what to pack for a Morocco desert tour
Salam everyone!
Okay, today we’re going to talk about something that seems simple but is actually super important: what to pack for a Morocco desert tour. Honestly, I see families every year who come totally unprepared, and it turns a magical trip into “wallah, why didn’t I bring that?” moments. So here’s the real talk – no fluff, no marketing – just what works, from a Moroccan guide who’s done this bezzaf (a lot) of times.
Clothing: Prepare for Hot Days and Cold Nights
The desert is tricky. In the daytime, it can hit 35°C or more, but at night it drops to 5-8°C in the winter. Yes, sahh (right), it’s extreme.
During the day, wear light cotton or linen shirts and pants. Cover your skin – it protects from the sun and sand. Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Kids love running around, but trust me, sunburn is a real problem.
At night, bring a fleece or light jacket, and a scarf or shawl. Wrap it around your neck or shoulders while sipping mint tea. One time, a family from France froze inside their tents because they thought “desert = hot all the time.” Haha, mashi (not) the case.
Shoes: Comfort is Everything
Shoes matter. Closed shoes are better than flip-flops because sand and rocky paths can hurt. Lightweight hiking shoes or sneakers are ideal. Bring sandals for lounging at the camp or inside tents. Kids often want to run barefoot, but ma (water) and sand can make it tricky sometimes.
Toiletries and Personal Care
Sunscreen is mandatory. SPF 50 is my recommendation, especially for kids. Lip balm with SPF and moisturizer are lifesavers – the Sahara dries your skin fast.
Wet wipes are a must. Super useful when there’s no sink nearby. And bring a small first-aid kit: band-aids, antiseptic, painkillers. One time, a boy tripped on a dune. Simple scratch, but having a kit ready avoided panic.
Water and Snacks
Hydration is key. You’ll drink way more than you think, even in winter. Carry a refillable water bottle. Most camps provide water, but having your own is easier while trekking the dunes.
And snacks! Energy bars, nuts, dried fruit – keep them handy. Sometimes the local tea or camel milk isn’t enough for hungry kids.
Sleeping Gear
Most desert tours provide tents and sleeping bags, but not always the most comfortable ones. Bring your own pillow or blanket if you like. For winter trips, a thermal sleeping bag is smart. Kids love small travel pillows – it makes tents feel cozier.
Electronics: Cameras, Phones, and Chargers
The desert is photogenic. But sand is everywhere. A protective case or zip-lock bag for phones is smart. Power banks are a must – not every camp has outlets for every tent.
Clothing for Activities
For camel rides, long pants are better. Camel saddles can be rough. Sneakers or shoes you can remove are ideal for dune climbing. For evening campfires or stargazing, bring a light scarf or shawl. Desert nights get chilly fast.
Cultural Considerations
Morocco is mostly conservative. Shirts with sleeves and pants are appreciated, especially in small villages. Kids can be casual but remind them to be respectful. Locals notice, and it makes interactions smoother.
Optional but Handy Stuff
A flashlight or headlamp helps at night. Desert nights are dark, and camp paths aren’t always lit. Small notebooks, cards, or board games are fun for downtime. Kids love having small things to do at the camp.
Practical Tips from My Tours
Last year, a family came underprepared: no hats, only one bottle of sunscreen, and shorts in the day. By day two, sunburn and cranky kids… wallah, not fun. After helping them get hats and sunscreen, things got better.
Another family came perfectly prepared: layers, hats, shoes, snacks, water bottles. Calm kids, happy parents, and smooth camel rides. Packing smart = enjoying the trip more.
What Not to Bring
Leave fancy shoes, heavy luggage, and unnecessary electronics at home. Desert is dusty, sandy, and windy. Don’t bring valuables – small cash for markets is enough.
Packing for Kids
Extra socks, hats, sunscreen, and snacks are crucial. Give each child a small backpack with water, snack, toy, sunscreen. Makes the day smoother and avoids “where’s my bottle?” fights. Haha.
Bottom Line
Packing for the Morocco desert is about thinking ahead. Hot days, cold nights, dusty winds, camel rides, starlit evenings… layers, sun protection, comfy shoes, hydration, and a small sense of adventure. Wallah, families bond, kids laugh, parents relax – and it all starts with packing smart.
Yallah (let’s go), start your list, check it twice, and get ready for a trip your family will remember forever. Don’t forget a small bag for souvenirs – Moroccan markets are irresistible!
Bslama
P.S. Check the weather a few days before departure. Sahara nights can surprise you. If kids are sensitive to heat or dust, bring extra hats, scarves, maybe even a small dust mask. Small details make a big difference.