Sunrise over a Berber desert camp in the Erg Chebbi dunes, Merzouga

What to Pack for a Morocco Desert Tour

A Morocco desert tour takes you from the busy souks of Marrakech or Fes, over the High Atlas Mountains and through the gorges and palm valleys of the south, all the way to the golden dunes of Merzouga. On the same trip you can feel snow in the mountains, 30°C in the afternoon and near-freezing air at night in the Sahara. Packing well makes all the difference. Here is the packing list our local drivers and camel guides give to every traveller.

The golden rule: layers

The desert is a place of extremes. The sun is strong during the day, but as soon as it sets behind the dunes of Erg Chebbi the temperature drops fast, especially from November to March. Instead of one big coat, bring light layers you can add or remove: a t-shirt, a long-sleeved shirt, a fleece or warm sweater and a light windproof jacket.

Snowy High Atlas Mountains on the road from Marrakech to the Sahara desert

Clothes for your Sahara trip

Loose, breathable clothes in cotton or linen that cover your shoulders and knees. They keep you cool, protect you from the sun and respect local customs in villages.
Long trousers for the camel ride: they are much more comfortable than shorts on the saddle.
A warm layer for the night: a fleece, sweater or down jacket. From December to February also bring a hat and gloves.
Comfortable closed shoes for walking in Ait Ben Haddou and the Todra Gorge, plus sandals for the dunes (sand is soft and gets everywhere).
Pyjamas or warm sleepwear for the desert camp.

Sun and sand protection

Sunglasses with good UV protection.
Sunscreen (SPF 30 or more) and lip balm: the dry desert air is hard on lips and skin.
A scarf or a Berber chèche (desert turban). It protects your head from the sun and your face from the wind and sand. You can also buy one in Merzouga, and your camel guide will happily show you how to tie it.
A hat or cap for the long sunny days on the road.

Small bag for the desert camp night

On most Marrakech desert tours, your main luggage stays safely in the vehicle or at a hotel in Merzouga, and you ride to the camp by camel with a small backpack only. Prepare it in advance with:

Warm clothes for the evening and the sunrise
Toothbrush, wet wipes and a small towel
A headlamp or small torch (the dunes are very dark at night, which is why the stars are so bright)
Your phone, a power bank and your camera
Any personal medicine
A reusable water bottle

Useful extras

Cash in Moroccan dirhams for drinks, snacks, souvenirs and tips. ATMs are available in Ouarzazate, Tinghir and Rissani, but rare in the desert.
A zip bag for your phone and camera to keep sand out.
Motion sickness tablets if you are sensitive: the Tizi n’Tichka pass over the High Atlas has many bends.
A universal adapter: Morocco uses European type C and E plugs.

Packing by season

Spring and autumn (March to May, September to November) are the most pleasant seasons: light clothes for the day and a fleece for the night. Summer is very hot, so pack your lightest clothes, a scarf and plenty of sunscreen. In winter, nights in the Sahara can get close to 0°C: bring a real warm jacket, a hat and warm socks. Read more in our guide to the best time to visit Merzouga.

Sunset over the Sahara from the terrace of a desert camp in Merzouga

What you don’t need to bring

You don’t need a sleeping bag or bedding: our desert camps provide real beds, clean sheets and thick blankets. You don’t need to bring food either, as dinner and breakfast in the camp are included in our tours. And leave the big suitcase in the car: the camels carry you, not your luggage.

Frequently asked questions

What should I wear for a camel ride in Merzouga?

Long, loose trousers, a light long-sleeved top, sunglasses and a scarf. Wear sandals or light shoes you don’t mind filling with sand.

Is it cold at night in the Sahara desert?

Yes, especially from November to March, when it can drop close to freezing. Bring a warm jacket. Camps provide thick blankets.

Can I leave my suitcase during the desert night?

Yes. Your main luggage stays safely in our vehicle or at a partner hotel, and you only take a small bag to the camp.

Ready for the Sahara?

Now that your bag is ready, choose your adventure: the 3-day Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour, the 2-day Fes to Merzouga desert trip or the 5-day Marrakech desert tour. Questions? Contact our local team, we reply within 24 hours.