Desert Excursion - Sahara Holiday - Trekking - Traveling in Morocco

Insider Tips

When to go

October-November and February-March are best: 30 celsius by day, 20 by night, clear days guaranteed. April is fine too, but busier - not that the desert ever gets very crowded, but you'll need to book early. December-January are cooler (25 by day, quite cold at night), and the Christmas - New Year period gets almost frantic. May, June and September are pretty hot but feasible; August is a last resort, July is closed.

How long for

Ideally 3 nights, fitting in an overnight trip to Erg Chigaga in the middle. You'll arrive late on the first day, especially if you've come all the way from Marrakech. Spend the next morning exploring Ouled Driss and the swimming pool; then leave after lunch for Chigaga and overnight in the bivouac (you can leave stuff in Our agency). Next day, after climbing the dunes, you return via the dry salt lakes of Iriqi, reaching the village in time for lunch. If you have the energy, you can fit in a 1-hour camel trek through the local dunes at sunset. Leave early on day 4 - it's a long way to anywhere.

What to take

Long, light clothing for desert trips, including a sunhat (essential), sandals (advisable as closed shoes fill with sand) and long sleeves in case sunburn becomes a problem. A good book and swimming costume for poolside lazing. Sun cream, shades and water bottles go without saying. A jumper in winter, and a lighter jacket or top in spring / autumn.