Visiting the Sahara Desert is a must when traveling to Morocco. While many assume summer is the ideal time, winter is actually the best season to go. Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and clear skies make it an unforgettable experience. If you’re considering a trip to the Moroccan desert, here’s why winter is the perfect time and what you need to know before you go.
Why Visit the Sahara Desert in Winter?Cooler Temperatures
During summer, Sahara Desert temperatures can reach 45°C (113°F), making daytime exploration difficult. In winter (November to February), temperatures are much more comfortable, averaging 18°C to 25°C (65°F to 77°F) during the day. However, nights can get cold, sometimes dropping to 0°C (32°F), so bringing warm clothes is necessary.
Fewer Tourists, More Authentic Experience
Winter is the off-season for tourism in the Sahara, meaning fewer tourists and a quieter experience. Many camps and desert routes that are packed during peak seasons become more peaceful, allowing you to fully enjoy the surroundings. The dunes feel vast and untouched, and there’s no rush to find the perfect sunset spot.
Great Sunsets and Stargazing
Winter skies in the desert are clear and bright, offering uninterrupted sunset views and some of the best stargazing experiences. With no light pollution, the Milky Way is clearly visible, making the night sky in the Sahara one of the most beautiful sights in Morocco.
Best Places to Visit in the Sahara DesertErg Chebbi Dunes (Merzouga)
The Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga are Morocco’s most famous desert destination. The sand dunes there reach up to 150 meters or 500 feet high, this area is perfect for camel trekking, 4×4 desert tours, and experiencing traditional Berber camps.
Erg Chigaga Dunes (Zagora & M’hamid)
For a more remote experience, Erg Chigaga, located near Zagora and M’hamid, offers wider, untouched landscapes. It’s a bit harder to reach, but this makes it less touristy, ideal for those seeking a truly wild desert adventure.
Oasis Towns & Kasbahs
The Sahara isn’t just sand dunes. Oasis towns like Rissani, M’hamid, and Tinghir are worth visiting for a taste of authentic desert life. You’ll find ancient kasbahs, palm groves, and traditional Berber villages, giving a deeper look into Moroccan history and culture.
Top Things to Do in the Sahara Desert in WinterCamel Trekking
One of the most iconic ways to explore the desert is by riding a camel across the dunes, just as Berbers have done for centuries. Many tours offer sunset and sunrise treks, allowing travelers to experience the desert’s beauty at the best times of the day.
Stay in a Desert Camp
A night in a traditional Berber camp is a must. These camps range from basic nomadic-style tents to luxury glamping setups, where you can enjoy local cuisine, music, and storytelling by the fire under the stars.
4×4 & Quad Biking Adventures
If you are looking for more adventure, 4×4 off-road excursions and quad biking through the dunes is another thrilling way to explore the vast desert. Guided tours take you deep into the more remote areas, enabling you to have a true Sahara experience.
Sandboarding
If you enjoy snowboarding, sandboarding down the desert dunes is a fun and exciting activity. Many desert camps provide boards for free, which makes it easy to try.
Meet Nomadic Families
In winter, nomadic families move across the desert in search of better grazing for their animals. Some tours include visits to these traditional Berber and Tuareg communities, where travelers can learn about desert life, culture, and traditions.
What to Pack for a Winter Desert Trip
Packing for the Sahara in winter means being ready for both warm days and cold nights. Essentials include:
- Warm Layers: A fleece jacket, and warm socks for chilly nights
- Lightweight Clothing: Breathable clothes for daytime exploration
- Scarf or Turban: Useful for sun protection and keeping out desert dust
- Sunglasses & Sunscreen: The sun is still strong, even in winter
- Hiking Shoes: Comfortable footwear for walking in the sand
- Gloves & Hat: Helps to stay warm at night
How to Get to the Sahara DesertFrom Marrakech
The most popular route to the Sahara starts from Marrakech. The journey to Merzouga or Zagora takes about 8-10 hours, passing through the Atlas Mountains, Ait Benhaddou, and Draa Valley. Most travelers opt for a 3 to 4-day desert tour, which includes scenic stops along the way.
From Fez
For those traveling from Fes, reaching the Sahara takes around 7-8 hours. The drive includes stops at Ifrane, Midelt, and the Ziz Valley, giving you the chance to experience Morocco’s beautiful nature.
From Tangier
If coming from Tangier, the best option is to travel to Chefchaouen, then Fes, before heading to the desert. This multi-day journey is a great way to explore the north before reaching the Sahara.
Are Desert Tours Available in Winter?
Yes, desert tours operate year-round, and winter is one of the best times to go. Many travelers book private tours for a more comfortable and customized experience, avoiding large group tours and allowing for a flexible schedule.
If you’re looking for high-quality private tours, we provide customized desert trips from:
- Marrakech to the Sahara Desert
- Fes to the Sahara Desert
- Tangier to the Desert via Chefchaouen and Meknes
These tours include private transport, expert guides, camel trekking, and overnight stays in desert camps, enabling travelers to have a seamless and memorable experience.
Plan Your Desert Adventure with Memento Morocco
If you are planning a trip to the Sahara Desert, check out Memento Morocco, a leading provider of private Morocco tours. Their expert team are fully dedicated to provide travelers with comfortable and well-organized experience.
Also, if you want to explore more of Morocco, check out our guide on the 10 Best Places to Visit in Morocco to help plan your journey. You can also contact them for a free travel consultation.
