The Sahara Desert in Morocco is one of the most unforgettable places we’ve ever visited. In this blog, we share how a dream turned into reality during a 2-day desert tour from Fes to Merzouga — a journey filled with magical landscapes, local culture, and plenty of travel tips.
Here’s what you’ll find in this post:
- A scenic stop at “Little Switzerland” of Morocco
- Stunning views on the road, plus local food and souvenir shopping
- Visits to oases and turquoise desert lakes
- Our full Sahara Desert experience with camel rides and luxury tent camping
- Practical tips to help you plan your own Sahara tour in Morocco
If you’re building your Morocco itinerary, this guide will help you decide whether to book a group tour, what to expect in the desert, and what to pack for an unforgettable adventure.
🎥 Want to see the magic of the Sahara?
Watch our full Sahara Desert adventure on YouTube — from camel rides to stargazing moments!
👉 [Watch the vlog now]
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Why Visit the Sahara Desert in Morocco?
Back in October 2023, we weren’t 100% sure we’d visit the Sahara Desert. But being so close — traveling between Marrakech and Fes — we started asking locals and doing some research. It quickly became clear we couldn’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
All we knew about the Sahara came from movies, school, and stories. But visiting in person was something else entirely.
Here’s what we discovered:
- The Sahara Desert is more than camel rides and endless sand dunes.
- It’s a place where the Berber people teach you to respect nature and live simply.
- The silence of the desert makes sunsets and sunrises feel almost spiritual.
- At night, the stars light up the sky in a way we’ve never seen before.
- The dunes shift in color and shape, creating a surreal and magical landscape.
While the Sahara spans multiple countries, the Moroccan section near Merzouga and Erg Chebbi is one of the easiest and safest areas to visit. According to Travel.State.Gov, Morocco does not currently carry high-level travel alerts for this region, unlike other Saharan countries. Tours are monitored by the Moroccan government, and guides are licensed, multilingual, and trained — perfect for group or first-time travelers like us.
We started our Sahara journey from Fes with a 2-day group tour including a luxury camp stay. However, if we could do it again, we’d likely choose a 3-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga to enjoy more time and flexibility — just like Serge mentioned at the end of our Sahara travel vlog.
How to Get to the Sahara Desert in Morocco
Although Morocco has several airports, the closest airport to Merzouga is Errachidia (ERH). However, flight options are limited.
That’s why most travelers — including us — start their Sahara Desert tour from Fes or Marrakech, combining desert exploration with other must-see cities in Morocco.
We first visited Marrakech, where we did day trips to Atlas Studios and Essaouira, but eventually took a 2-day desert trip from Fes to Merzouga, recommended by locals.
Can You Drive to the Sahara Desert from Fes or Marrakech?
Yes, you can drive—but with caution. Even Serge considered renting a car, but after witnessing the chaotic driving in Marrakech, he changed his mind and opted for a tour instead. Still, we briefly looked into the option, and here’s what we found:
✅ Pros of Renting a Car:
- Flexibility to stop in Ifrane, Midelt, or the Ziz Valley
- Scenic views through the Atlas Mountains
- Good option for experienced drivers looking for adventure
⚠️ Cons:
- Long drive (7–10 hours each way)
- Some road signs are missing; Google Maps wasn’t always reliable, even with Airalo or Holafly
- Police checkpoints are common — and if you don’t speak Arabic or French, it can be stressful
- Private cars aren’t allowed on the dunes — you’ll still need a 4×4 transfer
- Night driving or sandstorms can be risky
Pro Tip for Driving to Sahara
If you plan to drive, consider an overnight stop in Midelt or Erfoud. Pack:
- Extra water & snacks
- Emergency contact numbers (written down) in case the internet doesn’t work
- A charged phone or power bank — you may lose service
Public Transportation to Merzouga, Sahara Desert
Even though we didn’t plan to reach the Sahara using public transportation — especially since we were in Morocco for 14 days exploring Marrakech, Fes, and other nearby places — we did some research and found that while there are a few options, it’s definitely not the easiest way to get there.
- Supratours: Overnight buses from Marrakech to Merzouga – (Click here to learn more at Supratours official website)
- CTM: Routes to Errachidia or Rissani, then take a shared taxi to Merzouga – (Click here to learn more at CTM Official Website).
✅ Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Reliable if booked in advance
⚠️ Cons:
- 10–12 hours of travel
- Fewer sightseeing opportunities
- Transfers are required and not always straightforward
- Not ideal for groups or travelers with luggage
📍 Our take: We didn’t see many public buses on our route. If you choose this option, ask locals or your accommodation for current, safe routes.
Best Option: Guided Tour from Fes or Marrakech to Sahara Desert
We ended up booking a 2-day Sahara Desert tour from Fes through Viator. But if we could do it again, we’d definitely choose a 3-day Merzouga and Sahara Desert tour from Marrakech — and we’d book it through GetYourGuide instead.
So, what do most GetYourGuide Sahara tours include?
- Pickup and drop-off from your hotel or riad
- Private or group transport in an air-conditioned vehicle
- A knowledgeable driver-guide (some tours include a separate licensed guide)
- Scenic stops in Ifrane, Ziz Valley, and Midelt
- Breakfast and lunch included (ours was supposed to be, but wasn’t on the Viator tour)
- Choice of camel ride or 4×4 transfer into the dunes
- Stay in a luxury or standard desert camp (we went for luxury and highly recommend it!)
- Dinner, breakfast, and live Berber music around the campfire
- A local Berber guide who shares insights into their culture and traditions
📍 If we had to recommend one, it would be:
👉 3-Day Merzouga & Sahara Desert Tour from Marrakech
Our 2-Day Sahara Desert Tour from Fes
We spent 14 days in Morocco exploring the Medinas of Marrakech and Fes, we did some day trips that we loved it, but we must say that our 2-Day Sahara Desert trip was for sure one of the highlights and unique experience, that’s why we totally recommend you choose carefully and make most of it!
After arriving in Fes, we booked a 2-day group tour to Merzouga. The drive took about 7 hours with several memorable stops:
- Ifrane, the Swiss-style town for snacks and a bathroom break
- Wild Barbary macaques near Azrou
- Ziz Valley and the striking Hassan Addakhil Reservoir
- A stop at Ain El Ati to buy a cheche (Tuareg scarf) — a must-have for sun and sand
- Transfer to a 4×4 vehicle to reach the desert camp
- Camel ride into the dunes at sunset — the magical moment of the trip!
As we already mentioned above, we ended up booking a 2-day Sahara Desert tour from Fes through Viator. But if we could do it again, we’d definitely choose a 3-day Merzouga and Sahara Desert tour from Marrakech — and we’d book it through GetYourGuide instead.
Why?
As Serge explains in our Sahara travel vlog, we used GetYourGuide for a couple of day trips from Marrakech, including Essaouira, and we absolutely loved the experience.
Here’s why we recommend it:
- GetYourGuide offers better tour descriptions, clearer itineraries, and more transparent reviews.
- Many tours include free cancellation just days before the trip, which gives you peace of mind.
- With a 3-day desert tour from Marrakech, we could have still visited the Atlas Mountains and the Kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).
- The longer tour offers more time to rest between stops, and many tours finish in Fes, which means we would have saved on the train from Marrakech and gained an extra day to explore the largest medina in Morocco.
What It’s Like to Stay in a Luxury Sahara Desert Camp
While researching for our Sahara trip, we asked a few locals and fellow travelers for tips, and most of them said the same thing: go with a luxury camp. And honestly, they were right.
Our tent felt magical — like something out of a Harry Potter movie (Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire) or even Aladdin. But beyond the fairy-tale vibe, what really mattered was how comfortable and well-equipped it was.
Here’s what our luxury tent included:
- A private bathroom with a hot shower
- Cozy beds with traditional Berber decor
- Electricity (with limited outlets — so bring a power bank!)
- A proper bed to rest after 9 hours of driving and desert activities
After a quick shower, we joined other guests in a large communal tent for a delicious dinner. Then came the highlight of the night: a Berber music session around the campfire, followed by a guided walk into the dunes to watch the stars in complete silence. It was one of the most peaceful and surreal experiences we’ve ever had.
The next morning, we woke up early to catch the Sahara sunrise, took some group photos, and enjoyed breakfast before starting our drive back to Fes. On the return, we stopped at a few different places for rest and food — though the lunch stop was quite touristy, and unfortunately, Serge didn’t get the dish he ordered. It arrived cold and late, long after most of us had finished eating.
A Quiet Moment Under the Stars
One of the most memorable moments of our entire trip happened during our guided walk into the dunes to watch the stars. I (Eli) remember chatting with the girls as we walked — excited, laughing, still buzzing from the day. Then our Berber guide, calm but firm, gently said:
“Hey… how about enjoy the stars?”
We instantly went quiet — and wow, what a gift that was. In that moment of silence, looking up at a sky so full of stars it felt like we were floating in space, I wished it would never end. It was so peaceful, so magical, that I honestly wanted to trade my tent for a bed under the stars. It reminded us that sometimes the best thing you can do while traveling… is to simply pause, breathe, and just be there.
Travel Tips for Your Sahara Desert Tour
Planning a Sahara Desert trip in Morocco is exciting, but there are a few things we wish we had known beforehand. Here’s what we’d do differently — and some extra tips to help you prepare for a smooth, stress-free experience.
What We’d Do Differently:
- Book the 3-day tour from Marrakech — more relaxed, with better pacing
- Use GetYourGuide instead of Viator — better organization and clearer communication
- Bring more cash — for tips, drinks, and souvenirs (ATMs are rare past Fes)
- Avoid sandals — walking on the dunes is easier with sneakers or hiking shoes
- Clarify the itinerary in advance — some stops changed without notice on our tour at Viator
- Choose a tour that finishes in Fes — to save time and a train ticket
- Ask if meals are included — breakfast wasn’t provided despite being listed in our Viator tour
Other Helpful Tips for the Sahara Desert:
- Pack layers — desert temperatures drop sharply at night
- Bring tissues and hand sanitizer — some rest stops lacked basics like toilet paper
- Get a cheche (Tuareg scarf) before the trip or buy one early on
- Carry a power bank — desert camps often have limited charging outlets
- Stay hydrated — always keep a large bottle of water with you
- Take basic medications — for motion sickness, stomach relief, or allergies
- Avoid bulky luggage — space is limited on buses and 4×4 transfers
- Use an eSIM card for mobile data — we tested both Airalo (Eli) and Holafly (Serge), and they worked perfectly in the Sahara. We were even able to call our family right from the dunes!
Extra Important Tip: Bring your passport or a valid ID — most desert camps will ask you to fill out a check-in form upon arrival, and they’ll need to verify your identity.
What to Pack: Our Top Travel Essentials for the Sahara
Want to feel fully prepared for your Sahara Desert adventure?
We’ve made our fair share of packing mistakes on trips, but after exploring the dunes of Merzouga ourselves, we’ve come up with a list of must-haves. These are the items we (Eli & Serge) would absolutely bring again — especially for a desert trip that includes long drives, camel rides, and overnight stays in the dunes.
Here are our Sahara-specific packing essentials:
- Tissues and hand sanitizer — some rest stops had no toilet paper or soap 👉 [Check on Amazon]
- Moisturizer and SPF — the desert air is dry and the sun is intense
- Toiletries in travel size — small items are easier to manage at camp 👉 [Check on Amazon]
- Reusable water bottle — staying hydrated is key during the long drives and heat 👉 [Check on Amazon]
- Cheche or head scarf — a must to protect against blowing sand and harsh sun
- Layers of clothing — it’s hot during the day and can get very cold at night
- Closed-toe shoes or hiking sneakers — sandals aren’t ideal in the dunes
- Power bank — many camps have limited or shared charging outlets 👉 [Check on Amazon]
- Passport or valid ID — required to fill out a check-in form at most desert camps
- Camera or smartphone with extra storage — the sunset and stars are magical
- Light backpack or day bag — to carry water, snacks, tissues, and essentials 👉 [Check on Amazon]
- 5 in 1 Power Adapter: This universal plug integrates high speed 2.4A 3xUSB ports, 1 3A type-c port, and 1 universal AC s…
- Worldwide Compatibility: Travel plug with US/EU/AU/UK plug covers over 150 countries such as the US, UK, Germany, France…
- Multiple Protection: All-in-one adapter plug with safety 8Amp fuse protection, Built-in safety shutters, LED power Indic…
Basic & Prescription Medications
After our Sahara tour, both Serge and I (Eli) got hit with some unexpected travel bugs — digestive issues when we got back to Fes, and I even caught a flu likely passed along during the long ride to the desert. It was a strong reminder of how important it is to pack the medications you know and trust.
Basic & Prescription Medications – Here’s what we recommend:
- Bring enough prescription meds for your full trip — plus a few extra days
- Keep meds in original packaging with a copy of your prescription
- Pack trusted over-the-counter remedies for:
- Stomach issues (like diarrhea or nausea)
- Colds, sore throat, and flu symptoms
- Pain relief (e.g. ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
- Don’t rely on local pharmacies — remote desert routes may have none
- We got sick after our Sahara tour, so trust us — better to be safe than sorry!
Remember: Being prepared can make all the difference!
Check out our complete packing guide here for even more tips:
📌 Travel Essentials: Stay Prepared for Stress-Free Travel
Photography Tips for the Sahara Desert — From Serge
As the photographer behind Discovering Destinations, Serge always say that the magic of a place isn’t just in what you see — it’s in how you capture the feeling of being there. And trust me, the Sahara Desert is one of those places where every direction feels like a movie scene.
Here are some photo tips I wish someone had told me before our trip:
- Golden hour is everything.
Try to shoot during sunrise or sunset — the light is softer, the colors are warmer, and the shadows across the dunes are absolutely stunning. These moments go by fast, so keep your camera ready. - Use a wide-angle lens if you have one.
The dunes are massive, and a wide lens helps convey the vastness of the landscape. It’s also great for including camels, silhouettes, and sky in one frame. - Protect and clean your gear.
Sand gets everywhere. I brought a small microfiber cloth and air blower, and I was glad I did. Keep your camera covered when not in use, and avoid switching lenses too often. - Capture movement.
Look for footprints in the sand, the sway of your camel’s shadow, or even your travel companion walking up a dune. Those little actions tell a bigger story. - Bring a tripod if you’re into stargazing or night photography.
The night sky in the Sahara is surreal. With no light pollution, you can capture constellations, the Milky Way, and even long exposures of people sitting under the stars. I truly wish I had more time for astrophotography there.
📍 Pro Tip from experience:
Don’t get caught up trying to capture everything. Take a few shots — then put the camera down, sit back, and take it in with your own eyes. That’s where the real memories are made.
📍 Want more tips? Read Serge’s full guide:
👉 Travel Photography Made Easy
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Discover our stunning travel photos by Serge Larose on Fine Art America. Choose from a variety of print options, including wall art, canvas, and more, to enhance your space or inspire your next adventure. Perfect for home or office decor, these high-quality prints bring the beauty of the world to your fingertips. Start exploring today!
FAQ – Sahara Desert in Morocco (Top 13 Questions Answered)
The Sahara Desert is one of the most impressive places on Earth, and we totally recommend discovering it while visiting Morocco.
As travel lovers and content creators, we believe that doing some research before your trip helps you make the most of your experience — especially in a place as remote and unique as the Sahara.
Here are the most common questions we’ve received from friends, family, and followers since our Sahara desert tour from Fes to Merzouga:
What’s the best way to get to the Sahara Desert?
A guided tour from Marrakech or Fes is the most convenient and safest option — especially for first-time travelers.
What’s the closest airport to the Sahara?
The closest airport is Errachidia (ERH), but it has limited flights. That’s why most Sahara tours begin in either Marrakech or Fes.
Can I rent a car to go there?
Yes — and Serge seriously considered it! But we totally recommend it for confident drivers only, who are comfortable with long distances, rural roads, and at least some basic knowledge of local driving customs. We break this down further in our “How to Get to the Sahara” section.
Is it safe to visit the Sahara in Morocco?
Yes. Morocco’s desert region is considered safe for tourists, especially when you book a licensed, organized tour with a reputable company like GetYourGuide.
What should I pack for the Sahara?
Bring layers, toiletries, a scarf, cash, and closed shoes. Don’t miss our full Travel Essentials Guide for more useful tips.
Are there luxury camps with bathrooms
Yes! Many desert camps offer private tents with bathrooms and hot showers. Check out our Luxury Camp section above to read about our experience. You can also review what each tour includes by reading the descriptions on GetYourGuide.
Can I do a Sahara tour as a solo traveler?
Absolutely! Group tours are very welcoming. On our trip, we met a few solo female travelers from Italy, for example — and some of them even joined us again on other GetYourGuide day trips in Morocco.
How cold does it get at night?
Temperatures can drop below 10°C (50°F) in the winter. We visited in October 2023, and nights were around 16°C (60.8°F) , so don’t forget to bring a warm layer or two.
What activities can I do in the Sahara Desert?
You can enjoy camel rides, quad biking, sandboarding, Berber music and dancing, stargazing, and even guided cultural encounters. We recommend you check the list of activities at GetYourGuide tours.
Do I need to bring cash?
Yes. You’ll need cash (in Moroccan Dirham, MAD) for souvenirs, snacks, tips, and occasional stops along the road. ATMs are rare after you leave major cities, so plan ahead.
Should I bring my passport or ID?
Yes! Most desert camps ask you to fill out a check-in form upon arrival and will request your passport or a valid ID for verification. Don’t leave it behind.
Will I have Wi-Fi during the Sahara desert tour?
Some tours offer Wi-Fi on their tourist buses, but ours didn’t have it. However, we both used eSIM cards that worked well even in the desert — Eli used Airalo, and Serge tested Holafly, and both allowed us to stay connected, even from the dunes!
What’s the best city to start a Sahara tour from — Marrakech or Fes?
Both are great, but Marrakech offers more tour options, especially 3-day desert itineraries that include the Atlas Mountains and Aït Ben Haddou. If we could redo it, we’d start in Marrakech and finish in Fes, which would have saved us a train ticket and given us more time to explore the largest medina in Morocco.
Final Thoughts: Is the Sahara Desert in Morocco Worth It?
Absolutely! Visiting the Sahara Desert in Morocco was one of the most unforgettable and unique travel experiences we’ve ever had. Whether you stay for two days or three, choose a luxury camp or a simpler option, the memories you’ll create in the dunes will stay with you forever.
The Sahara will always hold a special place in our hearts — stepping onto the soft golden dunes, watching the gorgeous sunset, and witnessing the magical colors of the sunrise felt surreal. It truly is a masterpiece of nature, and we feel incredibly blessed to have had this opportunity.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Morocco, pack your curiosity and sense of adventure, bring your camera, and don’t forget your cheche (scarf) — because the desert is calling.
🎥 Watch our Sahara vlog on YouTube for visuals, real moments, and more travel tips!
📌 Related links:
📺 Our Morocco Travel Playlist | 💡 Airalo eSIM Discount | 🎒 Travel Essentials We Love
