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
- Morocco Desert Camel Trek: 4-Day Sahara Experience
- 8-Days Private Morocco Tour From Marrakech To Imlil Atlas Mountains & Trekking
- 7 Days Tour From Marrakech via Atlas Mountains & Desert (Private)
- Hike Morocco's Atlas Mountains
- Trek Jebel Saghro 8 Days
- FROM MHAMID Desert – Explore Morocco's Sahara!!! 3-Days Adventure Camel Trekking in Morocco Sahara Desert
- Sahara-Trekking 6 Days (Walk with nomads and camels)
- Mgoun Trek Morocco
- Trekking in Morocco: Erg Chigaga Trek - 8 Days
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, Ait Benhaddou, Agdz, Zagora, Tamegroute, Erg Chigaga, Foum Zguid, Tazenakht Age Range Ages 7+ Operated in English, Italian, French, Spanish Physical Rating Relaxing Distance 377 mi Operator Morhara Morocco Tours From $1,281
15% Off- US$1,089You save $192
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$642
8-Days Private Morocco Tour From Marrakech To Imlil Atlas Mountains & Trekking
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“Morocco is a stunning destination & Hassan made sure we saw the best it had to offer on our tour.”
Karin, traveled in February
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 $2,097
15% Off- US$1,782You save $315
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“The walking in the mountains helps put things into perspective, and the hospitality of the people give's a sense of being truely welcome.”
Michael, traveled in June
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
3% Off- US$1,050You save $28
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
3% Off- US$896
FROM MHAMID Desert – Explore Morocco's Sahara!!! 3-Days Adventure Camel Trekking in Morocco Sahara Desert
10 Reviews by TourRadar travelers
Duration 3 days Destinations Mhamid Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, French Operator Blue Turbans Adventures From
3% Off- US$352
Sahara-Trekking 6 Days (Walk with nomads and camels)
2 Reviews 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
3% Off- US$1,056
Mgoun Trek Morocco
4 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The landscape was beautiful. The summit of M'Goun ist wonderful as well as the other day tours and campsites.”
Tobias, traveled in August
Mountains meet desert on this route from Tabant base (1850m). Dramatic elevation changes lead from desert plains to Aghouwri Pass (3400m), with nights spent camping at scenic locations like Tarkeddid refuge (2900m).
Duration 6 days Destinations Marrakesh, Ait Bouguemez Age Range All Ages Welcome Physical Rating Moderate Distance 176 mi Operator Trek in Morocco From
3% Off- US$677
Trekking in Morocco: Erg Chigaga Trek - 8 Days
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“This stunning sand dune sea is located in the Sahara desert—and being the first time, I was amazed to take pictures to show off to my family back at home.”
Beatrice, traveled in April
Dramatic landscapes unfold from Marrakesh to Erg Chigaga's 300-meter dunes. Ancient caravan routes wind through Oued Naam and Sacred Oasis, while expert guides share desert wisdom. Moderate hiking with camel ride options covers diverse terrain over 15km daily.
Duration 8 days Destinations Marrakesh, Mhamid, Erg Chigaga, Erg Chebbi Age Range Ages 15+ Operated in English, French, Spanish Physical Rating Moderate Distance 702 mi Operator View Morocco From
3% Off- US$1,039
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.
Incredible experience with Said! We did the 3 day camel trek with nomads and had a great time. We looked for fossils, had tea with nomadic people, rode camels in the dunes at sunset, and slept out under the Sahara stars at the desert camp wild. In the morning we went sand boarding in the sand dunes before breakfast. Said is a great and knowledgeable guide that I would recommend to anyone!
FROM MHAMID Desert – Explore Morocco's Sahara!!! 3-Days Adventure Camel Trekking in Morocco Sahara Desert
- Sahara-Trekking 6 Days (Walk with nomads and camels)
After a drive of about seven hours, I arrived in M’Hamid from Marrakech. The journey itself was already an adventure. We drove through the Atlas Mountains where there was still snow, and just a few hours later we found ourselves in the middle of a sandstorm in the desert. At the end of the highway, the road literally stopped. This was the end of the N9. After a small “bump in the road,” we suddenly continued on sand. My driver smiled and said, “Now we are really in the desert.” Upon arrival at the camp, I was able to use Western facilities like a shower and toilet for the last time. In the evening, a delicious meal was served, and I dined under an incredible starry sky. A very special and peaceful start to the experience. The next morning, I was picked up by Mohammed and Ibrahim, together with two camels. My luggage was secured onto a camel, and we set off on foot into the desert. The landscape is breathtaking: dunes as far as the eye can see, mixed with light vegetation and stretches of hard sand. One moment you sink up to your ankles, the next you walk on firm ground. Mohammed explained that we could not keep climbing dunes because camels do not like that, so we constantly searched for flatter routes. After about two hours, we took a break. I was given water and fruit such as mandarins and an apple, along with dates and biscuits. Then we continued our journey. During the walk, you hardly meet anyone. In four hours of hiking, I encountered only one other tourist. Exactly the silence and space I was looking for. At the end of the day, Mohammed and Ibrahim built the camp while I relaxed, read a book, and enjoyed the absolute stillness. You hear nothing there except the wind and the soft sounds of the camp being set up. I could choose whether to sleep in a tent or under the stars. That first night, I chose the tent. The following day, we walked toward the large dune Erg Bartam, which was visible from far away. During this part of the journey, I was able to walk sections alone, completely in my own thoughts, surrounded by nothing but desert. After several hours of walking, we set up camp again, and in the late afternoon we climbed Erg Bartam for sunset. Here we met a few other travelers, which actually created a pleasant atmosphere: guides speaking Arabic together, while tourists shared experiences in English and French. After a beautiful sunset, we walked back to camp in the dark, under a sky full of stars. Without Mohammed, I would have completely lost my sense of direction. Back at camp, Ibrahim had prepared a delicious tagine, and we ate together while talking about many different things. That night, I decided to sleep outside without a tent. For the first time in my life, I saw the Milky Way with the naked eye. Within half an hour, I saw several shooting stars. That moment, in the silence of the Sahara, was truly unforgettable. The next morning, Ibrahim prepared breakfast again with fresh bread, jam, cheese, eggs, and coffee or tea. Simple, but the perfect ending to an extraordinary experience. This trek was exactly what I was looking for: peace, nature, personal guidance, and an authentic introduction to the desert. Mohammed and Ibrahim made sure everything ran smoothly, safely, and comfortably. I can highly recommend this experience to anyone who truly wants to discover the Sahara.
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."