A desert tour is an adventure, but packing for it is simple once you know what to expect: hot sun during the day, cool or cold nights, fine sand everywhere and one night away from your main luggage. Here is our checklist, based on years of guiding travelers to Merzouga and Zagora.
Clothing
- Light, loose, breathable clothes that cover shoulders and knees (cooler in the sun and respectful in villages).
- A warm fleece or jacket for the evening, even in summer, and a thick jacket, hat and gloves from November to February.
- Long trousers for the camel ride.
- Comfortable closed shoes or trainers; sandals are fine in the camp.
- A scarf or a cheche (Berber turban) to protect your face from sun and wind.
Sun protection
- Sunglasses with good UV protection.
- High-factor sunscreen and lip balm.
- A hat or cap for the day stops.
Your overnight bag for the desert camp
Your main luggage usually stays in the vehicle or at the hotel, so bring a small backpack with:
- Toothbrush, wet wipes and a small towel.
- Warm layer and a change of clothes.
- Headlamp or phone torch for the night.
- Power bank to charge your phone and camera.
- Reusable water bottle.
Cameras and electronics
Sand gets everywhere. Keep cameras in a zip bag when not in use and avoid changing lenses in the wind. Bring extra batteries: the cold at night drains them quickly, and you will want photos of sunrise over the dunes.
Money and documents
- Your passport (needed at hotels and police checkpoints).
- Cash in Moroccan dirhams for drinks, souvenirs and tips; ATMs are rare near the dunes.
- Travel insurance details.
All packed? Choose your desert adventure.
See the tour details or message us on WhatsApp +212 771 979 097 / contact@indreamstravelmorocco.com for a free quote.
What not to bring
- Large suitcases on the camel: they stay behind.
- Expensive jewelry.
- Drones without a permit: drones are restricted in Morocco and may be confiscated at customs.
Packing by season
In summer focus on sun protection and light clothes; in winter bring real warm clothes for the night, as temperatures in the desert can drop close to 0°C. Read our guide to the best time to visit the Sahara for month-by-month details.
Health and comfort
- Your usual medication, plus something for an upset stomach and rehydration salts.
- Hand sanitizer and tissues for road stops.
- Moisturizer and eye drops: the desert air is very dry.
- Earplugs if you are a light sleeper.
Tips for women travelers
Loose trousers or long skirts and tops covering the shoulders are practical and comfortable in the heat. A large scarf is the most useful item you can pack: it protects from the sun and sand, keeps you warm in the evening and can be used to cover your shoulders when visiting villages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should women wear in the Moroccan desert?
Loose, light clothes covering shoulders and knees are comfortable and respectful. A scarf is useful for both sun and sand.
Is it cold at night in the Sahara?
Yes, especially from November to March, when nights can approach freezing. Even in summer, evenings are cooler than the day.
Do I need special shoes for the dunes?
No. Trainers or comfortable shoes are fine; many travelers walk barefoot on the soft sand.