Rissani is the old oasis town of the Tafilalet region, once the capital of a powerful dynasty and still a lively market centre. Kasbah Hotel Ziz Palace Rissani offers a base here, with a kasbah-style design and the comforts of a hotel. From Rissani, Merzouga and the dunes are about half an hour away by road, so you can visit the souk, the mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif and the ruins of Sijilmasa in the morning and ride into the dunes in the afternoon. The town offers a more local atmosphere than the desert camps, with real markets, donkeys and date sellers.
Location and setting
Rissani lies roughly 35 kilometres from Merzouga. The hotel puts you in the heart of the oasis, surrounded by palms and old ksour. The local souk, busiest on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday, is a draw for travellers who like markets. Travel to the dunes is by car or organised excursion.
Rooms and atmosphere
Expect rooms with traditional decoration, a courtyard or garden and basic modern conveniences. The kasbah style provides thick walls and shaded spaces. Many guests value the quiet at night and the opportunity to meet local people. Ask about air conditioning, heating and Wi-Fi, which can vary.
Who it suits and good to know: culture-minded travellers, drivers touring the south and anyone who wants a night in a real town before or after the dunes. If you want to wake up in the dunes, a camp in Merzouga is better. Check what is included, and ask about transfers to Merzouga for camel and quad trips. Rissani has few formal restaurants, so ask the hotel about dinner. Carry cash, since card use can be limited, and dress modestly in the souk.
Make use of the town while you are there. Walk to the market in the morning, when produce, spices and animals are at their liveliest, and visit the mausoleum quarter and the ruins of Sijilmasa with a guide who can explain the history of the old caravan city. Bring a scarf, dress modestly and carry small notes for purchases. If you plan to ride in the dunes, arrange transport and timing with the hotel the previous evening.
Rissani rewards curiosity. Beyond the souk, the old quarter has quiet lanes, mud-brick houses and craft workshops that make leatherwork, pottery and woven goods. Sijilmasa, the ruined city on the edge of the oasis, was once a gateway for trans-Saharan trade, and a short guided visit helps you picture its past. Return to the hotel for tea on the terrace as the day cools, and plan your dune trip for the following afternoon.
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
How far is Rissani from Merzouga?+
About 35 kilometres, or roughly 30 to 40 minutes by road.
Which days is the Rissani souk busiest?+
Traditionally Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday. Confirm locally.
Can the hotel arrange dune trips?+
Often yes. Ask about camel treks and 4x4 transfers when you reserve.
