What Can You Wear On A Sahara Desert Tour?

Are you wondering what people wear on a Sahara Desert tour? If so, keep reading I have got a detailed answer for you!

When you go on a Moroccan Sahara Desert tour, it’s important to dress appropriately. You’ll be spending time outdoors in the sun and sand, so you’ll need to wear clothes that will keep you protected and comfortable.

The weather in the Sahara Desert can be quite unpredictable, so it’s best to be prepared for anything. We will discuss both the summer and winter seasons, and give you some ideas on what clothes to bring with you.

So, whether you’re planning a summer or winter tour, read on for some helpful advice!

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What to wear in the Sahara Desert in Summer?

The weather in the Sahara desert in the summer season can be extremely hot. During the day, temperatures can reach up to 50°C (122°F), so it’s important to wear clothes that will keep you cool all day long.

We recommend wearing loose, light-colored clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. These materials will help to keep you cool. You need to avoid synthetic materials such as polyester, as they will make you sweat more and jeans are a definite no-no in the summer season in Morocco!

loose-fitting pants

For a desert trip, we recommend wearing loose, comfortable pants such as linen trousers or harem pants. Avoid dark colors as they will absorb the heat more.

Shorts are also an option, but make sure they are not too short as you will be spending time in a Muslim country. And if you are planning a camel ride, pack a pair of pants to change into as the ride can be quite uncomfortable if you are wearing shorts.

Long sleeve tops

Again, light-colored and loose-fitting tops are the best option in the heat. A cotton tunic or a linen shirt are both good choices, preferably with UPF protection. Sleeveless tops are great but I recommend going for a few long sleeve ones that can protect your arms from sunburn.

Skirts and dresses

A light summer dress or skirt is a great option for women that want to take instagrammable Sahara desert pictures. However, wearing them is not practical if you are planning desert activities such as camel rides, sand surfing, and quad bike.

Instead, try some cool and lightweight cardigans that you can wear on top of your clothes and look very fashionable in your pictures.

Footwear

The type of footwear you pack will also be important. You’ll want to avoid wearing closed shoes such as sneakers, as they will make your feet hot and sweaty. Instead, opt for breathable shoes or sandals but not any sandals.

You need sandals that can stay well attached to your feet. Hiking sandals are an excellent choice. They keep your feet well ventilated while also providing good support and grip.

If you don’t have hiking sandals, then another good option is to bring a pair of well-breathable shoes.

Avoid flip-flops at all costs.

Socks

It’s also important to pack a pair or two of socks, even in the summer. They will protect your feet from the hot sand and help to prevent blisters when you are walking around.

A lightweight scarf

You should also pack a scarf or headscarf to protect your face, head, and neck from the sun. And don’t forget to pack plenty of sunscreen!

What to wear in the Sahara Desert in Winter?

If you are planning to visit in winter, make sure you are ready! The Sahara desert is not always boiling hot. The winter season can be cold, with temperatures dropping with temperatures averaging around 20°C (68°F) during the day and 13°C (55°F) at night.

During the day, you will probably be fine with wearing what you would normally wear in summer back home. But at night, the temperature can drop significantly, so you will need to pack a few items of clothing that can be layered.

Jacket/coat

A warm jacket or a coat is a must. You will want to go for something warm but not too heavy so you can still move around easily. Also, when choosing a jacket for your Sahara desert trip keep in the mind the sand storms, it gets quite windy sometimes, and a windproof jacket can save the day.

Sweaters/Thermal wear

I would also recommend packing a sweater or two for outdoor night activities. The nights of December and January can be freezing in the Sahara Desert and extra warmth is always welcome. If you are not a sweater person, thermal wear is a great alternative.

Pants/jeans

A pair of Fleece-lined pants or jeans is also a good idea. If you like layering take thermal underwear for when it gets too cold.

footwear

Opposite to what you would wear in summer, in winter you will want to pack a pair of closed shoes, such as sneakers or boots. It’s also a good idea to bring along a pair of socks to keep your feet warm.

Accessories

In addition to the items of clothing, don’t forget to pack a pair of gloves, a few pairs of woolen/thermal socks, and a scarf. These will all help to keep you warm during cold desert nights. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also essential in a Sahara Desert trip in even the winter months.

Additional Items for Trips to the Sahara Desert

Backpack

The odds are that your trip to the Sahara desert will probably be for a few nights, 1 to 3 nights (depending on the tour your choose). So, you will need a backpack to carry with you all your belongings while touring the Sahara.

A good idea is to choose a backpack with different compartments where you can easily organize everything.

Camera

The Sahara desert is an amazing place, and you will want to capture its beauty forever. Make sure to pack a good camera with you, as well as enough batteries and memory cards. I personally like GoPro cameras because they are small, practical, and great for adventure trips, but any camera will do the job.

Power bank

Most Sahara desert camps have limited access to electricity, a power bank will allow you to charge your camera and other devices in the desert.

Bumbag

A small bumbag or runner’s belt is one of my go-to ways to store my valuables safely while traveling. On a Sahara Desert tour, a bumbag is very useful during a camel ride. You will be able to store and access your phone and camera easily.

Wet wipes

I just love how wet wipes can be so handy when you are traveling. They are great for cleaning your hands and face, and they can also be used to clean your camera lens (if you don’t have lens cloths with you).

Sunscreen

I can’t stress enough how important it is to use sunscreen when visiting the Sahara desert, even in winter. The sun is very strong in the desert and you can get sunburned very easily. Choose a sunscreen with a high SPF and make sure to reapply it often.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are also a must-have item in the Sahara desert, not only to protect your eyes from the sun but also to prevent the sand from getting into your eyes when there are sand storms.

Now that you know what to wear, all that’s left is to book your Sahara Desert trip

I hope this list of what to wear on a Sahara Desert Tour will help you pack for your next adventure. If you have any other questions, feel free to leave a comment below.

Have a great trip!