Travel

I always dreamed of visiting the Sahara Desert, and while I was crafting my Morocco itinerary, a tour through the Moroccan Sahara had to be included. Just thinking about walking on those sandy dunes, looking at the bright stars at night, and learning about the desert’s culture made me really excited. In this article I want to share with you all the insider tips on how to make your Sahara desert tour the perfect experience.

Important things you should know before your Sahara Desert tour:

A trip to Sahara Desert takes more than 2 days. 

Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara, is around 550 kilometers away from Marrakech and 450 from Fez. This is why you will need 3 days, all of which will require serious amounts of driving. 

It’s about 12 hours of driving each way between Marrakech and Merzouga, without stops, so expect to spend a good portion of your 3 day Sahara desert tour on the road.

If you only have time to do a day trip from Marrakech, you will simply not be able to see the true sand dunes of Sahara.

However, if you only have one day, you can do a camel ride through the rocky Agafay desert.

Tours start and end in Marrakesh or Fez.

When it comes to beginning your Sahara adventure, you’ll likely find two main starting points: the vibrant city of Marrakesh or the historic city of Fez. While both cities offer their unique charm and attractions, the majority of Sahara tours kick off from Marrakesh. Even though Fez is a bit closer to Sahara desert, the road from Marrakesh provides more attractions and it’s more scenic. 

You should book the tour at least a few days in advance.

Reserving your spot a few days before your intended departure ensures that you secure your place and allows for smoother logistical arrangements. You can do it online, and I would suggest doing so because you can read reviews from people who did the same tour. 

However, if you’re a fan of spontaneity or find yourself swept up in the vibrant energy of Morocco, you can also consider booking your tour directly from local operators upon your arrival. This option may even provide the added benefit of negotiating a better price and tailoring your experience to your preferences.

Unpredictable Weather: Be Prepared for All Seasons.

The Sahara Desert is known for its extreme and ever-changing weather patterns, and it’s crucial to be prepared for the unexpected, especially if you’re traveling during the off-season. While you might imagine scorching hot sands, the reality can surprise you. Visiting in the off-season, as we did in February, can bring chilly surprises. For instance, as we crossed the Atlas mountains on our way, we encountered snowfall and freezing temperatures. Nighttime in the desert can also be remarkably cold, even requiring you to layer up with four cozy clothing pieces to stay warm. So, regardless of the time of year, packing a range of clothing options to accommodate varying temperatures is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

When booking a tour, check for inclusions.

Before booking a tour, ask what is included in the price you pay.

Accommodation: ask if the rooms are private/shared and the conditions. We had private rooms, but in the desert the bathroom was shared. We didn’t mind, but take this into consideration when booking.

Food and drinks: usually, drinks are extra, except for maybe water and coffee at breakfast. But it is important to note if you have meals included – this will save you time and money. The tour we joined had 2 breakfasts and 2 dinners included – plenty of food and super delicious – really unexpected.

Activities: you might want to enjoy a camel ride at sunrise, or sandboarding at sunset. Check which activity is included and if they’re not, what is the extra cost for them. We had 2 camel rides included (sunset and sunrise) and sandboarding.

Pick up and drop-off: these should be included and should be close to where you’re staying. Usually the pick-up and the drop-off location is the same. If you want for example to start the trip in Marrakesh and end it in Fez – this might be possible at an extra cost, but discuss it in advance with the organizer.

Bring cash.

Make sure to bring along sufficient cash. While many places in Morocco accept credit and debit cards, the desert regions might not always have the same level of card payment infrastructure. Having cash on hand ensures that you’re well-equipped to make purchases, pay for services, and perhaps even seize the opportunity to acquire unique local souvenirs that capture the essence of your Sahara experience.

Booking a tour vs DIY:

There are basically two options getting to the Sahara desert: by joining a tour or by organizing everything yourself. It merely depends on your preferences.

Opting for a guided tour provides the advantage of local expertise and seamless logistics. Guides will lead you through the desert’s hidden gems, share stories of nomadic traditions, and ensure your safety.

On the other side, choosing a DIY expedition offers a more independent journey. You will craft your own itinerary and explore at your own pace.

Because we were short on time and also it would have been difficult for us to rent a car (didn’t have a credit card then) we decided to join a tour. The tour took us to amazing places to which we wouldn’t have gotten otherwise. We shared the trip with a great group of people and our guide was the friendliest and funniest ever. The whole experience was perfect and would strongly recommend it – this is the tour we joined.

And this is another good rated tour – it was our second option. I am sure this would have been good too as you can see in the reviews.

Must pack for your Sahara Desert tour:

• Motion Sickness Pills

The journey to reach the desert involves winding roads and varying terrains. To conquer any bouts of motion sickness and fully enjoy the ride, consider packing motion sickness pills.

• Long scarf

A scarf is more than just an accessory – it’s a desert essential: you will see that all the Berbers from the desert will have one. Not only does it add a touch of style to your outfit, but it also shields you from the sun’s intensity and offers protection against blowing sand. 

• Sunglasses

They will potect you from the intense desert sun and will shield your eyes from the sand.

• Layers

Desert temperatures can swing dramatically between day and night. Be prepared by packing layers of clothing. Lightweight, breathable fabrics for daytime and a cozy sweater or jacket for cooler evenings ensure you’re ready for whatever the desert climate brings.

• Snacks

Exploring the desert’s captivating terrain can work up an appetite. Pack a selection of your favorite snacks to keep you energized between meals. Granola bars, nuts, dried fruits, or even some local treats can be a lifesaver when you need a quick boost.

• Water

Staying hydrated is non-negotiable in the desert’s arid environment. Carry a refillable water bottle to ensure you have access to clean drinking water throughout your journey. Adequate hydration is not only essential for your comfort but also for your well-being.

• Comfortable Clothes

Choose loose-fitting, breathable clothing that allows you to move freely and stay cool. Opt for fabrics that wick away moisture to keep you comfortable as you explore the desert’s wonders.

• Good Shoes

Your choice of footwear can make or break your desert experience. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip are ideal for navigating sand, rocky terrain, and uneven paths.

• Camera

A desert tour in Marrakesh is a visual feast, and you’ll want to capture every moment. Pack your camera or smartphone to immortalize the breathtaking landscapes, vibrant colors, and unique experiences that you’ll encounter along the way.

I hope this article answered all your question and helped you plan your Sahara experience.

PS1: Starting your trip in Marrakesh? In this article I’m sharing with you tips on exploring Marrakesh on a budget.

PS2: If you want to travel more for less, I’m sharing with you in my ebook all my insights on how to organize your next trips on a budget. It’s now less than 7$ and it will save you hundreds!