Sahara Desert Tours
Sahara Desert Tour in Summer: Is It Too Hot?
Published November 13, 2026 by Morocco Amazing Tours
The short answer: Yes, you can visit the Sahara in summer, but it is very hot: daytime temperatures in Merzouga often reach 40–45 °C in July and August. Tours adapt by riding camels only at sunset and sunrise and resting in the shade at midday. If heat is a problem for you, travel in spring or autumn, or choose cooler alternatives.
Real summer temperatures
| Month | Merzouga daytime | Merzouga night |
|---|---|---|
| June | About 35–40 °C | About 20–25 °C |
| July – August | About 40–45 °C | About 25–30 °C |
| September | About 33–38 °C | About 20 °C |
Values are typical ranges; heatwaves can be hotter.
How a good summer tour works
- Early starts and long lunch breaks in shaded, air-conditioned places.
- Camel ride into the dunes in the late afternoon, back at sunrise.
- A camp with good ventilation; some travellers sleep outside on the mats under the stars.
- Plenty of water in the vehicle at all times.
What to bring
- Light, loose, long-sleeved clothes and a wide hat or scarf.
- High-SPF sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Electrolyte sachets.
Cooler alternatives
- The High Atlas (Imlil) is much cooler than Marrakech.
- The Atlantic coast (Essaouira, Oualidia) stays mild all summer: see our coast road trip.
- Agafay is close to Marrakech for an evening desert dinner, though it is also hot by day.
Best months for the Sahara
October to April is the most comfortable period. See the best time to visit the Sahara and Merzouga weather by month.
A typical summer desert day
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| Early morning | Drive while it is cool, photo stops |
| Midday | Long lunch and rest in a shaded hotel, sometimes with a pool |
| Late afternoon | Camel ride into the dunes as the heat drops |
| Night | Dinner at camp; warm night, often sleeping outside under the stars |
| Sunrise | Back on the camels before the sun is high |
Signs of heat exhaustion
Headache, dizziness, nausea and heavy sweating are warning signs. Rest in the shade, drink water with electrolytes and tell your driver immediately. Children and older travellers need extra care.
Frequently asked questions
Is it dangerous to go to the desert in summer?
Not with an experienced driver who plans around the heat, but it is tiring. People sensitive to heat should choose another season.
Are desert camps air-conditioned?
Some luxury camps have air conditioning; many do not. Ask before booking.
Ask us about summer dates: we will tell you honestly what to expect. See our desert tours or request a free quote.
Plan it with us: Desert tours from Marrakech.
See it with a private driver
Planning a trip around this? These private, driver-guided itineraries cover it — every route can be adjusted to your dates.
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