Hiking & Trekking Tours & Trips in Sahara Desert
Ready to trek through the Sahara, moving across dunes on foot? Desert trekking means days walking between oases or camps, sleeping under the stars, experiencing silence and heat and sand. Morocco's Erg Chebbi or Erg Chigaga regions, possibly Algeria's Tassili n'Ajjer with its rock art, and Tunisia's southern desert. It's physically demanding but the emptiness and beauty hit different than any other landscape.
10 best hiking & trekking Sahara Desert tours
Compiled by
MelissaSahara Desert travel expert at TourRadar
- 6-Days Desert Tour From Marrakech To Desert Trek
- 7 Days Tour From Marrakech via Atlas Mountains & Desert (Private)
- Hike Morocco's Atlas Mountains
- Trek Jebel Saghro 8 Days
- 4 days desert trek and sahara camping
- 8-Days Private Morocco Tour From Marrakech To Imlil Atlas Mountains & Trekking
- Morocco Desert Camel Trek: 4-Day Sahara Experience
- Sahara-Trekking 6 Days (Walk with nomads and camels)
- Morocco Sahara Camel Caravan Expedition
- Morocco Mountains, Steppes And Desert Absolute Tour
Walk through Erg Chigaga's golden dunes, Morocco's largest sand sea that stretches 40 km, with a 2-hour camel ride taking you into the Sahara Desert. Drive 90 km off-road through part of the legendary Paris-Dakar Rally route, stopping at Lake Iriqui's dry salt flats. Sleep under the stars in traditional nomadic tents and learn sand bread baking techniques with your Berber camel team.
Duration 6 days Destinations Marrakesh, Telouet, Ait Benhaddou, Ouarzazate, Agdz, Zagora, Tamegroute, Erg Chigaga, Foum Zguid, Tazenakht Age Range Ages 7+ Operated in English, Italian, French, Spanish Physical Rating Relaxing Distance 380 mi Operator Morhara Morocco Tours From $1,295
15% Off- US$1,101You save $194
7 Days Tour From Marrakech via Atlas Mountains & Desert (Private)
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“Morocco is such a diverse country, with beautiful people and awesome food, and the country is soooo very clean.”
RUTH, traveled in April
The route passes through Draa Valley's Tinejdad and Tourang oases, where you'll see ancient canal irrigation systems still working in Erfoud and Rissani before reaching Merzouga's massive dunes. A camel trek brings you to a luxury desert camp with modern amenities, then you'll have traditional Moroccan dinner by the campfire with live desert music under the stars.
Duration 7 days Destinations Marrakesh, Imlil, Sidi Chamharoush, Boumalne Dades, Tinghir, Todra Gorge, Tinejdad, Erfoud, Rissani, MerzougaSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, French Physical Rating Easy Distance 859 mi Operator Morocco Magic Trip From
15% Off- US$1,682
Hike Morocco's Atlas Mountains
113 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Staying at the gite for four nights was the highlight of the trip for me. We were able to walk each day from the door, it was a great opportunity to see/experience some of the village life.”
Katie, traveled in January
High Atlas trails mark the Sahara's edge. The route extends from Tijhza village through varied terrain including Tizi'n'Ourghsan pass and Mount n'Oughlagal (8,530ft). Dramatic desert-mountain landscapes complement traditional riad accommodation.
Duration 8 days Destinations Marrakesh, Telouet Age Range Ages 16+ Distance 101 mi Operator Exodus Adventure Travels From $1,078
19% Off- US$878You save $200
Trek Jebel Saghro 8 Days
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“Nice and easy 4 day trek in Anti Atlas Mountains. We did it as a standalone tour but it is a long drive from Marrakech.”
Sigitas, traveled in October
The volcanic landscapes of Jebel Saghro mark the Sahara's edge. Reach the summit of Mount Kouaouche (2500m), marvel at Afourar valley's rock formations, and rest at camps near the iconic Bab-n-Ali gates. The route passes through traditional Ait Atta territories and ancient desert trade routes.
Duration 8 days Destinations Marrakesh, Ouarzazate, Jbel Saghro Age Range Ages 10+ Operated in English, German, French, Spanish, Chinese, Dutch Physical Rating Moderate Distance 285 mi Operator Easygo Tours From
19% Off- US$896
Duration 4 days Destinations Mhamid, Marrakesh Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, French Physical Rating Moderate Distance 184 mi Operator Sahara mystery From
19% Off- US$824
8-Days Private Morocco Tour From Marrakech To Imlil Atlas Mountains & Trekking
“The landscapes were breathtaking. We passed through Berber villages and met locals.”
Barbara, traveled in March
Varied terrain stretches from Erg Chebbi's towering dunes to remote mountain trails. Guided camel rides at Merzouga and ancient caravan routes near Rissani lead to luxury camping at Sahara Stars Camp.
Duration 8 days Destinations Marrakesh, Imlil, Mount Toubkal, Telouet, Ait Benhaddou, Skoura, Todra Gorge, Merzouga, Erg Chebbi, RissaniSee all destinations Age Range Ages 8+ Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish Physical Rating Relaxing Distance 581 mi Operator Morhara Morocco Tours From $2,119
15% Off- US$1,801You save $318
Vast dunes stretch from Mhamid to the historic Sidi Naji sanctuary. Hidden oases and rocky plateaus dot this desert journey with camel support. Professional guides lead this 5-star rated adventure for authentic Saharan experiences.
Duration 4 days Destinations Marrakesh, Ouarzazate, Ait Benhaddou, Zagora, Mhamid Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Chinese, Dutch, Russian Physical Rating Moderate Distance 409 mi Operator Desertbrise Travel From
15% Off- US$647
Sahara-Trekking 6 Days (Walk with nomads and camels)
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“He had an incredible way of anticipating our needs and always went the extra mile to make sure we were comfortable, safe, and having the best time.”
David, traveled in March
Sahara's most stunning dunes stretch from M'hamid to Zahar. Daily 3-hour hikes across Erg Lagwasm and Sidi Naji come with camel support. Sunset climbs on the region's highest dunes are guided by local experts.
Duration 6 days Destinations Marrakesh, Ait Benhaddou, Ouarzazate, Agdz, Tamegroute, Mhamid, Tagounite, Zagora Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, French Physical Rating Easy Distance 396 mi Operator SAHARA EYES From
15% Off- US$1,064
Golden dunes stretch from Merzouga to Taouz oasis along ancient trading routes. Moderate hiking and camel trekking fill 4-5 hours daily, while nights offer pristine desert skies.
Duration 7 days Destinations Casablanca, Fes, Midelt, Erfoud, Erg Chebbi, Merzouga, Khamlia, Rissani, Tinghir, Todra GorgeSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18+ Operated in English, French, Spanish Physical Rating Moderate Distance 565 mi Operator Morocco Discoveries From
15% Off- US$2,885
M'Hamid El Ghizlanes opens to Merzouga's towering dunes. Remote desert camps dot the landscape as golden sands catch the sunrise. African skies blanket camps near Lake Iriki, with authentic Bedouin encounters throughout.
Duration 16 days Destinations Casablanca, Oujda, Jerada, Guenfouda, Ain Bni Mathar, Tendrara, Bouarfa, Figuig, Merzouga, RissaniSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18+ Operated in English, Spanish Physical Rating Moderate Distance 1719 mi Operator Morocco Discoveries From
15% Off- US$3,650
What people love about Hiking & Trekking Tours in Sahara Desert
- Trek Jebel Saghro 8 Days
Nice and easy 4 day trek in Anti Atlas Mountains that me and my son did as part of our Morocco trip. We did it as a standalone tour but it is a long drive from Marrakech so may make sense to combine with other activities in the area. Guide Lahce and cook Idir took an excellent care of us the whole time.
- Sahara-Trekking 6 Days (Walk with nomads and camels)
From the moment we met Smail, we knew we were in for something special. Over the course of 10 days, he didn’t just drive us through Morocco—he guided us, cared for us, and showed us the country in a way we could never have experienced on our own. Smail’s warmth, professionalism, and deep knowledge of Morocco made every moment feel meaningful. Whether navigating bustling medinas, winding mountain roads, or the quiet stretches of the desert, he was always calm, reliable, and full of insight. He was more than a driver—he was a storyteller, a guide, and by the end, a true friend. He had an incredible way of anticipating our needs and always went the extra mile to make sure we were comfortable, safe, and having the best time. His passion for his country was contagious, and he introduced us to hidden gems, local traditions, and unforgettable people we would have never found otherwise. Thanks to Smail, our trip was more than a vacation—it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that touched our hearts. We left Morocco with full hearts and lifelong memories, all thanks to him. We can’t recommend Smail highly enough, and we already can’t wait to return.
- Moroccan Desert Adventure: River Canyons & Camels
Really nice trip, beautiful landscape
What our customers ask about Hiking & Trekking Tours & Trips in Sahara Desert
What is the best time of year for hiking in the Sahara Desert?
Plan your Sahara Desert hiking adventure between September and May when the climate is ideal for trekking. The Erg Chigaga and Merzouga dunes see pleasant temperatures around 20-25°C (68-77°F) making it possible to hike comfortably for 4-6 hours each day. One TourRadar traveler noted "The weather was perfect for hiking in November not too hot during the day and pleasantly cool at night."
What should I pack for a multi-day hiking trip in the Sahara Desert?
For Sahara Desert hiking pack lightweight breathable clothing with long sleeves sturdy hiking boots and a wide-brimmed hat. Bring high SPF sunscreen and water carriers that hold at least 3 liters per day. When trekking through regions like Erg Chigaga pack a warm sleeping bag for nights that can drop to 0°C. A TourRadar traveler advised: "Good quality hiking boots are essential for the sandy terrain and don't forget a headlamp for evening navigation around camp at places like Erg Lawina and Sidi Naji."
What are the best hiking trails in the Sahara Desert for different skill levels?
The Sahara Desert provides options for every hiking ability. Beginners can start with 4-5 hour hikes near the Erg Chebbi dunes at Merzouga while experienced hikers might tackle the 8-day Erg Chigaga trek covering up to 16km daily through remote dunes and caravan routes. One TourRadar traveler shared "The hiking experience and tranquility of the desert were excellent allowing us to explore both easy and challenging terrains." For intermediate levels the Tamegroute to M'hamid trail offers a balanced 5-6 hour trek.
Where do I sleep during multi-day Sahara Desert hikes?
Desert camps and traditional lodgings create the backdrop for nights in the Sahara. Popular Erg Chebbi treks feature luxury desert camps with private bathrooms while remote trails like Erg Chigaga offer basic tent camping under desert skies. Some routes include stays at authentic kasbahs like Kasbah Amazigh or local guesthouses in villages like Agdz. A TourRadar traveler noted: "The mix of camping in the dunes and staying at the comfortable Dar Imlil guesthouse provided a perfect balance of authentic desert experience and comfort."
What wildlife and natural features might I encounter while hiking in the Sahara?
The hiking trails showcase the Sahara's diverse terrain from the 300m dunes of Erg Chebbi to the dramatic Todra Gorge canyons. Desert foxes gazelles and various birds frequent the Draa Valley region. The Erg Chigaga route features unique geological formations including the "howling dunes" that create sounds in the wind. A TourRadar traveler shared: "The variety of landscapes from the Dades Valley to the massive dunes of Erg Chebbi was incredible each day bringing new natural wonders to discover."
What kind of cultural experiences are included in Sahara Desert hikes?
Desert hikes blend outdoor adventure with local culture through visits to Berber villages interactions with nomadic families and stays in local homes. Tours often stop at historic sites such as the UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou Kasbah and women's cooperatives in M'hamid. A TourRadar traveler noted: "The care hospitality and authenticity was the best we experienced in our time in Morocco especially during our evenings around the campfire with our Berber guides."
What type of meals are provided during Sahara Desert hikes?
Local cooks prepare traditional Moroccan dishes at desert camps throughout the trek. Start your day with fresh bread jams eggs and mint tea. Midday brings picnic lunches with salads and sandwiches while evenings feature hot tagines couscous and grilled meats. Camps like those in Erg Chigaga prepare all meals fresh daily. One TourRadar reviewer shared "The food was incredible - fresh bread baked in the sand and delicious tagines every night."