Hotel Ziad is a simple, practical hotel in Erfoud, useful for travellers passing through the Ziz valley or arriving late in the evening. It will not offer the drama of a desert camp, but it gives you a clean room, a bathroom and breakfast at a modest price, along with the services of a real town. Erfoud has restaurants, shops and a good selection of tour operators, and the dunes of Merzouga are about an hour away. It is a sensible option for families, budget travellers and groups who want a conventional stay between longer drives.
Location and setting
Erfoud lies in the Ziz valley, surrounded by palm groves, with the desert beyond. The town is a transit point for travellers coming from Fez, Midelt or Errachidia, and for those heading to Merzouga, Rissani or the Todra Gorge. Hotels here are generally within walking distance of local restaurants and a few shops.
Rooms and atmosphere
Rooms are usually plain and functional, with tiled floors, simple furniture and a private bathroom. Ask about air conditioning and heating, which matter in summer and winter. Breakfast is normally included or available, and staff can often help with taxis and tours. The hotel is not a resort, so expect modest facilities.
Who it suits and good to know: travellers on a budget, overlanders and anyone who prefers to sleep in a town before a desert excursion. It works as a place to rest after a long drive and to leave luggage while you spend a night in a camp. Check the room condition, hot water and parking when you reserve. If you want atmosphere, a kasbah or a camp is a better choice. Carry small bills for tips and local purchases.
For a short stay, keep expectations practical. Confirm the room type, hot water and air conditioning when you check in, ask where to eat nearby and learn the time of breakfast. Arrange your onward transport the evening before, whether it is a shared taxi, a tour pickup or a private driver. Keep small bills for tips and snacks, and use the town to withdraw cash and buy supplies before you head out to the dunes.
A town stay can be useful for logistics. You can buy water, snacks, sunscreen and scarves, change money, send messages and compare prices with several tour offices before you commit to a camel trek or a 4x4 trip. Ask the hotel staff to recommend a trusted operator and to explain what a fair price looks like. Early the next morning, you can drive to the dunes with fresh supplies and a clear plan.
Why stay here
- ✓Dune or desert views
- ✓Breakfast available
- ✓Dinner on request
- ✓Terrace or courtyard
- ✓Camel trek and excursion bookings
- ✓Air conditioning or heating (varies by room)
- ✓Wi-Fi in common areas
- ✓Airport or transfer help on request
Good questions
Is Hotel Ziad close to the dunes?+
It is in Erfoud, about an hour by road from Merzouga and the dunes.
Is breakfast included?+
Often yes, but confirm when you reserve.
Is it suitable for a short stop?+
Yes, it works well for a single night between drives.
