FAQ
When to visit the Sahara, what to bring with you, what to expect when you're here. All your questions answered. If there's something not covered, just ask.
Getting here, booking & pricing
Where do the treks start and how long does it take to get there?
All our treks start in M’hamid El Ghizlane, a small town in the south of Morocco. The two nearest major transport hubs are Marrakech and Agadir, both of which are between seven and nine hours’ drive from M’hamid. The city of Ouarzazate, which also has an airport, is around four hours’ drive away.
Can you provide transport to and from M’hamid?
Yes. We can provide a comfortable, air-conditioned taxi to bring you from Marrakech, Agadir or Ouarzazate, or an air conditioned bus for larger groups. To break up the journey, we pause at various places of interest along the way and stop for lunch at around the halfway point. See our road trips page for more information.
Are there other ways to get to M’hamid?
Apart from hiring your own car, it’s also possible to travel by public transport. CTM, Morocco’s national bus company, runs a service from Marrakech to M’hamid, leaving Marrakech at 11.30am and arriving in M’hamid at 9.30pm. The same bus also stops at places like Ouarzazate, Agdz and Zagora. Buses also go from Agadir at 9am, arriving in M’hamid at 9.30pm, with a change at Ouarzazate. Check times and prices on the CTM website.
Why should I go on a trek from M’hamid rather than somewhere else, like Merzouga?
While the dune fields you can visit from Merzouga, such as the famous Erg Chebbi, are easier to access, they’re also often very busy. Those around M’hamid are less crowded so you get a more authentic desert experience. At Erg Chigaga, which you will visit on our Sahara for Beginners trek, you will probably encounter a small number of other fellow trekkers, but otherwise you’re unlikely to see other tourists.
Can you provide hotel accommodation for the night before the trek?
Yes, we can arrange hotel accommodation for you at our partner hotel, Camping Hotel Hamada du Draa, which is situated just on the edge of M’hamid very close to the desert. You can book this as an optional add-on via our booking page.
Why is transport and hotel accommodation not included in the price of the trek?
We know that some people prefer to make their own way to M’hamid, exploring Morocco on the way, and to choose their own hotel accommodation. We prefer to give you the option to either let us handle everything, or pick only the bits you need, so you can create the perfect trip for you.
What time of year do your treks operate?
Our treks operate from the start of September to the end of April. Outside these times, the desert becomes too hot to trek comfortably.
How far in advance can I book?
There is no limit to how close to the departure date you can book, but if booking with less than a month’s notice, please wait for us to come back to you to confirm your trip. We work with a team of local guides, chefs, drivers and camel owners and will need to make sure we can fulfil your request at short notice.
Do I have to pay in advance?
You can either pay a 30% deposit online when you book and pay the rest in cash on the day of your trek, or pay the full amount online when you book.
What currencies can I pay in?
For online payments you will be charged in Euros. For cash payments in M’hamid we accept Euros or Moroccan Dirhams (MAD). To calculate the price in Dirhams, multiply the price in Euros by 10 (e.g. - €100 = 1,000 MAD).
Is there a discount for children and larger groups?
Yes, there is a reduction of around 30% for children. There is also a 10% reduction on the adult and child per person price when you book for a group of four or more people. Children under four go free.
Can you arrange a different trek or a large group trip?
Absolutely. We offer three simple, easy to understand and easy to book options, but if there are particular places you’d like to visit, if you’d like to stay longer or book a large group trip such as a yoga trip, we can build a bespoke tour just for you. Please email us with your requirements and we'll give you a quote.
Can I cancel my trip and get a refund if plans change?
If you cancel 28 days or more in advance of your trip, we will refund any money you’ve paid in full. If you cancel between 14 and 27 days in advance, we will refund half of the money paid. If you cancel 13 days or less before your trip, unfortunately we can’t provide a refund. We recommend booking comprehensive travel insurance well in advance, which will cover you if you need to cancel at short notice.