A desert trek is not a difficult undertaking, but a little preparation makes a real difference to how much you enjoy it. Here is what we tell every guest before they set off.
Choosing the Right Season
October to April is the sweet spot — comfortable daytime temperatures and manageable nights. Trekking through the peak of summer (June–August) means dealing with genuinely extreme midday heat, so we generally steer guests toward cooler months where possible.
Physical and Mental Preparation
Our treks are accessible to most reasonably active travellers, but a bit of walking fitness beforehand helps, as does a realistic mindset: this is slower, simpler travel, without the comforts of a hotel room.
Essential Gear
Pack a comfortable daypack, a warm sleeping layer for cold nights, trekking poles if you use them, strong sun protection, a basic first-aid kit, a headlamp for moving around camp after dark, a refillable water bottle, and some non-perishable snacks for the trail.
Navigation, Water and Safety
Always trek with an experienced local guide — ideally one who also carries a compass or GPS as backup. Manage water and food deliberately rather than assuming you will find more along the way, share your itinerary with someone before you go, travel in a group, and be aware that sandstorms, while uncommon, can appear with little warning.
Culture and Ecology
A few basic Arabic phrases go a long way with local communities, and it is worth asking before photographing people. Ecologically, pack out everything you bring in and be mindful of disturbing wildlife habitats — the desert recovers slowly from damage.
Related Reading
Curious to experience it yourself? Explore a guided camel trek from M'Hamid.