Auberge Kasbah Derkaoua (The Desert Inn)

Show/Hide Gallery

Auberge Kasbah Derkaoua (The Desert Inn) - Briefly

The Kasbah Derkaoua, or Desert Inn as our staff and clients fondly know it, is situated in the desert proper, half way between the towns of Erfoud and Merzouga.  With its astonishing location on the flats of the Hamada, its panoramic views over the barren rocky landscape, and the impressive dunes of Erg Chebbi on the south-eastern horizon, it is probably the most isolated hotel in Morocco. Family run with friendly, attentive staff, it is perfect for an overnight stop whilst touring the Great South, or for a longer stay to include a camel trek and desert camp with a spot of fossil hunting.

Show/Hide full description

Auberge Kasbah Derkaoua (The Desert Inn) - Completely

Kasbah Derkaoua is a well-established hostelry, having been created by the slightly eccentric and very colourful French owner Michel Auzat in 1988, and is known locally as ‘Chez Michel’.  Following his recent sad death, Bouchra, Michel’s daughter, now efficiently runs the Desert Inn.  Its distinctive charm, relaxing atmosphere and friendly staff will welcome you with true Moroccan warmth and hospitality.

Built of Pise (reinforced mud), the Kasbah has expanded over the years, and as well as resident camels now includes horses, sheep, cows, a much larger swimming pool, and even a tennis court

Its wonderfully green gardens are filled with palm trees, cacti, huge succulents and colourful indigenous flowers.  Its many patios and terraces provide lots of shady corners and comfortable alcoves to sit and relax out of the baking desert sun.  The temptingly beautiful aquamarine swimming pool is perfect for cooling off after a short walk, camel trek or hot and energetic game of tennis….. maybe not for everyone!

Show/Hide full description
  • 22 en-suite rooms and bungalows, all with air conditioning and heating
  • Swimming Pool
  • Tennis court
  • 2 Moroccan salons
  • Dining areas
  • Gardens
  • Terraces
  • Desert camp
  • 1.5 hrs from Er Rachidia airport (1 flight per week from Casablanca)
  • 30 mins from the town of Erfoud
  • 20 minutes from the dunes of Merzouga
  • 6 hours from Ouarzazate airport

Excursions and activities

A number of different excursions and activities can be arranged by the hotel, including:

  • Walking treks
  • Fossil hunting with guides
  • Camel treks
  • 4x4 excursions
  • Quad bikes

The 22 en-suite double rooms, bungalows, apartments and duplex suites all have air-conditioning and heating, and can accommodate singles, couples and family parties comfortably.  The rooms are comfortable and decorated in simple Berber style.

Desert camp

(Berber tents / bivouacs)

Kasbah Derkaou’s desert camp in the dunes of Merzouga is comfortable and even has flushing toilets!. You will need to drive 20 minutes to the dunes to meet your guide and camels before setting off into the sunset on a camel trek of approx. 1.5 hrs.  The traditional tents have comfortable beds with proper mattresses, pillows, sheets and blankets, and the most fabulous dinner will be served to you around the camp fire.  Breakfast is served at the camp before setting off back for the hotel the following morning.

The chef specialises in Traditional Moroccan cuisine, as well as providing international dishes.  Food and drinks can be served anywhere in the gardens and terraces, or in the dining room or salon.  Breakfast and dinner are included, lunch is available on request, and Alcohol is also available.

Because of Kasbah Derkaoua's location, it is sold as part of a multi-centre holiday for those travelling around Southern Morocco, and is not suitable as a single-centre destination. Please speak with one of our specialist travel advisor's for help with putting your itinerary together, and they will provide a quotation to include this hotel.

  • Single occupancy prices are available upon request.
  • Extra bed prices are available on request
  • Family accommodation available
  • Minimum 2 night stay over New Year
  • The Kasbah usually closes each year between 15 June and 31 August, 6 January to 6 February.

Choose a category:

Comments are closed.