Practical Guide to Visiting the Moroccan Desert

Before setting off for the Sahara, a few questions often come up: when is the best time to go, what level of fitness is required, what to pack, what is a night in the desert like, or how to get to the starting point.

This guide will help you prepare for your trip with greater clarity, whether you're going on a trek, a retreat, a 4x4 tour, or a tailor-made trip with L’Amour du Désert.

  • Information before departure
  • Local team
  • Group stays

The essentials you need to know

Prepare your stay
simply

A trip to the desert requires a minimum of preparation, but nothing complicated. The essential thing is to have the right information before you leave: period, equipment, fitness level, transport, organisation, and on-site conditions.

The Desert Love team will assist you before your stay to help you pack what you need, without overpacking. Depending on your chosen package, the advice can vary: a multi-day trek is not prepared in exactly the same way as a 4x4 excursion or a camp retreat.

1
Choosing the right time
The most pleasant seasons allow you to enjoy the desert without excessive heat, with temperatures more suited to walking, bivouacking and activities.
2
Make sure you have the right equipment
Suitable clothing, good footwear, sun protection, a water bottle, a headlamp, and a few personal items are often enough to set off with peace of mind.
3
To adapt the stay to the level
Tours can be tailored to the group’s ability level. Some treks are suitable for beginners, whilst others require a higher level of fitness.
4
Understanding the organisation
Transport, meals, accommodation, support and the itinerary are all arranged in advance to ensure a smooth and well-organised trip.
Contents of the travel bag

Climate and seasons

When to go
The Moroccan desert?

Winter: The days can be mild, but the nights are sometimes very cool. It's an interesting time to experience the desert differently, as long as you are well-equipped.

Summer: The summer is very hot in the desert. For this reason, between mid-May and mid-September, no activities are organised in the desert.

Autumn
A very pleasant time to visit: the heat subsides, the light is beautiful, and conditions are often ideal for treks, retreats, and walking holidays.
Winter
The days may be mild, but the nights can be chilly. It’s a great time to experience the desert in a different way, provided you’re properly equipped.
Spring
A lovely time of year for walking, reconnecting with nature and enjoying the scenery before the heat sets in.
Summer
The summer is very hot in the desert. This is why between mid-May and mid-September, no activities are organised in the desert.

Equipment

The essentials
to be expected

Comfortable shoes for walking on sand and uneven terrain. Sandals (with socks) are ideal as they don't retain sand and are adjustable. For treks, it's best to avoid brand new, unworn shoes.

Clothes
Lightweight, covering and comfortable clothing, suitable for the heat during the day and cooler evenings.
Shoes
Comfortable shoes for walking on sand and uneven terrain. Sandals (with socks) are ideal as they don't retain sand and are adjustable. For treks, it's best to avoid brand new, unworn shoes.
Sun protection
Hat or scarf, sunglasses, sunscreen and covering clothes for effective protection.
Hydration
A water bottle or a practical hydration system, depending on the advice given before departure.
Night and bivouac
Head torch, warm clothing appropriate for the season, personal belongings and a small toiletries kit.
Small bag
A practical bag for keeping your essentials with you throughout the day.

Walking and pace

What level?
Do you need to have?

The level of fitness required depends mainly on the type of trip. A 4×4 tour does not require the same level of effort as a multi-day trek. A retreat can also be tailored to suit the group’s pace, the planned activities and the walking times.

The important thing is to choose a package that suits your fitness level, experience and preferences. Our team can help you find the most suitable holiday.

Suitable for all levels
For a first discovery, a short stay, a gentle retreat or a circuit with little walking.
Intermediate level
For treks with several hours of walking per day, at a pace suited to the group.
More sporty level
For longer treks or more intense immersions, with more walking and several days in the desert.
Group adaptation
The duration, pace, breaks, and route can be adjusted according to the participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

The questions that one
arises before leaving

No. Many trips can be suitable for a first experience, provided you choose an appropriate package.

Yes, certain packages can be adapted for families, with a gentler pace and an organisation designed for the group.

Depending on the stay, nights can be spent in a tent, camping out, or sometimes under the stars if conditions permit.

According to the packages, meals are included in the stay. Details will be provided before departure.

Yes, tailor-made stays allow for the adaptation of dates, duration, pace, and type of experience.

The easiest way is to explain your dates, number of people, your level, and what you'd like. The team will guide you towards the most suitable option.

Yes. You must have a passport valid for at least 3 months after your return date.

You'll need to pack two bags: a small backpack for day trips and a soft holdall for your other belongings.

The small bag is for carrying what you need during the day: water bottle, sun cream, toilet paper, wipes, personal belongings, etc.

Pack a soft duffel bag with your clothes, sleeping bag, and toiletries. The bag must be soft as it will be carried by camel.

The ideal season for a trek or desert retreat is between late September and late April.

Jan Feb March April May June July August Seven Oct Nov Dec
Day 21° 24° 27° 32° 37° 42° 46° 45° 39° 32° 26° 21°
Night 4° 7° 10° 14° 18° 22° 26° 26° 21° 16° 11° 6°
Best time Good, cool nights Hot, adaptable Very hot

 In November and December, the nights can be very cold. One must So pack a very warm sleeping bag and thermolactyl pyjamas. On the other hand, the days are very mild.

Outside the ideal period (mid-September to mid-May), It's very hot in the desert. If you wish to come during a hot period, a 4x4 tour may be possible. Les treks and The pensions are not organised in summer.

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