Travelling solo to the Sahara Desert: a comprehensive planning guide

Spending a night (or two) in the Sahara Desert is high on the list of “things to do” amongst solo travellers to Morocco…and for good reason. Not only does it allow you to escape the bustling medinas (which, let’s face it, can become overwhelming) but experience a completely different side of Morocco. 

Travelling solo to the Sahara Desert is an opportunity to immerse yourself in some of the country’s most magnificent landscapes, both in the desert and en route. The drive itself takes you through a multitude of rural towns and villages where life hums along at an unhurried pace and it’s an easy detour to one of Morocco’s most enchanting destinations – the ancient ksar of Ait Benhaddou. 

When I think back on my favourite Moroccan travel experiences, overnighting in the Sahara Desert is definitely one of them. The serenity, the stargazing and the people I met made it a moment in time I won’t ever forget. 

If you’re travelling solo in Morocco, you might think that reaching the Sahara is all too hard. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Even if you’re not on a self-drive itinerary, there are several ways to reach the desert, either independently or with like-minded travellers as part of a small group tour. 

This article covers everything you need to know about travelling solo to the Sahara Desert, highlight the options that are available to help make your desert dreams come true! I’ll answer all the questions you might have about dune systems, transportation logistics and desert camps to help you plan the ultimate adventure. 

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Moroccan Sahara dune systems: Erg Chebbi vs Erg Chigaga

Morocco’s slice of the Sahara Desert encompasses two distinct dune regions – Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga. Both boast the iconic towering sand dunes that characterise the Saharan landscape while offering slightly different experiences. 

Erg Chebbi is the more popular and easily accessible option, with numerous camps catering to a steady influx of tourists. While this accessibility can lead to a more crowded and commercialised experience at some camps, there are still many in Erg Chebbi that offer an exclusive desert experience, albeit at a higher price. 

On the other hand, Erg Chigaga offers a slightly more rugged and remote desert experience as it’s more difficult to reach and only accessible by 4×4 vehicles. For those seeking adventure off the beaten path, Erg Chigaga has fewer camps, which, in turn, allows for a deeper sense of solitude and connection to the desert environment. 

Ultimately, choosing between these two Moroccan Sahara dune systems depends on personal preference – one provides easier access and a more social environment, while the other immerses you in the wild beauty of the Sahara Desert BUT it takes longer to get there. 

To learn more about the difference between Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga, check out my detailed article here. 

Tours vs self-driving vs buses for travelling solo to the Sahara Desert

When visiting the Moroccan Sahara as a solo traveller, you have several options available: either join a guided tour from Marrakech or Fes, drive yourself to the towns of Merzouga (for Erg Chebbi) or M’Hamid (for Erg Chigaga) or utilise public buses to get there.

As discussed in this article on driving in Morocco, renting a car in the country is quite straightforward, although it might not be the most cost-effective if you’re flying solo. Aside from being one of the more expensive options available for travelling solo to the Sahara Desert, the roads from Marrakech and Fes to the Sahara can be challenging, with some in poor condition and unpaved.

Once you get outside of the cities, most Moroccan roads are shared not only with other vehicles but also animals and pedestrians, so there’s a lot to test your concentration!

If driving in Morocco sounds overwhelming or is simply too expensive, I suggest travelling solo to the Sahara by bus or as part of an organised tour. Companies like CTM and Supratours offer bus services throughout Morocco, with options that connect to the Saharan gateway towns of Merzouga and M’Hamid. 

It’s worth keeping in mind that the bus travel times are looooong and the arrival times (both late at night and early in the morning) aren’t ideal. If you’re travelling from Fes to M’Hamid, you’ll need to get the Supratours bus as far as Zagora, sleep the night and get a share taxi to M’Hamid the next morning. 

While CTM and Supratours buses are comfortable, you’ll only get to stop at gas station service areas and won’t have the opportunity to explore some of the incredible landscapes that lie between Marrakech/Fes and the Sahara Desert. This is why I think joining a small group tour is a better idea – you just get to experience so much more!

With a knowledgeable guide who understands the area, speaks the local language and is aware of the road conditions, a guided tour provides a completely hassle-free experience. Most tour companies partner with specific camps, so you won’t necessarily get to pick the accommodation, but you can choose your level of luxury. 

The only drawback of travelling solo to the Sahara Desert on a guided tour is ending up with people you don’t connect with, although this is usually bearable for a few nights. In a best-case scenario, you might even meet likeminded travellers who you become lifelong friends with. 

Viator offers a wide range of tours in the Moroccan Sahara, covering both Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga. It’s a fantastic place to start, as you can read reviews from past guests and see what the camps are like. Most tours are at least three days/two nights and include stops at the historic ksar of Ait Benhaddou and the stunning Dades and Todra gorges – two of my favourite places in Morocco!

If you’re planning a self-drive adventure in Morocco and want to visit the Sahara Desert, check out this one-week itinerary from Marrakech. 

Duration of Sahara Desert tours for solo travellers

When selecting a desert tour as part of a solo trip to Morocco, first think about how many nights you’d like to spend in the Sahara. If you’re pressed for time, then a 2-day/1-night itinerary is ideal. Typically, this includes a loooooonng drive from Marrakech, followed by a camel ride or a 4×4 trip in the late afternoon to reach your campsite. The following morning, you’ll wake early for sunrise, ride your camel (or 4×4) back to the gateway town and drive back to Marrakech. 

You’ll have the chance to enjoy one sunset and one sunrise over the dunes, and you might even squeeze in some sandboarding! On paper, this sounds like it packs a lot into the space of (less than) 48 hours and it could be tempting if you’re on a tight budget but keep in mind it does involve a LOT of driving. 

If time allows, I’d highly recommend planning at least a 3 day/2 night group tour if you’re travelling solo to the Sahara Desert. This way, you’ll have much more opportunity to appreciate not only the desert but also the incredible landscapes that lie en route, such as the Dades and Todra gorges. Additionally, some of these trips let you begin in Marrakech and end in Fes (or the other way around), serving as a convenient transfer between the two.

A 4-day, 3-night adventure is perfect for those looking to enjoy two nights in the desert and a full day exploring its enchanting landscapes, plus an additional night somewhere en route. This itinerary allows you to delve deeper into the dunes (further away from Merzouga or M’Hamid) and see beyond what most tourists do. It also allows for a much more leisurely pace of travel, which is what exploring the Sahara was once all about. 

The ideal length of your Sahara Desert tour will vary based on your travel preferences, the time you have available and your travel budget. But if this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, I recommend spending a little more money and time to experience this legendary desert to its fullest. 

Level of luxury for travelling solo to the Sahara Desert

If you’re concerned about “roughing it” in the Moroccan Sahara or camping isn’t really your thing, worry no more. While Aït Atta nomads used to live in simple camps with only the basics, nowadays, you can find luxurious Sahara Desert camps that offer all the comforts of a high-end hotel. The level of comfort you crave while camping is highly personal and ultimately depends on your budget.

Some solo travellers enjoy a minimalist experience, finding joy in the simplicity of sleeping under the stars with just the essentials, much like nomadic cultures have for centuries. In contrast, others might lean towards more of a “glamping” experience, complete with king-size beds, fine dining experiences and private bathrooms featuring hot running water.

It’s worth keeping in mind that upscale camps tend to offer more secluded environments, so if being in complete solitude is important to you, it may be worth spending a bit more. Some travellers report hearing noise from other camps at more budget setups but this will vary from camp to camp. Always read reviews from previous travellers before booking, as they can offer insights that won’t necessarily be advertised on the camp’s website. 

Activities when travelling solo to the Sahara Desert

Staying in a Sahara Desert camp is all about embracing the nomadic lifestyle, which includes everything from camel rides to traditional music and tribal storytelling. The camp activities primarily focus on highlighting the region’s cultural heritage, with drumming and singing around the campfire being key elements of the evening experience.

Certain camps distinguish themselves by providing extra activities like 4×4 adventures, sandboarding and quad biking. If any of these appeal to you, it’s a good idea to enquire with the camp prior to making a reservation or check exactly what is offered on the booking site. Additionally, some camps offer visits to remote communities in the area, but this typically requires a minimum stay of two nights.

At all camps, you’ll be served traditional dishes using ingredients sourced from the surrounding area. Camel meat is not uncommon! If you’re splurging at a luxury camp, you can expect more of a fine-dining experience while keeping in mind you are in a very remote region. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, don’t forget to inform the camp ahead of time so they can accommodate your needs.

An undisputed highlight of staying at a desert camp in the Sahara is the stargazing – it really is incredible! With minimal light pollution and a clear sky, you can see distant constellations, planets and the Milky Way like you’ve never seen them before. I would travel back to the Sahara for the stargazing alone, it’s that good!

Sahara Desert camps for solo travellers in Erg Chebbi

Luxury desert camp near Merzouga

Erg Chebbi Camp

Discover the ultimate in desert luxury at this lavish Erg Chebbi camp, where you’ll find roomy sleeping tents beautifully decorated with Moroccan artistry. Each tent includes a private bathroom and is accessible via paths illuminated by lanterns. The meals offered at breakfast and dinner are some of the finest in the region.

Mid-range desert camp near Merzouga

Merzouga Stars Luxury Camp

For an affordable taste of luxury in the Moroccan Sahara, check out this highly-rated camp close to Merzouga. The stylishly designed tents offer ample space and the bathrooms are nicely equipped. Besides the outstanding accommodations, the Merzouga Stars Luxury Camp features yoga classes set against the stunning desert backdrop.

Budget desert camp near Merzouga

Sahara Wellness Camp

The Sahara Wellness Camp is a heartfelt project created by a local family led by Omar along with his brothers, Hamid and Aziz. Their deep connection to the land and commitment to preserving the area’s traditional way of life is evident in every aspect. This affordable Sahara camp offers six cosy black sleeping tents and a shared tent for dining.

Sahara Desert camps for solo travellers in Erg Chigaga

Luxury desert camp near M’Hamid 

Erg Chigaga Desert Luxury Camp

The Erg Chigaga desert camp boasts beautifully crafted tents that deliver an exceptional glamping experience. Each tent includes a roomy bed dressed in premium linens, along with a private bathroom featuring a flushing toilet. The Erg Chigaga Desert Luxury Camp elevates dining to new heights, providing five-star culinary delights.

Mid-range desert camp near M’Hamid

Bivouac La Dune Blanche

Dune Blanche is an ideal destination for adventure enthusiasts, featuring a range of activities like camel rides, quad biking and 4×4 excursions. Each themed tent is uniquely adorned and equipped with electricity and private hot water showers. In the evenings, guests can gather under a grand tree in the centre of the camp to dine on authentic Moroccan cuisine.

Budget desert camp near M’Hamid

Camp Chraika

Camp Chraika is ideally situated near M’Hamid, making it an excellent choice for adventurers eager to discover the Erg Chigaga dunes. This budget-friendly Sahara camp features a friendly communal lounge plus a handful of private tents. Guests can start their day at Camp Chraika with a tasty buffet breakfast, enjoying the stunning vistas of the undulating sand dunes.