The Moroccan desert is one of the most fascinating destinations in the world. Its spectacular landscapes, golden dunes and starry nights make it a unique place to visit at least once in your lifetime. However, planning a trip to the Moroccan desert requires careful organisation to fully enjoy this unforgettable experience. In this article, we give you all the advice you need to plan your adventure in the Moroccan desert.
Why explore the Moroccan desert?
The Moroccan desert is much more than just a landscape of sand. It offers a total immersion in the culture and nature of Morocco. You can:
- Discover the majestic dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga or Erg Chigaga near M’Hamid.
- Experience an authentic adventure camping in a traditional Berber tent.
- Admire the sunrises and sunsets with their incredible colours.
- Rencontrer les habitants locaux, notamment les nomades, et découvrir leur mode de vie.
This trip is a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature, far from the hustle and bustle of big cities.
When to visit the Moroccan desert?
To fully enjoy the Moroccan desert, it is essential to choose the right time of year:
- March to May and October to November: These months offer moderate temperatures and ideal conditions for exploring the dunes.
- In summer (June to August): Temperatures can be extremely high, sometimes reaching 45°C. Avoid if you cannot tolerate the heat.
- In winter (December to February): Days are pleasant, but nights can be very cold, with temperatures sometimes dropping below 0 °C.
Plan your trip according to your climate preferences and heat tolerance.
The must-see tours in the Moroccan desert
Here are some ideas for tours to explore the Moroccan desert:
Classic tour of Merzouga
- Duration: 2 to 3 days.
- Highlights: The dunes of Erg Chebbi, a camel ride, and a night camping under the stars.
- Departure: Often from Marrakech or Fez, passing through the Dadès Gorge and Ouarzazate.
Wild adventure at Erg Chigaga
- Duration: 3 to 5 days.
- Highlights: A more secluded and authentic experience, with even larger dunes.
- Departure: From M’Hamid or Zagora, in a 4×4 to cross the desert landscapes.
Combined desert and valley tour
- Duration: 4 to 6 days.
- Highlights: In addition to the dunes, this tour includes stops in the green valleys of the Drâa and iconic kasbahs such as Aït Ben Haddou.
Practical tips for planning your trip to the Moroccan desert
To ensure your stay in the Moroccan desert is a success, here are a few tips you should keep in mind:
Choosing the right equipment
- Appropriate clothing: Choose light clothing that covers you well to protect you from the sun. Also bring warm layers for cold nights.
- Footwear: Closed-toe, comfortable shoes are essential for walking on sand.
- Accessories: A scarf or shawl to protect you from the wind and sand, sunglasses, and sun cream.
Prepare your budget
The cost of a tour in the Moroccan desert varies depending on the duration and services included (transport, accommodation, guide, etc.). Expect to pay between €100 and €300 for a 2- to 3-day tour with camping.
Selecting a good guide or agency
Choose reputable agencies or experienced local guides for a safe and authentic experience. Ensure that the campsite offers comfortable conditions (meals, sanitary facilities, etc.).
Unique experiences to enjoy in the Moroccan desert
To make your stay even more memorable, here are some must-do activities:
- Camel ride: An iconic experience to explore the dunes at a leisurely pace.
- Sandboarding: Slide down the dunes as if you were on a ski slope for an adrenaline rush.
- Stargazing: Enjoy the purity of the desert sky for an unforgettable evening of astronomy.
- Meet the nomads: Chat with local families and discover their traditional way of life.
A tour of the Moroccan desert is a breathtaking adventure, combining spectacular landscapes, cultural discoveries and moments of complete relaxation. Whether you choose Merzouga, Erg Chigaga or a combined itinerary, the Moroccan desert promises you unforgettable memories.
Start planning your trip to the Moroccan desert now and prepare to be amazed by the beauty and magic of this unique place.
