5 Tips for planning an epic trip to the Sahara Desert
The Sahara is a magical place and should definitely be on your bucket list! Read for 5 tips to help for planning a trip to the Sahara Desert
Best time of year to visit the Sahara
Planning a trip to the Sahara Desert? You should probably know that WHEN you go is very important! Because, the Sahara Desert can get HOT! During the summer months, it’s not uncommon that the thermostat reaches about 40°C (104°F). The hottest that has ever been recorded is actually 57°C (136°F)!!
Unless you’re super-human, nothing is fun at those temperatures. So keep in mind, that if you want to beat the heat, aim to visit between October and April.
If you’re not afraid of a little heat, May, June or September are also do-able choices.
If you want to read more about the climate and temperature of the Sahara check out this website.
How to get to the Sahara Desert
Getting to the Sahara Desert is no easy feat! But don’t get discouraged, it’s 100% worth it!
The Sahara is huge. To give you an idea, it spans across across 10 countries in North Africa!
The countries that provide the ‘easiest’ (I use that word lightly) are Morocco, Egypt, and Tunisia. This is mainly due to their accessibility and well-developed tourist infrastructure.
Trying to plan your trip to the Sahara Desert, and figure out where to start, will largely depend any specific region you want to visit. Personally, I was drawn to visiting Morocco, which luckily is one of the countries that have infrastructure that allow you to visit the Sahara.
Starting City
When planning a trip to the Sahara Desert in Morocco, you will want to pick a starting city.
The two most popular, and most accessible, cities to start from are Marrakesh and Fes. From either one of these cities you can make your way to Merzouga, which is the most popular gateway city for visiting the Sahara Desert!
From Merzouga you can easily venture out to the dunes, see stunning landscapes and see the incredible Erg Chebbi!
If you plan on getting there from Marrakesh expect to spend around 10 hours on the road. Luckily the road trip there offers other great stops (High Atlas Mountains, Ait Benhaddou, Todra Gorges…)
If a long drive doesn’t appeal to you, there is an airport in Errachidia. Which is only 2 hours away.
If you’re wanting to explore other desert cities in Morocco, there are plenty. Check them out here!
Getting to the Sahara by car
If you’re feeling adventurous then renting a car is an option!
Keep in mind that the roads that go through the High Atlas Mountains are treacherous. With steep drops, continuous switchbacks and not always paved.
Additionally, there are many checkpoints along the route. Police have been known to be strict with foreigners. If you don’t speak French or Arab I advise against trying to drive yourself.
Plus, it’s so much better to sit back and watch the scenery if you take a guided tour!
Getting to the Sahara with a guided tour
If you’re planning a trip to the Sahara Desert, then I HIGHLY recommend taking a guided tour. Guided tours typically last between 2-4 days. There are so many different companies that offer guided tours, so you can really choose one that suits your needs.
Keep in mind, that 2 day tours aren’t a true Sahara experience. It just isn’t enough time to get out there, see the desert and get back.
I did a 3 day tour, which was perfect but still a quick experience.
Here are some pro’s and con’s of taking a guided tour:
Pros:
– They do all the driving.
– They take you to see tons of sights along the way.
– Bathroom breaks.
– No hassle with planning, or police check points.
Cons:
– You don’t get the freedom of choosing hotels.
– Can be costly depending on the extras you choose.
The average cost for a 3 day tour is around 200€. Which seems pretty reasonable when you take into account food, accommodation, transport, and activities!
Getting to the Sahara by bus
If you’re wanting to get to Merzouga and have some freedom (where you’ll stay, activities…) then taking a bus from Marrakesh if possible! However, plan to spend about 12 hours in the bus. Keep in mind as well, that taking a bus will not allow you to stop and do the sightseeing that guided tours offer.
Expect to pay around 80€ round trip.
Find tickets either on SUPRATOURS or CTM.
Accommodation in the Sahara Desert
If you’re planning a trip to the Sahara desert then you’re probably wondering about accommodation!
In order to get the most out of your trip, you should definitely stay in a Desert Camp!
If you’re taking a guided tour, they will most likely have a night in a desert camp already planned. Make sure you check before reserving, because you DO NOT want to miss out on this experience!
Desert Camps & Hotels in Merzouga
In case you aren’t taking a guided tour, make sure you plan on spending a night in a desert camp!
However, keep in mind, that even though it’s technically considered camping, the luxury camps are definitely glamorous! Some places have AC in the tents, private bathrooms and even showers! Hello Glamping!
If you’re staying for more than one night in the area, it’s possible you don’t want to spend your entire time camping. So hotels could also be a nice option!
In the search box below, type “Merzouga” to find the best places to stay!
Activities in the Sahara Desert
Looking to have FUN during your stay in the Sahara Desert? Then make sure you try some of the following activities!
Camel Riding
If you’re looking for an authentic desert experience, then camel riding is a MUST!
If you’re doing a guided tour then there is a strong chance that a camel ride is included. If you’re planning your trip on your own then a quick google search will give you lots of different tour options.
Did you know that there aren’t any camels in Morocco? That’s right, they’re actually dromedaries!
Camels have two humps, while dromedaries have only one!
Riding quads in the dunes
If you like adventure, then a quad ride through the dunes is for you! Not only does it allow you to explore the dunes faster, but you also get the thrill!
Most organized tours will give you the option of riding dromedaries and adding on a quad ride for extra cost.
So what do you think? Excited about your adventure to Sahara? You should be!
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