Get ready to enter an extraordinary landscape of golden dunes, star-filled skies, and ancient Berber culture. The Moroccan Sahara, one of the world’s most iconic deserts, is not just vast; it’s a mesmerizing world of adventure, offering experiences from camel treks to traditional music under an endless sky.
Whether you’re here for the silence of the sands or the thrill of exploration, the Sahara is a journey you’ll never forget.
Getting There
From Marrakech: For Lykkers starting from Marrakech, the Sahara Desert is a scenic journey of about 9-10 hours by car or bus, with tours often stopping at captivating places like the Atlas Mountains and Aït Benhaddou. For those wanting a quicker route, flights to nearby towns like Ouarzazate shorten the travel time.
From Fes: You can also reach the Sahara from Fes, with popular desert gateways like Merzouga and Zagora accessible via car, bus, or organized tour. This option lets you see different Moroccan landscapes along the way, including the Ziz Valley and its palm-filled oasis.
Best Time to Visit
The Sahara Desert offers the most enjoyable temperatures in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), with warm days and cool nights. Summers are extremely hot, reaching up to 50°C, making it uncomfortable for most travelers. For Lykkers planning winter visits, nights can get surprisingly chilly, but the days are mild, making it an option if you’re up for a cozy campfire under the stars.
What to Do
Camel Trekking: A classic way to explore the Sahara is by camel. Many tours offer multi-day camel treks where you’ll traverse dunes, like the famous Erg Chebbi, at sunrise or sunset. Prices range from $40 for a short ride to $100+ for an overnight trek.
4x4 Adventures: For a faster, thrilling experience, 4x4 tours are a popular alternative to camels. They’re perfect for exploring hidden parts of the desert, like fossil sites and remote dunes, with prices starting around $150 for half-day tours.
Sandboarding: Adrenaline seekers will love sandboarding down the dunes of Erg Chigaga and Erg Chebbi. Boards are often available at camps, allowing you to slide down the Sahara’s sandy slopes for around $10-20 per session.
What to Eat
Sahara tours often include traditional meals prepared by Berber guides. You’ll taste deliciously spiced dishes like tagine, cooked over a fire, and freshly baked bread. Expect a cozy Moroccan tea ceremony with mint tea in the afternoons—a true desert refreshment! Prices are usually included in guided tours, but you might spend $5-10 for extras.
Where to Stay
Luxury Desert Camps: If you’re after a bit of luxury, try desert camps offering glamping experiences with plush tents, private bathrooms, and even Wi-Fi! Prices range from $150 to $400 per night.
Budget Desert Camps: For Lykkers looking for an affordable but authentic experience, basic camps provide traditional tents, shared facilities, and sometimes live music around the fire, usually starting from $40 per night.
Merzouga Hotels: Prefer a bit of structure? There are hotels in towns like Merzouga, offering easy access to the desert with prices from $50 to $100 per night.
Local Culture and Customs
The Sahara is home to the Berber people, who share their vibrant culture through music, crafts, and traditional hospitality. Visiting their camps is an experience of its own, with storytelling, music around the campfire, and stunning artisanal crafts like rugs and pottery. Remember to bring small cash for any unique souvenirs you want to take back home!
A Final Word for Lykkers
Exploring Morocco’s Sahara is like stepping into another world. Every corner offers a unique moment, whether it’s the silence of the vast desert or the friendly spirit of its people. Don’t miss the chance to escape into the timeless beauty of the Sahara—a journey that will leave you dreaming of its golden dunes long after you’ve left.
