The Moroccan desert is one of the most captivating and iconic landscapes in North Africa. With its vast sand dunes, star-studded skies, ancient kasbahs, and deep-rooted nomadic culture, it offers a surreal escape for travelers seeking both adventure and serenity. Whether you’re visiting the dramatic Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga or the untamed beauty of Erg Chigaga near M’Hamid, the desert promises an unforgettable experience. But what exactly should you do while you’re there? Here are the best things to do in the Morocco desert, whether you’re staying for a night or exploring for several days.
Camel Trekking Across the Dunes
No trip to the Sahara Desert is complete without a camel ride. These gentle creatures, often called the “ships of the desert,” have been used for centuries to traverse the arid landscapes. Today, camel treks offer travelers a timeless way to experience the golden sands of Erg Chebbi or Erg Chigaga. Camel rides usually take place at sunrise or sunset, when the golden light paints the dunes in shades of orange and red. It’s the perfect opportunity for peaceful reflection, cultural connection, and stunning desert photography.
Watch the Sunrise and Sunset Over the Dunes
The Sahara’s sunrises and sunsets are nothing short of poetic. Climb to the top of a dune just before dawn or dusk and watch the colors shift from deep crimson to gold and soft blue. The peaceful silence, the cool breeze, and the sweeping views of sand as far as the eye can see make these moments unforgettable. Don’t forget your camera—or better yet, simply be present and take it all in.
Try Sandboarding in the Sahara
Adventure lovers should not miss the chance to go sandboarding in Morocco. Slide down the steep faces of dunes like those in Erg Chebbi for a fun, adrenaline-filled activity. Many desert camps provide sandboards for free, and it’s a great way to mix excitement with the calm of the desert. It’s suitable for both beginners and experienced boarders, and the soft sand makes for gentle landings.
Ride ATVs or Go Off-Roading by 4×4
For a thrill and a sense of freedom, consider exploring the Moroccan desert by quad bike or 4×4 vehicle. These off-road excursions take you beyond the camps into untouched desert terrain, where you’ll encounter rock plateaus, fossil fields, ancient caravan routes, and remote oases. Some tours include visits to abandoned villages and centuries-old ksars, adding depth and discovery to your desert adventure.
Visit a Nomadic Family in the Desert
One of the most enriching things to do in the Moroccan desert is to meet a local nomadic family. Many desert tours include a respectful stop at a nomad tent, where you can share Moroccan mint tea, learn about daily life in the desert, and understand how these families adapt to their harsh yet beautiful environment. This kind of cultural exchange gives your journey a meaningful human connection and supports local communities.
Explore Fossil Sites and Prehistoric Landscapes
Believe it or not, much of the Moroccan desert was once an ancient seabed. In regions like Erfoud, Alnif, and Tafilalt, you can explore fossil quarries filled with ammonites, trilobites, and prehistoric coral. Visit a local fossil museum, take a guided fossil-hunting hike, or shop for polished fossils at roadside stalls and workshops. It’s a fascinating way to combine geology with travel.
Stargazing in the Sahara Desert
With no light pollution and clear desert air, the Sahara is one of the best places in the world for stargazing in Morocco. Lay back on a sand dune or your camp terrace and gaze up at the Milky Way, constellations, and shooting stars. Some luxury desert camps offer telescopes or guided astronomy sessions, making this experience both spiritual and scientific. On clear nights, it’s not uncommon to see dozens of stars per minute.
Discover Traditional Berber Music and Desert Drumming
Nights in the desert come alive with the sound of Berber music. Gather around the campfire with other travelers and enjoy rhythmic drumming, traditional songs, and storytelling passed down through generations. You may even be invited to join in and try your hand at playing the djembe or bendir drums. It’s a joyful way to end a day in the dunes and a reminder of the Sahara’s living culture.
Walk Barefoot on the Dunes
Walking barefoot on the warm, golden dunes is one of the simplest yet most rewarding things to do in the Moroccan desert. The soft sand massages your feet, the silence centers your thoughts, and the vast open landscape provides a sense of freedom and clarity. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time for barefoot walks, when the sand is cool and the shadows add texture to the dunes.
Enjoy a Traditional Desert Picnic or Lunch in an Oasis
Break up your desert adventure with a picnic lunch in a palm grove or near a desert oasis. Many private tours and camps organize outdoor meals complete with Moroccan salads, grilled meats, and sweet mint tea. These meals are a peaceful way to experience the desert’s tranquility and connect with nature in an authentic setting.
Photograph the Ever-Changing Landscape
For photography lovers, the desert is a dream. From the sharp ridges of wind-carved dunes to silhouettes of camels at sunset, the Sahara offers endless opportunities for stunning imagery. Capture the rich colors, dramatic skies, and intimate cultural moments that define the Moroccan desert. Be sure to bring extra batteries and memory cards—this is a place where every direction offers a frame-worthy shot.
Final Thoughts
The Moroccan desert is a destination like no other—timeless, raw, and unforgettable. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline, culture, connection, or solitude, the desert offers countless opportunities to experience something extraordinary. From camel trekking and sandboarding to stargazing and visiting nomads, every moment in the Sahara is a story waiting to unfold.
For the best desert experience, base yourself in Merzouga, M’Hamid, or Zagora, and choose a reputable local guide or tour company to help you explore safely and meaningfully. The Moroccan desert is not just a place—it’s a feeling, a memory, and for many, the highlight of their entire trip to Morocco.
Ready to create your own desert adventure? Explore our curated Morocco desert tours and start planning today.