If you’re looking for a desert adventure, Morocco is a great place to start. The Moroccan Sahara is a huge draw for tourists, offering everything from camel treks to luxury camping experiences.
When people talk about experiencing the desert in Morocco, they’re often referring to Erg Chebbi or Erg Chigaga. These are the big, sandy dune areas you see in photos. But there’s also the Agafay Desert, which is closer to Marrakech and offers a rocky, more accessible desert landscape.
This article will give you a complete guide to planning your desert trip. We’ll cover everything from how to get there and what to do, to where to stay and what to expect culturally. So, get ready to explore the magic of the desert in Morocco!
Choosing Your Desert Destination: Erg Chebbi vs. Erg Chigaga vs. Agafay
Morocco offers a range of desert experiences, each with its own unique appeal. Here’s a comparison of three popular options:
Erg Chebbi: The Classic Sahara Experience
If you’re picturing towering sand dunes, Erg Chebbi is likely what you have in mind. Located near Merzouga, it’s the most accessible and developed of the Sahara destinations, with activities like camel trekking, sandboarding, and desert camping. You’ll find a variety of desert camps, ranging from basic to luxurious.
Erg Chigaga: Remote and Authentic
Located near M’Hamid, Erg Chigaga requires more travel to reach, but it rewards you with a more remote and less crowded desert experience. It’s perfect for adventure seekers looking for solitude and a raw, untouched landscape. Access often requires a 4×4 vehicle.
Agafay Desert: A Convenient Escape
For those short on time, the Agafay Desert offers a convenient escape from Marrakech. While it lacks the traditional sand dunes of Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga, it boasts rocky hills and a stark, desert-like environment. Ideal for day trips or overnight stays, Agafay offers activities like quad biking and camel riding.
Getting there: Transportation options for reaching the Moroccan Desert
So, you’re ready to go. How do you get to the desert? Here are a few options.
Luxury travel: Private helicopter or jet
If time is of the essence and money is no object, a private helicopter or jet is the fastest and most convenient way to reach the Moroccan desert.
Be prepared to pay a premium for this level of service. Helicopter rides to Erg Chigaga can run around US$10,000 for a return trip with a one-night stay. Private jets to Erg Chebbi can cost around US$12,000 for a one-night stay.
Commercial flights and combined travel
A more economical option is to fly commercially to a major airport like Marrakech or Fez, and then connect with a domestic flight.
Royal Air Maroc and Ryanair both offer domestic flights within Morocco. You could fly to an airport closer to the desert, such as Ouarzazate, and then drive the rest of the way. This approach balances cost and travel time.
Self-driving and road trips
For a more adventurous experience, consider renting a car and driving yourself. This allows you to explore the cultural sites of Southern Morocco at your own pace.
Keep in mind that the drive from Marrakech to Merzouga is approximately 9 hours. Factor in extra travel time, as Google Maps estimates can be inaccurate. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended for off-road adventures, especially if you’re planning to visit Erg Chigaga.
Public transport: Buses
If you’re on a tight budget, public buses are the most affordable way to reach the desert. CTM or Supratours buses offer reliable and comfortable transport.
However, this is also the most time-consuming option, so be prepared for a long journey and pack your patience.
Desert Activities and Experiences
There are as many different ways to experience the Moroccan desert as there are grains of sand. Here are some of the most popular activities.
Camel Trekking
Why walk when you can ride? Experiencing the desert from atop a camel is a traditional way to see the landscape. Consider an overnight trek for a more immersive experience.
When choosing a tour operator, make sure they treat their camels well.
Sandboarding
If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, try sandboarding. Surf down the dunes on a sandboard. You can find sandboarding opportunities at Erg Chebbi and other dune areas.
Desert Camping
For an authentic overnight stay, spend a night under the stars in a traditional Berber tent. You can choose from basic, comfort, or luxury camps.
Smaller camps often offer a more authentic experience. It’s a good idea to ask for photos of the camp before you book to make sure it’s up to your standards.
Cultural Immersion
Visiting Berber villages is a great way to interact with local communities and learn about their traditions. You’ll experience the hospitality and culture of the Amazigh people.
Stargazing
The desert offers incredible views of the night sky. Enjoy the silence and vastness of the Sahara under the stars. You’ll never see stars like this anywhere else.
Planning Your Trip: Timing, Clothing, and Safety
A trip to the Moroccan desert requires some planning to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are a few things to keep in mind.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting the Moroccan desert. During these seasons, you’ll find pleasant temperatures and clear skies. Daytime temperatures in the spring range from 22°C to 28°C (around 72°F to 82°F).
It’s best to avoid the summer months, as temperatures can soar above 45°C (113°F), making travel extremely uncomfortable.
If you’re planning a winter visit, be prepared for cooler temperatures, especially at night. Pack warm clothing for the evenings.
What to Wear
When packing for the desert, prioritize protective clothing. Light-colored, loose-fitting clothes will help shield you from the sun. Consider full-length trousers or capris and long-sleeved tops.
Don’t forget essential accessories such as sunglasses, a wide-brimmed sun hat, and high-SPF sunscreen. Breathable hiking boots or shoes are also a must.
Safety and Security
The Moroccan desert is generally safe for tourists. However, it’s always wise to take basic precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Ensure your travel insurance covers desert activities, and book tours with reputable operators.
Alcohol Availability
Keep in mind that alcohol is not widely available in desert camps due to Moroccan regulations. If you wish to consume alcohol during your trip, it’s best to purchase it in Marrakech or Ouarzazate before heading into the desert.
Cultural considerations and etiquette
When you visit the Moroccan desert, you’re likely to encounter people from a culture different from your own. Here are a few tips to help you show respect for local customs:
- Dress modestly, particularly if you plan to visit a village. Although many Moroccans dress in modern styles, more conservative clothing shows respect for local traditions.
- Ask permission before taking pictures of people. It’s always polite to ask before snapping a photo.
- Learn a few basic Arabic or Berber phrases. Even knowing just a few words can go a long way.
- Accept offers of tea. The offer of tea is a sign of hospitality and friendship.
- Purchase souvenirs and crafts directly from local artisans. Buying directly from artists helps support the local economy.
- Hire local guides. Local guides can give you a more authentic experience and help you learn about the area.
- Learn about the nomadic lifestyle. Understanding the traditions and challenges of nomadic communities can enrich your experience.
- Be mindful of water usage. Water is a precious resource in the desert, so use it sparingly.
In Summary
A trip to the Moroccan desert is unlike any other travel experience. From the towering, shifting sand dunes of Erg Chebbi to the stark, remote beauty of Erg Chigaga, you’ll gain a completely different perspective on the Sahara Desert.
To make the most of your adventure, you’ll want to plan carefully, paying attention to transportation, activities, and local customs. Choose the best time of year to visit, pack appropriately, and respect the local culture while supporting the local economy.
When you embrace the spirit of adventure and respect the environment, you can create lasting memories in the Moroccan desert. The silence, the stars, and the sheer vastness of the Sahara bring a sense of peace and wonder to all who visit. A journey to the Moroccan desert is an experience that will stay with you long after you leave.