The Saharan Desert
A vast and awe-inspiring landscape of sand dunes, camel treks, and starry nights.
Overview
Welcome to the Saharan Desert, one of the most majestic and awe-inspiring landscapes on the planet. This vast expanse of wilderness is steeped in history, with evidence of human civilization dating back thousands of years. The extreme climate of the Sahara is characterized by scorching temperatures during the day and chilly nights, yet its beauty remains unparalleled. The geographical area of the desert is larger than the continental United States, encompassing a diverse ecosystem that is home to a variety of plant and animal species uniquely adapted to survive in this harsh environment. Explore the towering sand dunes that stretch as far as the eye can see, and witness the breathtaking sunsets. The Saharan Desert invites you to embark on a journey of discovery, where every dune, every oasis, and every starlit night tells a story of resilience and wonder, offering a curated experience that combines tourism expertise with the raw, untamed beauty of Africa’s desert wilderness.
Things to Do
Camel Trekking: Experience the traditional mode of transport in the desert and enjoy the serene landscapes.
Stargazing: Witness the breathtaking night sky in the desert, away from city lights.
Visit Oases: Explore the lush oases scattered throughout the desert, offering a stark contrast to the arid landscape.
Sandboarding and Dune Bashing: Try your hand at sandboarding down the dunes or enjoy an adrenaline-pumping dune bashing experience.
Camping: Spend a night under the stars in a traditional Bedouin camp, complete with local cuisine and entertainment.
Visit Desert Towns: Explore towns like Merzouga in Morocco or Siwa Oasis in Egypt, which offer a glimpse into desert life and culture.
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What to See
Erg Chebbi: Marvel at the stunning sand dunes of Erg Chebbi, known for their orange hues and towering heights.
Rock Formations: Discover unique rock formations, such as the surreal landscapes of the Ennedi Plateau in Chad.
Fossil Sites: Visit fossil sites in the Sahara, like those in Morocco’s Kem Kem region, which offer a glimpse into prehistoric life.
Wildlife: Spot desert-adapted wildlife, including the iconic dromedary camels, fennec foxes, and desert hedgehogs.
Historic Sites: Explore ancient caravan routes and historic sites, such as the ancient city of Ghadames in Libya.
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Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Sahara Desert is during the cooler months, from November to February, when temperatures are more comfortable for outdoor activities.
Getting there
By Air:
Major Airports: Fly to major cities near the Sahara Desert, such as Marrakech in Morocco, Tunis in Tunisia, or Cairo in Egypt.
Local Flights: Take domestic flights or chartered flights to airports closer to the desert, such as Ouarzazate in Morocco or Tozeur in Tunisia.
Airport Transfers: Arrange airport transfers or hire a car to drive to the desert from the nearest airport.
By Land:
Drive: Rent a car and drive to the desert from nearby cities or towns. Be prepared for long drives and desert terrain.
Public Transport: Use buses or shared taxis to get as close as possible to the desert, then arrange for a local guide or transport to reach your destination.
Where to Stay
Mid-Range Accommodation:
Desert Luxury Camp
Located in the Saharan Desert, Desert Luxury Camp offers mid-range accommodations. The camp features comfortable tents and a unique desert experience for guests.
Sahara Garden Bivouac
In the vicinity of the Saharan Desert, Sahara Garden Bivouac is a mid-range option offering comfortable accommodations. The bivouac provides a traditional desert stay and easy access to the beauty of the Sahara.
Chez le Pacha
Near the Saharan Desert, Chez le Pacha provides mid-range accommodations. Guests can enjoy a unique stay close to the desert while experiencing Moroccan hospitality and the desert landscapes.
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Luxury Accommodation:
Erg Chebbi Luxury Desert Camp
For a luxurious experience in the Saharan Desert, Erg Chebbi Luxury Desert Camp is a premium choice. Renowned for its upscale amenities and stunning desert setting, the camp offers a high-end retreat for guests seeking luxury and immersion in the desert.
Camp Merzouga Luxury Desert
Located near the Saharan Desert, Camp Merzouga Luxury Desert provides luxurious accommodations and top-notch facilities. The camp caters to guests desiring a luxurious stay while enjoying the unique landscapes of the desert.
Nomad Palace
Another luxury option near the Saharan Desert is Nomad Palace. This upscale accommodation provides modern amenities, exclusive accommodations, and a strategic location for guests looking for a luxurious retreat amid the Sahara.
Other Attractions in Morocco
Chefchaouen
Marrakech
Fez
Asilah
Meknes
Rabat
Casablanca
Ait Benhaddou
Essaouira
Taghazout
High Atlas Mountains
Agadir
Tangier
Ouarzazate
General Knowledge Base
General information about The Saharan Desert, Morocco.
The Sahara Desert covers most of North Africa, including parts of Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Mauritania, Mali, Niger, Chad, and Sudan.
The Sahara Desert is the largest hot desert in the world, covering an area of approximately 9.2 million square kilometers (3.6 million square miles).
Despite its harsh conditions, the Sahara Desert is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including camels, desert foxes, gazelles, and a variety of desert-adapted plants.
The Sahara Desert is known for its vast sand dunes, rocky plateaus, and dry riverbeds known as wadis. It also contains several mountain ranges, including the Atlas Mountains in Morocco.
Yes, the Sahara Desert is dotted with oases, which are areas of fertile land where water is present, allowing for the growth of vegetation and the establishment of settlements.
The Sahara Desert has played a significant role in Moroccan culture, serving as a trade route and a source of inspiration for art, literature, and music.
The best time to visit the Sahara Desert is during the cooler months from October to April when temperatures are more comfortable for outdoor activities.
Yes, visitors to Morocco can enjoy camel treks and camping trips in the Sahara Desert, experiencing the desert’s beauty and tranquility.
