How to visit the Sahara Desert in Morocco

If you’re wondering how to visit the Sahara Desert in Morocco, you’ve come to the right place. The Moroccan Sahara is a dream destination, offering mesmerizing golden dunes, breathtaking sunsets, and an authentic desert experience. Whether you’re planning a Sahara Desert tour from Marrakech or a desert trip from Fes, there are several ways to explore this vast and captivating landscape.

You can take a guided Morocco desert tour, go on an exciting 4×4 desert safari, or enjoy the magic of a camel trek across the iconic Erg Chebbi dunes. One of the most unforgettable experiences is spending a night in a desert camp, sleeping under a sky full of stars.

Along the way, you’ll pass through traditional Berber villages and take in the dramatic scenery of the Atlas Mountains. A trip to the Sahara Desert in Morocco offers adventure, cultural discovery, and stunning natural beauty at every turn.

Best Way to Visit the Sahara Desert in Morocco

The best way to visit the Sahara Desert in Morocco is by joining a Morocco desert tour or renting a car for a self guided adventure. While public transportation such as buses is available, it can be time consuming and limit your experience. A private Morocco desert tour offers a seamless and immersive journey, ensuring you get the most out of your time in the desert.

The Sahara Desert is the largest hot desert in the world, covering an astonishing 31% of the African continent. With its breathtaking sand dunes, vast golden landscapes, and remote tranquility, the Moroccan Sahara offers an unforgettable experience. To make the most of your Morocco desert trip, consider these important factors.

Where to Fly into Morocco for a Desert Trip?

If you’re planning a Sahara Desert tour, you’ll need to fly into Morocco first. The most convenient airports are Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) and Fes-Saïss Airport (FEZ), both of which have international connections.

From Marrakech, the journey to Merzouga one of the best gateways to the Sahara Desert is about 565 km (9-10 hours by car). If you’re starting from Fes, the distance to Merzouga is around 457 km (7-9 hours by car). Most travelers opt for a 3 days Morocco desert tour or a 4 days Sahara Desert tour to enjoy a well-paced itinerary with stops along the way.

How to Get to the Sahara Desert of Morocco

The two main routes to the Moroccan Sahara Desert are:

• Marrakech to Merzouga via the Atlas Mountains, Ait Ben Haddou, Dades Valley, and Todra Gorge
• Fes to Merzouga passing through the Middle Atlas, Ifrane, Midelt, and Ziz Valley

Many travelers choose a private desert tour from Marrakech or desert tour from Fez to avoid the hassle of planning transportation and accommodations. Self-drive trips in Morocco are also possible, but driving long distances through the desert can be challenging. If you’re taking a bus, Supratours and CTM operate services to Merzouga, though this option requires additional transportation to reach the desert camps.

The best time for a Morocco Sahara Desert trip is during the cooler months, from October to April, when temperatures are more comfortable for exploring and camping.

Planning Your Morocco Desert Tour

A Sahara Desert tour in Morocco requires careful planning to ensure a smooth experience. Here are some key points to consider:

Choose between Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga: Erg Chebbi, near Merzouga, is the most accessible and well-known desert destination, offering stunning dunes and luxury desert camps. Erg Chigaga, near M’Hamid, is more remote and suited for those looking for a wild, off the beaten path experience.

Book accommodations in advance: Whether you prefer a traditional riad in a nearby town or a luxury desert camp in Morocco, securing your stay early ensures the best options.

Consider a camel trekking tour: One of the most iconic experiences in the Moroccan desert is a camel ride over the golden dunes, often combined with an overnight stay in a Berber tent.

Stay in a Desert Camp in Morocco

For an authentic Sahara Desert experience, spending a night in a nomadic desert camp is a must. These camps range from basic traditional tents to luxurious glamping sites with en-suite bathrooms and fine dining. Staying in a desert camp in Morocco allows you to witness stunning sunsets and sunrises over the dunes, enjoy traditional Moroccan music by the campfire, and experience the peacefulness of the desert night.

Top Activities in the Sahara Desert

A Morocco desert adventure is not just about the scenery; there are plenty of exciting activities to try:

• Camel Trekking in Morocco: Ride through the dunes on a camel and experience the desert like the ancient nomads.
• Sandboarding in the Sahara: Slide down the dunes on a sandboard for a fun and thrilling experience.
• 4×4 Desert Safari in Morocco: Explore the rugged landscapes and remote villages in an off-road adventure.
• Visit a Nomadic Family in the Sahara Desert: Learn about the traditional Berber way of life and share tea with a local family.
• Stargazing in the Moroccan Desert: With minimal light pollution, the Sahara Desert in Morocco offers some of the best stargazing opportunities in the world.
• Explore a Desert Oasis: Discover lush palm groves and hidden oases nestled within the arid landscape.

Best Morocco Desert Tours

Looking for the best desert tour in Morocco? Whether you prefer a private guided Morocco Sahara tour or a self-drive desert adventure, we offer customized tours to suit every traveler. Popular options include:

• Morocco Desert Tours from Marrakech
• Morocco Desert Tours from Fes

Our tours ensure an authentic experience, featuring expert guides, comfortable transportation, and hand-picked accommodations.

Is a Sahara Desert Trip in Morocco Worth It?

Absolutely! A Sahara Desert trip in Morocco is one of the most incredible travel experiences. From the towering Erg Chebbi dunes to the cultural richness of the Berber people, every moment is unforgettable. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or cultural immersion, the Moroccan desert offers something for every traveler.

How much does it cost to go to the Sahara Desert?

The cost of a trip to the Sahara Desert can vary depending on the type of tour and your preferences. For a 3 or 4-day group trip, the cost is around €150 per person. If you prefer a private tour, the cost starts at €400 per person. However, prices can vary depending on the number of people in your group. For example, if two people are traveling privately, the cost will be between €400 to €500 per person. The more people you have to share the vehicle, the lower the price will be per person. Keep in mind that prices may also vary depending on the season and services included.

Conclusion of Morocco Desert Tours

Visiting the Sahara Desert in Morocco is a journey like no other. With stunning landscapes, thrilling activities, and deep cultural experiences, it’s a destination that belongs on every traveler’s bucket list. Whether you choose a 3 days desert tour from Marrakech, or a 4 days Sahara trip from Fes, or an independent self-drive Morocco desert adventure, you’re guaranteed to create lasting memories in one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders.