The Sahara Desert can be an extreme environment, so preparation is key. The temperatures can vary greatly depending on the time of year, with scorching heat during the day and chilly nights, especially in the winter months. In the summer, temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F), so it's essential to wear light, breathable clothing, bring plenty of water, and protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. The desert is remote, so mobile phone reception may be limited, and services can be basic in some areas. When visiting, it’s a good idea to join a guided tour to ensure safety, particularly if you're venturing into the dunes for a camel trek or desert camping.

The Sahara Desert is accessible from several cities in Morocco, with Merzouga and M’Hamid being the most popular desert gateways. From Ouarzazate, it’s about a 4-5 hour drive to Merzouga, making it an excellent option for a desert day trip or multi-day excursion. If you’re starting from Fez, it takes around 7-8 hours to reach Merzouga by car, often through scenic routes that pass through the Atlas Mountains and picturesque villages. Many visitors opt for organized desert tours, which include transportation, camel treks, and overnight stays in desert camps. These tours are available from cities like Ouarzazate, Marrakech, and Fez, and typically range from one to three days.

The best time to visit the Sahara Desert is during the cooler months of the year, typically from October to April. During this period, daytime temperatures are more comfortable, and the nights are cool enough for camping under the stars. Summer months (June to August) can be extremely hot, with daytime temperatures reaching unbearable highs, so it's not recommended to visit during this time unless you're prepared for intense heat. If you’re interested in stargazing, the clear skies of the Sahara provide some of the best opportunities to see the night sky, particularly during the fall and winter months when the desert air is crisp and clear.

For those staying in Ouarzazate or Fez, a day trip to the Sahara Desert is possible, though it’s a long drive. From Ouarzazate, you can reach the edge of the desert in about 4-5 hours, and some tours offer a short camel ride or a visit to the surrounding dunes. However, for a more immersive experience, it’s recommended to spend at least one night in the desert. Most travelers choose to book a 2- or 3-day tour, which includes camel treks into the desert, an overnight stay in a desert camp, and the chance to experience the surreal beauty of the dunes at sunrise and sunset. From Fez, it’s a longer drive (7-8 hours), but a longer trip through the desert can combine the dunes with visits to nearby kasbahs, oases, and other cultural landmarks.