A trip to Morocco is incomplete without experiencing the vast, mesmerizing expanse of the Sahara Desert. The image of golden dunes, camel caravans, and star-filled nights is iconic for a reason. This guide covers everything you need to know about planning your desert adventure, from choosing the right tour to understanding the different desert regions.

Merzouga vs. Agafay: Which Morocco Desert to Visit?

When people talk about a Sahara desert tour, they are usually referring to the incredible dunes of Erg Chebbi near Merzouga. This is the classic desert experience: towering sand dunes, deep orange hues, and a true sense of remote wilderness. Reaching Merzouga requires a multi-day trip, typically from Marrakech or Fes.

The Agafay Desert, on the other hand, is a rocky desert plateau located just outside Marrakech. While it lacks the iconic sand dunes of the Sahara, its stark, moon-like landscape is beautiful in its own right. Its main advantage is proximity, making it perfect for a day trip or an overnight stay if you're short on time. A Marrakech to Agafay desert tour is a popular choice for those who want a taste of the desert without the long journey.

The Classic Sahara Desert Tour Experience

A typical 3-day Sahara desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga is one of the most popular itineraries. Here’s what it usually includes:

  • Day 1: Travel from Marrakech through the High Atlas Mountains, visiting Ait Benhaddou (a famous Kasbah) and stopping in Ouarzazate.
  • Day 2: Journey through the Todra Gorge before arriving at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes. From here, you’ll take a camel trek into the desert to reach your overnight camp.
  • Day 3: Wake up to a stunning desert sunrise, have breakfast, and begin the journey back to Marrakech or onwards to Fes.

A Fes to Marrakech desert tour (or vice versa) is also a fantastic option, allowing you to travel between the two imperial cities without backtracking, with the Sahara adventure as the highlight in the middle.

Morocco Desert Facts to Know

  • The Sahara is the largest hot desert in the world.
  • Erg Chebbi's dunes can reach heights of over 150 meters (500 feet).
  • The desert is not just sand; it also includes rocky plateaus, salt flats, and mountains.
  • Contrary to popular belief, camels are not native to the Sahara but were introduced centuries ago.

Choosing Your Desert Tour

Whether you're looking for a private Morocco tour for a more intimate experience or a budget-friendly group tour, there are options for everyone. Consider the length of the tour (2, 3, or 4 days), your starting city, and the level of comfort you prefer in your desert camp. A luxury Morocco desert tour will offer camps with amenities like private bathrooms and king-sized beds.

No matter which you choose, a journey into the Moroccan desert is an unforgettable experience that will be the highlight of your trip.