Guide to Visiting the Sahara Desert in Morocco: What You Need to Know
Wandering into another world on camel back in the Sahara Desert, Morocco.
The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Sahara Desert in Morocco
There’s something about the Sahara Desert that feels like stepping straight into a dream. When we first landed in Morocco, our group tour began with a simple icebreaker: share the reason you chose Morocco. My answer? The Sahara Desert.
For many travellers, spending a night (or two) in the Sahara is the ultimate bucket list experience in Morocco… and let me tell you, it’s every bit as magical as you imagine. But planning a Sahara trip can feel overwhelming. Where should you go? How long do you need? What should you pack? And how do you make sure your experience is authentic, not just touristy?
In this guide, I’ll take you through everything you need to know about visiting the Sahara Desert in Morocco, including how to get there, which dunes to choose, what to expect, what to pack, practical tips, andadvice for travelling responsibly… plus and a detailed 2-day, 2-night Sahara Desert itinerary so you can plan your desert adventure with confidence.
Where is the Sahara Desert in Morocco?
The Sahara is vast, stretching across multiple countries in North Africa, but in Morocco the gateway towns are Merzouga and Zagora. From Marrakech or Fes, it’s a long journey (think 8-10 hours by road), which is why most tours include stops along the way.
Merzouga & Erg Chebbi - The most famous dunes, towering up to 150 metres high, with luxury camps and a wide range of tours. Best for travellers who want that classic Sahara postcard view. (my top pick!)
Zagora & Erg Chigaga - Lower dunes and a slightly less touristy vibe. The journey is shorter from Marrakech, but you won’t see the same dramatic golden waves.
How to Get to the Sahara Desert
Most travellers start their Sahara journey from either Marrakech, Fes, or Casablanca. Your starting point will shape how long the trip takes.
Marrakech - The most popular starting point. Expect around 8-10 hours of driving (broken up with scenic stops). Perfect if you’re travelling south after exploring the medina and souks.
Fes - A great option if you’re coming from northern Morocco. The drive to Merzouga takes about 7-8 hours.
Casablanca - While possible, the drive is very long (10+ hours). Most travellers use Casablanca as an entry point, then head to Marrakech or Fes before venturing to the desert.
Most travellers join an organised tour from Marrakech or Fes, which takes care of transport, meals, and desert camp arrangements. Private tours are available if you want flexibility, while group tours are budget-friendly and social. Alternatively you may choose to hire a car.
Golden sunsets in the Sahara Desert, Morocco.
Why the Sahara Should Be on Your Morocco Itinerary
The Sahara is a once in a lifetime experience. From the camel rides at sunset to fireside music under the stars, you’ll walk away with memories that feel almost cinematic.
But here’s the thing… the desert isn’t a quick day trip from Marrakech or Casablanca. It’s a long but breathtaking journey, with dramatic gorges, mountain passes, and kasbahs along the way.
👉 Tip: Make the journey part of the adventure. Many travellers stop in places like Ait Benhaddou (a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Game of Thrones filming location) or the Dades Valley before reaching the desert.
Best Time to Visit the Sahara Desert
The desert can be extreme, with blistering hot in summer, freezing at night in winter.
Spring (March-May): Ideal weather, warm days, comfortable nights, fewer crowds.
Autumn (September-November): Ideal weather, especially October.
Summer (June-August): Only for those who can handle the heat. Expect temps over 40°C.
Winter (December-February): Clear skies, but nights drop close to 0°C. Pack warm layers.
👉 Best time to visit: March-May and September-November.
What to Pack for the Sahara Desert
Packing for the Sahara is all about comfort and practicality.
Lightweight clothing - long sleeves for sun protection.
Warm layers - nights can be surprisingly cold, even in summer.
Scarf - essential to protect your hair, face, and ears from blowing sand. Trust me — you’ll regret it if you don’t.
Clothing prime for photos - avoid reds and oranges (you’ll blend into the dunes). Stick with white, black, cream, or jewel tones that pop against the sand.
Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, and lip balm - the desert sun is harsh.
Swimwear - many desert camps have pools with views of the dunes.
Comfortable walking shoes and sandals . you’ll be on sand a lot.
Portable charger - camps may have limited electricity.
Snacks & plenty of water - bring a reusable water bottle as hydration is everything.
A small backpack - for your essentials.
👉 Photography Tip: Sand will get everywhere, including in your camera gear. Protect your electronics with zip-lock bags or covers.
What to Do in the Sahara
There’s more to the Sahara than admiring the dunes:
Camel trekking - the classic experience, riding across the dunes at sunset.
4x4 safaris - an adrenaline-filled alternative to camels.
Quad biking tours - adrenaline meets desert exploration.
Sandboarding - like snowboarding, but on the dunes.
Stargazing - with almost no light pollution, the Sahara skies are jaw-dropping.
Berber music & culture – enjoy drumming and singing by the fire, and learn about nomadic life.
Camp experiences - Traditional meals, live music, dancing around the fire.
Sunrise & sunset walks - two of the most magical moments in the desert.
Our group tour in the Sahara Desert at sunset.
How Long Should You Stay in the Sahara?
While it’s possible to visit on a whirlwind one-night trip, I highly recommend staying two nights.
Why? Because the Sahara reveals its magic slowly. Sunrise and sunset paint the dunes in shifting shades of gold, and evenings are best spent listening to local musicians around a campfire before gazing up at the star-studded sky.
Two nights allow you to:
See both sunrise and sunset in the dunes.
Soak it in without rushing.
Enjoy time by the pool (yes, many desert camps have them!).
Try activities like sandboarding or dune buggy tours.
Where to Stay in the Sahara Desert
Accommodation styles vary:
Standard desert camps - Budget-friendly, with simple tents and shared bathrooms.
Luxury desert camps - Glamping-style tents with private bathrooms, plush bedding, and often solar power.
Hotels in Merzouga - If camping isn’t your thing, you can base yourself in town and take day trips into the dunes.
Staying in a Desert Camp
Forget roughing it. Sahara camps are more “glamping” than camping. Expect:
Spacious tents with real beds.
Electricity and private bathrooms (though often with cold showers).
Heaters or air-conditioning, depending on the camp.
Buffet breakfasts and traditional Moroccan dinners.
Live music by the fire in the evenings.
👉 Tip: Camps are no longer inside the dunes. They’re set up at the edge of the desert, so you’re only a few minutes’ walk from the rolling sand.
The camel I chose to walk (not ride) into the dunes of the Sahara Desert, Morocco.
My Suggested 2 Day / 2 Night Sahara Desert Itinerary
Here’s how to make the most of your desert trip without feeling rushed.
Day 1 – Journey into the desert
Morning - Depart Marrakech or Fes early. The journey itself is an adventure… winding through the Atlas Mountains, passing traditional kasbahs, and stopping in towns like Midelt or Ouarzazate for lunch.
Afternoon - Arrive in Merzouga. Switch from 4WD to camel or 4x4 for the final stretch into the dunes (with a guide). The change of pace feels symbolic… you’re leaving the modern world behind.
Sunset - Ride your camel or 4WD into the Erg Chebbi dunes and climb a sand dune to watch the sunset over the Sahara.
Evening - Settle into your desert camp. Later, tuck into a hearty Moroccan dinner (tagine under the stars)at your desert camp. The night ends with Berber drumming and dancing around the fire before heading to bed in your luxury or nomad-style tent.
This itinerary assumes you’re starting in Marrakech or Fes, heading to Merzouga (Erg Chebbi dunes), and joining a desert tour or private trip.
Day 2 – Explore the Sahara
Early morning - Wake up early for a breathtaking sunrise walk over the dunes. Breakfast back at camp.
Daytime - Try sandboarding, explore the dunes by camel, quad bike, or 4x4.
Afternoon - Take time to rest during the hottest part of the day, sip mint tea, or take a dip in the pool as you admire the dunes in the background.
Sunset - Another unforgettable sunset (and an opportunity to capture epic golden hour photos)
Evening - Dinner and storytelling around the fire. This is the night to stargaze… the Milky Way is mesmerising here.
Day 3 – Farewell Sahara
Morning - Enjoy one last sunrise amongst the dunes, followed by breakfast at camp.
Depart - Start your return journey to Marrakech or Fes, stopping at kasbahs or gorges along the way.
👉 Pro tip: If you have extra days, stretch your journey to include stops in the Dades Gorge, Ait Ben Haddou, or the Atlas Mountains… you’ll see an incredible side of Morocco along the way.
Sunrise dunes in the Sahara.
How to Book a Sahara Desert Trip
You’ve got two main options:
Guided group tours - Affordable and hassle-free, with set itineraries. Great if you’re short on time.
Private tours - More expensive but flexible. You can customise stops and travel at your own pace.
👉 Pro tip: Always check what’s included (meals, activities, return transport) before booking.
Essential Tips for Visiting the Sahara
The desert is beautiful, but it’s not always convenient. Here are some practical things to know before you go:
Bathrooms - Most glamping camps have private bathrooms, but budget camps may have shared facilities.
Wifi & Signal - Expect little to no reception in the dunes. Embrace the digital detox.
Safety - Don’t wander far into the dunes without a guide, it’s easy to get disoriented.
Supplies - Bring snacks, sunscreen, and plenty of water. There’s no corner shop in the desert!
Travel Insurance - Make sure your policy covers camel rides and adventure activities.
Tours - Book with a reputable tour company (self-driving is possible but not recommended).
Alcohol - Check in advance whether your camp is dry or allows BYO alcohol. Many travellers bring Moroccan wine or even “Sahara Gold” beer to enjoy with dinner.
Sustainable Travel in the Sahara
Tourism supports local communities, but it’s important to travel responsibly:
Choose operators who employ local guides and staff, and respect Amazigh traditions.
Avoid plastic bottles - bring a reusable one.
Choose camel rides carefully - ensure operators treat the animals with care.
Respect local culture - modest clothing and sensitivity when photographing people.
Leave no trace - don’t litter in the desert.
Support community-run camps where possible.
FAQ - Sahara Travel Made Simple
Is 2 days enough?
Yes! Two days gives you a taste of desert life, with two magical nights under the stars.
Is it safe?
Absolutely. Guides and drivers are experienced, and desert camps are set up for travellers.
Can I self-drive?
You can drive to Merzouga, but entering the dunes requires a camel or 4x4 guide.
What if I don’t like camels?
Most camps offer 4WD transfers instead. Alternatively, you can choose to walk your camel (as I did).
Why the Sahara Should Be On Your Bucket List
The Sahara is not the easiest place to reach, but that’s what makes it so special. By the time you’re watching the sun sink into the towering dunes or lying under a sky full of stars, the long journey feels more than worth it.
This is the kind of trip that changes you. It slows you down, reminds you of the vastness of the world, and leaves you with a deeper appreciation of Morocco’s natural and cultural beauty. Of all the places I visited in Morocco, nothing captured my heart like the Sahara.
So, if you’ve been wondering whether to add the Sahara to your Moroccan itinerary, let this be your sign: go for it. You’ll come back with sandy shoes (let’s face it: sandy everything), and memories you’ll carry forever.
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