Toubkal Trekking

What Should I Pack for a Day Trip to the Agafay Desert?

The Agafay Desert seems to hold a special draw in its atmosphere. Located just 45 minutes away from Marrakech, this rocky expanse resembling the moon offers a pretty calm alternative to the medina’s hustle and bustle. I went to the Agafay innumerable times for day trips during my stay in Marrakech, and each time I was reminded how tightly the right preparation can hang a person’s entire experience.

So, if your itinerary includes a day trip to the Agafay desert and you are weighing up what exactly to bring along, this is for you! I will walk you through everything, from sun protection to desert shoes—based on personal experience. Whether you are riding camels, having a luxurious lunch in the desert, or watching the sunset from the Atlas Mountains, the right gear can make the difference between an irritating experience and something magical.

Let us make your day in Agafay unforgettable. Here is exactly what to take and what to leave behind, along with some tips learned the hard way.

Why Packing Right for Agafay Matters

Before we start listing all the things you should pack, let me paint you a picture. Agafay is not a sandy Sahara-type desert—it gives an idea of a rocky formation, messy trails, crushing silence, and never-ending horizons. With the absence of shade and paved road, expect your temperature to go from hot to cold in a snap depending on the season in this harsh terrain.

The landscape is rough, and the place has been made a little more tourist-friendly with the establishment of desert camps that propose well-curated activities such as camel rides, quad biking, and even this romantic poolside lunch at the Inara Camp.

Packing the right necessities is not only for easy comfort but for safety. The sunburn, dehydration or sore feet can strip a bit of enchantment away. On the brighter side, with just a little bit of planning, you can still have a great time in the desert minus the hassles.

1. Clothing: Light, Layered, and Protective

The desert sun is relentless, even in the cooler months. Covering up doesn’t just protect you from sunburn—it also helps your body stay cool.

Recommended-wear:

• Breathable long-sleeved shirt – Wear that cotton or linen on you. I usually go with something like a white or beige button-down.
• Loose-fitting full-length pants – No shorts allowed! You want shielding from the dust, from the sun, and from that occasionally hostile little bush.
• Wide-brimmed hat – Just a cap will not suffice. This hat will shade your face and neck.
• Scarf or shemagh – I always bring one. It’s great for blocking out sun, wind, or even wrapping around your mouth during dusty rides.
• Layer for the ride back – If you stay till sunset, light jacket or fleece has to be packed. Chilly will hit you fast post-dark.

2. Footwear: Function Over Fashion

No sandals or flip-flops. The ground is uneven, dry, and sometimes rocky. 

Closed-toe walking shoes – Lightweight hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers do the trick.

White shoes should be avoided at all costs. I learned that the hard way. They will be dust-colored come evening.

Some outfitters may provide shoe covers for a quad biking trip, but look to have sturdy footwear with you from the very beginning.

3. Sun Protection Is Non-Negotiable

This is the point many travelers really underestimate about the desert. Even in cloudy weather, UV exposure is too strong.

• High-SPF sunscreen – Reapply at mid-day. I keep a smaller bottle in my bag.
• Lip balm with SPF – Dry air and sun will crack your lips before you even realize it.
• Sunglasses – No question here. Get polarized ones if down-to-earth money permits.

• Hydrating mist spray – Optional, but welcome, especially on warm days.

4. Water and Snacks: Stay Energized

Many desert camps will provide lunch or tea, but it’s always best to be self-sufficient.

• At least 1.5 liters of water per person-I bring a reusable bottle and freeze part of it the night before.
• Electrolyte tablets or sachets-If you find heat hard to bare, you won’t get through without these. 
• Snacks-Energy bars, trail mix, or dates work great. Keep them handy just in case there’s a delay or you’re doing something active like camel trekking.

You can also opt for a day trip with lunch and pool access included, so hydration and food are taken care of. One of my favorite experiences was this relaxing afternoon at a desert oasis, where I had an incredible meal and could cool off in the pool under the open sky.

5. Tech & Accessories

Portable power bank – There’s usually no place to charge your phone out in Agafay.

Camera or phone with enough storage – The landscapes are like no others around.

Travel adapter if coming from abroad- Charge every gadget before you settle for the night.

Flashlight or headlamp- If you plan on staying till dark, sunset tours really benefit from this light little thing. 

6. Optional But Handy Extras

Not necessary for most travelers, but they sure have come handy more than once on my trips:

• Hand sanitizer and wipes- Especially if you’re eating at one of those local-style camps.
• Tissues or toilet paper- Some desert sites have basically nothing in terms of toiletry facilities.

• Small backpack or daypack- The most excellent way to carry all your essentials in comfort.
• Swimsuit- If the camp happens to have a pool, you don’t want to regret forgetting to pack that!

What Not to Pack for Agafay

I’ve watched travelers bringing giant backpacks and dressing as if they were on their way to the Sahara to stay for one week. You don’t need that much.

Avoid packing:

• Heavy jackets (unless visiting in winter)
• Expensive jewelry or electronics
• Heavy books or unnecessary gear
• Drone (unless you’ve asked camp policies-some ban them) 

Do what the locals do: pack slim. Your day will be more enjoyable with less on your back.

Summary: The Ultimate Agafay Day Trip Packing List

To summarize, here is a quick checklist for your Agafay Desert excursion:

• Lightweight long sleeves
• Good sturdy closed-toe walking shoes
• Wide-brim hat + scarf
• Sunscreen, SPF lip balm, and shades

• At least 1.5 L of water, a few snacks, and electrolyte tablets
• Power bank, camera, flashlight
• Swimwear (if applicable)
• Daypack to carry everything)

Final Words

Packing for Agafay is not much of a challenge, seeing that a little planning is required. From my experience, every single time I have managed to pack correctly, I have had a chance to enjoy the beauty and serenity of this peculiar desert to the fullest.