGA The last village

Morocco holidays..Merzouga


While lazing away the hours in Rissani, I'd been investigating the route to Merzouga, the home to the only genuine Saharan ergs in Morocco (an erg being a classic, sand dune desert). There are two roads to Merzouga, but both are relatively scary. The route from Rissani is the shorter of the two, but sections of it are pretty rough, and in a rented Fiat Uno it's probably not in your interests to try it, unless being stranded in the middle of the desert is your cup of tea. The other route, from Erfoud, is easier to follow, but it's still along rough dirt roads (or pistes as they're known in Morocco) and the guidebooks are careful to sound a note of caution, while still saying that normal cars can reach Merzouga without serious problems.

Taking a break on the way to Merzouga to chat to a local on a bicycle
Not wishing to get stuck with a stranded car in the desert, Peta and I had popped into Rissani to check out the score, only to be welcomed by the usual gaggle of young men trying desperately to sell us their guiding skills and goodness knows what else. They felt about as trustworthy as the most dodgy Moroccans do – in other words, you'd trust them as far as you can spit, which in the desiccated desert is no distance at all – so we turned around and decided to risk driving to Erfoud and them down to Merzouga.
It proved to be no scarier than the corrugated dirt roads in outback Australia, and we made it to Merzouga without any lasting damage (though the bone-shaking roads made it sound as if the car, now nicknamed Sandy, was about to fall apart in spectacular style). Things were helped by a couple of tourists we'd brought along from the hotel, Mike and Marie, who would have been very handy if we'd got stuck in sand, and provided us with enough confidence to tackle the desert and win.

A donkey in Merzouga
The drive itself was beautiful, and after about 40 minutes of rattling and swerving round the potholes, the sand dunes of Erg Chebbi popped into view on the horizon, like a huge red mountain range in the distance. We bumped our way along the dusty dirt road straight towards the dunes, and as they got closer the red dissolved into a myriad mix of peach, ochre and brown, giving the dunes a magical look that made all the bouncing worthwhile.
Sure, we got stuck in the sand when we got to Merzouga itself, but who cares? It was the work of two minutes to push us back onto the road, and it wasn't long before we'd found a genuine oasis at the end of the caravan route: the Ksar Sania has atmospheric double rooms set in their own desert cottages (complete with roof), and suddenly life never seemed better. The peach dunes rose from the desert a stone's throw from our roof terrace, camels wandered around, mini-dust storms blew through town, and the peace was complete.
How I love the desert, especially when you can get a nice, cold bottle of water to keep the heat in check...
Exploring the Saharan Dunes
There isn't a lot of water in the Sahara, and the sign in the hotel made the point pretty succinctly:

The huge dunes of the Erg Chebbi
It's obvious just how dry it is in the desert from the speed at which your clothes dry after washing: lie your soaking towel on the roof and the scorching winds will dry it in under 15 minutes, not surprising then you consider the maximum temperature when we were in Merzouga was a whopping 48°C (and the minimum was 27°C, a respectable temperature for a midsummer's day in England).
Your lips dry up unless you constantly apply lip salve, your skin starts to flake, and the flies will land on absolutely anything that contains even a hint of water, including tear ducts, the corners of your mouth, and any portion of visible, sweating skin. It is hot beyond words.

The view from our hotel roof
But that's the point, and it would be a pretty stupid thing to complain about the heat when you've just crossed hours of stony desert to check out the Sahara in June. If you wanted to explore the desert in a more amenable climate, then although Merzouga hasn't had any rain since 1995, it's not devoid of water. Indeed, when it rains in the High Atlas, and when the snow melts, the rivers rage, creating havoc for local transport but feeding the oases with enough water to sustain life. Merzouga even boasts a lake for part of the year, and it glimmers on the horizon, attracting flamingos into the otherwise utterly inhospitable environment of the desert. As you drive along the roads of the hammada the most common road sign is the one warning of a ford in the road, sporting a car plunging through water, spraying out from under its wheels. It's an odd thought as you rattle over river-beds that look like they've never seen water, let along flooding.

48°C in the shade
But without this amazing lack of rainfall you wouldn't have the dunes, and it's the dunes that make the Sahara. Stony desert is one thing, but after a while the beauty of the hammada begins to pale, which is why it's such an epiphany driving to Merzouga and seeing the huge dunes of the Erg Chebbi rising up on the horizon. Located right next to the town of Merzouga, the dunes rise up 150m in huge piles of peach undulation, and if, like me, you're unable to pass a mountain without wanting to climb it, you're in for a treat.
Climbing sand dunes is an art, and it's one I don't particularly understand. Dunes are no more than huge piles of sand – indeed, in the Erg Chebbi you can see the underlying ground, and it genuinely looks like someone has simply dumped a load of peach-coloured sand straight onto the ground – but climbing huge piles of sand is no joke, especially in the baking Saharan sand. If you try to traverse the dunes, you'll slip downhill; if you try to climb straight up, then it's two steps up, one step down; if you climb in boots then they'll fill with heavy sand within two minutes, but if you climb in sandals your feet will fry; your water will be as hot as tea within half an hour of setting off; and when the wind blows, as it does an awful lot in the desert, your molars fill up with sand and your eyes feel like sand pits.

Whirlwinds in the Merzouga desert
Get up that dune, though, and who cares about the hurt? The landscape is like no other, because Erg Chebbi is nothing other than a peach sand mountain range. OK, so the mountains aren't huge, but the range of textures and colours is so other-worldy that it's trivial to trick yourself into thinking that you're staring at a massive Martian landscape of rifts, valleys and dizzying heights. The dunes don't go on as far as the eye can see – they're bound on all sides by hammada – but they do extend for a number of kilometres in each direction, and it's easy to kid yourself that you're surrounded by sand right to the horizon and beyond.

Surrounding Area
Hotel set in the sand dunes of Merzouga. Information on rooms, location, rates and dromedary excursions throughout the southern region of the country

Accommodations
The ksar Bicha is located just outside the village of Merzouga and only a few steps from the Erg Chebbi. The double and triple rooms, all with private bath, are clean and comfortable. And for families in search of a night under the stars, ksar Bicha invites its guests to sleep on the terrace or in a tent, or experience the desert in a bivouac. Accommodation is half board. The cost of the pack trips varies with the size of the group and length of stay


Rooms/Suites
You have a choice of 10 bedrooms, each elaborately decorated and offering the best in interior design in traditional Morrocan style. Each room has a private bathroom and individual design.
a big choice also of more than 30 berbere tents, double, single and family tents.


Amenities
The restaurant offers delicious cuisine with fresh local produce from the markets used in the preparation of the food. We offer traditional Morrocan dishes.
You will enjoy a haven of peace where style and comfort are combined to create a special atmosphere.


Services Offered
The Riad ksar bicha provides professional services in Airport transfers between (marrakech ,errachidia, ouarzazate, fes )and Merzouga desert. journeys to other cities in the great south of morocco.

Other Information
At the gateway to the Sahara, on the edge of the Erg Chebbi, the highest sand dunes in Morocco, the hotel Ksar Bicha offers a pleasant base from which to discover the desert
hotel ksar bicha invites you to bivouac in the superb golden sand-dunes of the moroccan desert.
There you can attend colourful sunrises and sets, go for wonderful dromedary-rides, drink tea with nomades and enjoy absolute serenity, relax and meditation oppurtunities.
It would also be marvellous if you visit the oasis, lake sirji and the berber villages in the surroundings.


Directions
2 km before merzouga village on the way comming from rissani , there is a sign indicate the 1 km of a good track to the hotel.



Berber tents in the Sahara

Desert Nomad Bivouac in Sahara Desert
Auberge du Sud’s special crew will give you thrill and adventure through out Sahara Desert and organize trips to other amazing places in Morocco. We organize programs like nights in Berber tents below the stars in the Sahara. Auberge du Sud offers different types of tents (bivouac) and nomad camps inside Erg Chebbi Dunes. From luxury tents to standard camps with nomad tents, Auberge du Sud relies on quality and exceptional service in Sahara Desert.
Auberge du Sud has different types of facilities for you and one of the most asked are the Berber tents. Either in the middle of the Sahara or near our main building, you can experience the real life of a nomad inside a real desert tent. This experience is perfect for star lovers and makes the perfect romantic spot for lovers.
Private groups and organizations

Auberge du Sud can arrange everything you wish to organize your friends vacations. Special events can be arranged in order to make you and your group of friends have an amazing time in their Desert experience. Bikers, Campers, Classic cars, Young people, etc. Just let us know in advance. 




Merzouga is for most travellers the final stop on the journey south from Rissani, or Erfoud. It is a hulking village, a place of extremes. It can be years without rain here, but a few years back, heaven opened up and flooded the place, destroying most houses.
The main attraction here, must be the Saharan lake of Dayet Sriji, quite a surprise to come by. Morocco is a country of very few natural lakes, so finding a real one here, about an hour of travel south of everything, feels unreal. It is a real salty one, making agriculture impossible, yet it is a true lake.
In the lake there are numerous birds, of which flamgoes will be the most fascinating for most to watch. I had a small accident with my camera, which destroyed the good pictures I made of the birds. The one of to the left is the closest I have to any flamingo.From a not-too-far distance, the village of Merzouga merges with the surrounding landscape. That applies even to the inhabitants, of which most are dressed in traditional jellabas of earten colours.
In between all the trees of the oasis, run canals. Considering how far you are from the next trace of civilization, how barren the nature is, and how hot it is all through the year, it is surprising to see how strongly the water streams through the canals.
 




Merzouga.Auberge,Camping and bivouac SAHARA
 Village Hassi labiad 3km before Merzouga, Morocco Hotels & Resorts
Nice hotel in a oasis at the adge of Merzouga's sand dunes recommanded by all famous guide-books and run by flexible multi- language staff organising different services : Cameltrips & trekking Bivouacs Rent 4x4 &VTT Camping & swimming pool

Bask in glorious sunsets and channel your inner sheik while you ride a meandering camel across the windblown dunes of Erg Chebbi. Merzouga, a small village in southeast Morocco, gives visitors a taste of desert life, and treks to nearby villages will reward you with African revelry, including music and dance.