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A highlight of your trip to Morocco is a journey through the Sahara Desert. It's a magical experience to ride a camel to the top of the dunes to watch the sunset, dance to Berber music around a campfire on a cold night under the stars, and sleep in a nomadic tent at the foot of a dune. The shining sun overhead and the warm sand dunes under your feet make this a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
To help you pack what's necessary, we've put together this list for your trips to the Moroccan desert:
You should know that it’s not necessary to carry large amounts from the start of the tour, as we’ll be making several stops where you’ll be able to replenish your water without any problem.
There’s no need to worry about bringing snacks or food for the desert route, as we’ll be making stops along the way to buy things and have lunch.
It’s undeniable that during the time you’ll spend in the Moroccan desert, your skin will be exposed to the sun almost constantly, making it especially prone to getting burned. So, to avoid the risk of sunburn, make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and a lip balm with sun protection, as your lips are sensitive too.
Since you’ll be out in the sun all day during your desert excursion from Marrakech, you’ll need a hat that can protect your head from the harsh desert conditions. Your everyday cap won’t do the job. So make sure to pack a wide-brimmed hat—the wider, the better—to shield your eyes from the sunlight and your neck from sunburn.
Like sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat, quality sunglasses are essential for protecting your eyes during Sahara Desert tours.
For your trip to Morocco’s Sahara Desert, it’s a good idea to bring light, comfortable clothing, plus a sweater just in case, it should be enough in summer. Long, loose trousers work well to protect your legs while riding camels, as they’re much more comfortable than jeans. If you’re visiting in winter or expect chilly desert nights, pack a warm jacket. And don’t forget a scarf or turban to cover your face if the wind picks up or it gets dusty.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and it’s best if they’re closed-toe for the camel ride.
It’s true that you’ll be spending the night in a pre-set camp in the desert, which is equipped with almost everything you’ll need. But it’s still very helpful to have a small flashlight to help you find your way around the camp at night, whether you want to gaze at the bright stars or for any other reason. So make sure to bring one with you.
We know these are part of your usual hygiene routine, but it doesn’t hurt to mention them so you don’t forget to pack them 😊. Be sure to bring all your necessary toiletries, including face wash, toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, comb, body wash, body lotion, and so on.
If you’re travelling without the help of a tour company or a local guide, it would be unwise to venture into the Sahara Desert without a tool to help you navigate such an environment. In my opinion, the best option to ensure your safety is to hire a travel agency.
On a desert trip, just like on any journey, a travel first-aid kit is one of those essential items that should always be on your packing list. Bring a well-stocked first-aid kit with you, including medication for the most common issues you might encounter on an expedition. This means painkillers, fever reducers, and antihistamines for unexpected allergies.
And without a doubt, don’t forget medication for gastrointestinal problems. Even the most experienced traveller can end up dealing with diarrhoea in the middle of an adventure. Always keep something on hand to relieve this so you can continue enjoying your trip.
In the accommodations, including the camp with Descubre Desierto, you’ll find power outlets available. Even so, bringing a power bank can be very useful for charging your devices at any time. Make sure your camera batteries are fully charged and bring all the lenses you think you’ll need. If you’d like to photograph the night sky, a tripod will be an essential item on your desert packing list.
You’re welcome to bring your luggage along on your desert excursion from Marrakech. If you’ll be staying at the comfort camp, it’s best to prepare a small backpack with just what you’ll need for your night in the desert. Your main luggage will be kept safe either in the minibus or at the hotel in Merzouga, which is managed by the same people who operate the camp.
Another convenient option: if you’re returning to the same hotel after your shared desert tour, we recommend leaving your luggage in the hotel’s storage in Marrakech so you can travel lighter. A simple backpack will be enough to keep your essentials handy.
If you’ve chosen the superior camp in the Sahara, your luggage can be brought to your tent in a separate vehicle while you enjoy your sunset camel ride.
For private desert tours, no matter which camp category you select, your luggage will be taken directly to your tent for you.