Top Sahara Desert Glamping Experiences for Ultimate Luxury and Comfort

Thinking about Sahara desert glamping in Morocco? This guide is for travelers seeking a luxurious yet authentic Moroccan desert experience. We’ll cover how to choose the right camp, what to expect, and how to make the most of your adventure in one of the world’s most iconic landscapes. Sahara desert glamping in Morocco offers a unique blend of comfort and culture, but planning your trip can be complex due to the remote location, variety of camp options, and the need to balance adventure with relaxation. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this guide will help you navigate the choices and ensure your Sahara experience is unforgettable.

Key Takeaways

• Sahara desert glamping in Morocco means staying in luxury tents near Erg Chebbi (Merzouga) or Erg Chigaga, with real beds, private bathrooms, and full-board meals—this is not roughing it.

• You need 2–3 days minimum (with at least 1–2 nights in the dunes) because the drive from Marrakech or Fes to the Sahara takes 8–11 hours each way.

• The choice between Erg Chebbi (easier access, more camps, iconic high dunes) and Erg Chigaga (more remote, fewer crowds, wilder feel) is the most important decision for your glamping trip.

• Modern comforts exist at luxury camps—hot water showers, electricity, sometimes swimming pools and AC—but expect temperature swings, sand everywhere, and limited connectivity.

• The best glamping experiences mix comfort with culture: camel or 4×4 dune crossings, Berber music by the fire, stargazing at the Milky Way, sand boarding, and visits to nomad families.

What Is Sahara Desert Glamping?

Picture this: you arrive at a camp set deep among towering orange sand dunes. Canvas suites glow with warm lantern light as staff in traditional blue kaftans offer you mint tea. Above, the Milky Way stretches impossibly bright across a sky untouched by light pollution. This is Sahara desert glamping—and it’s nothing like the rough camping you might imagine.

Glamping in the Sahara specifically means permanent or semi-permanent tents equipped with proper beds, thick duvets, Moroccan rugs, ensuite bathrooms with flushing toilets and hot showers, and restaurant-style multi-course meals. You’re not sleeping on a mat under the stars (unless you want to). You’re essentially staying in a hotel room transplanted into one of Earth’s most dramatic landscapes. Luxury Sahara desert glamping typically includes comfortable accommodations with private bathrooms, electricity, and full-board meals, though comfort levels can vary between camps.

Most Moroccan Sahara glamping takes place near two main dune regions: the iconic Erg Chebbi dunes by Merzouga in the east, and Erg Chigaga in the remote southeast near M’hamid. Both areas are typically reached by a combination of long road transfers and a final push by 4×4 vehicle or camel caravan.

Camps tend to be intimate operations—anywhere from 7 to 25 tents—often run by local Amazigh (Berber) families or Moroccan operators with deep desert roots. The Berber (Amazigh) are an ethnic group in Morocco, traditionally living in the deserts and mountains, known for their hospitality and rich cultural traditions. This isn’t mass tourism. Even the larger camps feel personal, with staff who grew up navigating these dunes and can share stories about desert life that go back generations. For those seeking the ultimate in exclusivity and personalized service, booking a private camp is also an option, offering a secluded and tailored glamping experience.

What should you expect to pay?

Camp Category	Price Range (per tent/night)	What’s Included
Mid-range luxury	€150–€250	Private tent, ensuite bathroom, full-board meals, camel ride
High-end luxury	€300–€500	Above plus AC/heating, pool access, premium location
Ultra-luxury	€500–€700+	Boutique experience, exclusive activities, exceptional service
These prices typically include dinner, breakfast, and a sunset or sunrise camel ride. Off-season rates (summer, Ramadan) can drop significantly.

Where to Go Glamping: Erg Chebbi vs. Erg Chigaga

Choosing between Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga is the single most important strategic decision for your Sahara glamping trip. Both offer legitimate Saharan dune experiences, but they cater to different travelers.

Erg Chebbi is more accessible, with paved roads leading close to the camps, making it a popular choice for those seeking convenience. In contrast, reaching the camps in Erg Chigaga requires significant off-roading through rugged terrain, which adds to the sense of adventure and remoteness.

Erg Chebbi (Near Merzouga)

Erg Chebbi is Morocco’s most accessible major dune sea. The dunes rise dramatically—some reaching 150 meters high—with that classic powder-soft, burnt-orange color you’ve seen in photographs. The town of Merzouga sits right at the edge, meaning you can transition from paved roads to deep dunes within 20–30 minutes by 4×4.

This accessibility has made Erg Chebbi the default choice for first-time Sahara visitors. You’ll find the widest range of desert camps here, from budget bivouacs to ultra-luxury properties with swimming pools and air conditioning. Desert Luxury Camp, one of the most well-known operators, even features a fully enclosed spa-style pool—reportedly the only one in Erg Chebbi.

Erg Chebbi works best for:

• First-time visitors to the Moroccan Sahara

• Travelers with limited time (3-day trips are feasible)

• Families with children

• Those who want guaranteed comfort amenities

• Photographers seeking iconic high dunes

Erg Chigaga

Erg Chigaga is the wilder, more remote option. This 40-kilometer-wide dune region sits southwest of Zagora and M’hamid, requiring 2–3 hours of off-road driving through stone desert and dried lake beds just to reach the sand sea. There are no towns at its edge—just vastness.

The extra effort pays off in solitude. Fewer camps operate here, which means fewer generators, fewer lights, and a stronger sense of true isolation. On a moonless night, the darkness is absolute.

Erg Chigaga works best for:

• Repeat Morocco visitors wanting something different

• Travelers prioritizing solitude over convenience

• Adventure seekers comfortable with rough transfers

• Photographers and stargazers seeking minimal light pollution

• Those with 4+ days to dedicate to the desert

Travel Times at a Glance

Route	Distance	Typical Drive Time
Marrakech → Merzouga (Erg Chebbi)	~480 km	9–10 hours with stops
Fes → Merzouga (Erg Chebbi)	~400 km	7–8 hours with stops
Marrakech → M’hamid (Erg Chigaga staging point)	~360 km	7–8 hours
M’hamid → Erg Chigaga camps	~50 km off-road	2–3 hours by 4×4

How to Get to the Sahara Desert Camps

Getting to your glamping camp is the longest logistical piece of the puzzle. There’s no shortcut: the Sahara is remote, and reaching it requires commitment. Many travelers consult a tour operator to help plan and book their Sahara glamping experience, ensuring a smooth and authentic journey. Budget a full day of driving, plus a short camel ride or 4×4 transfer into the dunes themselves.

You can travel to the Sahara by private driver, rental car, guided tour, or bus. While these options offer flexibility, the bus option is not recommended as it arrives too late to enjoy a night in the desert.

From Marrakech

The adventure truly begins once you have left Marrakech, marking the transition from the vibrant city to the vast, tranquil expanse of the Sahara desert.

Most travelers approach the Sahara from Marrakech, which means crossing the High Atlas Mountains via the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka Pass. The winding roads climb to over 2,200 meters before descending into the pre-Saharan valleys.

Key stops along the route:

• Ait Ben Haddou – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and iconic fortified village (ksar) used as a filming location for Game of Thrones, Gladiator, and countless other productions. Most tours stop here for lunch and exploration.

• Ouarzazate – Known as the “Gateway to the Desert” and home to Morocco’s film studios. A good bathroom and coffee break point.

• Dades Valley / Todra Gorge – Spectacular canyon scenery, with the option to overnight in a kasbah hotel and break the long journey.

• Skoura Oasis – A palm-filled oasis with traditional kasbahs, offering a glimpse of pre-desert Morocco.

After approximately 9–10 hours of driving (with stops), you’ll reach Merzouga as the sun begins to set—perfect timing for the transfer to your Sahara desert camp.

From Fes

The route from Fes is slightly shorter (7–8 hours) and equally scenic, passing through the Middle Atlas cedar forests, the alpine town of Midelt, and the spectacular Ziz Valley with its date palm oases. Many travelers use this route as a one-way transfer, starting in Fes and ending in Marrakech (or vice versa) rather than backtracking.

Transport Options

Option	Pros	Cons	Best For
Private driver	Custom stops, door-to-door service, flexible timing	Higher cost (€250–€400/day)	Couples, families, those wanting control
Self-drive rental	Independence, ability to explore	Long hours, mountain driving, fatigue risk	Experienced drivers with extra time
Organized 3–4 day tour	Everything arranged, often includes glamping	Less flexibility, group dynamics	Solo travelers, first-timers
Night bus	Time-efficient, budget-friendly	Uncomfortable, no scenic stops	Budget travelers with strong backs

The Final Transfer

Once you reach Merzouga or M’hamid, you’re still not at your camp. The final leg involves either:

• 4×4 transfer – A 20–30 minute drive across the dunes, usually included in your camp booking

• Camel ride – A 60–90 minute journey through the sand, often timed for sunset

Even if you choose the camel ride experience, your luggage travels separately by vehicle. You can ride with just a small daypack and camera, arriving at camp without wrestling heavy bags through the sand.

How Many Nights Should You Spend Glamping in the Sahara?

Here’s my honest recommendation: spend at least two nights in or near the dunes if your schedule and budget allow. Yes, one night is possible. But two nights transforms the experience from a rushed checkpoint into an actual journey.

The One-Night Reality

A single night in the Sahara follows a predictable pattern: you arrive exhausted from the long drive, catch the sunset from your camel’s back, eat dinner, enjoy the campfire and Berber music, sleep, wake for sunrise, have breakfast, and immediately depart. It works, but you’re essentially in transit the entire time.

Why Two Nights Changes Everything

With a second night, the pace slows dramatically. Your first night handles the arrival logistics. By the second day, you’ve adjusted. You wake naturally with the light. You have time for:

• Sand boarding down the highest dune near camp

• An optional quad bike or ATV excursion (typically €30–€50 per person per hour)

• Visiting a local nomad family for tea

• Simply sitting in the shade with a book, watching the dunes change color

• A leisurely sunset hike without rushing back

The breathtaking views hit differently when you’re not calculating how soon you need to leave.

Sample Trip Structures

3-day/2-night Marrakech loop:

• Day 1: Leave Marrakech early, drive to Merzouga, first night in camp

• Day 2: Full day in the dunes, activities, second night in camp

• Day 3: Final morning sunrise, return drive to Marrakech

3-day Marrakech to Fes transfer (1 night in camp):

• Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Valley, overnight in gorge hotel

• Day 2: Dades to Merzouga, evening at camp, one night

• Day 3: Morning in dunes, drive to Fes

For families and older travelers: An extra night reduces fatigue significantly. Children handle the heat better when they can nap during peak afternoon temperatures, and the motion sickness from winding mountain roads becomes a distant memory by day two. Consider custom private tours for a more personalized and stress-free Morocco travel experience.

What to Expect at a Sahara Desert Glamping Camp

A premium Sahara desert luxury camp typically features a central dining tent (often air-conditioned in summer), a communal fire pit with cushioned seating, and private guest tents scattered at comfortable distances from each other. Compared to other camps in the area, our camp offers superior amenities and enhanced privacy, ensuring a more exclusive and comfortable glamping experience. Paths are lit by lanterns at night—enough to navigate safely, but dim enough to preserve the dark sky experience.

For example, Sunrise Palace Merzouga is a boutique hotel located next to the Erg Chebbi dunes and features a stunning outdoor swimming pool. Sky View Camp provides a terrace in front of each tent and includes a private bathroom in every room. Sunrise Sahara Camp features dome-tents with one side made of glass for amazing views of the desert. Sahara Majestic Luxury Camp includes breakfast and dinner in the price and has an outdoor swimming pool. Desert Heart Luxury Camp includes a private tent, breakfast, dinner, and drinks in their package. For a full Moroccan experience, consider desert camps as part of expertly crafted tour packages.

Your Tent

Forget flimsy camping tents. Luxury glamping tents in the Sahara are substantial structures with:

• King or twin beds on proper metal frames with quality mattresses

• Thick blankets and duvets (essential for cold desert nights)

• Moroccan textiles, rugs, and traditional decor

• Ensuite bathrooms with flush toilets and hot water showers (often solar-heated)

• Lockable doors or heavy-duty zippers

• Multiple windows that open for ventilation and dune views

• Bedside tables, mirrors, and often a small seating area

At the higher end, you’ll find camps like Desert Luxury Camp offering amenities that rival a boutique hotel room: air conditioning, daily housekeeping, toiletries, and high-quality Moroccan furniture.

Power and Connectivity

Most luxury camps use solar electricity supplemented by generators. Expect:

• European-style plugs in your tent

• Electricity available most hours (some camps turn off generators overnight)

• Limited or no wifi—and often patchy mobile signal

Bring a power bank for cameras and phones. Treat the digital disconnect as a feature, not a bug.

Meals

Food at glamping camps tends to be generous and traditionally Moroccan:

Meal	What to Expect
Arrival	Mint tea and dates or cookies on cushions
Dinner	3–4 courses: salads, harira soup, tagine or couscous, fresh fruit
Breakfast	Eggs, yogurt, fruit, Moroccan pancakes (msemen), fresh bread, coffee and tea
Some camps are alcohol-free due to licensing, but many allow guests to bring their own wine or spirits. Pick up bottles in a city before heading to the desert.

Climate Reality Check

Even at a luxury camp, you’re in one of Earth’s most extreme environments:

Season	Daytime	Nighttime
Summer (June–August)	40–50°C (104–122°F)	20–25°C (68–77°F)
Winter (December–February)	15–22°C (59–72°F)	Near freezing to 5°C
Spring/Autumn	25–35°C (77–95°F)	10–18°C (50–64°F)
Pack layers regardless of season. The temperature swing between noon and midnight can exceed 25°C.

Signature Sahara Glamping Experiences & Activities

The best Sahara glamping isn’t just about the tent—it’s about what you do in and around the dunes. Sahara camping offers a unique blend of adventure and comfort, making it a memorable and immersive way to experience the desert. Most camps include certain experiences in their base price and offer others as paid add-ons.

Popular activities include camel rides through the sand dunes, which are a highlight of many Sahara desert glamping experiences.

The Dune Arrival

This is the moment most people anticipate. Options typically include:

• Sunset camel caravan – A 60–90 minute ride into the dunes as the light turns golden. The pace is slow, the photo opportunities are endless, and there’s something timeless about riding camels into the Sahara as the sun drops. Expect to pay around €20 per person if booked separately.

• 4×4 dune bashing – A more adrenaline-fueled arrival, with your driver navigating steep dune faces and sandy ridges. Less romantic, but exciting and faster.

Many travelers do one for arrival and the other for departure.

Nighttime Camp Life

After dinner, the campfire becomes the social center. Staff bring out drums (bendir and darbuka), and Berber music fills the air. Guests are often invited to join the drumming and dancing—no skill required, just enthusiasm. Luxury desert camps in Morocco offer immersive cultural experiences like these.

Once the music winds down, walk a few minutes away from the camp lanterns. On a moonless night, the stargazing is extraordinary. The Milky Way arches overhead, and shooting stars streak across the sky regularly. This alone is worth the long journey.

Daytime Activities

Activity	Typical Cost	Duration	Notes
Sand boarding is a popular activity in Morocco, and after an adventurous day, you can also discover the Agadir Fishing Port to experience Morocco's coastal heartbeat.	Often free (boards provided)	Self-paced	Works best on steep dunes
ATV/quad biking	€30–€50 per person	1–2 hours	Exhilarating but loud
Sunrise dune hike	Free	30–60 minutes	Climb the highest dune for panoramic views
Nomad family visit	Free–€20	1–2 hours	Tea and conversation in a traditional tent
Fossil field excursion	€20–€40	Half-day	Ancient marine fossils in surrounding areas
For a more comprehensive look at these activities, including hands-on experiences like baking sand bread and exploring fossils, check out our detailed post on Sahara desert camp activities.

The Case for Doing Nothing

Don’t overschedule. Some of the best moments in the Sahara come from unstructured time: reading in a shaded lounge area, watching the dunes shift color from white-gold to deep orange to purple as the sun moves, or simply sitting in silence with the wind. This is a lifetime experience precisely because it offers something increasingly rare—genuine stillness.

Best Time of Year for Sahara Desert Glamping

The Sahara is a land of extremes. Timing your trip correctly can mean the difference between a magical experience and an endurance test.

Spring (March–May)

This is arguably the ideal window for most travelers. Daytime temperatures are pleasant (25–35°C), nights are cool but manageable, and the light is beautiful for photography. The main downside: occasional sirocco winds can kick up sandstorms, especially in March. Pack your scarf.

Autumn (Late September–November)

Similar conditions to spring, with warm days and cool evenings. October and November are particularly popular with European tourists before the winter chill arrives. Book camps early for peak weeks.

Winter (December–February)

The quietest season in the dunes, with fewer tourists and potentially lower prices. Midday temperatures are comfortable (15–22°C), but mornings and nights get seriously cold—expect near-freezing temperatures before dawn. Bring:

• Thermal base layers

• A warm down jacket

• Hat and gloves

• Extra socks

Luxury camps with heating become especially valuable in winter.

Summer (June–August)

Only for those who genuinely tolerate extreme heat. Afternoon temperatures regularly exceed 45°C (113°F). Activities shift entirely to dawn and dusk, with long siestas during the hottest hours. Some camps close; others with air conditioning and swimming pools cater to Gulf tourists and heat-adapted travelers. If you go in summer, expect a very different rhythm to your trip.

What to Pack and Wear for Sahara Glamping

Good packing makes the difference between discomfort and magic—even at camps with all the details handled. The desert forgives poor planning less than other destinations.

Here are some essential Morocco tips for travelers preparing for Sahara desert glamping, including advice on packing, money, and practical considerations.

Clothing Essentials

• Breathable long-sleeve tops – Sun protection that’s cooler than sunscreen

• Lightweight trousers – Better than shorts for sun, sand, and cultural respect

• Warm fleece or down jacket – Nights get cold, even in shoulder seasons

• Windproof shell – Useful for sandstorms and morning chill

• Socks for hot and cold – One pair for hiking, one warm pair for sleeping

Desert Accessories

• Cotton or linen scarf/shemagh – Protects face and neck from sun and blowing sand

• Wide-brimmed sun hat – Essential for dune hikes

• UV sunglasses – Sand reflection intensifies brightness

• High-SPF sunscreen – Reapply frequently, especially ears and neck

Footwear

• Closed shoes or trainers – For transfers, dune climbing, and camp walks

• Sandals – Optional for lounging around camp

Note: Sand gets scorching hot around midday. Avoid barefoot walks between noon and 4 PM.

Practical Extras

• Headlamp or torch – Navigating camp at night, stargazing walks

• External battery pack – Limited charging opportunities

• Motion sickness pills – Those winding roads through the Atlas Mountains are no joke

• Basic medications – Nearest pharmacy is hours away

• Lip balm with SPF – Desert air is brutally dry

• Toilet paper – Just in case—even at luxury camps

• Soft overnight bag – If your main luggage stays at a riad in town

How to Choose the Right Sahara Glamping Camp

Camps vary wildly in style, comfort, and authenticity—from simple tent clusters to boutique-level suites with pools and full climate control. Choosing wisely is essential. The best desert camps combine comfort, authenticity, and excellent service.

Key Selection Criteria

Location quality:

• How deep into the dunes is the camp? Camps “in the dunes” (surrounded by sand) offer better views and atmosphere than those on the rocky periphery.

• How far from the roadhead? More distance generally means more solitude.

Camp size:

• Intimate camps (7–12 tents) feel personal and quiet

• Larger camps (15–25 tents) may have better facilities but more noise

Private bathroom:

• Non-negotiable for most glampers. Confirm that each tent has its own ensuite.

Recent reviews:

• Cross-check feedback from 2023–2025 on major booking platforms

• Look for consistent comments about cleanliness, staff warmth, food quality, and accurate descriptions

Specific Amenities to Ask About

Amenity	Questions to Ask
Climate control	Heating in winter? AC in summer? Or just fans?
Swimming pool	Enclosed or exposed? Heated?
Wifi	Available at all, or truly offline?
Activities included	Camel ride, sandboarding, music—included or extra?
Alcohol policy	Served, BYOB allowed, or dry camp?

Booking Recommendations

Book directly with camp operators when possible, or use reputable agencies that own or exclusively manage their camps. This reduces the risk of bait-and-switch, where a cheaper operator substitutes a different (inferior) camp than the one you booked.

All the camps in popular areas like Erg Chebbi compete for visibility online. Look beyond the pretty Instagram photos. The best desert camps have consistent multi-year review patterns, named owners or managers, and transparent pricing.

Sample 3-Day Sahara Desert Glamping Itinerary (From Marrakech)

This itinerary provides a concrete framework for how glamping fits into a broader Morocco trip. Adjust stops and timing based on your interests.

Day 1: Marrakech to Erg Chebbi

7:30–8:00 AM: Leave Marrakech with your private driver or tour group. Head south toward the High Atlas. If you plan to relax before or after your journey, consider checking out the best swimming pools in Marrakech for a chill day.

10:30 AM: Cross Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m). Stop for photos of the mountain panorama.

12:30 PM: Arrive at Ait Ben Haddou, the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site kasbah. Explore the ancient mud-brick village and have lunch at a terrace restaurant overlooking the fortress.

2:30 PM: Continue via Ouarzazate, passing through the Draa Valley or Dades Valley depending on your route.

5:30–6:00 PM: Reach the Merzouga area. Transfer to your Sahara desert camp by 4×4 or camel, timed for sunset.

7:30 PM: Settle into your tent, enjoy welcome drinks, then dinner under the stars followed by Berber music around the campfire.

Day 2: Full Day in the Dunes

6:00 AM: Wake before sunrise. Climb the nearest high dune to watch the sky shift from deep blue to gold to orange. This alone is worth the trip.

8:00 AM: Leisurely breakfast back at camp.

10:00 AM–12:00 PM: Optional activities—sand boarding on the dunes, a short ATV excursion, or tea with a nomad family.

12:00–4:00 PM: Rest during peak heat. Read, nap, or lounge in shaded areas. The camp is quiet; the dunes shimmer in the distance.

5:00 PM: Second sunset camel ride or dune hike to a new viewpoint.

7:30 PM: Dinner and campfire, second night under the Milky Way. With clearer heads and rested bodies, this night typically feels more immersive than the first.

Day 3: Final Morning and Return

6:00 AM: Optional final sunrise from the dunes.

8:00 AM: Breakfast at camp, pack up, transfer back to the road.

9:30 AM–6:00 PM: Return drive to Marrakech, or continue to Fes. Break the long journey with a stop at Todra Gorge or a few hours in the Skoura Oasis.

Extending Your Trip

Travelers with more time can add overnights along the route:

• Night before the desert: Dades Gorge, a kasbah in Skoura, or Ouarzazate

• Night after the desert: Midelt (if heading to Fes) or Todra Gorge area

• Add the south: Continue from Merzouga to the Draa Valley and Zagora for a longer loop through southern Morocco

Responsible & Respectful Glamping in the Sahara

The Sahara’s fragile ecosystem and the Amazigh communities who call it home deserve thoughtful visitors. A few hours of preparation can minimize your impact and maximize mutual respect.

Environmental Considerations

• Choose camps that manage waste responsibly. Ask about their trash removal and wastewater systems.

• Look for camps using solar power rather than running generators 24/7.

• Bring a refillable water bottle. Some camps offer filtered water stations; reduce single-use plastic where possible.

• Stay on established paths and camp areas. Dune ecosystems are more delicate than they appear.

Cultural Respect

• Dress modestly, especially when visiting local villages or nomad families. Loose, covered clothing shows respect.

• Ask permission before photographing staff, guides, or local people. A smile and gesture go further than assumptions.

• Show genuine interest in Amazigh (Berber) culture. Learn a few words of Tamazight or Darija Arabic. Ask questions about traditions.

Fair Tipping

Camp staff, camel handlers, and guides depend heavily on seasonal tourism income. Tipping is expected and appreciated.

Role	Suggested Tip
Camp staff (shared)	€5–€10 per guest per night
Camel handler	€5–€10 per ride
Private driver (multi-day)	€10–€20 per day

Preserving the Night

• Keep noise levels low after dark.

• Avoid unnecessary flashlights or phone screens that disrupt the darkness for others.

• The desert’s silence and dark skies are rare gifts—let everyone, including staff, enjoy them.

FAQ

Is Sahara glamping suitable for children?

Many camps welcome families and can provide extra beds or family-sized tents. However, consider the long drive times (8–10 hours), potential heat, and limited medical facilities. Children under 5–6 may struggle with the journey. Older kids typically love the camel rides, sandboarding, and stargazing. Schedule travel during cooler morning hours and plan extra stops to break up driving days.

Can I visit the Sahara Desert on a one-day trip from Marrakech or Fes?

True Sahara dune regions—Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga—are too far for a meaningful day trip. Same-day excursions from Marrakech typically go to the Agafay Desert, a stone desert about 40 minutes from the city. It’s beautiful in its own way, but it’s not the Sahara. If you want the iconic sand dunes, plan for at least one overnight.

Do I have to ride a camel to reach my luxury camp?

No. Riding camels is optional at most camps. Guests who prefer not to ride can take a 4×4 vehicle directly to their tent—it’s faster and more comfortable. You can still book a short camel experience at sunrise or sunset if you change your mind once you’re there.

What about safety and desert wildlife near the tents?

Reputable camps choose locations away from scorpion and snake hotspots, keep walking paths clear and well-lit, and advise guests to wear closed shoes at night. Shake out shoes before putting them on in the morning. Serious incidents are extremely rare when basic precautions are followed.

Can I get mobile signal or internet in the Sahara?

Some Erg Chebbi camps have patchy mobile coverage (Maroc Telecom tends to work best) and limited wifi. Erg Chigaga is usually completely offline. Download offline maps before you go, tell contacts you’ll be unreachable, and embrace the disconnection. Many travelers find the digital detox one of the most refreshing parts of the amazing experience.