Best Desert Hikes in the World

What our customers ask about Best Desert Hikes in the World

• When is the best time to go on a desert hike tour?

  For Morocco's Sahara Desert, plan your trip between October and April when it's most comfortable to hike, with daytime temperatures around 75-85°F (24-29°C). If you're heading to Egypt's Western Desert or the Bahariya Oasis area, the winter months from November to February are ideal, with temperatures ranging from 68-77°F (20-25°C). A TourRadar traveler notes "if you're worried about the heat, look at June, July, or August dates when daytime temperatures are lower in some regions."

• What wildlife might I see on desert hike tours?

  Each desert region offers its own unique wildlife encounters. In Australia's Red Centre along the Larapinta Trail, you might come across Black-footed Rock Wallabies and Echidnas. The Sahara in Morocco is home to desert foxes and gazelles, plus you can spot desert warblers and flamingos near seasonal lakes. One TourRadar traveler remembers "we were fortunate to see Barbary apes in the Cedar forests of Azrou." In Egypt's Western Desert, you'll find interesting desert-adapted animals and ancient fossil remains, especially around the White Desert and Crystal Mountain.

• What special experiences can I expect on desert hike tours?

  You can watch the sun come up over Morocco's Erg Chebbi dunes or explore hidden limestone caves in Egypt's Western Desert. Many travelers love the camel rides through the Sahara - one TourRadar traveler shared that "the dramatic scenery of Erg Chebbi sand dunes was one of Morocco's top sights." You can spend nights in nice desert camps near Merzouga Desert where you'll get to stargaze, listen to local Berber music by the campfire, and try sandboarding on big dunes. The tours also take you to interesting cultural spots like Kasbah Tamnougalte near Agdz and Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• What are the sleeping options on desert hike tours?

  You'll stay in a mix of hotels and desert camps throughout your trip. In Morocco, many tours include nice desert camps in places like Erg Chebbi, with comfortable beds in private tents. For example, on Escorted Morocco Tours, you'll split your time between local guesthouses like Nouflla in Ait Ben Haddou and traditional Berber tent camps. A TourRadar traveler shared that "the accommodation was fantastic and clean and the food was amazing!" The combination of hotel and camp stays gives you both comfort and a real desert experience.

• How much water do I need to bring on desert hikes?

  Pack 3-4 liters of water per person each day, especially in the Sahara where it can get up to 95°F (35°C). For morning hikes in Morocco's Erg Chebbi dunes, bring at least 2 liters, plus extra if you're doing afternoon activities. TourRadar travelers emphasize that "having plenty of water is crucial - the dry desert air and sun exposure increase your need for hydration dramatically." Your guides will provide water during activities, but it's smart to carry extra.

• What kind of sleeping setup is there on desert hike tours?

  You'll switch between desert camps and regular hotels. In Morocco's Erg Chebbi dunes, places like the Sama Al Wasil Camp give you private tents with real beds. You might also stay in nice desert lodges like the Qasr el Bawity in Egypt's Bahariya Oasis. One TourRadar traveler shared that "sleeping under the stars in Wadi Rum's desert camp was magical - the tents were comfortable and the hospitality incredible."