tourism in the sahara desert

Desert of dreams: how and where to experience the Sahara

Apr 1, 2013 • 4 min read

A fount of solitude and the desert of childhood imaginings, the Sahara Desert is like nowhere else on earth. It is the world’s largest desert, at once continental in its scale and exquisite in its detail, from a sand sea the size of a small European country to an orange sand dune sculpted to perfection by the wind. Covering a territory roughly equivalent to the United States, the Sahara crosses around 20 lines of longitude and encompasses at least 10 countries.

Parts of the Sahara are currently off-limits to travellers, but such is its scale that significant areas can still be visited, most notably in Morocco, Tunisia and Egypt. In these places, experiencing the Sahara is all about remote campfires, slow camel journeys and more wide-ranging 4WD expeditions.

Saharan travel

A journey into the Sahara can be as varied as the desert itself, but there are some quintessential experiences. Most begin in the gateway towns where expeditions out into the desert are organised. Often oases, these towns are centres of Saharan culture, places where the architecture emerges naturally from the earth and the slow pace of life has changed little in centuries.

For exploring beyond town or village limits, there are two major means of getting around. A slow march across the sands astride a camel re-enacts the great camel caravans of Saharan lore – on a camel safari, travellers slow down to a pace well suited to the Sahara’s unforgiving climate, allowing you to appreciate details and pass through this spectacular terrain at one with your surroundings. In a 4WD expedition, travellers can range further, stirring up the sand as you tick off a list of iconic Saharan landscapes.

Sleeping between four walls is an experience that ends in the towns. Out amid the sands or remote Saharan mountains, evenings are spent around a campfire, and a soft bed of sand is the night-time mattress of choice. Most Saharan excursions carry tents, but many travellers prefer to sleep outdoors beneath the clearest show of stars on earth.

Travel in the Sahara is best between October and April or early May when daytime temperatures are generally bearable. In the depths of the Saharan winter (especially December and January), nighttime temperatures can fall below freezing. Sand storms are possible from January through May, while no sensible person ventures into the fierce firestorm of heat that blankets the Sahara from June to early September. Rain is rarely a problem.

Southeastern Morocco , in the lee of the snow-capped High Atlas Mountains , is the most accessible slice of the Sahara. It was in the Draa Valley – a picturesque world of expansive palm groves, earth-red kasbahs and Berber hamlets – that trans-Saharan camel caravans began and ended their 52-day journey across the Sahara to Timbuktu. These days, shorter camel excursions head out from M’Hamid into the Erg Chigaga , a stunning 40km-long ribbon of extraordinary sand dunes. Further east, from the tiny village of Merzouga , camel forays and 4WD trips lead out into Erg Chebbi , a glorious collection of seemingly eternal dunes. Both Merzouga and M’Hamid are a one-day bus journey from Marrakesh .

Tunisia ’s south cuts a deep wedge into the northern Sahara, carving out what could just be the Sahara’s most celebrated corner. It was here that film directors found sufficient cinematic beauty to provide a backdrop for the Star Wars series and the English Patient . The two main gateway towns are Tozeur , a seven-hour bus ride or one-hour flight from Tunis , and Douz , a nine-hour bus ride from Tunisia’s capital. The former sits close to the immense salt lake of Chott El Jerid and some of the most evocative sites of Star Wars filming; the latter is the last stop before the soul-stirring sand summits of the Grand Erg Oriental, one of the world’s largest seas of sand that spills over into Algeria. For true Saharan immersion, the remote outpost of Ksar Ghilane, 147km south of Douz, has an abandoned fortress and the Tunisian Sahara’s most splendid scenery.

The west of Egypt is a vast yet beguiling corner of the Sahara. A string of oases, connected by barely discernible tracks across the sand, begins in the north at Siwa , home to a crumbling medieval mud fortress and a temple that date back to the time of Alexander the Great. Away to the south, the oases of Al Kharga, Dakhla, Farafra and Bahariya provide focal points for expeditions into the void, while beyond the last outpost of human habitation lie places of Saharan longing, including the White Desert  and  Black Desert . All of the oases have direct bus services to and from Cairo that will take at least a day to complete. Once in the oases, 4WD are much more common than camel excursions. Some governments advise travelling to the western deserts of Egypt only if it's essential.

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How To Visit The Sahara Desert

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When you tell your friends you’re planning a vacation to the Sahara Desert, don’t be surprised if they respond, simply, “Why?”

It’s a fair question. The Sahara is one of the world’s largest deserts. It’s nearly devoid of life-giving rainfall, and it’s considered one of the toughest places on earth for life of any kind.

Lots of people would say that makes it a questionable spot to take a vacation — but those people would be…misguided. In fact, the Sahara offers the adventure of a lifetime to travelers of all persuasions. You can even explore the area in plush comfort if you know where to look.

Whether it’s been on your bucket list for years or you’re just in the mood for something completely different, the Sahara Desert may be your next favorite vacation destination, or at least the most memorable. Here’s what you need to know to get the most out of your trip to the King of Deserts.

Denis Burdin / Shutterstock

Where Exactly Is The Sahara Desert?

Short answer: The Sahara is in Africa. But as we mentioned, the Sahara is the largest desert in the world, outside of the polar areas. Covering almost one third of the African continent and spanning over 3.6 million square miles , this desert is a vast tranquil ocean of sand — and so much more.

Scientists divide the desert into six distinct ecoregions , each with its own system of plant and animal life. In that sense, then, there isn’t just one Sahara Desert. There are many Saharas. And not all of them are equally great for a vacation.

Likewise, not all of them are in a single country. Most North African nations, including Algeria, Morocco, Egypt, and northern Niger (which is not technically a North African nation, but that just goes to show how huge the Sahara really is), encompass some of this enormous region. While some parts of the desert are off limits, there are still plenty of places to safely experience the beauty of this natural wonderland.

In fact, the only areas you should typically avoid are those restricted due to civil and political unrest . You’ll be safe as long as you follow specific guidelines for entry into and passage through the desert. You can (and should) always check the U.S. State Department’s website for detailed information about security concerns for any country you plan to visit.

But for now, let’s focus on the two Sahara-access countries that U.S. travelers tend to favor, both for the bustling tourism infrastructures already in place and for the incredible food, lodgings, services, and experiences that await visitors there: Morocco and Egypt.

How To Get To The Sahara Desert Through Morocco

Morocco is probably the most popular destination for access to the Sahara. As of this writing, Royal Air Maroc is the only airline that offers direct flights from the United States. You can also fly Delta, Air France, American, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, Norwegian, Air Europa, or Condor — if you don’t mind layovers.

A direct flight from New York to Marrakech airport takes about nine hours, whereas flights with international stops will require at least 11 hours of travel. Some of these flights can take over 20 hours with layovers factored in. Of course, that may be well worth it if you catch a cheap fare.

Whatever airline you choose, fly into the Moroccan city of Marrakech. This will put you within reach of the most popular Sahara attractions without having to travel too far by land. Once you’re in the region, of course, you’ll need to get out of the city and into the desert.

Matej Kastelic / Shutterstock

Morocco has a great bus system that can take you into the Sahara. The two main bus companies are Supratours and CTM . Currently, Supratours is the only one offering direct rides to one of the most popular desert city destinations, Merzouga.

If you want to get to Merzouga as quickly as possible, the 12-hour Supratour bus ride is the best option. Or you can break up the trip into multi-night stops to experience more of the area.

Cities like Ouarzazate, Ait Benhaddou, and Dades Gorge all have beautiful sites, museums, tours, and restaurants worth checking out. Why not make your Saharan vacation into a complete tour of the settled region?

How To Get To The Sahara Desert Through Egypt

Another option for visiting the Sahara is to travel through Egypt. From the United States, you can fly directly into Cairo via EgyptAir flights, or you can use Lufthansa, Emirates, Delta, American, United, or Air France for flights that stop here and there in other countries. A direct flight from New York will take about 10 hours and 30 minutes, whereas flights with even just one stop range from 13 to 25 hours of travel time.

Guenter Albers / Shutterstock

Once you arrive in Cairo, you have a few options for Saharan adventure, all of which are located in the western portion of the country. There are direct bus lines from Cairo to multiple desert oases, such as Siwa, Al Kharga, Dakhla, Farafra, Bahariya, and the White and Black Deserts .

It’s possible to plan your entire Saharan trip yourself, but why bother, when there are so many excellent and reasonably priced organized tours ? If relying on busses and taxis, negotiating ride fares, and booking your own hotels sounds too overwhelming, a tour might be the way to go.

When Is The Best Time To Visit The Sahara?

There are lots of factors to take into consideration when deciding on the time of year to visit the Sahara Desert. Of course, you should start by thinking about that desert heat. The Sahara is at its hottest between June and September, so if you’re not a fan of sunscreen and extra water bottles, avoid this season.

But that doesn’t mean you should restrict travel to the winter months. From November through February, daytime temperatures are mild—but once the sun sets, temperatures plummet, sometimes even below freezing. Dust storms are prevalent from February to April. All that considered, the landscape is seemingly at its most pleasant from March through May and September through October.

Sahara Desert Luggage Essentials

When packing for your trip, consider the activities you have planned. Will you ride camels through the desert? Camp under the stars? Or will you relax in a luxurious resort while taking brief day trips into the wilderness beyond the city?

Generally speaking, there are a few items every Sahara visitor should include in their checked luggage. For instance, be sure to pack long, comfortable pants for walking and leg protection when riding camels. Bring a light jacket, a hat, and a scarf to wrap around your head and face for protection from blowing sand and sun.

And don’t forget sunscreen. Bring your favorite comfortable sneakers, hiking boots, or hiking sandals. Finally, you’ll definitely want a camera and extra batteries — plus a brush to clear sand off the camera lens.

Adisa / Shutterstock

Activities And Attractions In The Sahara Desert

The Sahara Desert is full of beautiful ancient ruins, sand dunes as tall as mountains, and wondrous oasis towns. You can ride a camel, camp outside under the desert night sky, watch wildlife at play, or even have a desert spa experience .

Whatever your interests, this sparse environment is packed with lush opportunities. Here are just a few of them to get you started:

The Majorelle Gardens

If you fly into Marrakech, Morocco, be sure to visit the Majorelle Gardens before leaving on your desert quest. French painter Jacques Majorelle spent 40 years perfecting this little oasis in the city. The grounds are filled with banana trees, palms, marble pools, water channels, and fountains with pathways woven throughout. There’s also a Berber culture museum on the grounds that’s not to be missed.

The gardens and museum are open every day, from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. between October 1 and April 30. They’re open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. between May 1 and September 30. And they’re open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the month of Ramadan. Admission costs around $20 for the gardens and $10 for the museum.

danm12 / Shutterstock

Located just two days by car from Marrakech, Erg Chebbi is an easily accessible, tourist-ready section of the Sahara that hasn’t sacrificed a bit of its natural, wind-swept grandeur. An erg is the desert as it exists in your imagination: sand, sky, and dunes as far as the eye can see.

What makes Erg Chebbi so special is the wealth of experiences available to visitors. Located so close to the city, the locals have had plenty of time to build a thriving tourism economy.

Take a camel trek across the dunes, or camp in luxury beneath the stars. Stop in a Berber village and watch the sun set over the sand. If you want to experience the pure, sandy Sahara, Erg Chebbi is a great choice.

PiCPiCK / Shutterstock

Siwa is a true Egyptian oasis area on the western edge of the nation. The desert gives way to green olive groves and, seemingly out of nowhere, water. Siwa is ripe with mineral springs, salt lakes, and swimming pools — including Cleopatra’s Pool, where the Ptolemaic ruler is said to have soaked herself more than 1,000 years ago.

Stop in the Siwa town of Shali to tour the ancient ruins of the Shali Fortress. Trace the footsteps of Alexander the Great to find the historical site of the Oracle of Siwa. Experience desert beauty, startling history, and luxury comforts here and all over the Sahara.

Just be sure to take lots of pictures. They’re the best answer to your friends’ doubtful question: “Why?”

Photo Credit: Anton Petrus / Shutterstock , Patrick Poendl / Shutterstock

Brian Thomas is a professional writer with over 15 years of experience. He’s traveled extensively during that time, frequently touring the American Southwest as both a musician and a tourist. In 2019, he visited Japan and Mexico, and he’s become passionate about spreading a simple message: Traveling isn't necessarily expensive, and it's one of the best paths to self-improvement.

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15 Best Things To Do In The Sahara Desert, Morocco

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Looking for things to do in the Sahara Desert? Look no further!

The Sahara desert is the world’s largest hot desert, spanning over 3.5 million square miles across 11 nations. It is a vast wilderness that offers endless opportunities for adventure.

Although the desert is mostly empty and there are no ‘Sahara Desert attractions’ as such, there are still plenty of things to do and unique experiences to be had.

During my first trip to Morocco , I visited the Sahara Desert on a four-day trip from Marrakech to the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga. Visiting the Sahara was a huge bucket list item for me and it did not disappoint!

So, let me share with you my top 15 recommendations for things to do in the Sahara Desert.

Hi, I’m JJ!

I’m a travel blogger with a passion for unique travel destinations, discovering hidden gems, and adventurous solo travel.

I’ve visited Morocco multiple times and planned a trip to the Sahara desert from Marrakech during my first time in Morocco.

I hope you enjoy my free guides and travel tips! If so, please consider supporting my work 💕

Private Tour With Luxury Camp

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Table of Contents

15 Best Things To Do In The Sahara Desert

1. camping in the sahara desert.

There is no better way to truly experience the Sahara Desert than by camping under the stars. With its vast expanse of sand dunes and clear night skies, the Sahara offers a magical setting for camping and the experience will leave you feeling like a true adventurer!

You can choose to camp in traditional Berber tents or opt for a more luxurious glamping experience with all modern amenities. Either way, it will be an unforgettable experience.

I chose to stay at a very basic desert camp which was basically just a tent made of blankets and a sleeping mat on the floor.

I wanted a rugged, back-to-basics experience to feel closer to nature but I know that many people hate this type of camping! So, choose what suits you best and enjoy the desert in your own way.

Here are some of the best options for desert camps in the Morrocan Sahara:

Luxury:   Erg Chebbi Luxury Desert Camp

Mid-range:   Sunrise Sahara Camp

Budget:   Desert Life Camp

2. Camel Trekking

Camel trekking is one of the most popular things to do in the Sahara Desert. However, there is a lot of debate about whether it is ethical or not.

I did a camel trek when I visited the Sahara Desert (when I was young and uninformed) and although I did enjoy it, I now know better and would not do it again.

If you do choose to go for a camel trek, make sure that the animals are treated well and handled responsibly.

🐪 Here are some resources so that you can make an informed decision: 1 , 2 , 3 .

3. Climb The Dunes 

Another must-do activity in the Sahara desert is climbing the dunes. It may seem like a daunting task, but once you reach the top, the views are simply breathtaking, so it’s definitely worth the effort!

In Erg Chebbi, the dunes can reach as high as 160m and climbing them is a lot harder than it looks! The sand starts to slide under your feet, so for every few steps you take forward, you slide back a little.

It’s definitely a workout for your legs (my calves were burning!) but the feeling of accomplishment when you reach the top is unbeatable.

Just be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen with you as it can get quite hot as you are climbing but I also recommend a light jacket or thin sweater as it can be windy once you are at the top.

💁🏻‍♀️JJ’s Top Tip: The best time to climb the dunes is early morning or evening when the temperatures are cooler and the lighting is perfect for photos.

4. Watch The Sunset Or Sunrise From The Dunes

One of the most magical experiences you can have in the Sahara desert is watching the sun rise or set from the top of a dune.

The colours and peacefulness of the desert at these times are truly mesmerizing. It’s also a great opportunity to take some unique photos that will make your friends jealous! Just remember to dress warmly as it can get quite chilly once the sun goes down.

I climbed the dunes for both sunset and sunrise the following morning. Watching the sunset was my favourite out of the two, although I have to admit that climbing back down the dune in the dark was a fun challenge!

5. Stargazing

With very little light pollution and clear skies, stargazing in the Sahara desert is an unforgettable experience!

You can lay back on a blanket at your camp, sip on some hot tea, and gaze up at the millions of stars twinkling above you.

If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of a shooting star – I saw several of them during my time in the desert!

Turn off all lights and electronics and let yourself be fully immersed in the beauty of the night sky. It’s a truly humbling experience that will make you feel connected to something much bigger than yourself.

💁🏻‍♀️JJ’s Top Tip: Bring along a star map or download an astronomy app on your phone to help identify constellations and planets. I like to use the Night Sky app for this.

6. Sandboarding

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not give sandboarding a try? It’s a must-try activity in the Sahara desert for adrenaline seekers!

It’s like snowboarding but on sand dunes instead of snow. It may take a few tries to get the hang of it, but once you do, it’s an exhilarating experience! Plus, you’ll have some great stories to tell and memories to look back on.

Make sure to wear closed-toe shoes and protective eyewear, and listen to your guide’s instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. And of course, don’t forget to capture some epic photos and videos for your friends to envy!

⛺ This luxury camping experience includes sandboarding and is perfect for adventure lovers!

7. 4×4 Drive Through The Dunes

I’ve done this in both the Sahara Desert and the Wadi Rum Desert in Jordan, and both times it was so much fun and definitely an adrenaline rush like no other!

Hop into a 4×4 jeep and hold tight as you zoom over the rolling sand dunes. It’s like being on a rollercoaster but with better views! It’s a great way to cover more ground and see different areas of the desert while having some thrilling fun.

Your guide will take you to some of the most picturesque spots in the desert where you can hop out and take some photos or just soak up the breathtaking landscapes. Just make sure to hold onto your camera tightly!

🚙This 4×4 experience from Merzouga is if you want to go deeper into the desert but are short on time!

8. Quad Biking/ ATV Riding

Another adrenaline-pumping activity in the Sahara desert is quad biking or ATV riding.

Imagine zooming through the desert on a four-wheeled vehicle, feeling the wind in your face and the sand beneath your tyres. It’s an exhilarating experience that will leave you with a huge smile on your face.

Your guide will lead you through different paths and dunes, making sure to stop at some scenic spots along the way.

Don’t worry if you’ve never ridden a quad bike before, your guide will give you all the necessary instructions and make sure you feel comfortable before setting off.

This is a great way to explore the desert at a faster pace while still getting an adrenaline rush.

🏍️ This guided quad-biking tour takes you on a fast-paced adventure through the Erg Chebbi dunes!

9. Meet The Berber People

The Berber people are the indigenous inhabitants of the Sahara desert, and getting to know them is a must-do experience.

The Berber tribes have a long history in North and sub-Saharan Africa, dating back over 20,000 years before the Arab conquest of the region.

Many tours allow you to visit a Berber family and learn about their nomadic way of life, as well as their customs, and traditions. You can also have the opportunity to taste some delicious Berber cuisine, sip mint tea, and maybe even try on some traditional clothing!

This cultural exchange will give you a deeper understanding and appreciation of this unique desert community.

Make sure to book with an ethical tour company that respects and supports the local Berber people, and ensures that your money is going directly to the people that you are visiting.

⛺ Meet the Berber people on this immersive cultural experience that includes a performance of the incredible Gnawa music – a traditional blend of classical Islamic music and African beats!

10. Campfire Under The Stars

After a day full of exciting activities, there’s nothing quite like cosying up around a campfire under the starry sky.

Most desert camps will include a campfire. You can sip on some traditional mint tea and enjoy a delicious dinner while listening to live music and watching traditional Berber dances.

You can also try your hand at playing some traditional instruments or just sit back and relax as you take in the peaceful desert night.

Just remember to dress warmly as it can get chilly at night in the desert, but the warmth of the fire and the company of your fellow travellers will keep you cosy.

11. Traditional Moroccan Drums 

For a truly immersive experience, join in on a traditional Moroccan drumming session around the campfire.

You’ll learn how to play the traditional drums and be part of an authentic desert musical experience. The rhythmic beats and lively atmosphere will have you dancing under the stars and feeling like a true Berber nomad.

Don’t be afraid to let loose and have fun with the music – after all, that’s what travel is all about! I had a great time learning how to play the drums and even bought one to bring home with me.

12. Have A Sand Bath

As a unique desert tradition, some desert camps offer the option to have a sand bath . Sand baths are believed to have started in ancient Egypt and were later practised by the Greeks.

You’ll be buried up to your neck in hot sand and left to relax for about 15 minutes. This natural form of therapy is believed to have healing benefits and leave you feeling rejuvenated.

Sweating helps detox the body, while sand grains exfoliate dry skin. The weight of the sand relaxes muscles and calms the mind. Thanks to the minerals in the sand, sand baths can also treat skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, and other ailments.

Don’t miss out on this unique experience during your desert adventure!

13. Meditation And Yoga 

The desert is a great place to practice yoga and meditation. The peacefulness of the surroundings and the open space make it the perfect place to reconnect with yourself and find inner peace.

Some desert camps offer yoga classes or meditation sessions in the morning or evening, providing a serene start or end to your day.

Take some time for self-care during your trip and join in on these activities – you won’t regret it!

🧘🏻‍♀️ The Sahara Wellness Camp runs yoga retreats in the desert, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in yoga and meditation while surrounded by the beautiful landscape.

14. Spot Sahara Desert Wildlife

While the Sahara Desert may seem barren, it is actually home to a variety of wildlife. From camels and goats to desert foxes and the adorable desert hedgehog , there is an abundance of animals that have adapted to life in the harsh environment.

During your desert trip, keep an eye out for these creatures. I saw tons of lizards and I think I even caught a glimpse of a desert hare in the distance!

Many of the camps also have cats or dogs that roam freely, offering cuddles and companionship to visitors. So don’t be surprised if you make some furry friends during your stay!

💁🏻‍♀️ JJ’s Top Tip: Always observe animals from a respectful distance and never disturb or harm them.

15. Hot Air Balloon Ride 

For a truly unique view of the Sahara Desert, take a hot air balloon ride! Imagine soaring above the dunes and watching the sunrise or sunset from high up in the sky.

Some tour companies in Merzouga offer this activity as an excursion, and it is definitely worth considering. It’s an unforgettable experience that allows you to appreciate the vastness and beauty of the desert from a different perspective.

💁🏻‍♀️ JJ’s Top Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask your guide or fellow travellers to take a photo of you in the balloon. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment that you’ll want to remember forever!

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Faqs: 10 best things to do in the sahara desert, what do people do in the sahara desert.

In the Sahara desert, people can participate in various activities such as camping, camel rides, sandboarding, ATV rides, cultural experiences with the local Berber community, and campfires under the stars. There are also opportunities for traditional Moroccan drums, sand baths, meditation and yoga, wildlife spotting, and hot air balloon rides.

What will you see in Sahara Desert?

In the Sahara desert, you will see vast stretches of golden sand dunes, breathtaking sunsets and sunrises, clear star-studded skies at night, and various forms of desert wildlife.

Why would people want to go to the Sahara desert?

People may want to go to the Sahara desert for many reasons, such as to experience unique cultural activities, seek adventure and adrenaline-filled activities, reconnect with nature and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life, or simply admire the stunning natural beauty of the desert.

Is it worth visiting the Sahara desert?

Absolutely! Visiting the Sahara desert is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers a unique and unforgettable adventure. It allows you to immerse yourself in a different culture, witness breathtaking landscapes, and try out new activities. Plus, the peacefulness and stillness of the desert can be incredibly rejuvenating.

Can you go in the Sahara desert?

Yes, you can go into the Sahara desert, but it is recommended to do so with a guided tour or an experienced local guide. The extreme temperature and terrain of the desert can be challenging for inexperienced travellers, and it is important to take precautions and follow safety measures when exploring the Sahara.

What is the best time of year to visit the Sahara Desert?

The best time of year to visit the Sahara desert is during the cooler months from October to April, when temperatures are more bearable and there is less chance of extreme weather conditions.

Which country is safest to visit Sahara?

There are several countries in Africa that offer safe and organized tours to the Sahara desert , including Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt. It is important to check travel advisories and consult with tour operators before visiting to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

What should I wear to the Sahara desert?

It is recommended to wear loose, breathable clothing that covers your skin from the sun’s harsh rays. Long-sleeved shirts and pants are ideal, along with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. It is also important to bring sunscreen and plenty of water to stay hydrated in the hot desert climate. A good pair of hiking shoes or sandals with ankle support are also recommended.

Does it get cold in the Sahara desert?

Yes, the Sahara desert can get cold at night, especially during the winter months. It is important to bring warm layers and a sleeping bag if you plan on camping in the desert. Additionally, temperatures can vary greatly between day and night in the desert, so it’s important to pack for both hot and cold weather.

Can you spend the night in the Sahara desert?

Yes, various tour companies offer overnight camping experiences in the Sahara desert.

Final Thoughts: 10 Best Things To Do In The Sahara Desert

Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, the Sahara desert offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

From adrenaline-pumping activities like sandboarding and quad biking to more chilled-out vibes like yoga, meditation and stargazing under the vast night sky, there is so much to do in this breathtaking landscape.

Visiting the Sahara was a dream come true for me, and I definitely made the most of my time there. I hope this guide has inspired you to plan your own Sahara adventure and discover all the amazing things this magical place has to offer.

For more Morocco inspiration check out my guide to Marrakech and 4-day Morocco itinerary .

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One comment

Amazing blog, I appreciate your great job about giving details, and explaining things for travelers who are interested in visiting our safe Desert…

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Africa , Morocco , Travel Guides · December 30, 2020

A Guide to Visiting the Sahara Desert

Planning a trip to North Africa can be quite a daunting task, so here is my ultimate guide to visiting the Sahara Desert. For the longest time, I dreamed of visiting the Sahara. Just the thought of being able to ride a camel out into the desert, and camp under a blanket of stars in the middle of nowhere seemed very romantic to me. And while the experience didn’t exactly live up to those romantic expectations (no one really tells you how physically fit you need to be to climb up sand dunes…or how it takes months to empty your shoes of sand), it was still one of the coolest things I’ve ever done! Spanning almost a third of the African continent, and touching 11 different countries, the Sahara Desert is one of the largest deserts in the world.

Should you do a guided tour when visiting the Sahara Desert?

How much does visiting the sahara desert cost, is 3 days long enough to visit the sahara desert, our 3-day sahara desert tour experience, day 1: ait ben haddou kasbah + dades valley, day 2: todra gorges + merzouga dunes, day 3: merzouga dunes + draa valley + ouarzazate, what to pack when visiting the sahara desert.

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We normally prefer to travel on our own, but given the limited period of time we had available (~3 days dedicated to the Sahara Desert leg of our Marrakesh trip) and our hesitation in hiring/driving a car in Morocco, it was a question we debated for months.

In the end, we felt more comfortable hiring a guided tour. Let me tell you…it was worth it for the convenience, the ease-of-comfort, and value for money. Our guide managed everything for us – I mean EVERYTHING!

The tour company picked us up from our riad in Marrakech, handled full transportation and gas, managed our itinerary, and made plenty of stops for photos and bathroom breaks. They were even thoughtful enough to plan for Western-style toilet stops, which are not easily found in the desert (something that hadn’t even crossed my mind until AFTER we arrived)). They handled accommodation every night, managed entry tickets to all of the sites, organized camel-riding, and took care of meals. The only major downside was that the provided meals and accommodation themselves were ‘mediocre’, so if these are a really big deal to you, then self-drive might be a better option.

If you are a bit nervous to travel to Morocco and your main purpose is to go and see the Sahara Desert, then I would definitely hire a guide. I can personally vouch for this tour (Sahara Tours 4×4) , in case you want to save yourself a few hours of research. 🙂 Not sponsored, this was really the guide we used.

We opted for a private tour for the convenience. Our 3-day private tour cost the two of us 750 euros roundtrip. This included: (1) accommodation (including 1 night in a nomad tent), (2) transport/petrol with air-conditioned car and English speaking guide, (3) all meals, (4) camel-riding activity, and (5) entry into sites. Tip was not included  (the recommendation is to tip around 15%-20% of the total trip cost). You could probably get away with something much cheaper by planning a trip yourselves, but the convenience alone was worth the cost.

Yes and no. It was long enough to enjoy the experience we REALLY went for…which was riding camels out into the desert and enjoying a night camping among sand dunes. However, there was a LOT of driving (5-6 hours/day) involved, and it made for some pretty long and exhausting days. If you have the luxury of time, I’d recommend extending your trip to 5 days so that you are able have more downtime between stops.

TIP : If you don’t have 3 days to spare and still want to see sand dunes, there are also tour options that take you to Zagora, but the dunes won’t be as large or impressive as the larger dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga.

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We were picked up from our riad in Marrakesh at 8am sharp. The guide was fluent in English, on-time, and very polite – he helped with our suitcases and made sure to find parking close to the riad. The first stop on our journey was a photo spot in the High Atlas Mountain, where we were able to admire the panoramic views for 10-15 minutes.  

From there, we hit up a local trading post where we were able to observe women from a local village produce Argan Oil. This was a nice bathroom stop, and even though we were not pressured to purchase anything, we ended up buying a small bottle of Argan Oil as a nice souvenir.

The second main stop was the krsa (fortified village) of Ait Ben Haddou to visit the famous Kasbah. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit, and is included as a stop in most Sahara Desert tours from Marrakech. Several famous movies like The Mummy and the Gladiator were filmed here.

From there, we continued onto Ouarzazate (also known as the ‘gate of the desert’), the Rose Valley and it’s large palm tree groves, ending at the Dades Valley which was our destination for the night. The Dades Valley is another ‘must-stop’ destination for any trip to the Sahara Desert. We stayed in the Hotel Babylon i n the Dades Valley (included dinner and breakfast) and although it wasn’t a 5-star hotel, it was lovely and clean. We were given some mint tea and biscuits during check-in. During dinner (which was a 3-course feast), the owners even put on a little music show!

Day 2 was the highlight of our 3-day road trip visiting the Sahara Desert. We kicked off our morning by passing through the Todra Gorges, which is a series of limestone river canyons on the Eastern side of the Atlas Mountains. There are several hiking and rock climbing routes in the area, for those who are interested in making the Todra Gorges a full stop. It was here where stopped for a few minutes to stretch our legs, and explore the canyons a bit. We also ended up buying a small Moroccan rug from a street vendor, and successfully haggled the price down from $100 to $50 (‘successful’ being a loose term, our driver laughed at us and explained that he would’ve only payed $40…still.)

From there, we made our way to the Merzouga Dunes. Merzouga is a small village, and is known as the gateway to the Sahara. Our driver dropped us off at a home in Merzouga, where we were told to leave most of our belongings.  We were only permitted to bring a small duffle bag or backpack with us, since our journey into the sand dunes was via camel. It was also here where we met up with a few other travelers, and were told we’d be traveling as a larger group into the desert camp. After re-organizing our belongings, enjoying a short coffee and snack break, and learning how to wrap our head and necks properly with scarves (to protect our face from blowing sand)…we were off!

Each person in the group was assigned a camel, and our tour guide (who was from a local Berber tribe) was super helpful in getting us situated on top of the camels, and tying up our luggage. I was lucky enough to have a friendly female camel as my travel companion (I daresay she was also the PRETTIEST camel I’ve seen….Kevin and I decided her name was Jasmine).

The journey to the nomad camp was quite the adventure. I had imagined camel riding to be a romantic endeavor…but it was super awkward and bumpy. Don’t get me wrong…I still had a BLAST, and was giggling like a maniac through most of the journey….but I wish someone would’ve told me just how uncomfortable I would be!

TIP : Even if it’s really hot, I would recommend wearing long and loose pants for camel riding, with long socks underneath. It’ll prevent your legs and ankles from rubbing against the sides of the camel, and make for a more comfortable experience!

After we arrived at the nomad camp, we were given some free time to run up and down the nearby sand dunes, and enjoy the sunset. This was, by far, the best part of our trip. It’s EXHAUSTING climbing up the dunes because you’re ankle-deep in sand, and your thighs are burning from the steep incline…but the views from the top are worth the effort.

There are really no words to describe how extraordinary of an experience it was to witness sunset in the middle of the Sahara Desert. We sat with our fingers buried in the sand, feeling tired and content, and our eyes mesmerized by the sun melting into the dunes in front of us. The sky was painted in shades of pink, orange, and red, and I remember feeling like my heart would burst from magic of it all.

After sunset, we made our way back to the camp, where we we feasted on chicken tagine – a hearty pot of slow-cooked chicken, vegetables, and rice. The meal was fabulous…especially considering that we were in the middle of the desert, and the service was top-notch. Afterwards, we sat around a campfire with the rest of our travel group, drinking mint tea and listening to the slow and steady beating of Berber drums, and exchanging stories under the stars.

The sleeping arrangements in the camp exceeded my expectations. I wasn’t really sure what to expect, but was pleasantly surprised to find that we were able to sleep on actual beds in a small but sturdy private tent. There was even a working toilet and running water to wash our hands and brush our teeth. RUNNING WATER! I couldn’t believe it.

We had an early morning wake-up call (5:00AM) the next morning, and made one last climb up sand dunes in the darkness so that we could be at the top in time for sunrise. After sunrise, we returned to the home in Merzouga, where our belongings were being stored, and were treated to a fantastic full breakfast spread and hot shower.

Our drive back took us through the Draa Valley, where we stopped for lunch and were treated to sweeping views of palm trees lining the Draa River (the longest river in Morocco). We continued through Ouarzazate (a modern town famous for providing the exotic backdrops for many Hollywood blockbusters), with a few bathroom breaks along the way. The drive back was pretty uneventful (save for a flat tire…which our driver had fixed and replaced in a jiffy), and involved multiple ‘mini-naps’ in the back seat. After a long day of driving (6-7 hours), we were finally dropped off at our riad in Marrakech, concluding our side trip into the Sahara Desert.

RELATED POST : Instagram vs. Reality: The Truth About Marrakech

The best packing advice I can give you for visiting the Sahara Desert is this: Pack light, pack layers, and pack things that you aren’t afraid to get dirty! My tennis shoes were permanently ruined from running along sand dunes. Other things to consider include:

Essentials:

• A change of clothes
• Tennis shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty
• Portable charger (for your phone, and your camera…as you WILL be taking a million photos)
• Windbreaker (it gets cold at night)
• Light scarf (for protecting your face from the sand and wind)
• Hand sanitizer
• An extra pair of socks
• Basic toiletries in a small bag

Recommended:

• A light blanket. Some sheets and a pillow will be provided at the camp, but it does get cold at night, so consider bringing a blanket for extra warmth!
• Small flashlight
• Travel first aid kit
• Waterproof or ziplock bag for protecting your camera equipment when the weather gets rough
• Battery-powered fan
• Flip flops (for getting around the camp)

Need help planning a trip to the Sahara Desert, or have questions? Leave me a comment below!

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Marrakech To Merzouga 3 days camel ride

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“The camel rides and camp were fun with dancing and music in the evening. The tour really exceeded my expectations.” Stephanie Gilbert, traveled in June 2024

• Christmas & New Year
• Explore the historic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah.
• Drive through the High Atlas mountains.
• Drive along the road of 1000 kasbahs.

“This tour was absolutely amazing! Every city, every stop was very good. Will definitely recommend this company 100%.” Dana Coutu, traveled in April 2024

• Travel hassle-free with expert guides and seamless transportation, including comfortable stays in 4-star hotels
• Enjoy scenic drives through the Atlas Mountains, passing through picturesque valleys, Berber villages and dramatic gorges like the Todra Gorge, offering opportunities for hiking and exploration.
• Experience the breathtaking landscapes of the Sahara Desert with a camel ride through the dunes and an overnight stay in a traditional desert camp.

“Amaizing experience, very well organized trip with very knowledge and accommodating stuff. Highly recommend.” Petia Dimitrova, traveled in November 2021

• Sightseeing
• Journey from the vibrant cityscapes of Casablanca to the tranquil blue hues of Chefchaouen, then venture into the vast Sahara Desert.
• Traverse through Morocco's most renowned cities and landmarks, from Marrakech's bustling souks to the ancient medina of Fez, experiencing the country's rich history and culture firsthand.
• Travel hassle-free with included accommodations, expert guides, and seamless transportation, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable exploration of Morocco's highlights from start to finish.

“The scenery of the Atlas Mountains was stunning, and the first night at the family hostel with food, music, and dancing was pure delight.” Hannah Wheeler, traveled in April 2023

• In-depth Cultural
• Beautiful and traditional Berber villages in the High Atlas mountains.

“We felt part of a Moroccan family. The other lodging was beyond expectations.” Daniel Peha, traveled in October 2022

• Explore the ancient Ait Ben Haddou
• Ride camels in the Erg Chebbi dunes
• Visit the historic Glaoui Kasbah

“This was an adventure of a lifetime! I can not BEGIN to express how well taken care of myself and my two friends were.” Ann Leavitt, traveled in August 2023

• Try sandboarding and quad biking
• Horseback ride in Ait Benhaddou
• Drive through the Atlas Mountains

“The riad we stayed in was amazing, the host Younes made us feel like we were at home.” Djaad Abdi, traveled in September 2022

• Tour the iconic Bahia Palace and Koutoubia Mosque
• Explore Marrakech's historic Medina and souks
• Enjoy a camel ride or 4WD across Erg Chaabi dunes

“This tour was amazing and our guide was extremely knowledgeable and accommodating.” Erin Duggan, traveled in February 2023

• Tour Rabat's landmarks and imperial Meknes
• Walk through Todra Gorge and visit Berber co-op
• Explore the historic Hassan II Mosque

“From desert views to downstairs river canals, everything was priceless.” Kirya Yael Hernandez Gonzalez, traveled in January 2024

• Explore the massive canyon walls of the Todra Gorges
• Embark on camel ride through the stunning dunes
• Climb through the amazing Tizi n’Tichka pass

“Discover the beautiful country of Morocco from the hustle and bustle of the streets of marakesh to the breath taking views in the mountains.” Alexander Butler, traveled in October 2022

• Hiking & Trekking
• Explore Todra Gorge and sleep under cliffs
• Meet your group at a rooftop bar in Marrakech
• Hike in the High Atlas Mountains to Aroumd

More about Sahara Desert

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Top 10 Things To Do in the Sahara Desert (Besides Riding a Camel)

As the largest, and one of the driest, deserts on Earth, it’s safe to say there are very few places in the world like the Sahara Desert. The infinite sea of sand dunes all in different shades of gold is the perfect setting to experience a once-in-a-lifetime getaway filled with adventure, fun, and unique experiences. Most people want to visit the Sahara Desert and explore it on a camel’s back. While that’s certainly an exciting adventure to have, there are many more things you can do in the desert! Find our suggestions below.

10 Things We Recommend You Do in the Tunisia Sahara Desert

1.Quad Biking The Sahara Desert is one of the most idyllic places to wind down and enjoy nature at its finest, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a little fun too! Rent your own quad bike and book a 1- or 2-hour trip with a guide to explore the sandy dunes. Activities could include visiting local villages, discover palm groves or simply enjoy the golden landscape zooming past you as you explore the Sahara Desert on four wheels.

2.Buggy Riding The Sahara Desert is one of the most idyllic places to wind down and enjoy nature at its finest, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a little fun too! Rent your own quad bike and book a 1- or 2-hour trip with a guide to explore the golden dunes. Activities could include visiting local villages, discover palm groves or simply enjoy the golden landscape zooming past you as you explore the Sahara Desert on four wheels.

3.Desert Spa Douz locals swear by the healing properties of the Saharan sand – and they’re now teaching visitors how to use these to their advantage too. As the sun rises, Berber men dig up holes in the desert dunes where visitors can then lie for up to 30 minutes (water provided!). This “sand bath” is said to be good for muscles, aching limbs, and even some skin diseases – and it’s most effective in the heat of the summer months. This might not be the most conventional spa in the world, but it’s certainly an interesting way to experience the Sahara!

4.Flight by U.L.M For the most adventurous, we offer the possibility to discover the Tunisian Sahara by Ultralight flights You will fly over incredible landscapes, sand dunes and empty desert, where you will enjoy the exciting rural experience while viewing the Tunisian Berber wildness of the south.

5.Stargazing Of all the things to do in the Sahara Desert, this is likely the most magical. With no light pollution in sight, you’ll have a clear view of the starry, starry Sahara Desert sky above you. You’ll be left in awe of the countless stars, the deep blue sky and the deafening silence around you as the night falls. For the wannabe astronomers, make sure to download a free stargazing app to help you find planets, constellations and even the International Space Station!

6.Sand surfing Did you know you don’t actually need an ocean to surf? In the Sahara Desert, the sandy dunes become the perfect waves to surf on your own sand/snowboard or sand ski! Just pick one of the massive golden dunes around your sleeper camp and have fun! But remember – there are no ski lifts here, so it’s on you to walk back up the dune each time!

7.Sit around the campfire This may sound surprising, but there’s actually a lot of dead wood and dry bushes to collect in the Sahara. And that’s all you’ll need to get your fire going quickly. On winter nights, when temperatures drop dramatically at night, this will be the best way to keep warm. The rest of the year, a campfire is a perfect spot to grill your BBQ dinner over the glowing embers and enjoy a tasty meal under the stars!

8.Spot wildlife in the Sahara Desert And after you’ve enjoyed your dinner, make sure to leave some leftovers near your camp – after that, it’s a waiting game. The smell of the food will attract local wildlife for a midnight snack. That can be anything from desert mice to a desert fox! Do this over a few nights, and the fox will become braver, giving you plenty of perfect photo opportunities.

9.Watch the sunset/sunrise Sunsets and sunrises are beautiful in any corner of the world, but there’s something magical about the way the warm colors of the sky paint the golden dunes of the Sahara. Just like stargazing, it’s the deafening silence as the day begins or ends that sets the perfect atmosphere to enjoy the kaleidoscope of color that takes over the Sahara Desert. We would love to help you plan the best Sahara experience possible. Work with our staff today to help build an itinerary that meets your needs. You’ll be able to check all the boxes on your bucket list while knowing you’re in good hands!

10.Swimming Houidhat Lake (LAKE WITH A WARM SOURCE) in the middle of the dunes where a swim after a long day trekking in the desert will be an infinite pleasure.

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Sahara Desert Tour: How to Plan The Trip of Lifetime

Last Updated on May 16, 2024

A Sahara desert tour is an adventure and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Here are my detailed tips on how to plan the perfect Sahara trip.

Shades of gold shimmer around us, sparkling under the sun’s rays. Sand dunes stretch endlessly into the horizon as far as the eye can see. A Berber man dressed in an indigo djellaba and a white headscarf saunters along the dunes.

This is the Sahara Desert, a place full of mystery, beauty and joy. It’s home to mountains of shifting sand, craggy rock canyons, lush oases and ancient mud-walled fortresses. As one of the biggest deserts in the world, it’s bigger than the size of the United States and covers 11 countries. Among them, Morocco gives the easiest access to the Sahara, thanks to cheap flights and good tourism infrastructure.

I’ve just returned from an epic Morocco private tour with my daughter, and it looks like we’ve both fallen under the spell of the Sahara. Perhaps it was the magic of the dunes or the hospitality of the Berbers, maybe it was the opportunity to share this special experience with my daughter. But Morocco has really captured my heart this time.

Table of Contents

Why Visit the Sahara Desert in Morocco

How to visit the sahara desert in morocco, when to visit the sahara desert , how long for a sahara desert tour, traveling the sahara independently vs on a tour, which type of sahara desert tour to choose, what i like about our sahara desert tour, how is a sahara desert tour like, is a sahara desert tour suitable for kids, what to expect in the sahara desert, day 1: into the atlas mountains, visit unesco mud villages, drive along canyons & oasis, stay at: azalai desert lodge, day 2: climb the sand dunes, enter an ancient ksar, meet berbers in tamegrout, into the sahara, stay at: azalai desert camp, day 3: explore south of the sahara, visit berber nomads, explore an oasis town, stay at: dar infiane, day 4: off the beaten path of morocco, visit an ancient granary, walk around an oasis, cross the anti-atlas mountains, stay at: palais oumensour, day 5: back to marrakech, stay at: riad & spa azzouz, what to pack for sahara desert tour, more information on morocco travel, sahara desert tour.

Visiting the Sahara is an adventure and a once-a-lifetime experience. Getting there isn’t easy, but it’s well worth every minute of the journey. The Sahara has the power to impress even the most hardened traveler.

I’ve been to Morocco three times prior — and Morocco has always been one of those places I like enough to keep returning but it has never been on my list of favorite places. But this recent trip to the Sahara changed that.

A trip to Morocco isn’t complete without journeying into the Sahara Desert. You can wander the souks of Marrakech or visit the palaces of Fez and surf on the beaches of Agadir — but you won’t get to experience the soul of the country unless you venture into the Sahara. It is after all the home of Berber nomads and the spiritual heart of North Africa.

Firstly, it is possible to visit the Sahara from various countries like Algeria, Chad and Algeria — but it is the easiest from Morocco. Morocco is just a short flight from most of Europe (and even a 1-hour car ferry from southern Spain). Marrakech Menara Airport is the main gateway to Morocco. Budget airlines like Easyjet and Ryanair fly from many cities in Europe to Marrakech for as cheap as 40 euros return. I paid just 50 euros return for my flight from Eindhoven, NL!

From Marrakech, you can easily book a Sahara desert tour which will bring you around the Sahara region and allow you to stay in the dunes for a night. Some companies offer day trips to Ouarzazate from Marrakech but I do NOT recommend that as you’ll be driving long distances only to see a town in the desert (not the dunes). Scroll down to learn more about the various desert tours.

In the last 10 years, Morocco has become a hugely popular destination, not just for Europeans but also international travelers. Instagram definitely has put Morocco on the map worldwide. The country has decent tourism infrastructure, with excellent highways, beautiful traditional riads to stay at, and good restaurants everywhere.

Search for Flights to Marrakech here!

The Sahara can be visited year round, except for the summer months of July and August when it gets way too hot. Expect temperatures of around 40 to 55 degrees Celsius in summer. Temperatures drop below freezing at night during the Saharan winter (and especially in December and January). Sandstorms are more frequent between January and May.

The best time to visit the Sahara is spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is mild. But this is also the peak tourist season, so expect more crowds than usual. We visited in mid-March and found the weather to be really pleasant (not too warm) and it wasn’t too crowded.

Ramadan is a holy month in Islam , during which the Muslims refrain from drinking and eating from dusk till dawn (4 am to 7.30 pm in Morocco). In 2019, Ramadan will begin around 5 May and end around June 4, give or take one day. It is still worthwhile to visit during Ramadan but note that businesses don’t usually open before 11 or 12 in the morning. Dinner in restaurants is served later than usual ( starting at 8.30pm).

The Sahara is bigger than many countries combined — as you can imagine, it’s not an easy feat getting there. It takes two days of driving just to get to the Erg Chigaga or Erg Chebbi dunes. You need to drive over the Atlas Mountains to get there and once you reach the edge of the Sahara, it takes another two hours of off-road driving to get to the dunes.

There are many one-day or two-day Morocco desert tours and even day trips from Marrakech, but I don’t recommend taking those. You won’t actually get to see the actual big sand dunes of Erg Chigaga or Erg Chebbi, and you might end up at a kitsch camp with huge groups of tourists.

I recommend taking at least five days to explore the Sahara region. This will allow you to have enough time on the giant sand dunes, and also visit the ancient mud-walled fortresses, explore the canyons and see the mountains along the way.  If you are traveling from afar and want to see as much of Morocco as you can, you need at least two weeks in Morocco . That will give you enough time to explore also the fascinating cities of Marrakech and Fez, the beautiful Atlas Mountains as well as the charming blue town of Chefchauoen.

We went on a 5-day desert trip with Sun Trails , a boutique tour operator that designs tailor-made private tours to bring you beneath the surface of Morocco. We didn’t just go sightseeing — we had tea with a nomadic family, met local Berbers who showed us how their village, and stayed in a private Bedouin tent in the sand dunes of the Sahara. Plus we had a brilliant guide who really showed us his home in an engaging and fun way.

It IS possible to visit the Sahara Desert in the Moroccan side independently, but you’ll need to have a 4WD and know how to navigate it well. It is easy to get stuck in the sand (we experienced that in Oman and it was no fun!). Make sure you have the tools and knowledge to get yourself out. If you’re traveling Morocco with kids , I highly recommend booking a tour.

Some people also simply book a stay in a desert camp in Ouarzazate or Mhamid, but these are desert towns and you won’t get to experience staying right in the dunes. Erg Chigaga dune is where you want to go if you want to stay overnight in the dunes, and that is a two-hour off-road drive from the nearest town.

Tourism is huge business in Morocco, so there are plenty of companies that offer Sahara desert tours. These can range from $70 for a 3-day Morocco desert tour in a big coach to $700 for an exclusive private tour in SUV.

The mainstream coach tours all go to the same spots and visit the same sites. They’re herded around in big groups, visiting touristy spots with other people who are hungry for selfies. I’ve heard terrible things about budget group tours to the Sahara, including scams and sexual harassment. Be sure to research properly before choosing your tour company.

We went on a private tour with Sun Trails   as we didn’t want to travel with a big group. Our private tour took us away from the touristy spots, into ancient fortresses and tiny hamlets that none of the big coaches would visit. Our guide was superb and showed us places that exceeded our expectations. We also stayed in beautiful, small boutique hotels instead of massive hotel chains. 

What I liked most about the Caravans Dust tour we did was how it brought us off the beaten path. We wouldn’t have visited those places ourselves were it not for our Moroccan guide Boujeema. He is also extremely knowledgable about all things Moroccan and could answer any question I had with in-depth explanations.

Having a private tour also meant we had a flexible schedule and could adjust it according to our preference. For instance, we spent more time in the sand dunes than scheduled as we really enjoyed it there and they were absolutely fine with it.

As he’s got young kids himself, Boujeema was understanding and knew we had different needs to other travelers. He was always keeping an eye on my daughter and being thoughtful of her. I highly recommend him for family travelers heading to Morocco with kids .

There’s a lot of driving involved on a Sahara desert tour. Our first day of the trip covered 360km and the rest of the days were around 160km each day.

That meant we were driving for 6-8 hours each day not including stops and lunch breaks. Our typical schedule involved starting the day at 9am and visiting a few spots during the day, before reaching our hotel for the night at 4-5pm. 

All of our activities and accommodation were included in the tour price, and also the service of a guide. We also had dinner and breakfast included at every accommodation we stayed.  Our accommodation were mostly in the form of elegant, boutique hotels that were stylish and tastefully designed. We stayed at a luxury desert camp in the Sahara for just one night, and at boutique lodges in towns and rural areas for the rest of the time.

At first, I was a little worried if Kaleya would enjoy a tour. Even though she has been to 35 countries at her tender age of four, we mostly traveled independently. Even if we did join tours, they were day trips.  This was the first time she would travel with a guide and over long distances.

It turned out that I didn’t have anything to worry about. Kaleya got along well with our guide Boujeema and he always tried to make it fun for her. She didn’t enjoy the long drives that much though, but I did bring plenty of toys, books and iPad to keep her entertained. Needless to say, she was incredibly happy in the Sahara and we spent as much time as we could running all around the sand dunes.

Traveling Morocco with kids is easy as Moroccans (men and women) are incredibly kind and friendly to kids and they’re always welcoming. Everywhere we went, people would wave to her and touch her head or hand. Our museum guides or the ladies working at our hotels often chatted with her and carried her up and down the stairs. It was really endearing to see how much attention they gave to kids.

Mention the word ‘desert’ and most people think of sand dunes. It is true that the Sahara Desert is made up of 40% sand dunes — but there is actually a variety of environments/terrains in the Sahara, including mountains, canyons and oasis filled with massive palm groves and beautiful farm lands.

Within the Sahara region is also many interesting little towns such as Tamegrout where the Berbers still make pottery the way their ancestors have done for centuries. The whole region is dotted with ancient ksours , mud-walled fortresses, that are still inhabited today. 

My 5- Day Sahara Desert Tour Itinerary

Our Caravans Dust itinerary followed the old caravan  route from Marrakech into the Sahara’s dunes, returning via an off the beaten track route over the majestic Atlas Mountains. In just five days, we explored different valleys, canyons, palm groves, and mountains. We also visited mysterious ksours and kasbahs , and had tea with the nomads in the Sahara. Sun Trails proposed this itinerary for us as I wanted to get off the beaten path and this was perfect in every way. 

Our desert trip started with a drive into the High Atlas Mountains. The Atlas Mountains have the second highest mountain peak on the Africas continent (after Kilimanjaro) so expect to climb up to over 3000m in altitude.

Immediately upon leaving Marrakesh, the landscapes transformed and we feasted upon lush green palm groves backdropped by red rose cliffs. Along the way, we saw plenty of traditional Berber villages, with clusters of flat-roomed stone houses perched on sides of green hills. Calls to prayer boomed from the speakers of the mosques that dominated each tower while smoke rose up from the chimneys of the hammams (baths) the villages.

After weaving our way up the mountains, we saw over hundreds of ksar (or ksour in plural) which are traditional mud-walled villages built by the Berbers. Ait Ben Haddou is the best example of the ksar architecture. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is a village made up of mud-walled houses stacked up on a hilltop overlooking a river.

The first houses here were built in the 11th century but the current version was completed in 18th century. It was made famous by Hollywood movies filmed here, including Lawrence of Arabia, Mummy and Game of Thrones. Currently only six families live there, others have all moved out to make place for tourist cafes and restaurants.

To reach our destination Zagora, we continued driving across the Anti-Atlas and feasted on the beautiful scenery before arriving at the Tizi n Tichka pass, at 2100 meters high. Once over the pass, we found ourselves in the dramatic lunar landscape of the Anti Atlas Mountains. Eventually, we arrived at the beautiful  Draa Valley, a gorgeous oasis filled with lush green palm trees backdropped by the mountains.

An intimate, beautiful lodge near the town of Zagora, surrounded by palm trees and mud-walled houses. Each room/bungalow is named after a famous explorer. The lodge sure does feel like an oasis in the arid land, with its stylish decor and vintage safari-style design. It also has a big outdoor pool, great to take a dip in after a long day of driving. Check the latest rates.

We started the next morning with a walk around an ancient ksar that continues to be inhabited today. Tizegrate is a mud-walled fortress built entirely out of mud in the 16th century. It’s now home to over 100 Berber families who work on the farms surrounding the fortress.

I was surprised to find that inside the high mud walls were dark corridors that were designed that way to cool down the homes during the insufferable summers in the Sahara. One of the houses was converted into a museum, so we had the chance to see the layout (with a patio and double storey) and how people used to live.

Continuing on our drive towards the Sahara, we made a stop at Tamegrout, a small town that served as a hub of learning and religion.

Here we met Hassan, a local Berber man who showed us around town. It was interesting talking to him about life in Tamegroute and visiting the ksar where he grew up and still lives. He also showed the main mosque of Tamegrout that was decorated with beautiful archways, water fountains and carved doors.

We then headed into the Nasiriyya Library, which has one of the biggest collections of ancient books in Morocco. The library is actually very modern and simple and doesn’t quite tell the story of Mohammed Nassir. Eventually we ended our walk at the pottery centre of the town, where typical Moroccan clay tajines were made.

After a delicious lunch of cous cous and chicken in Mhamid (the last town before the desert), we left the tarmac road behind and headed into the Sahara. Riding off road in the desert was thrilling but it took two hours of driving before the giant sand dunes appeared in the distance.

The last part of our journey to the desert camp was on camel back. It was my daughter’s first time on a camel, and I was mightily impressed by how fearless she was. Riding towards our desert camp, we were warmly welcomed with warm towels and a fresh lemonade.

My daughter was absolutely stoked to be in a giant playground with endless sand dunes and we spent the rest of the evening running up and sliding down sand dunes. Sunset on the dunes was one of the most beautiful things I’ve seen in my life, especially more so with the mint tea and cookies that the staff served us right on the dunes.

Staying in our private Bedouin tent surrounded by sand dunes was a special experience. We had the most delicious meal on our trip here, feasting on goat cheese pastries and tender lamb tagine under the shimmering stars. That evening, we enjoyed mint tea by the campfire and watched the stars until it was time to head in. I couldn’t have asked for a more magical experience.

We first spent around three hours driving south of the Sahara, passing Lac Iriki, a dry river bed where the Draa River used to form its estuary. We then took on the  hamada , the much dreaded stony desert, to finally reach the nearest town, Foum Zguid.

Along the scenic drive, we saw many groups of nomads settled with their sheeps and chickens. They lived in makeshift tents built out of plastic sheets and metal sticks, often close to a well where they had access to fresh water.

We decided to pay a nomadic family a visit. After Boujeema introduced himself, the family warmly welcomed us and spoiled us with tea and bread (as they do for all guests). The Berbers are generous and hospitable people who are never afraid to share. It was an absolute privilege to be welcomed into their home and get to know them.

We got to know that the family moves around once a year in search of new pasture for their cattle, and they are a generation of three living together. They live very simple lives, raising animals for food and milk, and spending most of their time in nature.

Another two-hour drive took us to an oasis town named Tata, an oasis settlement along the trade route from West Africa. The ancient ksar of Tata is stacked up on a hilltop and looks particularly imposing from across the river. Unlike the ksour we’d seen before, the one here was made of a mixture of stones and mud.

Wandering around the village, we got to see how locals live and learn how their irrigation system works, before heading up to the ksaur where our guesthouse was.

Located within the ancient fortress in Tata, this simple guesthouse features traditional Berber architecture with charismatic interiors. All of the rooms have stone walls, wooden beams on their ceilings and colorful kilim carpets. The place is in serious need of a renovation, but not a bad place to stay if you’re looking to go off the beaten path. Read the TripAdvisor reviews here.

Today we made our way towards Taroudant, where we would stay for the night. Our first stop was Ait Kine, just 40km outside of Tata. Ait Kine is a small village with an impressive granary from the 16th century. A granary is a storage and fortress that the Berbers built to store their foods (like olives and dates) for months or years. During the times of war, they would hide from enemies in the granary, which became their refuge.

I never quite understood the meaning of ‘oasis’ until we came to the one in Ait Kine. The oasis I’ve visited tend to be natural lagoons of water in the desert, giving life to just a few palm trees. But the oases in the Sahara are often lush palm groves, some with up to half a million palm trees (like the one in Zagora). It was absolutely refreshing walking in the shade of the palm trees, weaving our way along plantations bursting with green beans, chilli, carrots and so much more.

To get to Taroudant, we had to zigzag our way up the Anti-Atlas Mountains along a corkscrew road with hairpin bends. At such dizzying heights, the view of the mountains was spectacular. Perched on the mountain slopes were clusters of Berber villages, so quaint and picturesque against the natural backdrop. Right after descending from the mountains, we found ourselves weaving our way through craggy sandstone canyons flanked by palm trees.

Eventually after a two-hour drive, we arrived in Taroudant, sometimes called ‘Little Marrakesh’. Hidden by magnificent red-mud walls, and with the snowcapped peaks, Taroudant’s souqs and squares are a much less touristy version of the ones in Marrakech.

A quaint oasis in the midst of the medina of Taroudant, this elegant heritage hotel is converted from a historical building and transformed into a stylish abode. I love the lush bougainvilleas found all over the hotel and the inviting swimming pool right by the courtyard. And best of all, the hotel’s restaurant serves up excellent contemporary fusion cuisine with Moroccan flair. I had an avocado mousse and tomato salad with a tender turkey leg as a main course. Check the latest rates.

On the last day of our tour, we headed straight back to Marrakech as we wanted more time in the city. The drive on the well-paved highway from Taroudant to Marrakech took just three hours. You can also choose to go west to Agadir, a beach town on the coast, or further up the Anti-Atlas Mountains. The choice is endless.

Riad & Spa Azzouz is a modern oasis amidst the chaos of Marrakech’s medina. The small and intimate riad is located right in the midst of the labyrinth-like medina, and yet the soothing ambiance and pastel-colored walls instantly calm me down once I step through its doors. The riad only has six rooms and a beautiful rooftop terrace that has a shallow pool (perfect for kids) and Cafe-del-Mar vibes. Check the latest rates.

Regardless of when you visit, the temperature difference between night and day is big in the Sahara. Always pack a lightweight jacket for the chilly nights regardless of when you’re traveling. Other than that, a scarf, fleece and t-shirts and long pants will suffice. Don’t forget your hat , sunscreen and sunglasses for the sand/heat.

Remember that Morocco is a Muslim country, Even though they don’t expect foreigners to cover up completely, please show some respect by covering up your knees. Loose harem pants and long dresses that cover your knees are the best things to wear in Morocco.

There are so many twists and turns on the road to the Sahara Desert because you have to pass through the Atlas Mountains. I suggest bring Dramamine or any other motion sickness pills. I didn’t need these but some people might prefer to bring them.

A Sahara desert tour is the highlight of any trip to Morocco, especially for first-time visitors. I hope this guide has helped you plan your own adventure through Morocco. Feel free to leave me any questions or comments you may have below.

Here are more articles that I’ve written about Morocco and nearby countries:

• Morocco with Kids
• Oman Travel Guide
• Sudan Travel Guide
• Eritrea Travel Guide
• Ethiopia Travel Guide
• A Guide to Ethiopian Food
• Celebrating Timkat in Ethiopia
• The Rock Churches of Lalibela, Ethiopia

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to companies I use and trust. I get a small commission when you click on my links, at NO EXTRA COST TO YOU. Our Sahara Desert tour was made possible by Sun Trails, but as always, all opinions expressed are my own.

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Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 150 countries across 7 continents. As an accomplished travel writer, she has written for BBC Travel, CNN and Rough Guides . She is also the author of five travel books, including the latest Lonely Planet's Mexico guidebook. Read more about her here and follow her on Facebook and Instagram .

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The Comments

Un reportaje muy completo y precioso

Such a beautiful place! I miss the time I was there :)

Agness | the adventure traveler

Hi, Nellie! Your daughter is so adventurous, like you! The Sahara desert isn’t a walk in the park but I’m glad to hear that she was delighted to have traveled there.

We were lucky that we chose a good tour company to travel with, so it was adventurous but also comfortable and fun.

Hi Nellie! I want to share this post on Twitter, but there’s no social share buttons and the text is locked so I can’t even copy and paste the title into a tweet. This makes it too difficult! Please add the social sharing icons back :)

The plugin I used to have was giving lots of people viruses so I decided to remove them. I’ll add new ones in, thanks for letting me know!

Seems like an amazing tour. Loved the captures.

Hi Nellie. Exciting trip! I’m also thinking that once of my life must visit Sahara desert. You inspire me to plan for Sahara desert faster.

Dongi Bishu

Hello Nellie! You have done a great Job dear Literally I Love this Article. I have Read the Article above. It is superb. Dubai Desert Safari is the amazing area of experience and people enjoy it. I have visited the Sahara Desert and this was most glamorus the Jeeps that they are driving and drafting. It’s an amazing experience.

Morocco is one of the unique countries in the world and a country of dizzying diversity. You may wander through spice markets, explore sweeping deserts and enjoy warm hospitality. Morocco is roughly the size of California, this is why day tours are so popular!

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Sahara Desert Tourist Attractions – Things To Do

Sahara Desert Tourist Attractions. With millions of travel ideas in everyone’s head, it’s difficult to organize a trip that will stay with you forever. But, there are only a few areas on the earth that rank among the top tourist destinations, and the Sahara Desert is most likely one of them.

With sand dunes across Morocco’s eastern border, this is the world’s biggest desert, where you may enjoy some of nature’s most beautiful and never-before-seen vistas and wonders. This 3.5-mile-long desert spans 11 nations and is recognized as the hottest area on the earth, with millions of secrets buried in this brutal realm of sand where everything is unexpected, as the land itself is termed an example.

From organizing a vacation to enjoy some romantic moments underneath the starless sky, or to savor some ultimate flavors from the lap of Egypt, supercool travelers end up making a journey to the Sahara Desert to test their eagerness to see the world’s rarest locations.

We have helped hundreds of enthusiastic hikers organize amazing trips to their favorite places throughout the years. We have exposed our readers to some of the top tourist locations in the globe, from the wonders of the vast Himalayan mountain range to south and north Indian culinary excursions. These are the greatest tourist destinations in the Sahara Desert for your next vacation to learn more about Egypt – the country of unanswered mysteries, where it all starts.

The Sahara Desert’s Top Tourism Destinations – The Land of Surprises

Even if you are not a professional adventure seeker, these are gorgeous and scenic spots to explore in the Sahara Desert. Just scroll down to discover the top and ultimate tourist destinations in Egypt’s Sahara Desert.

White Desert Tour

The White Desert, which introduces hikers to one of the nicest and most spectacular portions of the Sahara Desert, was originally part of an ocean that slowly decays from history itself. Once a part of Fauna and Flora, this secluded location is now dominated by countless odd-shaped white sand boulders. You should come here early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun sets to see the most gorgeous aspect of this desolate spot.

Check out the availability

Siwa Oasis Tour

This location, which is surrounded by hundreds of olive and date trees, enables visitors to experience what it is like to be in an Oasis. Natural springs, beautiful flowers, and mesmerizing marshy terrain will keep your eyes from blinking. And it’s the ideal location for a leisure excursion to the Sahara Desert.

Farafra Oasis Tour

Are you going to visit the whole Sahara Desert and show them that the desert can take them beyond the ancient pyramids and sand dunes? If you answered yes, then you must be here. With its timeless and beautiful beauty, this location will live on in your heart forever.

Wadi Al Hitan Tour

The bones of dead whales make this site magnificent, and it also relates to the valley of the whales, which used to be an ocean before the drought. And, of course, there are a variety of reasons why someone might want to be here. This is the Sahara Desert’s pleasure, where an abandoned ocean meets thousands of Sea Fossils.

The Eastern Desert in Egypt

Commonly known as the Arabian Desert, this location is often referred to as Aladin’s Land, where the narrative of Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves is claimed to have evolved. This beautiful stretch of land in the Sahara Desert is famed for its extraordinary elegance and eye-catching attractiveness that extends beyond Egypt’s Pyramid lands. In the tents, you may enjoy some of Morocco’s most lavish lives and participate in exciting activities.

Temple of Hibis

It is most likely the best preserved temple ever discovered in the Kharga Desert, which is part of the Sahara Desert. This location is more popular among visitors than any other destination or tourist location in the Sahara Desert since it is beautifully conserved and has a historical connection.

Temple of Qasr Dush

Another old and historical building discovered in Egypt’s Kharga Oasis, Sahara Desert. Experts claim that there are thousands of unspoiled, concealed Ancient sites buried in this desert. Nonetheless, the country skirts around history’s unanswered secrets. It is easily accessible, and you may even arrange a solo excursion to this breathtaking location.

The Dakhla Oasis

Dakhla Oasis, which has its origins in the Western Sahara Desert of Egypt, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Sahara Desert. Greenery in drought-stricken areas seems to be a crowning jewel.

Black Desert Tour

Everyone loves black until it fades, revealing something of its beauty and charm. This is a little section of the Great Sahara Desert that is black, even matte black, and where the true and appealing side of this desert may be found. You find your niches in the Sahara Desert of Egypt, where you are naked and solitary.

Monastery of Saint Paul

The desert is a mystery in and of itself, and this Monastery of Saint Paul is an amazing historical location in Egypt that represents the proof of Christianity in Egypt’s Eastern Desert. It is one of the most ancient religious sites in Egypt’s Red Desert or Sahara Desert. It’s also lovely and informative, and it’s definitely worth a visit with your loved one and family.

Monastery of Saint Anthony

You wouldn’t even know you were in a desert that was once an ocean since this Monastery is situated on a very beautiful side of the Desert, surrounded by towering sand dunes or lime rocks. It’s such a wonderful section of the Desert that it’s known as the Land of Dreamlike Delights.

Mut of Ethnographic Museum

This is a tiny yet significant settlement in the Dakhla Oasis. This modest museum presents visitors to the lifestyle and culture of the Egyptians and the tribes that lived in the Sahara Desert. You must go here to view an unexplored aspect of the Arabian Desert.

The English House

The archaeological team discovered hundreds of mummies in the Valley of Golden Mummies. The main and only purpose to visit this area is to go through the museum where the golden mummies decorated with gild have been settled.

The Bath of Cleopatra

Those who knew anything about Egypt’s most beautiful and enigmatic woman would never skip a visit to this location where she used to bathe. There is a natural spring where bubbles form through the earth, and the queen used to reside here. Since Cleopatra’s mummy was discovered under various mystical events, this location is more popular than others.

Book your Morocco Desert Tours with a local travel agency

Activities in the Sahara Desert

There are dozens of things to do here, but these are some of the most popular things to do in the Sahara Desert that are readily accessible.

Look for fossils

You may go to Wadi Al Hitan to see millions of Sea Fossils, including the bones of the largest animal, the whale.

Meet a semi-nomadic family.

A few households in Egypt rely on tourism and exist to assist visitors in exploring the bright and dark sides of the Sahara Desert.

Listen to some Gnawa music.

Prepare to move your body to the most enjoyable music ever.

Investigate the sand dunes.

The sand dunes of Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga are well-known locations for this.

Sijilmasa Tour

This is another well-known oasis near the Dakhla Oasis where you may get a taste of life in the Arabian Desert.

Buy Like a Local

What could be better than presenting oneself as a native and exploring the streets of Egypt looking for anything to impress your friends? Go out to discover the Egyptian market.

What Should You Wear in the Sahara Desert?

Morocco is more of a religious trip than a tourist attraction, thus it’s best to dress traditionally while visiting the Sahara Desert. In addition, women may be requested to cover their intimate body parts. In general, you should protect your body appropriately before entering the world’s hottest desert, the Sahara Desert.

What is the best time to visit the Sahara Desert?

You may visit the Sahara Desert between May and October since the weather throughout the day stays mild and comfortable. Throughout the winter (December and January), the temperature might drop below freezing at night.

Here are some crucial things to remember before visiting the world’s biggest desert, which has thousands of secrets in its bodies and is ready to astound you like never before. We have covered everything, but if there is anything missing, please let us know in the comments area.

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Opportunities and Challenges in the Sahara Desert

Explore the development opportunities and the challenges associated with these in the Sahara desert.

The Sahara desert is the largest hot desert on Earth. It stretches across many countries in north Africa including Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria and Morocco covering an area almost the size of the United States of America.

A map to show the location of the Sahara Desert in North Africa

As for people, not surprisingly, the Sahara Desert has one of the lowest population densities on the planet. In the 3.5 million square miles of sands, mountains, and waterways live just 2.5 million people. Obviously, the population is the largest near lakes and rivers.

Population density map – Africa

There are many development opportunities and challenges in the hot desert.

Opportunities for development in the Sahara

A common misconception about deserts is that they are areas that cannot be developed. When you picture a desert you probably see something like what is shown in the image below.

The sand dunes of Erg Chebbi in the Sahara desert near the village of Merzouga in Morocco.

However, the Sahara desert provides many development opportunities. These include:

Mineral resources

Morocco is the world’s largest exporter of phosphate. Phosphate is used in cleaning products, batteries and fertilisers. There are also major iron ore deposits in Algeria. Uranium is widely found in the Sahara and has been particularly important in Niger.

Oil and Gas – Oil exploration and extraction is possible in the Sahara desert. 60% of Algeria’s income comes from the oil and gas industry. Major fields of natural gas are exploited in Algeria and Egypt, and minor fields exist in Libya and Tunisia.

Solar Energy

The Sahara provides ideal conditions for generating solar energy. Cloudless skies and 12 hours of sunshine every day supports the generation of electric through solar panels. According to Forbes “We could power the entire world by harnessing solar energy from 1% of The Sahara”. Morocco is currently building one of the world’s biggest solar power plants in a project largely funded by the European Union . The huge 160-megawatt first phase of the Noor plant near the town of Ouarzazate contrasts with efforts by some other nations focused on tiny roof-top solar panels to bring power to remote rural homes.

At Noor, curved mirrors totalling 1.5 million square meters (16 million square feet) – the size of about 200 football pitches – capture the sun’s energy in the Sahara.

Many people are fascinated by holidaying in extreme environments. Sand-boarding, cross-desert treks and carting are popular attractions. Tourism in the Sahara remains on a small scale, with much occurring in cities on the edge of the Sahara. Locations within Tunisia and Algeria also prove popular with Star Wars fans wanting to visit desert locations featured in a number of films.

Commercial farming is limited to areas where there is enough irrigation water. This is water that is moved from one place to another. It can be done by building irrigation channels for water to travel along or by extracting water from under the ground, from large reservoirs of water called aquifers. They were discovered during exploration for oil and gas.

The Aswan Dam provides Egyptians with a year-round water supply through extensive irrigation.

Challenges to development in the Sahara

Although there are a number of opportunities for development in the Sahara the harsh conditions present enormous difficulties.

The Sahara has very low levels of rainfall. What rain does fall is unpredictable in terms of when and where it happens. Rivers usually only flow at certain times during the year.

Due to the development that is happening in the Sahara there is a growing demand for water for works, irrigation and industry. This is very difficult to provide due to the hot, dry climate.

Boreholes (a form of water well) are used to extract water from the underground aquifers. These have taken hundreds of thousands of years to fill so extracting water from them is not sustainable.

Inaccessibility

The Sahara covers a vast area. Often, air has to be used to transport people and materials which is very expensive.

Expensive pipelines have to be built to transport oil, gas and electricity from remote areas.

It is hard to provide services in remote regions therefore there is often a lack of medical care.

Temperature

High temperatures in the Sahara present a threat to human life. With daily temperatures often higher than 40°C exposure to this kind of heat leads to death or illness. In addition to this healthcare may be a long distance away. The hot season is too warm for tourists so tourism is seasonal.

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Sahara Desert Morocco: Map, Tips & Ideas for Your Visit

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income. Click here to read our affiliate policy.

Visiting the Sahara Desert in Morocco

If you are going to Morocco, visiting the Sahara Desert should be at the top of your bucket list. The tranquillity and infinite beauty of the rose gold Morocco sand dunes is like nothing else on earth. 

We spend months in Morocco every year, dodging the UK winters. We love exploring southern Morocco and in this Morocco desert guide, we’ll share with you everything you need to know about visiting the Moroccan Sahara.

Whether you’re going on an organized tour, a Sahara Desert day trip, or you’re traveling in Morocco independently, let us share our Morocco desert experiences to help guide your Morocco trip planning.

Are you planning your trip to Morocco last minute?

Be sure to book your  accommodation and tours in the Sahara Desert  ahead of time to ensure availability! Here are our top picks!

• Stay at Kasbah Kanz Erremal in Merzouga if you’re traveling independently.
• Grab this best-selling Marrakech to Merzouga three day Sahara Desert safari if you want your trip organized.
• This two day desert tour with return to Fes or Marrakech  is a great way to travel between Fes and Marrakech cost-effectively and see the Sahara Desert at the same time.
• Book this four day Atlas Mountains and desert tour if you’re looking for a private tour.
• Stay at Dar M’Hamid in M’Hamid if you’re traveling independently.
• Book this private Chegaga Desert 4WD tour from Marrakech for an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Where is the Sahara Desert in Morocco?

The Sahara Desert , located in North Africa, is the world’s largest hot desert and the third largest desert behind Antarctica and the Arctic, which are unsurprisingly cold deserts.

The Sahara Desert stretches from the African country of Morocco to the Red Sea in Egypt and to the transitional Sahel in the south, covering an every changing area of around 3,320,000 square miles 8,600,000 square kilometers.

Most of this area is hamada , a type of flat and stony desert, which has its own beauty and fascination. In the case of the ergs, the surface is sand brought down from the Ziz and Rheris rivers, which creates the huge golden sand dunes in Morocco that people that people visit for a desert adventure.

Neither erg is technically in the Sahara desert, but they are regarded as the gateway to the Sahara, which lies a bit to the south. Historically, camel trains would leave from the ergs for the trans-Saharan trade route.

The former Spanish Sahara territory, now known as Western Sahara , is claimed by Morocco as part of its territory and referred to within Morocco as the ‘Southern Provinces’.

This area is most definitely part of the Sahara, but there’s not much in the way of big dunes and some countries may advise their citizens against traveling to the Western Sahara because of security risks. The majority of safety concerns are related to unexploded landmines and potential aggressive theft and harassment.

Erg Chebbi is the most accessible dune field, with a paved road into Merzouga , the small town at its foot. Erg Chebbi rises to 160m at its ever-changing highest point and is 110km square. That’s a lot of sand!

Erg Chigaga takes a little more effort to cover the unpaved track 56km from M’Hamid . Erg Chigaga though, is less untouched and more spectacular, standing 300m tall and spreading over an awe-inspiring 600 square kilometers.

Morocco Sahara Desert Map

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

Is this your first time visiting Morocco? Get all the information you need in our Morocco Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

When to Visit Morocco’s Sahara Desert

For a great experience, we recommend you book Sahara Morocco desert trips and tours in advance where possible. You will probably have no issue if you’re heading to the desert in the winter months, but spring and autumn can get busy, and the best guides will get booked early.

The best time for visiting the Sahara Desert in Morocco is between October and May . Daytime temperatures are mild and it will generally be dry with humidity as low as 10%, with sandstorms more frequent from January .

During the Moroccan winter, especially between  December  and early  February , you can expect cold nights, sometimes below freezing. Those taking a desert tour in Morocco during the winter months will need to wrap up warm.

The Sahara Desert weather is harsh in the summer months. June to September can be unbearably hot with July and August daytime highs often crossing 50°c or 122°f. Many campsites close and desert tours in Morocco do not take place during these months.

Other Morocco Guides

SIM Cards in Morocco: How & Where to Buy + Best Deals

Morocco Road Trip: An Epic Atlantic to Sahara Journey

What Do I Need to Know Before Going to Morocco?

Driving in Morocco – Absolutely Everything You Need to Know!

Planning Your Morocco Motorhome Adventure

Tarifa to Tangier: Tips & Tricks for a Day Trip to Morocco

13 Of The Best Cities To Discover In Morocco

How to visit erg chebbi.

If the mystery and stark beauty of the desert is calling as you tour Morocco, then the Erg Chebbi dunes are your easiest option for a Morocco desert tour. Believe it or not, it is possible to fly from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert ! 

Travel to Erg Chebbi Independently

If you are road-tripping in Morocco, it would be a missed opportunity not to visit the popular Erg Chebbi sand dunes. From Marrakech, it will take you around nine hours of solid driving to get to Merzouga, the most accessible of the desert towns.

Getting to Merzouga

Head over the notorious Tizi n’ Tickha pass, a road that has been under construction since the French left Morocco in 1956. Whether it’s ever actually been finished and is now being upgraded is anyone’s guess, but the chances of you finding roadworks and un-sealed  piste  is highly likely.

Your scenic drive will take you across the snow-capped mountains of the High Atlas and through the lush green valleys and oasis of southern Morocco.

Break up the long drive and stop at Ait Ben Haddou (sometimes Ait Benhaddou) in the province of Ouarzazate en route and spend a few hours with a local guide in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, which has famously been a film set for  Lawrence of Arabia , Gladiator and Game of Thrones amongst others.

The protected mud redbrick  ksar  sits on the edge of the Oued Ounilla and is a fascinating place to learn from Berber guides about their way of life and unique customs and culture, and the role of Ait Ben Haddou as a significant caravan stop on the trans-Saharan trade route, which linked sub-Saharan Africa to the Mediterranean world.

Stay at the superb  Maison d’hôtes Dar El Haja , an authentic guest house inside the ancient ksar , where you will experience traditional Moroccan hospitality and food.

Arriving in Merzouga

It’s a good idea to book your hotel before getting to Merzouga, or you will be pounced on when you arrive, and literally herded by the first hotelier to get to you. Accommodation is big business here and most hotels have look-outs strategically placed on the road into town.

We recommend you stay at Kasbah Kanz Erremal  for stylish and spotlessly clean rooms with a fabulous pool overlooking the dunes. The hotel can also arrange desert excursions for you.  

If you’re planning on camping or you’re traveling in an overland truck or motorhome, we think the best option is  Haven Le Chance  in Hassilabied just outside Merzouga, where you’ll have direct access to the dunes.

Booking Your Tour in Merzouga

Many, if not all of the hotels in Merzouga, can organize one night desert tours and desert safaris and your perfect Sahara tour can easily be tailored by the entrepreneurial guides of Erg Chebbi.  

You can spend a few hours or a day in the desert in a 4WD or a couple of hours  camel trekking  (technically dromedary trekking and it’s really hard work!), followed by a tajine, traditional music, and stargazing deep in the desert before sleeping under a Berber rug in a Morocco desert camp.

If you have enough time, you can also take cultural tours, hunt for fossils, take mint tea and lunch with a Berber family, and try your hand at sandboarding in the Sahara, a fun way to experience the desert.

When you arrive, if you haven’t already booked your Morocco Sahara Desert tour, your hotel reception will call their favored guide, who will pay you a visit on your first day to share their tours and offers with you. Be clear about what you are looking for and haggle on the price.

Some guides will pick you up from the hotel and do the bare minimum, taking you around in circles on a sunset camel ride for an hour in the Erg Chebbi sand dunes (which all look the same!) before depositing you at a Berber desert camp 100m from the back gate of your lodgings. If truly getting away from it is important, then stress this and insist on a camp deep in the Merzouga desert. 

Faux (fake)  guides who are not registered are rife across northern Africa and the desert towns of Morocco are no different. But many of these guides have a wealth of knowledge and can often speak lots of different languages picked up over the years, even though they may not be certified in any way.

Don’t dismiss  faux  guides out of hand, especially if they are recommended or suggested by your hotel as they usually have lots of local knowledge and can offer good value.

Types of Camps in Erg Chebbi

The basic overnight desert camp offer is pretty well…. basic, with no hot water and shared toilets. You will have a private tent and the beds are comfy but it will be cold at night between December and early February, such is the Sahara Desert Morocco weather.

Other than an outside fire, there is no heating (or indeed other frills) in the Berber tents. There may not be much choice in terms of food, which is likely to be Morrocan salad, some type of tajine (a slow-cooked savory stew cooked in a distinctly shaped earthenware pot) and locally made bread. 

There will be live music with singing and traditional instruments being played around the campfire after dinner, with your hosts ready to answer all your questions about Berber life in the desert.

A luxury camp in the desert of Morocco will have an improved dinner offer, a private bathroom, heating, and hot water. When organizing such a tour, haggle hard and aim to knock off 20-30% of the original asking price.

Take an Organised Tour to Erg Chebbi

If you’re flying into Morocco and want a desert trip from your base, the major cities of Marrakech or Fes are the only viable places from which to do this. There are no one day trips or day tours to the ergs – you’ll need at least a few days spare, due to the large distance and long journey involved.

When you’re searching for Sahara Desert trips, you may see day trips being offered. These are to the Agafay Desert, an hour away from Marrakech. This desert is made up of dry and arid hills and does not have the majesty (or dunes) of the Ergs.

However, this Agafay Desert full day desert and mountain tour with a camel safari makes a good alternative if you don’t have much time

When you’re searching for Morocco desert tours from Marrakech or Fez, accept that you will have little control over who’s in your group (unless you take a private luxury tour) or where you’ll be taken outside of the key visits.

Carpet shops and Argan oil co-operatives will feature somewhere, even if you’re clear that you’re not looking to buy. The Berber sales skills are such that they ignore protestations, in absolute confidence that you will make a purchase!

The Best Marrakech to Merzouga Sahara Desert Safari

This  Marrakech to Merzouga 3 day Sahara Desert tour  is one of the best Marrakech tours and has received over 4,000 reviews on Get Your Guide and scores 4.5 out of 5.

Having taken this group tour ourselves, it is our recommended choice of budget tour from a reputable tour company and covers all the key attractions and activities for your desert trip, as well as offering great value for money.

On this three-day tour, you’ll discover the gates of the Sahara Desert at Ouarzazate, ride in camel train across the Erg Chebbi dunes, spend two nights at different Bedouin camps, visit the famous Dadès Gorge, Todra Gorge, and the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou as well as driving over the incredible Tizi n’Tichka pass across the High Atlas Mountains.

The Best Fes to Merzouga Desert Tour

This small group two day desert  tour with a return to Fes or Marrakech is a great option from a highly rated and popular provider and is the best way of cutting the cost of traveling between Fes and Marrakech and seeing the Sahara Desert at the same time. What’s not to like? 

On this 2-day tour, you’ll travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains and the gorgeous Ziz Valley on the route south, seeing monkeys, dramatic rock formations, and miles of palm groves. In Rissani, you’ll take an off-road drive to Merzouga and then a camel ride into the dunes of Erg Chebbi and your overnight desert shelter.

The Best Private Atlas Mountains & Desert Tour

If you’re looking for a private tour, this highly rated 4 day private Atlas Mountains and desert guided tour from Marrakech covers all the high points between the city and desert as described above, but you’ll be in a premium vehicle with just you and the other members of your party.

You’ll also get to visit the beautiful Valley of Roses at Skoura, the palm groves at Tinghr and Rissani for a fossil workshop. You will spend one night in a nomadic tent, one night in a local guest house, and one night in a hotel.

Your guide will be able to speak a number of languages including English, and he will drive you and your travel companions expertly and safely through Morocco, sharing history, tips, and information as you go.

Other Moroccan Sahara Desert Tours

There are lots of other options depending on your location, budget, and timeframe. We have chosen a selection of our favorite Sahara Desert tours below.

Visiting Erg Chigaga

More spectacular, more remote, and more breathtaking than Erg Chebbi, the Moroccan desert at Erg Chigaga (sometimes spelled Chegega) is the largest sand sea in Morocco, and it’s totally off the beaten track.  

Travel to Erg Chigaga Independently

If you’re not traveling in a 4WD or overland vehicle, Erg Chigaga will remain unreachable unless you hire a specialist vehicle or hop on a camel from the nearest desert town… for five days ! 

Arriving in M’Hamid

But before you get on your camel, or hit the 4×4 trail, get yourself to the frontier town of M’Hamid and plan your desert tour to the heart of the Sahara in Morocco, some 56km west of town.  

You won’t find any modern hotels in M’Hamid. Instead, stay at  Dar M’Hamid , a charmingly traditional Moroccan guest house, where you will receive wonderful hospitality.

Booking Your Tour to Erg Chigaga

There are plenty of local tour operators in M’Hamid. Your hotel can recommend someone or you can stop by one of the agencies in the small town to make arrangements.

Expect to pay around 700-800MAD a day for a five day camel trek (not including food and drink for the journey) to Erg Chigaga and around 1500-1750MAD per day including insurance to hire a 4WD and guide.  

Semi-permanent desert camps are scattered amongst the beautiful sand dunes at Erg Chigaga, you can stay here for around 400-500MAD for a night. These camps in the middle of the desert are pretty basic but you’ll find an incredible night sky with views of the Milky Way with zero light pollution and absolute peace.

If you do decide to organize the long trek by dromedary to the deep desert of Erg Chigaga, make sure of the following;

• Get a couple of prices to make sure you’re not being ripped off.  
• Do you like and trust your guide? This can make or break such a trip.  
• How long do you want to spend on a camel? If you’re not used to riding one, you’ll get seriously sore after just a few hours.
• Don’t plan to spend too long in the desert, once you’ve done the soul-searching meditation thing, the desert sand can get a little boring!  
• Make sure the arrangements are clear and you understand what you’re getting for your money before you hand over any cash.  

Take an Organised Tour to Erg Chigaga

If you can’t get to Erg Chigaga yourself, then organized Marrakech desert tours can get you there and provide all the activities and attractions you want in an easy-to-manage bundle.

These tours to Erg Chigaga are only available from Marrakech and the choice is limited. The programming is similar to the tours at Erg Chebbi but you will spend longer getting there, although the reward is the ultra-tranquillity and peace you will experience.

Sahara Desert Morocco FAQs

Is there sahara desert in morocco.

Technically no, there is no Sahara Desert in Morocco. But both Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga are regarded as gateways to the Sahara, which lies a bit further south.

Is it worth going to the Sahara Desert in Morocco?

Absolutely. Every time we visit we are blown away by the majesty of the dunes, the raw nature, and the unforgiving environment.

What city is near the Sahara Desert in Morocco?

The nearest city to Erg Chebbi is Errachidia, about two hours north. In fact, Royal Air Maroc has five direct flights every week to Errachidia from Casablanca, and flying and hiring a car to drive to Merzouga is a great way to explore this region of Morocco.

The closest city to Erg Chigaga is the lively Zagora. It takes around 90 minutes to drive from Zagora to M’Hamid, across sandy roads and through small villages.

What to wear in the Sahara Desert Morocco?

Loose clothes that cover you up are a must. The sun can be fierce year round and protecting your skin makes sense. The sand gets everywhere, as sand does, and loose clothing allows it to find its way back to the desert, as well as keeping you cool.

You may also want closed-toe shoes, a sun hat and a lightweight scarf called a  shemagh  in Arabic, to protect your face from the sun and sand. You can ignore all our advice but this: wear long pants for camel riding. Not shorts or a dress as you’ll be rubbed raw. Don’t say we didn’t tell you!

Is the Sahara Desert in Morocco safe?

The good news is that the Sahara Desert in Morocco is very safe. Guides are kind and courteous and you’ll receive a warm welcome wherever you stay.

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The Unknown Enthusiast

How to Do a Sahara Desert Tour from Marrakech + Best Tours

Looking for what it’s doing going on a Sahara tour, plus the best Sahara desert tours from Marrakech? Read on for the details!

Of all the places we went to in Morocco, I was most excited to visit the Sahara – it was absolutely a top bucket list item for me!

The way that the sand dunes start rising out of the desert as you approach Merzouga, knowing that in front of you is the Sahara Desert , and you’re going to be riding a camel through it , is absolutely priceless.

I’m so happy to say that the visit lived up to or even exceeded our high expectations and this was one of my favorite travel experiences to date. I loved this experience so much, and it is absolutely worth the time, energy, and effort it takes to make it out to the Sahara to experience it yourself.

I want you to have as fantastic of an experience in the Sahara Desert of Morocco as we did, so in this post, I’m sharing everything you need to know about doing a Sahara desert tour, as well as some top tour options from Marrakech.

What to Expect on Your Sahara Desert Experience

Every desert tour follows a very similar itinerary. If you’re leaving from Marrakech, you’ll be picked up from your hotel or riad in an air-conditioned van to start the 8+ hour long drive out to the Sahara. You’ll be with a friendly, kind, helpful, and engaging guide , and spending time with your local guide will be a highlight of the trip.

The first day, you’ll only drive partway out, as you’ll also be making some interesting stops along the way. These stops usually include Ait Ben Haddou (a super cool fortified ton on a hill that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site ) and/or Ouarzazate , a desert city known for its film studios.

You’ll usually stop for the night near either the Todra Gorge or Dades Valley , two beautiful areas filled with stunning rock formations and small villages. The tour includes your accommodation for the night here.

On Day 2, you’ll continue out to Merzoua, the town on the edge of the Sahara sand dunes. Depending on the exact tour itinerary, you might make another stop along the way, or you may spend some time in the Todra or Dades Gorges before starting your journey in the morning.

When you arrive in the town of Merzouga on the evening of the second day, you’ll meet up with your desert camp hosts, and ride a camel into the Sahara . It will take about 1.5 hours to reach your camp on the other side of the Erg Chebbi dunes. You’ll watch the magnificent desert sunset from the sand dunes, either in the middle of the dunes, or right at camp .

When you arrive in camp, you’ll find your tent where you’ll spend the night – these are not your typical pop up camping tents – they are well-designed, sturdy, and roomy tents, with running water, a bathroom, and electricity.

Then, enjoy a delectable hot dinner at camp – this dinner will be as delicious as anything you’ve eaten in Morocco!

After dinner, the Berber men will make a fire and play traditional music around the flames, and then you will definitely want to go watch the stars in the middle of the dunes!

Day 3 (and 4)

On Day 3, you’ll enjoy a fantastic breakfast in the dunes. You may have time to go sandboarding or ATVing in the dunes, depending on the tour.

If you’re doing a 3-day tour, you’ll leave by early to mid-morning to head back to Merzouga, get in the vans, and head back to Marrakech or continue to Fes . If you’re doing a 4-day tour, you’ll get an extra day to enjoy the desert.

My Top Tip For Choosing a Sahara Desert Tour

My biggest tip for visiting Morocco is to spend a full day in the Sahara. While you absolutely can have a great experience doing just the overnight, I think if you’re going to spend all that time getting out to the desert, you should stay and play a while. This is what we did, and I’d recommend it to anyone.

Both of the 4 day tours that I recommend in the list below (#4 and #5 on the list) give you a full day to explore and play in the desert.

The 5 Best Sahara Desert Tours from Marrakech

There are a lot of Sahara desert tour options, and many of them have similar elements. For this post, I’m highlighting the best Sahara desert tours in 5 different categories. All of these tours have wonderful and friendly tour guides and a fantastic itinerary.

#1: Best 3 Day Sahara Tour To and From Marrakech

⭐Rating: 4.8 of 5 stars | Read all reviews here

This 3-day Sahara tour is an exceptional adventure at a great value.

Discover the amazing natural beauty of the Moroccan countryside on this hassle-free journey, where you’ll visit Ait Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate, and the Todra Gorge while en route to the Sahara.

Once in the Sahara, you’ll get to do a camel ride at sunset and sunrise, sandboard, and have the option to ride ATVs through the desert .

This 3-day tour is ideal for anyone who wants an affordable yet extraordinary desert experience while making the most of their time exploring many parts of Morocco. The value of what you get on this tour is unmatched!

The entire trip was absolutely breathtaking… The night in the Sahara was beyond our imaginations, we were looked after so well and again the people taking care of us were going above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect for us.  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Michael, tour review

Explore the full itinerary and learn more about this 3-Day Sahara Desert tour here

#2: Best 3-Day Sahara Tour From Marrakech to Fes

⭐Rating: 4.92 of 5 stars | Read all reviews here

If you like to continue to other destinations in northern Morocco after your time in the desert, this Marrakech to Fes 3-day Sahara tour is your way to go!

This small group tour combines transport from Marrakech to Fes and an unforgettable trip to the Merzouga desert .

Get a chance to visit the iconic Ait Ben Haddou , a scenic drive through Ouarzazate , and a memorable experience in both the beautiful Dades Valley and Todra Gorge .

Besides the iconic camel riding, you’ll also get to go sandboarding in the dunes .

On the drive to Fes, you’ll stop at Ifrane to see the famed cedar forest to see the wild barbary apes, as well as stop in Ifrane, a popular winter resort in Morocco.

You have the option to book a comfortable camp or the luxury camp . I highly recommend splurging for the luxury camp!

This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to experience many places in Morocco quickly – as you get Marrakech, Ait Ben Haddou, the Sahara, and Fes in 3 days . It’s an amazing value for enjoying multiple experiences, and the opportunity to end in a new city instead of backtracking.

This desert tour has been amazing. Starting from the pickup until the drop off, this was well organized and punctual. The driver Zakaria was professional and fun…the best part of this experience was the visit to a Berber community where we learned about traditional Carpet making technique and of course the camel riding in the Merzouga desert (at sunset and sunrise) and the night at the Bedouin camp. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Francesca, tour review

Explore the full itinerary and learn more about this Marrakech to Fes 3-day Sahara tour here

#3: Best PRIVATE 3-Day Sahara Tour from Marrakech to Fes

This Marrakech to Fes Private 3-Day tour is an epic adventure, made even better by being a private excursion instead of a small group tour. Since this is a private tour, it will only be the guide and your group, offering flexibility, and a personalized experience.

You’ll make stops in Ait Ben Haddou and a tour in Ouarzazate, then to the Dades Valley to do a hike in the Monkey Fingers and the Todra Gorge.

You’ll enjoy an incredible night of camel riding, delicious dinner, and campfire songs before sleeping in your luxury nomad tent.

On the way up to Fes, you’ll stop by the cedar forests to witness the barbary apes, as well as make a stop in Ifrane, known as the Switzerland of Morocco.

This tour is a great option for anyone who wants to experience a lot of what Morocco and the Sahara have to offer while also having a more personalized and intimate experience.

I can summarize my morocco trip in 1 word: FANTASTIC ! We were lucky to travel with Bari from Marrakech. We discovered the best places in north and south morocco including the cool Merzouga desert. We have only positive memories. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Tour review

Explore the full itinerary and learn more about this Marrakech to Fes Private 3-Day tour here

#4: Best 4-Day Tour To and From Marrakech

⭐Rating: 5 of 5 stars

This 4-day Marrakech to Marrakech tour gives you an incredible experience out in the desert, as you start and end in Marrakech and get two nights and one full day in the Sahara .

This tour gets you to top attractions such as Ait Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate, and the Dades Valley.

You’ll get to experience the stunning sights of the Todra Gorge , before riding a camel and spending the night in the Sahara. For your full day in the Sahara, you’ll enjoy activities like sandboarding and ATV rides , visits to local Berber villages, exploring an oasis , and enjoying the Sahara desert vibes.

You’ll also stop at the market in Rissani , and get a chance to visit various viewpoints and villages on the way back to Marrakech.

This tour is an amazing value and experience to really immerse yourself in and enjoy the Sahara desert.

The guide gave us a lot of information about Morocco and life in the Sahara desert. The tour itself was full of fun and great desert experience. From the camel ride to the rock climbing, sand boarding and quad biking in the dunes. We highly recommend doing this when visiting Morocco! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ -Jessnisa, Tour review

Explore the full itinerary and learn more about this 4-day Marrakech to Marrakech tour here

#5: Best 4-Day Tour From Marrakech to Fes

⭐Rating: 5 of 5 stars | Read all reviews here

If you’re looking for the best Sahara desert excursion that offers you extra time to play in the desert, this 4-day tour from Marrakech to Fes is a perfect choice!

You’ll cross the awe-inspiring Atlas Mountains , and visit Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou as well as the Atlas Film Studio in Ouarzazate .

You’ll of course trek into your luxury desert camp by camel and enjoy all the typical desert camp activities. On your extra day in the desert, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy the laidback Sahara vibes, while also going on an ATV tour of the dunes, visiting a local village, and seeing some interesting sites nearby.

Plus, because this is a private tour, you’ll have a lot more control to customize your time according to your preferences.

On the way up to Fes, you’ll stop in Ifrane, the Switzerland of Morocco, and stop in the town of Rissani.

This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to spend more time in the Sahara (you get a full day here!) to really dive deeper into the culture and experiences the Sahara has to offer.

My friends and I … wanted to see all of the best parts with little effort on our part which is exactly what we got! Our tour guide Hamid was the best tour guide we could have asked for. Every time we wanted something, he made it happen. I definitely recommend riding the ATV’s through the dunes in the Sahara Desert. 10 out of 10 recommend taking this tour…Best trip ever! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – tour review

Explore the full itinerary and learn more about this 4-day tour from Marrakech to Fes here

Important Things to Know Before You Book

Booking your tour in advance vs booking in marrakech.

Considering booking a tour in Marrakech? You have two options: book in advance online or find a tour operator in the city and negotiate a price.

Booking on arrival lets you haggle for a lower price. However, there’s a trade-off. Online tour companies value their reputation and customer reviews, which often translates to a better experience. In contrast, a tour booked last-minute in the city’s souks may not prioritize this, potentially affecting your experience.

This may be a particularly good choice for solo female travelers. To avoid unwanted attention from guides, it’s safer to book your Sahara desert tour online, where companies are more likely to focus on ensuring a great experience and securing positive reviews.

Small Group Tour vs Private Tour

This one is really down to personal preference, and what’s available for the itinerary you want. I could only find private tours for the 4-day tours, for example.

If you’re doing a 3-day tour, though, you have the choice between private and small group. While I used to hate hate hate any type of group tour (there was one tour we did in Cozumel where I felt like we and 500 other people were being herded and shuffled through the streets of Mexico together. I hated this and it put me off of any type of group tour for a long time), I’ve come to really, really enjoy a quality small-group tour.

While it’s certainly a bit of a toss-up as to what type of people you’ll be with, we’ve now done a ton of small group tours in many countries we’ve visited, and we’ve loved getting to know and bonding with other travelers. It’s overwhelmingly been a positive experience.

Getting to hang out with other travelers from around the world now often ends up being a highlight of our trips!

What to Pack for the Sahara Desert

Headscarf:  These really are helpful to protect your head from the sun, wind, and sand (plus they just make you look so legit.) You can buy one in any marketplace in Morocco for around 50 dirhams ($5) – plus it makes a great souvenir from Morocco to bring home with you.

The guides will help you tie the scarf in their traditional style.

Loose fitting pants/shorts : You’ll definitely want pants of some kind for riding camels, and loose fitting is the way to go to beat the heat. I wore a pair of pants I bought in Marrakech – you can find this style all over the city.

Dress, kaftan or djallaba : Kaftan and djallabas are traditional Moroccan clothing (long “dress”-like outfits that both men and women wear) and are a great thing to pick up if you want to look SUPER legit in the desert.

Matthew is wearing a kaftan in our camel pictures and he looks absolutely bomb. (Wear shorts underneath and then hike up the kaftan a little bit – it wasn’t hard for him to sit on the camel wearing that outfit).

Jacket : The Sahara can get chilly at night, even if it’s 90 F during the day. I’d definitely bring a light jacket if you’re visiting during the spring or summer. If you’re visiting during the winter, nights get quite cold (lows in the 30’s and 40’s) so I’d bring a heavier coat and possibly other winter gear (hat, gloves).

Sunscreen : No explanation necessary here, but definitely don’t forget this. Matthew always uses  this sunscreen stick , and I wear this facial  sunscreen for sensitive skin  everyday.

Something for motion sickness : No matter what mode of transportation you choose to arrive in the desert, you’re going to have to ride on the winding roads of Morocco. These roads made me suuuuuuuuper nauseous (I actually  threw up out the window  as we were going through switchbacks in the Atlas Mountains).

All that to say, I’d definitely recommend something for motion sickness.

While  dramamine  is a tried and true option, I recently tried out the  Relief Band for motion sickness  and it has worked impressively well!

An E-Sim Card: I like having fast, high speed data when we’re traveling out of the country, and I recently started using e-sim cards – they’re convenient, cheap, and really reliable. I’ve bought my e-sims from SimOptions.com for my past several trips and it’s been a great service!

Sahara Desert Tours FAQs

Can you do a day trip to the sahara desert from marrakech.

It takes approximately 8-9 hours to get to Merzouga from Marrakech or Fes, requiring quite a bit of time and effort to get out to the desert. So, it is definitely not possible to do a daytrip to the Sahara desert from Marrakech, you’ll for sure need the 3 days to do a desert tour justice.

The extra time is totally worth it though!

(However, if you really, truly only have time for a daytrip, check out these 10 best day trips from Marrakech )

What is the Best Month to Visit the Sahara?

Unsurprisingly, the Sahara Desert gets hot, very hot, during the summer months. Between May-September, highs are in the mid-90’s to over 100 degrees F (35-40 C), and lows are between 70-80 F (20-25 C).

Highs during winter can range generally average in the 60’s-70’s (15-20 C), with lows in the low 40’s (4 C). Definitely bring some warm coats, warm pajamas, a beanie, and some gloves if you’re visiting in winter – there’s no heating in the tents.

Undoubtedly, the best time to visit the Sahara desert is during the spring and fall, when the temperatures are milder and the heat isn’t as intense. However, you can have a good time in the Sahara desert at any time of year, you just need to be prepared for the weather that you’ll be experiencing.

Is It Worth Going to the Sahara Desert?

One million percent, yes! It is absolutely worth the time and effort in your Morocco itinerary to go out to the Sahara. This surreal and epic bucket list adventure will be one you never forget!

Top Sahara Desert Tours from Marrakech – The Wrap Up

All of these tours offer incredible experiences with lovely guides, so it’s really just a matter of choosing which one works for your itinerary. Put one of these Sahara desert tours from Marrakech on your itinerary today!

Read More Morocco Articles:

• Where to Stay in Marrakech: 5 Best Areas + Recommended Riads
• 26+ Delicious Foods to Eat in Morocco
• Read every Morocco post I’ve written here

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Stephanie is the author of The Unknown Enthusiast. She's visited 21 countries and 37 of the 50 US states (but her first love will always be France). When she's not traveling, she enjoys reading, taking naps, playing games, eating popcorn, and spending time with her husband (Matthew) and 4 daughters. Stephanie lives in Alabama, USA.

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Sahara Desert Tourist Attractions – Things To Do

With thousands of travelling ideas in everyone’s mind, it is quite tough to plan a journey that etches in your mind forever. However, there are very few places in the list of incredible tourist places on the planet and Sahara Desert is probably one among those outstanding tourist places in the world.

Having sand dunes across Morocco’s eastern border, this is the largest desert in the world where you experience some of the most stunning and never imagined landscapes and delights of nature. Spans across 11 countries this 3.5 miles long desert is known as the hottest place on the planet and thousands of mysteries are graved in this merciless world of sand where things are unpredictable as the land itself is called an illustration.

From planning a trip to have some couple moments underneath the starless sky, or to savour some ultimate tastes from the lap of Egypt, supercool tourists end up planning a trip to the Sahara Desert to challenge their enthusiasm to explore the rarest sites on the earth. 

Over the years, we have helped thousands of passionate backpackers to plan a fantastic trip to their desired destinations. From the delights of the great Himalayan mountain range to south and north Indian food tours, we have introduced our readers to some of the best tourist destinations in the world. Here are the best tourist places in Sahara Desert that can be your next trip to explore the facts about Egypt — the land of unsolved mysteries, where it all begins.

Best Tourist Places to Visit in The Sahara Desert — The Land of Surprises

These are stunning and picturesque places to visit in the Sahara Desert where you cannot miss to go even if you are not a professional adventure seeker. Just scroll down to explore the best and ultimate tourist places in Sahara Desert, Egypt.

White Desert Tour

Introducing backpackers to one of the best and most amazing parts of the Sahara Desert, White Desert was once a part of an ocean that gradually decays from history itself. Formerly a part of Fauna and Flora, this isolated place is now captured with numerous strange-shape white sand rocks. You better visit here to experience the most beautiful side of this deserted place either in the morning or in the evening when the sun goes off. 

Siwa Oasis Tour

Embracing thousands of olive and date trees, this place allows the travellers experiencing how an Oasis feels alike. Natural springs, captivating gardens and mesmerising marshy landscape, things will never let your eyes blink. And it’s just a perfect destination to plan a leisure trip to the Sahara Desert.

Farafra Oasis Tour

Are you planning to explore each side of the Sahara Desert and let people know that the desert can take them beyond the historical pyramid and sand dunes? If yes, then this is the place where you must be. With it’s timeless and stunning beauty the place will stay in your heart forever.

Wadi Al Hitan Tour

Located amid the Fayoum Oasis, what makes this place wonderful is the skeletons of dead whales, it also refers to the valley of the whales that used to be an ocean before drought. And, of course, there are numerous reasons why one would like to be here. This is the place of delights in the Sahara Desert where an abandoned ocean comes in with thousands of Sea Fossils.

The Eastern Desert in Egypt

Also known  as Arabian Desert, this place often referred to the land of Aladin where the story of Ali Baba and Forty Thieves is said to be developed. This captivating piece of land in the Sahara Desert is famous for its outstanding grace and eye-catching charm that runs beyond the territories of Egypt’s Pyramids. You can experience some of the most luxurious lifestyles of Morocco here in the tents and do adventurous activities. 

Temple of Hibis

It is probably the most preserved temple ever found in the Kharga Desert amid the Sahara Desert. The reason why this place is more popular among the tourists than any other destination or tourist place in the Sahara Desert is it is well preserved and has a historical link.

Temple of Qasr Dush

This is another ancient and historical structure found in the Kharga Oasis, Sahara Desert, Egypt. Well, experts believe that there would be more than thousands of untouched, secret Archaeological sites graved in this desert. However the land walks around the unsolved mysteries of history. It’s easy to reach and you can also plan a solo trip to this stunning destination.

The Dakhla Oasis

Having roots in the Western Part of the Sahara Desert in Egypt, Dakhla Oasis is one of the renowned tourist places in the Sahara Desert where the visitors go more than others. Greenery amid the drought deserted places seems like a gem in the crown.

Black Desert Tour

Everyone loves black until it dips, something in it’s grace and charm. Here is a little piece of the Great Sahara Desert that is black, even matte black where the real and most alluring side of this desert comes in. You discover your niches in a naked and isolated place in the Sahara Desert, Egypt.

Monastery of Saint Paul

The desert is itself a mystery and this Monastery of Saint Paul is an astonishing historical site in Egypt that marks the evidence of Cristianity in the Eastern Desert of Egypt. It is one among the most ancient religious sites in the Red Desert or Sahara Desert in Egypt. It’s enchanting and interesting as well and worth a visit with your beloved and family.

Monastery of Saint Anthony

You wouldn’t even feel that you are in a desert that was once an ocean because this Monastery is located in a very stunning side of the Desert amid the towering sand dunes or lime rocks. It’s such an amazing part of the Desert that makes it the land of dreamlike delights.

Mut of Ethnographic Museum

This is a small but notable town, located in the Dakhla Oasis. This small museum introduces the travellers to the lifestyle and culture of the people of Egypt and the tribes were in The Sahara Desert. You must visit here to explore an unseen and explored side of the Arabian Desert.

The English House

The Valley of Golden Mummies is here where thousands of mummies have been found by the archaeological team. The major and only attraction or reason to visit this place is to experience a walk through the museum where the golden mummies painted with gild have been settled down.

Cleopatra’s Bath

People who ever talked about this most beautiful and mysterious lady of Egypt would never miss a visit to this place where she used to take a bath. This is a natural spring where the bubbles develop through the ground the queen used to be here. Cleopatra’s mummy was found amid several supernatural circumstances, therefore this place is more popular than others.

Things to do in Sahara Desert

There are thousands of things to do here, but these are some famous things to do in the Sahara Desert where you can reach easily.

Hunt for fossils

You can visit Wadi Al Hitan where millions of Sea Fossils can be found, including the biggest mammal, whale’s skeleton.

Visit with a semi-nomadic family

A few families depend on the tourism in Egypt and exist to help travellers explore the bright and the dark side of the Sahara Desert.

Listen to Gnawa Music

Get ready to move your body on the most pleasing tunes ever.

Explore the sand dunes

Erg Chebbi or Erg Chigaga sand dunes: these are famous places to experience this.

Tour Sijilmasa

This is another famous oasis neighbouring the Dakhla Oasis where you can reach to experience real life in the Arabian Desert.

Shop Like A Local

What is better than establishing yourself as a local and wandering in the streets of Egypt in search for something that could amaze your friends? Get set, go explore the Egyptian market.

  What to Wear in Sahara Desert

Morocco is more like a religious place than tourist destinations therefore it’s better to be up with traditional clothes while travelling in the Sahara Desert. And women may be asked to cover up the body parts considered private. And as a general rule, you must cover your body properly before hitting the hottest desert in the world namely the Sahara Desert.

Best time to Visit Sahara Desert

You can plan a trip to the Sahara Desert between May and October because the temperature in the daylight remains cool and pleasant these days. And during the winters (December and January) the temperature may freeze your body during nights.

 These are some important things to keep in your mind while travelling to the largest desert in the world that contain thousands of mysteries in the bodies and are ready to amaze you like never before. We have mentioned everything but still if the blog lacks something, then let us know in the comment section.

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Sahara Desert Tours & Holidays

Discover sweeping dunes, sparkling night skies and ancient Amazigh culture in the Sahara Desert.

Journey into the heart of the Sahara where a sea of wind-whipped sand stretches for what looks like forever. We like to explore the Sahara the Intrepid way. We're talking sunset camel rides, getting lost in the narrow streets of an ancient citadel, exchanging stories over mint tea with a local Amazigh family and feasting on  Moroccan food in a desert camp. Heed the call of the dunes and join us on a bucket-list North African  adventure.

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Sahara Desert travel FAQs

Where is the sahara desert.

The Sahara Desert is in North Africa. It spans a mighty 9,200,000 square kms across 10 countries, including Morocco, Egypt, Mali and Libya.

It's the world's largest hot desert and third-largest after Antarctica and the Arctic.

What is the weather like in the Sahara Desert?

As a desert region, the Sahara can experience extreme weather. Winter (December to February) can be very cold, with overnight temperatures dropping to 5°C or lower.

You'll need a sleeping bag, thermals, a scarf, gloves and a warm jacket for travel in winter.

Oh, and be prepared for cold showers at your desert camp!

Summer (June to September) can be very hot with intense temperatures that can reach the high 40°Cs. This might be too uncomfortable for those not used to the heat. It's super important to use sun protection and stay hydrated. That said, the desert can still get pretty chilly at night when the sun goes down, so you'll need a fleece to rug up.

Spring (March to May) sees the arrival of strong winds and there is an increased risk of sandstorms in April – but don't worry, your leader will always check the forecast beforehand to see if it's safe to stay in the desert.

When is the best time to visit the Sahara Desert?

The best time to visit the Sahara Desert is during the spring months between March to May, as well as the autumn months of October and November. During these times, the desert temperatures are hot but manageable and the nights don't get quite as cold. However, one thing to note is that between January to May there is usually a higher number of sandstorms recorded, especially in April.

What clothing should I wear in the Sahara Desert?

What to pack will differ slightly depending on the time of year and the activities you'll be doing. But below are the basics you'll need:

• Light scarf or face mask can be handy for preventing you from inhaling desert dust
• Sun hat – wide-brimmed, ideally, to protect your face and head from the sun's rays and strong winds
• Sunscreen – when you're in the desert, it goes without saying!
• Small daypack for day trips and excursions
• Light, loose-fitting pants
• Joggers or jeans for camel rides
• Long-sleeved shirts
• Fleece – for all seasons
• Warm layers (for winter trips) – you'll need thermals, gloves, a woolly hat and a fleece to rug up as the temperatures can drop to below freezing at night
• Small head torch – handy for going to the bathroom at night
• Thongs (flip flops) for camp
• Hiking shoes or runners

What animals live in the Sahara Desert?

The Sahara Desert is one of the fiercest environments for animal life.

A wide range of mammals live in the Sahara, from cheetahs, dromedary camels, desert foxes, gazelles, ostrich, and hyrax to African wild dogs.

Reptile life includes the desert crocodile, sand viper and the desert monitor.

Other common species include the deathstalker scorpion, the Saharan silver ant, and over 90 species of birds.

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Visiting the Sahara desert in Morocco: How to choose the right tour for you

In this article, you’ll find a thorough review of my 3-day trip to the Sahara desert in Morocco together with a detailed itinerary and practical tips for helping you choose the right kind of tour for you.

The Sahara desert is the largest of the African deserts and spans across 12 countries, including Morocco. If you ever get a chance to visit this magical country, a Sahara desert tour should be on the top of your list. There are lots of amazing places to visit in Morocco but for many visitors a trip to the Sahara desert ends up being the absolute highlight of their holiday.

When people think about the Sahara desert, the first thing that pops into their mind is an image of massive orange sand dunes stretching as far as the eye can see. While this is definitely among the most spectacular sights on a Sahara desert trip, there are many other amazing natural sceneries to admire during the journey to the desert. From rocky plains to imposing mountains, from green oases to tall canyons, the landscape of Morocco is incredibly diverse and beautiful.

Getting to the Sahara from major Moroccan cities is not particularly easy, but it’s 100% worth it! The drive from both Fes and Marrakech to the village of Merzouga, which is the “gateway” to the desert dunes, is roughly 500 km (310 mi). Luckily, there’s a bunch of fascinating places to visit along the way.

When it comes to choosing a desert tour in Morocco, there’s an overwhelming amount of options out there. The tours differ in terms of price, length, comfort, size of the group, and starting and ending points. After careful consideration, we opted for a 3-day Sahara tour from Fes to Marrakech organized by Morocco Fabulous Travel .

Before I get into details about all the places we visited and what we experienced on our tour, I will go through the most important factors to consider when choosing your Sahara desert tour.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase.

How many days do I need for a Sahara desert tour in Morocco?

The largest and most beautiful sand dunes in Morocco, and the ones you probably have seen on photos, are the Erg Chebbi dunes next to Merzouga close to the Algerian border. In order to visit the Erg Chebbi, you’d need to set aside at least three days.

It is possible to find shorter tours departing from Marrakech but these don’t actually take you to the Sahara desert but instead to Zagora, which is another desert a bit closer to Marrakech but with smaller and less impressive dunes.

Taking a guided Sahara desert tour vs visiting independently

While you could drive to Merzouga by yourself and find a company there that would take you to a desert camp, you would be missing out on interesting information and a local’s insight since you wouldn’t have a guide with you. Plus, you’d have the stress of driving for long distances and finding your way through the desert.

We decided to take a guided tour and it was 100% worth it. Our guide/driver shared stories and fun facts during our journey through the country and answered all of our questions about Moroccan culture, nature, and people.

Furthermore, he knew the best photo spots and frequently stopped the car in the middle of nowhere to let us enjoy the views and snap some pictures. All of this greatly enhanced our experience and I feel that we would’ve missed out on a lot if we had just made the trip on our own.

Read also: My 10-day itinerary for Jordan

Booking a Sahara desert tour in advance vs buying it on the spot

I recommend doing your research and booking a tour with many positive reviews and good reputation beforehand as this will give you peace of mind during your holiday and more certainty of what to expect on the tour.

Even though you might find cheaper tours through your hotel or when walking on the streets of Marrakech or Fes, you couldn’t be sure about the quality of these tours as you wouldn’t be able to read any reviews.

Choosing a private tour vs a group tour

Choosing a private tour will of course be the most expensive option but it will give you the most flexibility and is probably the best option if you’re visiting Morocco with kids . A group tour, on the other hand, is cheaper and you’ll have the chance to meet some fun people during your desert journey.

We opted for a group tour since we wanted to meet other travelers. Our group ended up being a very small one – just us, our driver and a lovely Canadian couple. While it was very comfortable to travel with a group of this size, I missed having a bigger group during the night we spent in the desert.

Even though our camp was able to accommodate probably around 30 guests, we were just 4 guests and had a very relaxed and cozy evening. I heard that in bigger groups, however, your night at the camp could turn into a big party with lots of dancing, singing and drinks around the campfire. I would have loved to be a part of something like that!

Whether you prefer a calm and quiet evening or a party under the stars, ask the tour company in advance to know the size of the group you’d be spending the night with and make your choice accordingly.

What is the price of a Sahara desert tour?

The prices of Sahara desert tours range from 70 USD (63 EUR) to 700 USD (630 EUR) per person. On the lower end of the scale, you’ll find large group tours where you’d travel by coach buses, and on the opposite end, you have private tours by a 4WD car.

However, there are a lot more differences between the tours than just group size and mode of transport. After reading tons of reviews and blog posts on different desert tour experiences, I found that the main complaint from the people who opted for cheaper options was not having any control over their schedule.

They were frequently taken to souvenir and carpet shops and expected to buy stuff they had no interest in. They had no say in where they would like to eat and when. Instead, they were taken to crappy but expensive restaurants with no alternative options in sight. As the tour operators make a commission by taking you to certain shops and restaurants, they have an incentive to limit your flexibility and make you visit only the businesses they have agreements with.

The cheaper tours are designed to extract money from guests in every possible way. A more expensive tour, on the other hand, will allow you to skip all that and let you decide where you want to shop or eat, and which sights you want to see. It’s best to read reviews about different tour companies to get a sense of whether any aggressive selling and expensive lunches should be expected.

The quality of your desert camp and your tent also largely depends on the price of the tour. If you go for a cheaper one, you might be sharing your tent with other people (as opposed to having a private tent), you might only be allowed to bring a small backpack with you (and have to leave your luggage in Merzouga), there might not be any drinking water at the camp (so you have to bring it yourself), and you might not be served breakfast at the camp.

In terms of the tent itself, cheaper tours might take you to tents that have no floor (so you just walk on sand), army-style beds or thin mattresses only, no electricity, no showers and no toilet (instead the camp has a shared toilet which might just be a hole in the ground). More expensive tours, on the other hand, will have private tents with proper showers, toilets, beds, floors and electricity.

The price we paid for our 3-day Sahara desert tour from Fes to Marrakech was 250 EUR per person. Judging by the range of prices that I found online and mentioned earlier, the price of our tour was a bit below the average. Based on my experience though, which I’ve described in detail below, I really couldn’t have asked for anything more luxurious since everything was close to perfect already.

In a nutshell, I recommend that you avoid the cheapest tours. On top of the above-mentioned significant sacrifices in the flexibility of your schedule and the quality of the camps, I have read about cases where women were sexually harassed, drivers refusing to use AC in blazing heat, people being scammed at souvenir shops, or being left stranded on the roadside with no transportation to their final destination after visiting the desert.

P.S. To get an idea of the price level in Morocco and how much to budget for your trip, check out this article on the cost of travelling in Morocco .

3-day Sahara desert tour itinerary

Day 1: Ifrane, Azrou, Ziz Valley, Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga

On the first day, our driver Ibrahim picked us up at 8am with his 4WD Toyota close to the medina of Fes. After meeting the other couple joining the tour, we were ready to kick off our trip to the Sahara desert and head south towards the Atlas Mountains.

After a 1.5-hour drive, we reached the first stop of the day – a small town called Ifrane in the Middle Atlas Mountains. I found it fascinating how in just 70 km the landscape had changed from dry flat plains near Fes to snowy hills covered with thick forest. What’s even stranger, is the fact that Ifrane looks like a European alpine village!

With its chalet-style houses, ski slopes, crisp clean air, and calm atmosphere, this place couldn’t have been more different from Fes. The reason why Ifrane looks so European is that during the colonial era when the town was built, the French deliberately tried to create an alpine-style ski resort.  

Even though we didn’t have much time to explore Ifrane, it was nice to take a quick walk around the centre of the town to admire the architecture and grab some breakfast. As it can get pretty cold there (only 3°C during our visit in October), a jacket, long pants and closed-toe shoes are essential.

Just a short drive from Ifrane, near the town of Azrou, we made a quick stop to catch a glimpse of local wildlife and see barbary apes. These monkeys live in the cedar forests of the Atlas Mountains. In the parking lot, there was a local man selling peanuts which tourists can use to feed the monkeys. However, I recommend  avoiding touching and feeding wildlife  unless the animal is in danger. 

In roughly two hours, we reached Midelt, the national capital of apples, where we stopped for lunch. Prices outside the main tourist centers in Morocco can be incredibly low, especially if you go to restaurants frequented by locals. For two meals and drinks, we paid just 100 MAD (9 EUR). As there are plenty of restaurants to choose from in Midelt, everyone should be able to find something that suits their preferences. 

After our lunch break, we drove to the Ziz Valley where we took a short break to stretch our legs and snap some pictures. This lush oasis with thousands of palm trees stretches as far as the eye can see and creates a beautiful contrast with the surrounding terracotta-colored terrain. Definitely worth stopping for! 

Finally, after another 1.5 hours on the road, we arrived in Merzouga, the “gateway” to the Erg Chebbi dunes of the Sahara desert. Our driver dropped us off right next to the sand dunes where our camels and guides were already waiting. This was the part of the trip I had been looking forward to the most!

It would be wise to bring a scarf to wear around your head when you enter the sand dunes since you might get caught in a sandstorm. As our turban-tying skills were quite minimal, the guides gave us a quick lesson on how to wrap the scarves around our heads and look like proper Berbers.

We moved our luggage to another 4WD car which drove to our camp, and then we were ready to go! Trekking through the desert on the back of a camel while watching the sun drop behind the bright orange sand dunes was such a surreal experience. 

The seemingly infinite dunes around us, the silhouettes of camels against the pink sunset sky and the silence of the desert created a setting that was nothing short of incredible. It’s an unforgettable experience that should be a part of every Morocco itinerary .

The trip took about an hour until we reached our camp. As the sun had already set, the camp was illuminated by lanterns. It looked magical! We were greeted with mint tea and cookies by local Berber guides who were going to look after us during our stay in the desert camp.

Next, we went to see our tent which completely exceeded my expectations. It was spacious, with a large bed and big soft duvets. The floors were covered with traditional carpets. There were even power outlets where we could charge our phones and cameras.

We had our own shower, sink and a toilet, and I’m not talking about some hole-in-the-ground kind of toilet. There were proper bathroom facilities with a plumbing system and hot water. I did not expect to find this level of luxury in the middle of the desert. 

The one thing that would have made the tent even better would have been some heating because it can get really chilly at night. During our visit in October, the temperature dropped down to 6°C. I wasn’t feeling cold when sleeping because the duvets were warm but when I had to get out of bed, I was freezing.

Our camp also had a restaurant tent where we were served dinner consisting of Moroccan soup, bread, couscous, salad, chicken, fruit and, of course, mint tea. They even prepared a vegetarian tagine on request.

After dinner, our Berber guides gave us a traditional musical performance while we sat around a campfire. We spent the evening chatting with our guides, learning about each others’ lives, and gazing at the stars which were brighter than I’d ever seen before.

Day 2: Rissani, Tinghir Oasis, Todra Gorge, Dades Gorge

On the second day, we set our alarm for 6.30am to watch the sunrise and take some photos on the dunes surrounding our camp. It was freezing cold outside at such an early hour but it was totally worth it! As the sun rose above the horizon, we watched the color of the sand slowly change from dull grey to fiery orange. It was such a beautiful way to start the day.

Note: I recently learned that there have been some cases where tourists have been stung by scorpions while staying in the desert. Even though the chances of encountering a scorpion in your camp are very low, I’d recommend that you wear closed shoes when walking in the sand and shake your clothes before putting them on to be on the safe side. I wasn’t aware of this and that’s the reason you see photos of me running in the sand barefoot. Oops! I’ll be smarter next time and wear shoes.

About a thousand sunrise photos later, we were ready for breakfast. I wasn’t expecting much since we were in the middle of the desert but I was wrong! We were served various types of bread, yogurt, pancakes, omelette, sponge cake, fruits, tea, coffee, juice and about 10 different kinds of toppings for the bread. Not bad for a breakfast in the desert I’d say.

After that, it was time to find our camels and trek back to Merzouga, where we met our driver. The first destination of the day was a small town named Rissani where we visited a local market. There were hundreds of stalls with different products ranging from vegetables, spices, nuts and meat to clothes, household items and beauty products.

We also saw a livestock market packed with sheep and goats ready to be sold to new owners. Right next to the market there was something I’d never seen before – a donkey parking lot. I know that donkeys are an important part of Moroccan life but seeing dozens of these animals standing in the scorching midday sun was pretty sad.

Next, after stopping for lunch at a roadside restaurant and driving for a few hours west, we made a short stop at a viewpoint over Tinghir Oasis on the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains. This is yet another lush green valley surrounded by dry rocky landscape.

If you’d like to get a closer look at the oasis, I’ve heard that there are guided tours that take you through the valley where you can see how the local farmers use the oasis for agriculture.

Then, we visited the nearby Todra Gorge. As we were walking through the river canyon and admiring the cliffs towering above us, we encountered some Berber nomads and their donkeys. If you want to photograph them, be aware that they will most likely ask you for money for it afterwards. And why shouldn’t they?    

The gorge is also a popular spot for rock climbers – we witnessed a free-climber effortlessly making his way up those huge orange rock walls while we were holding our breaths.

The last stop of the day before heading to our hotel was at the Monkey Fingers cliffs in the Dades Gorge. Over time, water and wind eroded these sandstone mountains and created some interesting rock formations which supposedly look like fingers, though you’d have to use a bit of your imagination I’d say.

We spent the night at a small traditional hotel called Dar Essyaha in the heart of Dades Valley. As soon as I stepped into the hotel I was charmed by its Berber-style decorations and furniture. Our bedroom was rather modest, and some things in the bathroom were falling apart but it was fine for one night. The best part though was the hotel’s terrace with panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding mountains.

Day 3: Ouarzazate, Ait Ben Haddou, Marrakech 

Our third and final day of the desert tour started with a traditional Moroccan breakfast in our hotel before we hit the road again and continued our journey towards Marrakech.

The first stop of the day was Ouarzazate, roughly 2 hours’ drive from Dades Valley. We had the option to either visit a kasbah (an old citadel), a cinema museum, or both if we were quick. Our driver Ibrahim recommended the cinema museum, so that’s what we chose. 

I had mixed feelings about this place. As it used to be a film studio, the buildings, halls and courtyards had all been used as sets for many famous Hollywood movies such as Gladiator, The Mummy and Aladdin. It was fun to wander around these ancient-looking sets and I could easily imagine how the movies were produced here back in the days. Also, there were almost no other tourists around so we pretty much had the place to ourselves.

The major downside, however, was the fact that there was almost no information about the background of each of the sets. It would have been fun to know which movies were shot in each room and how it all came about. The entrance fee for the Ouarzazate Cinema Museum was 30 MAD (3 EUR).

We then headed to Ait Ben Haddou, an ancient fortified mud-walled village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and yet another set for many world-famous movies like the aforementioned Gladiator, The Mummy and the series Game of Thrones. Our Sahara tour package included a guide to Ait Ben Haddou but you can easily visit the village without one.

Once an important stop on the Trans-Saharan trade route, the village with its narrow alleyways and crumbling stairs can easily make you feel like you’ve travelled back in time. Our guide gave us a tour inside one of the traditional mud-houses where he used to live in the past and told us about the Berber way of life. 

Despite the fact that only a handful of families actually still live in Ait Ben Haddou, the place is very lively and the streets are filled with tourists, guides, and vendors. As Ait Ben Haddou is a very touristy place, the prices here are relatively high. 

After a few more hours of driving, our 3-day Sahara tour had come to an end. We were dropped off at our riad in Marrakech and said goodbye to our fellow travelers and our driver.

These three days just flew by! I can highly recommend Morocco Fabulous Travel to anyone that is looking to take a trip to the Sahara desert in a comfortable car, with a friendly driver, an amazing desert camp, informative guides, some flexibility in your schedule, and no mandatory visits to carpet shops and expensive restaurants. I have no affiliation with Morocco Fabulous Travel, I just genuinely think they did a really good job.

Our tour included:

• Pick up in Fes and drop-off at our riad in Marrakech
• A 4WD car with AC
• An English-speaking driver/guide
• Camel trekking to the desert camp and back
• One night in a private tent in a desert camp with dinner and breakfast
• One night in a hotel in Dades valley with dinner and breakfast
• A guide in Ait Ben Haddou

Our tour didn’t include:

• Lunches & drinks
• Tickets to Ouarzazate Cinema Museum

Be sure to also read my article on how to travel responsibly in Morocco for tips on how to make your trip more ethical and sustainable.

Is a trip to the Sahara desert on your bucket list? Or have you already been there? Do you have any additional tips to share?

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What beautiful photos! I am bookmarking to read in it’s entirety later today. Thanks for sharing!

Thank you Jamie! 🙂

Great way to visit choice parts of Morocco. My partner and I chose the “Marrakech, desert and southern Morocco in 8 days” tour and it was an unforgettable experience, far beyond our expectations. The natural and cultural wonders are numerous, but, what should not be underestimated, are enhanced by a type of itinerary that favors the perfect balance between a tourist experience and a deeper one, in contact with the territory and its wonderful inhabitants, without, however, give up on comfort. The people to thank for this experience are numerous, but in particular I want to thank the tour organizers: Moroccodeserttour4x4.com We also had a great time with our guide ismail oulfakir, always nice and helpful, he explained many things about local culture and traditions. We were completely carefree, which is the fundamental thing to fully enjoy a holiday

This is really an amazing article with great pictures. You really did very good job to post such increidable content. Very useful for Moroccan travellers who interested in Sahara desert experience. Thanks a lot for sharing.

Wow! I am so surprised and amazed by the the detailed information in this blog. You covered everything and it is so nice to read about your experience and learn from it. Thanks for sharing. Nice pictures and good travel content.

Best article thank you for sharing 😊 ♥️

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SAHARA DESERT TRIPS

Every traveler deserves to explore morocco and the sahara desert.

Embark on Unforgettable Sahara Desert Trips and Discover the Wonders of Morocco . Experience breathtaking desert landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich culture in one extraordinary journey.

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Top Desert Vacation Packages for 2024/2025: include all our Morocco desert tours from Marrakech and Fes. Plan your Morocco tours in advance from any city in the Moroccan kingdom. Our Local Drivers & Guides will be there for you to start your New & Exciting Morocco Journey.

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Sahara Desert Trips offer an unforgettable adventure into the vast and mesmerizing landscapes of Morocco . Explore the awe-inspiring dunes, experience camel treks at sunset, and immerse yourself in the unique culture of the Sahara. Whether it’s a day excursion or an extended journey , these trips promise a once-in-a-lifetime experience in one of the world’s most iconic deserts.

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Marrakech: Sahara Desert 3-Day Trip

Embark on an unforgettable 3-day journey from the bustling city of Marrakech to the breathtaking Sahara Desert . This immersive adventure promises a seamless blend of cultural exploration, natural wonders, and outdoor thrills. Traverse the majestic High Atlas Mountains , discover the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah , and savor authentic Moroccan cuisine. The highlight? Experiencing the thrill of camel rides through the serene dunes, followed by a night under the stars in a traditional Berber camp . With a maximum of 10 participants, this trip offers the perfect balance of comfort and flexibility, ensuring an experience that will leave you captivated by the enchanting landscapes of Morocco.

• A 3-day excursion from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert, including a scenic drive over the High Atlas Mountains and a camel ride in the Sahara.
• Visits to UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, Ouarzazate movie studios, Dades and Todgha gorges, and a night in a traditional Berber camp.
• Opportunity to witness breathtaking Saharan sunsets and sunrises, and experience the serene atmosphere of the desert.
• Accommodations range from a luxury hotel in Dades Valley to a cozy Berber camp, providing a diverse and authentic experience.
• Additional activities like sandboarding and hiking are available to enhance the adventure and exploration of the natural wonders.

More tours and experiences nearby.

• Excursion From Ouarzazate to the Draa Valley, Zagora and the Tinfou Dunes
• Zagora Desert: 2-Day Trip From Marrakesh
• Private Excursion From Ouarzazate to Gorges Dades, Valley of Roses and Skoura
• 3-Days Private Discovery of the Desert From Ouarzazate to MHAMID in 4×4

Trip Overview

The Marrakech: Sahara Desert Trip is a 3-day excursion that whisks travelers over the High Atlas Mountains to explore the captivating landscapes of southern Morocco, from the Berber villages to the mesmerizing Sahara Desert.

Priced from €350 per person, the trip accommodates a maximum of 10 participants and provides live tour guides and audio guides in English.

Pickup from your Marrakech accommodation is included, so you’ll be ready to depart 15 minutes prior.

Over the course of the 3 days, you’ll experience the highlights of the region, from the iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah to an unforgettable camel ride and overnight stay in a Berber tent camp.

Itinerary Highlights

Kicking off the journey, travelers embark on a scenic drive over the High Atlas Mountains , where they’ll witness the captivating Tizi nTichka pass and explore charming Berber villages along the way.

The first day’s highlights include visiting the iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah , a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the movie studio town of Ouarzazate. Guests then settle into a luxury hotel in the Dades Valley for the night.

The second day is filled with adventure as they explore the dramatic Dades and Todgha gorges , hike along the riverbed, and cross the picturesque Roses Valley before meeting camels in Merzouga.

Travelers then enjoy a camel ride and witness the stunning sunset in the Sahara before spending the night in a Berber encampment .

Camel Ride Experience

Travelers embark on a camel ride through the Sahara Desert , seeing the timeless experience of traversing the legendary dunes. Guides expertly lead the camels, ensuring a smooth and memorable journey as guests take in the breathtaking vistas of the expansive desert landscape.

Riding atop the gentle giants, visitors are transported to a world of ancient Berber culture and traditions. The rhythmic sway of the camel’s gait and the vast, rolling sand dunes create a serene and otherworldly atmosphere.

As the sun sets, the camel caravan arrives at a traditional Berber camp , where guests enjoy a night under the stars , surrounded by the tranquility of the desert.

Sunset and Sunrise Views

As the sun dips below the horizon, visitors bask in the captivating glow of the Sahara Desert’s sunset. Warm hues of orange, red, and gold paint the vast, undulating dunes, creating a breathtaking spectacle that leaves onlookers in awe. Witnessing this natural phenomenon from the comfort of a traditional Berber camp is an unforgettable experience, one that sets the stage for a night of tranquility and star-gazing under the expansive desert sky.

Accommodation and Dining

After a day exploring the stunning Saharan landscapes , travelers settle into their accommodations for the night, finding comfort and respite.

The Berber camp offers an authentic experience, with canvas tents outfitted with cozy bedding and rugs, providing a peaceful retreat amidst the vast desert.

Hearty Moroccan cuisine, prepared by skilled camp cooks, is served for dinner, allowing guests to savor the flavors of the region as they bask in the serene desert ambiance.

For the first night, participants stay in a luxury hotel in the Dades Valley , where they can relax and recharge before continuing their desert adventure the following day.

The diverse accommodations and dining experiences provide a well-rounded and immersive Sahara Desert trip.

Additional Activities

Beyond the captivating camel rides, the Sahara Desert trip offers additional thrilling activities that immerse travelers in the region’s natural wonders. Adventurous participants can try their hand at sandboarding, gliding down the towering golden dunes for an adrenaline-fueled experience. Those seeking a more leisurely pace can explore the vast desert landscapes on foot, hiking along the riverbeds of the dramatic Dades and Todgha Gorges to discover hidden oases and marvel at the region’s geological formations.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Sahara Desert trip package includes a driver/guide , 2 breakfasts and 2 dinners, hotel accommodation for 1 night and a Berber tent camp for 1 night, a camel ride , an air-conditioned van or 4WD, fuel, and local taxes.

However, lunches and drinks aren’t included in the package. This provides travelers with the essential elements for an unforgettable adventure in the Sahara, while allowing for flexibility and personal choices when it comes to meals.

The inclusions cover transportation, accommodation, cultural experiences, and the iconic camel ride, ensuring a comprehensive and hassle-free trip.

Travelers can focus on creating lasting memories without worrying about the logistical details.

Cancellation and Booking

According to the details provided, travelers have the flexibility to cancel their Sahara Desert trip booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund .

Plus, the tour operator offers a flexible booking option , allowing customers to reserve their spot now and pay later.

This policy ensures that travelers can plan their trip with confidence , knowing they can make adjustments as needed without incurring any penalties.

The cancellation and booking flexibility makes it easier for visitors to experience the magic of the Sahara Desert, as they can book their trip without worrying about unexpected changes in their schedule.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

• 3 Days-Tour From Marrakech to Fes Luxury Camp
• Fint Oasis Private Day Hike
• 3 Days Group Tour From Marrakech to Merzouga Desert
• 3-Days-Tour From Marrakech to Fes in Shared Group Trips
• 3 Days-Tour From Marrakech to Fes Luxury Camp Private Camp
• Private Tour Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate. Lunch Included.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Trip?

The maximum group size for this trip is 10 participants. The trip overview specifies that the group size is "Limited to 10 participants", providing a clear answer to the current question.

Can I Customize the Itinerary for This 3-Day Trip?

Yes, travelers can customize the itinerary for this 3-day trip. The tour operator offers flexibility to modify the activities and destinations based on the group’s interests and preferences, subject to availability and feasibility.

Is It Possible to Join the Group at Ait Ben Haddou Instead of Marrakech?

Yes, it’s possible to join the group at Ait Ben Haddou instead of Marrakech. The tour operator can arrange this change in pickup location, though it may incur an additional fee or require the traveler to meet the group at the specified time and place.

Can I Book This Trip as a Solo Traveler?

Yes, solo travelers can book this trip. The tour company accepts individual bookings and limits the group size to 10 participants, providing a personalized experience for solo adventurers exploring the Sahara Desert from Marrakech.

How Flexible Are the Pick-Up and Drop-Off Times for This Tour?

The tour offers flexible pickup and drop-off times from accommodations in Marrakech. Travelers should be ready 15 minutes prior to the scheduled pickup time. The return journey to Marrakech on the third day is flexible as well.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Ouarzazate Airport: Private Transfer
• 2-Day Atlas Mountains Morocco Trek With Village Stay
• Touareg Desert Horseback Riding in Morocco
• 3 Days-Tour From Marrakech to Zagora Desert by 4×4 & Guide
• From Agadir or Taghazout: 2-Day Sahara Desert Tour to Zagora
• Marrakech: Merzouga Sahara 3-Day Trip With Camping and Hotel
• From Fez: 3-Day Desert Tour to Merzouga and Marrakech
• Ouazazate: Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, Fint Oasis, Film Studios
• Trekking and Hiking in Morocco 2 Day Trek in Atlas Mountains
• Ouarzazate: Private Full-Day Tour and Oasis Fint
• Quad Biking in the Sahara: Unusual Routes in Ouarzazate
• From Ouarzazate: 3-Day Merzouga to Erg Chebbi Tour
• 3 Days Private Tour Marrakech to Fes via Merzouga Desert
• Casablanca: 6 Days Tour Blue City, Fes, Desert & Marrakech
• Full Day Trip to Ouarzazate & Ait Ben Haddou From Marrakech.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Sahara Desert from Marrakech, enjoying breathtaking landscapes and authentic Berber culture .

Ride camels through serene dunes, savor delectable Moroccan cuisine, and bask in the tranquility of starlit nights .

This 3-day adventure promises a perfect balance of comfort and flexibility, ensuring an immersive and memorable experience.

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