Hassi Labied Village | Merzouga

Hassi Labied is a small village located near Merzouga, nestled at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes in southeastern Morocco. The village, like many in the region, is a traditional Berber settlement, offering visitors a glimpse into the desert way of life, with its mud-brick homes, palm groves, and proximity to the famous sand dunes. Though it is not as heavily visited as Merzouga itself, Hassi Labied offers a quieter, more authentic experience.

What Makes Hassi Labied Special?

1. A Taste of Berber Desert Life

Hassi Labied is a Berber village where life revolves around traditional agriculture, livestock, and handicrafts. The village is an important center for date farming, with many date palm groves surrounding it, especially near the Oasis of Hassi Labied.

Visitors can experience the simple life of the Berber people, learn about date cultivation, and see the local irrigation systems that help sustain this oasis in the midst of the desert.

2. Proximity to Erg Chebbi

The village’s location near the Erg Chebbi dunes makes it an ideal starting point for camel treks or off-road excursions into the Sahara.

Camel treks typically start from Merzouga or Hassi Labied, taking travelers deeper into the dunes for sunset or overnight camping experiences in the desert.

3. Local Hospitality and Traditional Accommodation

Many travelers stay in guesthouses or small desert camps in or near Hassi Labied, where they can enjoy traditional Berber meals, sleep in desert tents, and be immersed in the local culture.

It offers a more authentic and low-key experience compared to Merzouga, while still being close to the main attractions of the area.

4. Oasis and Palm Groves

The Oasis of Hassi Labied is a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush palm groves. The oasis serves as a source of water for the village, and it's a great place to take a leisurely stroll, enjoy the shade, and observe local life.

The village is also known for its date farming, where visitors can purchase fresh dates directly from the producers, offering a delicious taste of the region’s produce.

How to Get There

From Merzouga: Hassi Labied is located just 6 km from Merzouga, a short drive or walk away. It's accessible by car, 4x4, or camel.

It’s an ideal base for desert tours, as it’s very close to the dunes but quieter than Merzouga itself.

Camel rides from Hassi Labied to the dunes are a popular way to travel into the Sahara.

What to Do in Hassi Labied

Camel Trekking: Take a short or overnight camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. Many desert camps start their excursions here.

Explore the Oasis: Walk around the oasis, see the palm groves, and learn about the traditional irrigation systems used in the region.

Berber Cooking Classes: Some local guesthouses or camps offer the opportunity to learn how to cook traditional Berber dishes like tagine or couscous.

Stargazing: The desert nights are clear and perfect for stargazing, with little light pollution. If you’re staying in a desert camp, you can enjoy unbelievable views of the night sky.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are ideal times to visit, with mild temperatures and pleasant weather for trekking and desert activities.

Summer (June–August) can be very hot, especially during the day, but the nights in the desert are cooler.

Winter (December–February) can be chilly, especially at night, but the days are generally mild and sunny, making it a peaceful time to visit.

Nearby Attractions

Erg Chebbi Dunes: The highlight of the region, with camel treks, sandboarding, and desert camping.

Khamlia Village: A Gnawa music village where visitors can enjoy live performances from the Gnawa musicians, descendants of former slaves from Sub-Saharan Africa.

Lake Dayet Srij: A seasonal saltwater lake that attracts migratory birds, especially flamingos, when full.

Rissani: A historic town known for its traditional souks (markets), Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif, and its ancient caravanserai.

In Summary

Hassi Labied is a quaint Berber village offering an authentic desert experience, from exploring the date oasis and palm groves to embarking on a camel trek into the vast Erg Chebbi dunes. It's a quiet and peaceful alternative to Merzouga, while still offering easy access to all of the Sahara Desert’s wonders. Whether you want to hike, relax by an oasis, or experience local desert life, Hassi Labied is an excellent base to explore the Magical Moroccan Desert.