Khamlia
خملية
A small village just south of Merzouga where most residents descend from sub-Saharan Africans, and where you can enjoy the rhythmic Gnawa music at the music house.
Khamlia lies about 7 km south of Merzouga. Most villagers are descendants of sub-Saharan Africans who came historically with trans-Saharan trade, and they keep alive Gnawa music: iron castanets, large drums and a three-stringed lute accompany repetitive chanting and dancing. The village's Gnawa House serves visitors mint tea and gives live performances. There is generally no entrance fee; you can tip after the show or buy a CD. It is often combined with a 4x4 loop tour. Ask permission before photographing villagers.
Opening hours
Daytime
Nearby sights
- Mfis
- Merzouga / Erg Chebbi
- Dayet Srij Lake
- Erg Chebbi Desert Camps & Camel Trek
- Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif
- Rissani Souk
- Sijilmasa
- Erfoud Fossil Workshops