Rissani Market: Morocco's Most Authentic Sahara Souk

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

Just 35 km from Merzouga, the town of Rissani hosts one of the most authentic markets in Morocco. On Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, the souk fills with people from across the desert to trade dates, spices, livestock and everything a Saharan household needs — including the famous 'donkey parking'.

The history of Rissani

Rissani stands on the site of ancient Sijilmassa, once a great caravan city and the gateway for gold and salt crossing the Sahara. That trading spirit lives on in today's market.

What's sold at the souk

Mountains of dates (this is date country), spices, dried goods, textiles, hardware, and a lively livestock section where sheep, goats and camels change hands. It is a working market for locals, which is exactly what makes it special.

The 'donkey parking'

One of the market's charming sights: a dedicated area where farmers leave their donkeys and carts while they shop — the desert equivalent of a car park.

Try Rissani pizza (madfouna)

Don't leave without tasting madfouna, often called 'Berber pizza' — a stuffed flatbread baked in the embers, filled with spiced meat, onions and almonds. It's a Rissani speciality.

How to visit Rissani market

Rissani is an easy morning trip from Merzouga, best combined with a 4x4 excursion or added to the start of a desert tour. Go early on a market day for the best atmosphere. See more day-trip ideas in our complete Merzouga guide.

Ask us to include a Rissani market morning in your Merzouga trip.