Moroccan Sahara

Exploring the Moroccan Sahara is a breathtaking experience that offers a mix of adventure, cultural immersion, and natural beauty. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your journey into this magnificent desert.

Highlights of the Moroccan Sahara

1. Erg Chebbi Dunes:
   • Located near the town of Merzouga, Erg Chebbi is famous for its impressive sand dunes, which can reach heights of up to 150 meters. Visitors often enjoy camel treks, sandboarding, and overnight stays in luxury desert camps where you can experience traditional Berber hospitality and gaze at the starry night sky​.
2. Erg Chigaga Dunes:
   • More remote and wild than Erg Chebbi, Erg Chigaga offers a rugged adventure for those willing to travel off the beaten path. Accessible from M’hamid, these dunes provide a more isolated experience with opportunities for extended treks and a deeper connection with the desert landscape.
3. Cultural and Historical Sites:
   • On your way to the Sahara, don’t miss Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient ksar and its role in movies like “Gladiator” and “Game of Thrones”​. Additionally, the Draa Valley, with its extensive palm groves and traditional kasbahs, offers a lush contrast to the desert’s aridity​​.
4. Activities and Experiences:
   • Camel trekking is a quintessential Sahara experience. Tours typically include sunset rides to desert camps, where you can enjoy traditional meals and music by the campfire. For those interested in wildlife, the Sahara’s ecosystem supports unique species like the fennec fox and various migratory birds​.
5. Best Time to Visit:
   • The ideal times to visit the Moroccan Sahara are from March to May and September to November, when temperatures are more moderate. Summers can be extremely hot, while winters can be surprisingly cold, especially at night​.

Travel Tips

• Accommodation:
  • For a luxurious experience, consider staying in one of the many high-end desert camps near Erg Chebbi. These camps offer amenities like comfortable bedding, private bathrooms, and sometimes even WiFi​​.
• Preparation:
  • Pack layers to accommodate the temperature variations, and bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. For photographers, the desert provides stunning opportunities, so extra batteries and memory cards are recommended​.
• Transportation:
  • Most tours depart from Marrakech or Fes and include transportation. Options range from private tours to group excursions, and the journey often includes scenic stops in the Atlas Mountains and various oases along the way​.

Great opportunity for adventure & travels

The Moroccan Sahara offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty that promises an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you’re trekking the vast dunes of Erg Chebbi or exploring the remote expanse of Erg Chigaga, the Sahara’s magic is sure to captivate you.