For the Moroccan desert, wear light, loose layers that cover your shoulders and knees, closed shoes, sunglasses and a scarf, and always bring a warm layer for the evening. Days can be hot even in winter, but nights in the desert drop fast, sometimes close to freezing in December and January. The details depend on the season and on whether you are going to Agafay for an afternoon or to the Sahara for a night in a camp.
The desert has big temperature changes between day and night. In Merzouga, a 25°C afternoon in March can become a 5°C night. The easiest way to stay comfortable is to dress in layers you can add or remove:
| Season | Daytime | Evening and night |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (Dec – Feb) | Long sleeves, light sweater | Warm jacket, hat, gloves for the Sahara camp |
| Spring (Mar – May) | T-shirt or shirt, light trousers | Fleece and windproof jacket |
| Summer (Jun – Aug) | Very light, loose, covering clothes, hat | Light long sleeves; nights stay warm in the Sahara |
| Autumn (Sep – Nov) | T-shirt or shirt, light trousers | Fleece, warmer jacket from November |
Not sure when to go? Read our month-by-month guide to the Sahara.
Closed shoes are best for every desert activity. Light trainers are fine for Agafay and for the camel ride. In the Sahara, sand gets everywhere: many travellers walk barefoot on the dunes (lovely in the evening, too hot at midday in summer) and keep sandals for the camp. Avoid heavy hiking boots unless you plan long walks.
The long cotton scarf worn by desert people is the most useful thing you can bring. It protects your head from the sun, your face from dust on a quad or in the wind, and your neck from the evening cold. You can buy one in the Marrakech souks or in Merzouga for a few euros, and your guide will happily show you how to tie it.
Wear trousers rather than shorts or a short skirt: the saddle rubs, and you lean back and forward when the camel stands up and sits down. A loose long skirt is fine if it is wide enough. Book a sunset camel ride in Agafay or a camel trek in the Sahara.
Long trousers, closed shoes and sunglasses. Helmets and scarves are provided on our Agafay quad trips. Avoid white clothes: they will not stay white.
Pack a small bag for the night (the big luggage usually stays in the car): warm layer, pyjamas, toothbrush, a power bank, a headlamp and wet wipes. Desert camps provide blankets, and from November to March you will appreciate a hat for the evening around the fire. Discover our Sahara desert tours from Marrakech.
Morocco is a Muslim country, and in villages along the desert routes people dress modestly. You do not need to cover your hair, but clothes that cover shoulders and knees are respectful and also protect you from the sun. In desert camps and in Agafay, the atmosphere is relaxed. Our general Morocco packing list covers cities and the mountains too.
For weather forecasts before you leave, check the national meteorological service, Maroc Météo.
3-Day Private Luxury Sahara Tour: Marrakech to Merzouga Desert via Dades Valley
Agafay Desert Quad Biking from Marrakech (1h or 2h)
Agafay Desert Sunset Camel Ride with Mint Tea
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