Stargazing in the Sahara: The Merzouga Night Sky

Merzouga is one of the best places on earth for stargazing. Why the Sahara sky is so dark, what you'll see, the best times of year and how to enjoy a desert night sky.

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Written by Hassan, host at Hotel Les Roches Merzouga — hosting Sahara travellers since 2004.

With no cities for a hundred kilometres and famously dry, clear air, the sky over Merzouga is one of the darkest and most star-filled you will ever see. For many guests, lying back on the cooling sand to watch the Milky Way arc overhead is the single best moment of the whole trip.

Why the Sahara sky is so dark

Two things make Merzouga special for stargazing: almost zero light pollution, and the dry desert air that keeps the atmosphere clear and steady. Away from the village lights at a desert camp, thousands of stars appear that are invisible from any town.

What you'll see

On a moonless night the Milky Way is a bright band across the sky. You can pick out planets, major constellations, star clusters and, if you're lucky, shooting stars. A simple stargazing app helps you name what you're looking at.

Best time for stargazing

Autumn and winter offer the clearest, driest skies, and any moonless night is best — check the lunar calendar and aim for the days around a new moon. The summer Milky Way core is spectacular from June to September. For the full seasonal picture see our best time to visit post.

How to enjoy the desert night sky

Stay overnight at the camp, let your eyes adjust for 20 minutes away from any light, bring a warm layer (nights are cold), and simply lie back. Our guides will point out the highlights around the fire after dinner. Combine it with an overnight camel trek for the full experience. Not sure what to bring? Our Morocco packing list has you covered.

Want a clear-sky camp night for stargazing? Tell us your dates and we'll advise on the moon phase. See also our best desert activities guide.

Frequently asked questions

Is Merzouga good for stargazing?

Yes — with almost no light pollution and dry, clear desert air, Merzouga has some of the darkest, most star-filled skies on earth, ideal for seeing the Milky Way.

When is the best time for stargazing in the Sahara?

Autumn and winter for the clearest skies, and always around a new moon when the sky is darkest. The Milky Way core is brightest from June to September.

Where is the best place to stargaze in Merzouga?

At a desert camp out in the dunes, away from village lights. Let your eyes adjust for about 20 minutes for the full effect.

Do I need equipment to stargaze in the desert?

No — the naked-eye view is spectacular. A stargazing app and, optionally, binoculars enhance it, but nothing is required.

Is it cold stargazing in the desert at night?

Yes, desert nights are cool to cold, so bring a warm layer even in summer. The camp provides blankets around the fire.