A desert tour in Morocco is like stepping into a scene from a storybook. There are vast sand dunes, a starry sky, and an allure of an ancient culture.
You might want to ride a camel in the desert, sleep under a Berber tent, watch a sunrise, or explore the cosmos and Milky Way! Whatever your goals are, solid preparation is a must.
So, let’s go through some considerations to make your journey unforgettable!
Why Morocco Is the Ultimate Desert Destination
The Moroccan desert, known as the Sahara Desert, is the world’s largest hot desert. It has majestic orange sand dunes, diverse landscapes, and a clear, wide sky. The stargazing experience here is one of the best, and this peaceful, quiet area should be next on your travel list.
Popular Desert Regions in Morocco
Erg Chebbi, located near Merzouga, is one of the most easily accessible deserts in Morocco. If you want to go there, the journey starts from Marrakech, a 10-hour drive, or 7 hours from Fes.
Near Marrakech, there is another desert called Zagora, which is basic compared to other landscapes.
On the way, stop in other areas, such as Ouarzazate, Draa Valley, Ait Benhaddouo, and Dades Gorges, to explore ancient ksars and oases and witness sets of famous movies such as Game of Thrones and Gladiator.
Things to do in The Sahara Desert
Camels will take you on authentic desert rides to the heart of the Sahara Desert camp. The people of the Berber tribe will warmly welcome you and show remarkable hospitality. Several activities are available, including horse riding, desert safari, and sand boarding.
Evenings in desert camps are wonderful experiences. You can listen to ancient stories around a campfire while enjoying unlimited Moroccan Tea and original Moroccan cuisine. There is also a musical night with local instruments, such as drums and krakebs.
At night sit on the fine sand, look at the stars illuminating the sky. Get up before sunrise to see the most awe-inspiring sunrise in your life.
The Famous Dunes of Sahara
Dunes within the Sahara Desert are known for stunning sand patterns and shapes caused by winds. Erg Chebbi is the most famous dune, it is 100 meters from the plain, and the sunset looks breathtaking from this spot. Another popular place for rolling dune shapes is Erg Chegaga near M’Hamid. It is at the end of the road, expensive, hard to access, and less crowded.
Best Time to Visit the Moroccan Desert
March-May is an ideal time to visit the Sahara Desert because the temperature is moderate. From September to November, the weather is unpredictable but pleasant. The temperature exceeds 50 degrees Celsius from June to August, which makes traveling hard. Similarly, winter brings cold weather, so don’t plan a trip in these months.
Choosing the Right Desert Tour in Morocco
It’s better to choose a trusted local tour guide company and let them handle everything so you can enjoy the trip more. Check a few things beforehand, like which meals are included, the quality of the accommodation, or whether they offer private group trips.
Essential Gear for Desert Travel and Survival Tips
Ask the tour guide company about the services they provide before booking. Pack accordingly, and don’t pack a lot of stuff. I suggest bringing baby wipes, loose-comfortable clothes, cover-ups, hiking boots, a medical kit, face masks, sunglasses, reusable water bottles, cash, a power bank, and scarves. Leave the suitcase in the hotel and carry a backpack with essential items.
Conclusion
From Marrakech, Fes, to Merzouga, prepare for an unlimited drive, as it’s not a walk in a park. Don’t forget to pack essential items like scarves and boots for a better adventure in the sand. Choose a reputable tour guide, plan wisely, and embrace the magic of vast golden dunes!