What to Wear in the Agafay Desert: The Complete Packing List

Packing for the Agafay desert is simple once you know what to expect: sun during the day, dust on the tracks and cool evenings. Here is our practical list, by activity and by season.

The essentials (all year round)

• Sunglasses: the light is strong, even in winter.
• Sunscreen and lip balm.
• A hat or cap for daytime activities.
• A scarf or buff to protect your face from sun and dust.
• Comfortable closed shoes: trainers are perfect.
• A light warm layer: a fleece or jacket for the evening.
• A reusable water bottle.
• Some cash for tips and small purchases.
• A fully charged phone: you will take a lot of photos.

What to wear for each activity

Quad biking and buggy

Wear long trousers (jeans or light trekking pants), a long-sleeved top and closed shoes. Clothes will get dusty, so avoid white or delicate fabrics. Helmets and goggles are provided, and a scarf is often given too. More details in our quad biking guide.

Camel riding

Long, comfortable trousers prevent rubbing on the saddle. Choose shoes that stay on your feet, and keep your phone in a zipped pocket. See our camel ride tips.

Dinner under the stars

Desert camps are relaxed: smart-casual clothes are perfect. Bring a warm layer, as evenings in the desert are much cooler than in Marrakech, especially from November to March.

Pool day pass

Swimsuit, towel if not provided, sandals and a cover-up for lunch.

What to pack by season

Spring and autumn

Light clothes for the day, a fleece or light jacket for sunset and dinner.

Summer

Light, breathable and loose clothes in light colours, a wide hat and plenty of water. Prefer sunset or morning activities. Our best time to visit guide explains why.

Winter

Days can be pleasant, but evenings are cold. Bring a warm jacket, a hat, gloves and a scarf if you stay for sunset or dinner.

Respectful clothing

Agafay is a touristic area and camps are used to international visitors. Still, when visiting Berber villages, it is respectful to cover shoulders and knees.

What you do not need

• High heels or delicate shoes.
• Expensive jewellery.
• Too much luggage: a small backpack is enough for a day trip.