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Embark on a journey back in time with our half-day tour to Erfoud, Morocco’s hidden fossil capital. This Merzouga to Erfoud trip reveals the secrets of a prehistoric past, from a time when the Sahara was an ancient sea. This excursion offers a fascinating look into the world of Morocco fossils and the local craftsmanship that transforms ancient stone into stunning works of art, making it one of the most unique things to do in Erfoud.
This is your chance to connect with millions of years of natural history. On your Erfoud fossil tour, you will visit a vast private collection, then witness the magic in an artisan’s workshop. See how local craftsmen turn these treasures into everything from decorative objects to furniture, providing a sustainable income for their community in a tradition that blends art, geology, and history.
A fascinating half-day trip from Merzouga to Erfoud, the fossil capital
Private round-trip transport in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle
Discover a huge private collection of Sahara fossils
See real trilobite fossils from Morocco, up to 500 million years old
Watch local artisans cut, carve, and polish fossilized stone
Learn about the region’s prehistoric past as an ancient sea
Enjoy a complimentary Moroccan mint tea at the Erfoud fossil museum
A unique tour blending natural history, art, and local culture
Your half-day adventure begins in Merzouga for the scenic drive to Erfoud. During the Palaeozoic era, this area lay under an ocean, and today it is one of the richest fossil beds in the world. At your arrival, the manager of a renowned Fossils Kasbah will welcome you. He will give you an informative tour of his collection, highlighting the diversity of fossils found locally.
Next, you will visit a local workshop where craftsmen work to cut, carve, and polish massive blocks of fossil-rich stone. This fossil trade is a rare year-round source of sustainable income for the people of Erfoud. After enjoying a complimentary mint tea, your private tour concludes with the drive back to Merzouga.
Before you book a fossil tour to Erfoud, please review the following details:
The price of 150€ is per person.
This is a private tour for your group only.
The total duration is approximately 4-5 hours.
Bring a camera to capture the unique Moroccan fossils.
You will have an opportunity to purchase authentic fossils directly.
This tour supports a unique and sustainable local industry.
Yes, absolutely! This tour is fascinating for all ages. Children are often amazed by the ancient trilobite and ammonite fossils and enjoy watching the powerful machines and skilled artisans at work. It’s a fun, tangible, and educational experience that brings natural history to life.
Yes, absolutely! This tour is fascinating for all ages. Children are often amazed by the ancient trilobite and ammonite fossils and enjoy watching the powerful machines and skilled artisans at work. It’s a fun, tangible, and educational experience that brings natural history to life.
No, there is absolutely no pressure or obligation to buy anything. While you will have the opportunity to purchase authentic, locally crafted fossil items—from small polished pieces to large, unique tables—the main focus of the tour is educational and experiential. You are welcome to simply browse, learn, and enjoy the visit.
This specific tour focuses on visiting the workshops and curated collections where you can see how fossils are professionally excavated, processed, and turned into art. It does not include an opportunity for personal fossil hunting in the quarries. You will, however, get to see and touch millions of years of history in its raw and polished forms.
The fossils in Erfoud are special because of their incredible age, diversity, and abundance. Hundreds of millions of years ago, this desert region was a vast sea teeming with life. As a result, the area is now one of the richest fossil beds in the world, home to nearly 500 varieties of fossils, including the famous and ancient trilobites. This tour gives you direct access to this incredible prehistoric heritage.
Orient Desert Camp is a luxury retreat in Erg Chebbi, offering authentic Berber hospitality and an unforgettable Sahara experience.
+212 667753620
+212 641270288
orientdesertcamp@gmail.com
Erg Chebbi, Merzouga Desert