Sahara Desert Trek in Morocco: What to Expect, When to Go and What to Pack
Walking through the golden dunes of the Sahara, following a camel caravan and sleeping under a sky full of stars – a Sahara Desert trek in Morocco is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have in North Africa. Here is what to expect, when to go and how to prepare.
Where Does a Sahara Trek Start?
Our desert treks start from M’hamid El Ghizlan, the last village at the end of the Draa Valley, south of Zagora. From here, the road ends and the desert begins: wide sandy plains, dry riverbeds, small oases and the big dunes of Erg Chegaga. The journey from Marrakech crosses the High Atlas and passes the famous kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou.
What Is a Typical Day Like?
- Morning: breakfast at sunrise, then the camels are loaded and you start walking while the air is fresh.
- Midday: a long lunch break in the shade of tamarisk trees or a tent, avoiding the hottest hours.
- Afternoon: a few more hours of walking to the next camp, often with a climb to the top of a dune for sunset.
- Evening: dinner cooked by our team, tea around the fire and a night under the stars.
You walk around 4 to 6 hours a day. The camels carry the luggage, water and food, and you can ride a camel for part of the way if you get tired.
Best Time for a Desert Trek
The best season for trekking in the Sahara is from September to May. Days are warm and pleasant, but nights can be cold, especially from December to February. Summer is too hot for walking in the desert, so we do not run desert treks in June, July and August.
What to Pack
- Light, long-sleeved clothes and a warm jacket for the evenings
- A scarf or chech to protect you from the sun and wind
- Sunglasses, sun hat and high-factor sunscreen
- Comfortable walking shoes or light boots (sand gaiters are useful)
- A headlamp and a warm sleeping layer for the nights
Is It Difficult?
A desert trek is graded easy: there is no altitude and the walking pace is slow and relaxed. Walking on soft sand takes a little more effort, but anyone with basic fitness can enjoy it – it is a great trip for families and friends.
Join Our Sahara Desert Trek
Our 8-day Sahara Desert Trek includes 4 days of walking with camels across the dunes of M’hamid El Ghizlan, nights in desert camps and a visit to Ait Ben Haddou. Prefer to ride? Our Morocco Cycling Tour takes you by bike all the way to the Chegaga dunes. Contact us to plan your desert adventure.
