Erfoud

Erfoud is a town in eastern Morocco, the administrative center of Errachidia Province in the Drâa-Tafilalet region. It lies in the Ziz valley near the edge of the Sahara and is commonly described as a gateway to the Sahara and to the Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga. The town functions as a commercial and logistical hub for travelers entering the desert and serves as a base for excursions to the dunes.

The surrounding area supports date palm cultivation and oasis agriculture. It is also known for fossil-bearing rock formations from Paleozoic and Mesozoic times; local quarries and a small museum display fossils and related crafts, reflecting a notable paleontological aspect of the region.

Tourism is a major activity in Erfoud, with desert excursions, camel treks, and visits to oases. The town has hotels, guesthouses, and tour operators, and it serves as a base for visitors heading to Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes. In addition to tourism, Erfoud provides services for residents and travelers, including markets, shops, and regional administration facilities.

The climate is hot and arid, with very hot summers and cool winters. Erfoud sits among palm groves along the Ziz River, and irrigation relies on traditional canal systems. It is connected by road to Errachidia and other towns, functioning as a regional service and logistics center for the Sahara corridor.