Faqs
FAQs
Why should I book a desert tour?
The Sahara Desert is a beautiful and mesmerising place to visit. With its magnificent landscapes and stunning dunes, it’s the perfect place to visit for an unforgettable adventure.
Why should I visit the desert of M’Hamid?
The desert of M’Hamid is undoubtedly the most authentic and beautiful desert in Morocco. If you are looking for a true desert experience, M’Hamid and the dunes of Erg Chigaga is the best location.
How do I book my Tour?
Our tours are all bookable via our website. Chose the tour and date you want and make your reservation. If you can’t find what you are looking for or need something different email us, we’ll be happy to help.
Where do the Tours depart from?
All our tours depart from M’Hamid El Ghizlane, Zagora, known as “M’Hamid”, the start of the Moroccan Sahara and home to Morocco’s biggest dunes of “Erg Chigaga”.
What dates do the tours operate?
All our tours operate throughout the desert season October to May and can run on the date that suits you.
Simply select the date you want when booking. Our special events run on specific dates throughout the year. Check our website for details.
How do I know which tour is right for me?
We have designed a tour to suit everyone. Whether a quick overnight stay in the desert, a slower experience or full desert immersion. Our “Best For” tells you which tour is right for you.
What is included in my tour?
All our tours are all inclusive from M’Hamid: this includes desert transport, camels, accommodation (bivouac or tents for camping), camping equipment and supplies, guides, chefs, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), water and refreshments.
Transfers to and from M’Hamid are not included and can be booked separately through us upon request. See transport.
I need accommodation pre- or post-tour?
No problem. Our guests often stay the evening before or the after their tour to get more from their desert stay. We have our own eco-lodge in the beautiful Palm Grove of M’Hamid, where you can book an extra night. We also serve delicious meals onsite.
How do I get to M’Hamid?
There are several options. You can hire a car and drive to M’Hamid, take the national bus service “CTM” (from Marrakech and other cities) or we can organise Private Transport for you (taxi, 4×4 or minibus depending on group size.) You can also fly from Casablanca to Zagora airport, where we can arrange pick-up.
How long does it take to get to the desert?
M’hamid is in the very southeast of Morocco and takes approximately 7 hours by car to reach. Whilst the journey is long, the sights and landscapes are amazing and well worth the distance.
Why isn’t transport to M’Hamid included in the Tour?
In our experience, most guests like to make their own way to the desert or have other travel plans before getting to us. Our tours give you the freedom and flexibility to create your own programme and of course, we can organise Private Transport for you at your request. You can reserve at the time of booking or during pre-departure and select the transport option and location that best suits you.
How do I get there by public transport.
Morocco’s national bus network “CTM” is excellent. Buses are comfortable, airconditioned, inexpensive (200dh/€20 one-way) and on time. It is a good idea to buy your ticket in advance at the local city office.
Daily departures are:
Depart Marrakech 11.30h – Arrive M’Hamid 21.30h
Depart M’Hamid 6.30h – Arrive Marrakech 16.30h
See www.ctm.ma for tickets and other routes
What types of Private Transport can I book?
We have a variety of Private Transport options, 4×4, taxi or minibus depending on your budget and group size. All our transport is modern, air-conditioned, and operated by licensed, professional drivers, ensuring your safety and comfort every step of the journey.
Private Transport can be organised from all the main cities, including Marrakech, Fez, Casablanca, or any other location in Morocco.
How do I organise pickup and drop off?
Your Private Transport will collect you from your selected pick-up point. You can provide details of your accommodation or pick-up point at the time of booking or let us know pre-departure, together with your chosen drop off point (if applicable).
How do I book my tour?
Booking is easy. Select the tour you want on our website and secure your trip with a standard deposit of 500dh/€50. You will receive an email confirming your reservation and booking.
When do I pay the balance?
You can pay the balance on arrival in Euros or Moroccan Dirhams. If you prefer, you can send the balance via bank transfer before departure. This can be confirmed once you have received your reservation confirmation.
Why do you only take a minimal deposit?
We know travel plans for the desert change, and you may not know your full itinerary. With a small deposit you are covered, and we’re covered for our time and costs for pre-tour arrangements.
How do I book for a private group?
Most of our tours are private, however if you want to ensure that your tour is solely for you, confirm this at the time of booking. We are also happy to design a tour especially for you.
Are there discounts for groups and children?
Yes, we offer a 20% discount for group bookings of more than 4 people. Children under 12 receive a 50% discount on all tours. This will be applied to your reservation and invoice.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel your trip, send us an email to say you no longer need the booking. The standard deposit of 500dh/€50 euros is non-refundable. This goes towards basic booking and administration costs.
When is the best time to travel to the desert?
The best time to visit the desert is between the months of October and May, as the summer months can get quite hot. We do operate all year-round and can accommodate guests during summer, but our best recommendation is October to May.
What should I pack for my desert trip?
In winter pack a jumper, jacket, leggings, socks, and gloves. Lightweight tops, comfy trousers and fleece jacket are best for summer. Training shoes are ideal all-year round and sandals for summer. Sleeping bag is optional (we provide all bedding). Bring a hat or head protection, sunscreen, and sunglasses and small rucksack with a hand towel and basic toiletries. Don’t forget to bring a camera or phone and a small torch and power bank are useful.
What is the average daily trekking time?
We are very flexible, and our guides won’t take you beyond your limits. We walk at a steady pace, averaging between 3 and 5 hours per day. For adventurers and sport enthusiasts, we can up the pace and extend the trek distances. Let us know at the time of booking.
How fit do I need to be for a desert trek?
The level of fitness is highlighted on each tour. A reasonable level of fitness is good for desert treks, but 4×4 excursions are not demanding and perfect of older people and young children.
What is the weather like in the desert?
Our desert treks operate between October and May. In the winter months December and January, it can drop below zero at night and in summer reach into the 30’s during the day.
Generally, the weather is warm and sunny in the day, but can also be changeable, so you bring layers of warm and cool clothing.
Are there any unusual weather conditions?
We can’t anticipate the weather. Sometimes there’s wind in the desert and brief sandstorms. Our guides are fully equipped and will take care of everything the weather may bring to ensure your comfort.
Is it safe to ride a camel?
Of course, it is. Riding a camel might be one of the best experiences of your life. Our camels are trained and cared for by experienced, local guides who are there to make sure your camel trek is safe and fun.
Is the desert suitable for children?
Yes, the desert is ideal for children, they love the adventure and riding camels. Lots of families take our tours and have a great time. We advise that very small children camel share with adults.
Where will I sleep on the trek?
We will set up camp in the dunes. We provide tents for you for your outdoor camping in the desert. 1 or 2 people per tent is the norm. We also provide mattresses, sheets, blanket and pillows. We can provide sleeping bags, or you can bring your own.
What are the desert camps like?
Our traditional desert camps or bivouacs have between 5 and 10 tents. They all have electricity, beds and plenty of blankets and pillows. The communal bathroom has private showers, sinks and toilets – and yes, hot water too. Meals are usually served in the restaurant tent with a campfire at the centre of the camp for evenings singing and dancing under the stars.
What kind of food will we eat?
Moroccan food is delicious and made with the best local ingredients, vegetables, and meat. Tagine is the most popular dish, a slow-cooked meat or vegetable combination cooked over a fire in a clay dish. There will also be plenty of tasty salads, meat, BBQ, and delicious breads. Food is not overly spicey. Our camp chef will provide 3 meals a day, tea and snacks, as well as water.
I am vegetarian, can you cater for food requests?
Yes, our camp chef can cook vegetarian or adapt your meals to specific food preferences. Please let us know of any special requirements at the time of booking.
Is the water safe to drink?
Tap water in Morocco is safe to drink. Bottled water, which is recommended, is easy to find and inexpensive (around 1 euro for 5l).
Is there WiFI in the desert and can I charge my phone?
Maybe! This depends on the exact place you are in the desert. In some places the connection is good and in other places, you are off-grid. Orange is generally considered the best connection and you may get a small signal, even in the big dunes. Bivouacs have electricity so you can charge your device. You may want to bring a power bank as back-up.
Will I have to carry my rucksack in the desert?
Bring a small rucksack or similar with everything you need for the trek. (see what to pack above). Bring just the essentials with you and don’t worry you won’t have to carry it, your camels will do all the carrying for you.
Do I have to take all my luggage on the trek?
No. If you have suitcases or lots of luggage with you, we can arrange safe storage of these for you at your accommodation, while you are on your trek.
What if I need medical care during the tour?
We hope it won’t happen, but if you become ill or have an emergency during your stay with us, we’ll make sure you receive medical care as soon as possible. We have contact with the local medical practitioner and all cities have modern, reliable, and affordable hospitals and healthcare if further treatment is needed.
What about personal hygiene?
We will provide hot water for you to have a basic bucket wash on longer desert treks, but suggest you also bring wet wipes.
Toilets are behind a tree or dune; it’s always easy to find a private spot in the desert. Don’t worry if you feel uncomfortable with this at first, it soon gets easier and feels natural. Don’t forget to bring a cigarette lighter to burn any toilet paper!
Should I tip the guides?
We don’t want anyone to ever feel obliged to tip but if you feel that you would like to then any amount will be very welcomed by the guides. If you want guidance, we suggest an amount in the region of 100 – 200dh per guide. This goes a long way to support the community of nomads and is very much appreciated by your guides.
Anything else I need to know?
The traditional headwear in the desert is the Turban, a practical scarf wrapped around the head and face. We recommend you bring a scarf or buy a traditional one in the village (approx. 50dh/€5). It’s perfect for protecting again the sun and sand. Your guide will wrap it for you like a local!
Is Morocco safe?
Yes, Morocco is very safe. Tourism is the country’s main industry, and the local authorities do a great job of keeping tourists safe during their visit in Morocco.
Do I need a visa?
Most tourists receive a 90-day visa on arrival when entering Morocco. However, we recommend you check with your local embassy if you’re uncertain.
What language is spoken in Morocco?
The most common language spoken is Moroccan Arabic, with French the second most common. Moroccan Berbers (native Moroccans) speak Berber dialect and in the North of the country, Spanish is also commonly spoken in tourist areas due to its proximity to Spain.
What is the currency in Morocco?
The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham, often written MAD or dh. You can change into dirhams at a currency exchange kiosk or draw from the bancomat. Euros are also widely accepted. Moroccan dirhams cannot be exchanged outside of Morocco.
How long should I spend in Morocco?
Morocco is a land of many different landscapes and cultures. Many visitors come for 1 or 2 weeks and then visit again and again to experience all the country has to offer.
Can I travel alone as a woman?
Yes, absolutely. Travel is safe and relatively easy, especially when you’re with a guide, but also solo. Foreign tourists are very well looked after in Morocco and the local tourist police are extremely efficient in safeguarding all tourists.
Can I drink alcohol in Morocco?
Morocco is a land of many different landscapes and cultures. Many visitors come for 1 or 2 weeks and then visit again and again to experience all the country has to offer.
How should I dress in Morocco?
Morocco welcomes western fashion yet is also traditional in several regions across the country. Many women cover their hair with a hijab and wear the traditional long dress, jellaba. The best advice is dress with common sense and keep legs, shoulders and chest covered. Loose clothing is ideal for the warmer months and a warm jacket is advisable in the cooler months.
How should I haggle when buying souvenirs?
In some shops the prices are fixed, in some of the souks and markets you may need to negotiate. The haggle is part of the fun, don’t take it personally. Keep haggling until your reach your perfect price, if you don’t, you can walk away!
What and how much should I tip?
Though not obligatory, Morocco is a tipping culture, and the gesture is well received. A general guideline is 5-10% in restaurants, 100dh per day for guides and drivers.
