Not sure what to pack for a desert tour? Also, here is the list our guides give every traveller.
A desert tour means long drives, a camel ride and a night in a camp in the dunes. You do not need special equipment, but a few well-chosen things make the trip much more comfortable. In addition, this is the list our guides give to every traveller.
Clothes
- Layers. The desert is hot in the day and can be cold at night, even in spring and autumn. A T-shirt, a long-sleeved top and a warm fleece or jacket cover every season.
- Long, light trousers. Comfortable for the camel ride and good protection from the sun.
- A scarf or a cheich. It protects your face from sun and sand. You can buy a traditional Berber turban on the way, and the guide will show you how to tie it.
- Closed shoes or sandals. Sand gets everywhere; many travellers walk barefoot in the dunes and keep sandals for the camp.
- Warm clothes from November to February. Nights in the desert can get close to freezing. A hat and gloves are not too much.
For the sun
- Sunglasses
- High protection sunscreen
- Lip balm
- A refillable water bottle
For the night in the camp
Besides, your big luggage stays in the vehicle in Merzouga. Pack a small backpack for the camel ride and the night, with:
- Toothbrush and a small toiletry kit
- A head torch or your phone torch
- A power bank (electricity in camps can be limited)
- Wet wipes
- Warm clothes for the evening and the sunrise
- Any personal medication
Money and documents
- Your passport (hotels and camps may ask for it)
- Cash in dirhams for lunches, drinks, souvenirs and tips. Card payment is rare in the small towns on the route.
For your camera
Fine sand gets into everything. Keep your camera or phone in a zip bag when you are not using it, and avoid changing lenses in the wind. What is more, the best photos come at sunset on the camel ride and at sunrise from the top of a dune.
What you do not need
Sleeping bags, towels and bed linen are provided in the camp, and dinner and breakfast are included on our tours. Also, you do not need hiking boots either: the camel does the walking.
Ready to go?
Our most popular trips are the 3 day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga, from 160 EUR per person, and the 3 day tour from Fes, from 160 EUR. Short on time? The 2 day trip from Fes to Merzouga also includes a night in the dunes.
Our checklist: what to pack for a desert tour
Keep this list of what to pack for a desert tour on your phone. If you are still unsure what to pack for a desert tour in your season, ask us on WhatsApp before you leave. See also our guest reviews on Tripadvisor.
Rate this page
Was this page helpful? Your rating helps other travellers.