In short
- Bring a warm fleece or insulated jacket for cold desert nights.
- Pack closed-toe shoes or sturdy sandals for walking on hot sand.
- Use a traditional lightweight scarf to protect your face from wind and dust.
In this article
Choosing what to wear in the Sahara Desert means dressing for two distinct climates in a single day. Summer temperatures exceed 45°C (113°F) at midday, while winter nights frequently drop to 0°C (32°F) or lower. Layering is the most effective way to stay comfortable.
What to wear in Sahara Desert during the day?
Wear loose, light-colored clothing that covers your skin to protect against the strong sun.
Long-sleeved shirts and lightweight trousers shield you from direct UV exposure and blowing sand. Avoid heavy fabrics like denim, which trap heat. Bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from the intense glare and blowing dust.
What are the best shoes for Erg Chebbi?
Pack closed-toe shoes or sturdy sandals for walking on the dunes.
The sand gets extremely hot during the day. Bare feet or flimsy flip-flops will burn your soles. Closed-toe shoes also make camel trekking more comfortable and protect your feet from rough terrain around the camp.
Do I need warm clothes in the Sahara?
Yes, you need a warm fleece or insulated jacket because temperatures drop drastically at night.
Desert nights get cold quickly. In winter months, nighttime temperatures easily drop to 0°C (32°F) or lower. Always pack layers, even if you travel during the warmer spring or autumn seasons.
Why do I need a scarf in the desert?
A lightweight scarf protects your face and lungs from blowing sand and windstorms.
Locals use a traditional cheche (a long fabric wrap) to shield their heads and faces. You can buy one in Merzouga before heading into the dunes. Alternatively, pack a multi-functional buff to pull over your mouth and nose.
What else should I pack for an Erg Chebbi camp stay?
Bring a headlamp, a portable power bank, and high SPF sunscreen.
- Sun protection: High SPF sunscreen and SPF lip balm.
- Lighting: A headlamp or small flashlight to navigate the camp at night.
- Power: A portable power bank, as many traditional camps have limited electricity.
- Bags: A small daypack for the camel trek and a dust-protective bag for camera lenses.
What should I wear for quad biking in Merzouga?
Wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and the required safety helmet.
Tour operators mandate helmets for all riders. Long trousers protect your legs from engine heat and flying sand. Bring sunglasses or use the provided goggles to keep the dust out of your eyes.
Questions travellers ask
Can I wear shorts in the Sahara Desert?
Yes, but long, lightweight trousers are much better. They protect your legs from intense sun, hot sand, and chafing during camel treks.
How hot does Erg Chebbi get?
Summer midday temperatures regularly exceed 45°C (113°F). Spring and autumn offer a better balance of warm days and cool nights.
Is there electricity at the desert camps?
Many traditional camps have limited or no electricity. Pack a portable power bank to charge your phone or camera overnight.
