Morocco Desert Tours: Complete Guide to Sahara Adventures

Everything You Need to Know About Sahara Desert Tours

A Sahara desert experience is the highlight of many Morocco trips. But with so many options, how do you choose the right tour? Here’s your complete guide.

Merzouga vs Zagora: Which Desert?

Merzouga (Erg Chebbi)

Pros: Taller dunes (up to 150m), more photogenic, better infrastructure, more activities

Cons: Longer drive from Marrakech (9-10 hours), more touristy

Best for: Those who want the classic Sahara experience with big dunes

Zagora

Pros: Shorter drive (6-7 hours from Marrakech), beautiful Draa Valley en route

Cons: Smaller dunes, fewer activities, less developed infrastructure

Best for: Those with limited time or wanting a quicker desert taste

Tour Duration Options

2-Day Tours

Only available to Zagora. Very rushed with lots of driving. Best for those with very limited time.

3-Day Tours

The most popular option for Merzouga. Allows time for the journey, one night in the desert, and return. Can end in Marrakech or Fes.

4+ Day Tours

Our recommendation! More time means less rushing, extra time in the desert, and better appreciation of the landscapes along the way.

What Happens on a Desert Tour?

• Day 1: Drive via Atlas Mountains, visit Ait Benhaddou, arrive at desert edge, sunset camel ride to camp
• Night: Traditional dinner, Berber music, sleep in camp (under stars or in tent)
• Day 2: Sunrise camel ride, breakfast, either return or continue journey

Camp Types

Basic/Berber Camps

Shared toilets, simple tents, mattresses on floor. Authentic but basic. Good for budget travelers.

Standard Camps

Private tents, shared bathrooms with flush toilets, comfortable beds. Good balance of comfort and price.

Luxury Camps

Private ensuite bathroom, real beds, electricity, sometimes A/C. Hotel comfort in the desert.

What to Bring

• Warm layers (desert nights are cold!)
• Closed shoes for camel riding
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Scarf for sand protection
• Camera with charged batteries
• Small flashlight

Best Time for Desert Tours

Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) offer the best temperatures. Summer is extremely hot. Winter nights are cold but days are pleasant.

Ready to experience the Sahara? Browse our desert tours from 2 to 5+ days.