Have you ever imagined riding a camel across huge golden sand dunes while the sun slowly sets, turning the whole sky orange and pink? Or spending a night in the desert, lying under millions of bright stars with nothing but peace and quiet around you? That’s exactly what a desert safari in Morocco feels like.
But here’s the important part: the time of year you visit makes a big difference. In summer, the desert gets extremely hot—so hot that it can be uncomfortable to explore. In winter, the days are nice, but nights can be very cold. The best months—spring and autumn—have perfect weather, not too hot and not too cold, making your safari much more enjoyable.
So before you pack your bags, it’s worth knowing when to go. In this guide, we’ll explain the best season to visit, what each season feels like, where to go for the best desert safari, and some useful travel tips to make your trip easy and unforgettable.
Why Timing Matters for a Desert Safari in Morocco
The Moroccan desert isn’t the same all year round. Temperatures can swing from burning hot during the day to freezing cold at night. In summer, the Sahara can be almost unbearable, while winter nights can get icy. The right season makes your desert safari enjoyable, comfortable, and safe—whether you’re camel trekking, sandboarding, or spending the night in a desert camp.
Best Season to Visit Morocco for Desert Safari
The best time to go on a desert safari in Morocco is during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). These two seasons offer the most comfortable weather and allow you to truly enjoy the desert without worrying about extreme heat or cold.
Spring (March–May)
Spring is one of the most popular times for a desert trip. The days are pleasantly warm—not too hot—and the nights are cool enough to sleep comfortably. During this season:
- You can spend hours exploring the desert without feeling tired from the heat.
- Sunsets are especially breathtaking, as the skies turn golden and pink over the dunes.
- The desert feels alive, with some areas near oases showing bits of greenery and blooming flowers.
- It’s the perfect time for activities like camel rides, sandboarding, and photography.
Autumn (September–November)
Autumn is another ideal season to visit the desert. The scorching summer heat has passed, and the weather becomes balanced again. In autumn:
- The days are warm and enjoyable, making camel rides and walks across the dunes more comfortable.
- Evenings are cool, just right for sitting around a campfire under the stars.
- Desert oases look stunning, making short hikes or walks around them a great experience.
- Camping in Bedouin tents feels magical because the nights are crisp but not freezing.
Why These Seasons Are Best
In both spring and autumn, you get the perfect mix of comfort and adventure. The desert is neither too hot to explore during the day nor too cold at night. This means you can fully enjoy everything—a sunrise trek, a sunset camel ride, stargazing at night, and sleeping outdoors without discomfort.
Visiting in Other Seasons: Pros & Cons
- Summer (June–August): Days can reach above 45°C (113°F). It’s extremely hot, making safaris uncomfortable for most travelers. However, fewer tourists mean quieter camps and cheaper prices.
- Winter (December–February): Daytime is mild and comfortable, but nights can drop close to freezing. If you don’t mind bundling up, it’s still a good time for a safari. Bonus: the skies are super clear for stargazing.
Best Destinations for Desert Safari in Morocco
Morocco’s deserts are not all the same. Some are easier to reach, others are wild and untouched, and each offers a different kind of adventure. Below are the three best desert safari spots in Morocco, explained in detail so that even a first-time traveler can easily plan their trip.
1. Merzouga (Erg Chebbi Dunes)
Merzouga is the most famous desert safari destination in Morocco, home to the iconic Erg Chebbi dunes. These dunes are enormous, with some rising over 150 meters, and they glow beautifully under the golden light of sunrise and sunset.
- What to Expect:
- Camel rides across the dunes—an unforgettable experience.
- Adventure sports like quad biking, sandboarding, and 4×4 dune drives.
- Luxury desert camps ranging from basic Berber tents to glamping with private bathrooms, hot showers, and fine dining.
- Magical night skies—this is one of the best places in Morocco for stargazing.
- Camel rides across the dunes—an unforgettable experience.
- How to Reach:
- From Marrakech: About 9 hours by car (usually done as a 3-day round trip with sightseeing stops).
- From Fes: Around 7 hours by car.
- Tours are widely available and often include transport, meals, and a night in the desert.
- From Marrakech: About 9 hours by car (usually done as a 3-day round trip with sightseeing stops).
- Cost:
- Group tours: $120–$200 per person (2–3 days, all-inclusive).
- Luxury camps: $250–$400 per person per night.
- Group tours: $120–$200 per person (2–3 days, all-inclusive).
- Best For: Travelers who want the classic Sahara desert experience with big dunes, activities, and comfort.
2. Zagora Desert
If you’re short on time but still want a taste of the Sahara, Zagora is perfect. The dunes here are smaller than Merzouga’s, but it’s closer to Marrakech, making it ideal for 1–2 day tours.
- What to Expect:
- Camel rides at sunset—smaller dunes, but still very scenic.
- Overnight desert camps with traditional Berber music, food, and campfires.
- Clear skies at night for stargazing.
- A more relaxed vibe compared to busier Merzouga.
- Camel rides at sunset—smaller dunes, but still very scenic.
- How to Reach:
- About 6–7 hours by car from Marrakech.
- Many agencies offer overnight tours, which include the drive, camel ride, dinner, and camp stay.
- About 6–7 hours by car from Marrakech.
- Cost:
- Short overnight tours: $80–$150 per person (all-inclusive).
- Short overnight tours: $80–$150 per person (all-inclusive).
- Best For: First-time visitors and those who don’t have many days but still want to check “Sahara Desert” off their bucket list.
3. Erg Chigaga
Erg Chigaga is for travelers who want a wild, remote Sahara adventure. It’s harder to reach than Merzouga or Zagora, which makes it feel authentic and untouched by mass tourism. The dunes here stretch endlessly, giving you the sense of being truly lost in the desert.
- What to Expect:
- Fewer tourists and a raw desert vibe.
- Camel treks that last several hours.
- Nights in traditional Berber camps or eco-lodges.
- Off-road driving in 4×4 vehicles through rocky desert and dry lakebeds before reaching the dunes.
- A chance to meet nomadic families still living in the desert.
- Fewer tourists and a raw desert vibe.
- How to Reach:
- From Marrakech: 9–10 hours by car, plus off-road driving.
- From Zagora: 6–7 hours (includes 4×4 off-road journey).
- You must go with a guide or organized tour, as the desert here is too vast to explore alone.
- From Marrakech: 9–10 hours by car, plus off-road driving.
- Cost:
- Multi-day tours: $250–$500 per person depending on comfort level.
- Multi-day tours: $250–$500 per person depending on comfort level.
- Best For: Adventure seekers who want a less touristy, deeper desert experience.
Quick Comparison Table
| Destination | Best For | Travel Time (from Marrakech) | Cost Range | Highlights |
| Merzouga (Erg Chebbi) | Classic Sahara experience, luxury + adventure | 9 hrs | $120–$400 | Huge dunes, camel rides, luxury camps, stargazing |
| Zagora Desert | Short trips, first-timers | 6–7 hrs | $80–$150 | Small dunes, overnight tours, Berber culture |
| Erg Chigaga | Raw, remote desert, adventure seekers | 9–10 hrs | $250–$500 | Wild dunes, off-road 4×4, nomadic life |
Travel Tips for Morocco Desert Safari
- Book a guided tour: Local guides know the desert well and ensure safety.
- Pack wisely: Bring light clothes for the day, warm layers for night, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
- Choose your camp: Options range from budget tents to luxury desert camps with private bathrooms and gourmet food.
- Plan for travel time: Most desert tours from Marrakech or Fes take 2–3 days, including long drives.
- Try unique activities: Sandboarding, quad biking, camel trekking, stargazing, and traditional Berber music nights.
Also Read: Best Time to Visit South Africa for Adventure
Conclusion
The Moroccan desert is an adventure like no other—whether you’re watching the sun rise over endless dunes, stargazing in silence, or riding camels through golden sands. But to truly enjoy it, you need to go at the right time.
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are the best seasons for a desert safari, offering perfect weather for exploration and camping. Winter is also a good choice if you can handle cold nights, while summer is best avoided unless you love extreme heat.
Plan your trip carefully, pick the right desert destination, and pack for both sun and chill. Do that, and your Morocco desert safari will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
FAQs about Morocco Desert Safari
Q1. Is it safe to go on a desert safari in Morocco?
Yes, as long as you travel with a licensed tour operator. Guides ensure your safety and comfort.
Q2. How many days do I need for a desert safari?
At least 2–3 days if you’re traveling from Marrakech or Fes, since reaching the desert takes time.
Q3. Can I visit the Sahara on a day trip?
No, the desert is too far from major cities. You’ll need at least an overnight trip.
Q4. What’s better—Merzouga or Zagora?
Merzouga has bigger dunes and a true Sahara feel, while Zagora is closer to Marrakech and better for shorter trips.
