This is the Best Destination in Africa to Travel in 2024, and Here’s Why
Morocco’s Sahara Desert beckons travellers looking for an unforgettable adventure in 2024.
Far from the chaotic crowds, this tremendous expanse of golden sand symbolizes North Africa for many people.
You may not have stumbled upon it on a typical travel list. But, rest assured, it’s an extraordinary place to explore, according to Culture Trip’s latest list.
Morocco is one of my favourite places to explore, and the Sahara Desert has a magic to it that is tough to explain! But I’m going to try – read on!
Why the Sahara is an Amazing Place to Visit
The Sahara Desert in Morocco forms part of the world’s largest hot desert – and the third largest overall. The Moroccan stretch of the Sahara offers an expansive and varied landscape.
The sights are incredible, from the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi to the rocky plateaus and lush oases. They’re an insane, stark contrast to such arid surroundings.
The climate in this region is extreme, and is characterized by scorching daytime temperatures and chilly nights. These severe temps are a part of the unique desert experience!
🌡️ Summer temps average 30°C; the highest recorded Sahara temp was 58°C. In some parts, winter temps fall to freezing at night 🥶 !
Its landscape is constantly changing, with shifting sand dunes creating new patterns and shapes every day. The colours of the desert also vary from shades of gold during the day to vibrant pinks and purples at sunset.
These colours make for some truly stunning photo opportunities.
Beyond its natural beauty, the Sahara Desert in Morocco is home to indigenous Berber communities. Their resilient nomadic lifestyles have adapted to the harsh desert conditions.
This makes the Sahara an excellent place to learn about their culture and traditions. And perhaps share a cup of sweet Moroccan mint tea.
Hunt Up Some Fossils
This incredible desert also holds hidden geological treasures: a bounty of fossils, including those of prehistoric marine life. They offer fascinating and valuable insights into the region’s geological history and attract countless paleontology fans.
The town of Erfoud is the best place to hunt some up.
These unexpected facets contribute to the magical appeal of the Moroccan Sahara. They are a part of what makes it an exceptional destination for adventure and cultural exploration. And really, a deeper appreciation of Earth’s natural wonders.
More Things to Do When Visiting Morocco’s Sahara Desert
The Sahara offers you a unique tranquillity and a chance to immerse yourself in nature’s stark grandeur. You’ll get to watch the sun dip below the dunes, painting the sky in shades of crimson and gold.
It’s an otherworldly experience that connects you with the Earth’s ancient rhythms. And the effect the changing light has on the sand has to be seen to be believed.
There are many excellent ways to spend your time in the Sahara. Here are just a few:
⒈ Camel Trekking: Travel over the dunes on the back of a gentle camel, as Berber guides lead you through this magnificent landscape.
2. Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the Sahara Desert boasts some of the most extraordinary night skies on the planet. Gaze at the constellations and Milky Way in all their glory.
3. Erg Chebbi and Merzouga: Take advantage of the massive dunes and the opportunities for sandboarding and sand sledding. Climb the peaks for panoramic vistas and mesmerizing sunrises.
4. Desert Oases: Discover hidden oases where date palms grow, offering a simple contrast to the surrounding dunes. The Sahara Desert in Morocco has several oases, notably found in the southern regions near towns like Erfoud, Merzouga, and Zagora.
They owe their existence to underground water sources, with aquifers and reservoirs storing water accumulated over time from sporadic rainfall and underground rivers.
5. Visit the city of Ait Benhaddou: Art and history enthusiasts will find the ancient city of Ait Benhaddou fascinating. This UNESCO World Heritage site is located on a former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech. See clay architecture dating back to the 17th century. It’s a trip into an exotic and intriguing past.
As you travel through the Sahara Desert of Morocco, you’ll understand why it’s a hidden gem and a top travel destination for 2024. The austere beauty, cultural richness, and serene solitude make it a place you won’t want to miss.
It’s an off-the-beaten-path adventure that will earn a permanent place in your heart. As well as give you a deeper connection to one of the world’s most captivating places.
When to Visit the Moroccan Sahara
The Sahara Desert in Morocco is most inviting during the cooler months, specifically from March to May and September to October. Spring and fall. The scorching summer heat has subsided, and daytime temperatures are more moderate.
This is when you can find the most comfortable climate for exploring. The evenings in the desert are equally pleasant, with cooler but not uncomfortably cold nights.
These temps allow for cozy camping and spectacular stargazing experiences beneath the clear desert skies.
Plus, the number of tourists tends to be lower during these months. This is compared to the peak summer season. You get a much more peaceful experience. Accommodations and desert camps are well-prepared to make sure your comfort during the cooler nights.
Read More:
➦ Surfing in Morocco: Unleash Your Inner Surfer at Surf Camp
➦ Christmas in Morocco: Where to Find the Festivities!
