Morocco Student Trips: How to Plan an Unforgettable Group Trip to the Sahara
Every year, groups of students, from Erasmus exchanges and universities to school leavers and friends, travel to Morocco for their first big adventure together. And for most of them, the highlight is the same: a night in the Sahara. This guide explains how to plan Morocco student trips to the desert, what to do there as a group, how to keep costs down and how to stay safe.
Why Morocco Is Perfect for Student Trips
- Close to Europe: short, often cheap flights to Marrakech, Fes and other cities.
- Affordable: food, accommodation and transport are good value.
- Huge variety: medinas, mountains, ocean and desert in one trip.
- Group-friendly: desert camps, jeep tours and quads are perfect for groups of friends.
Popular Student Trip Itineraries
| Length | Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 3 days | Marrakech → Merzouga → Marrakech | The classic: Atlas, Ait Benhaddou, gorges, one night in the dunes |
| 4 days | Marrakech → Merzouga → Fes | Two cities and the Sahara, no repeated road |
| 5 days | Marrakech, Sahara and Fes | More relaxed, with time in each place |
See detailed plans in 5 days in Morocco and the best desert tour in Morocco.
Best Desert Activities for Student Groups
- Sunset camel ride and night in a camp: the classic group experience, with music and drums around the fire. See our camel ride and desert camp.
- Quads and buggies: great fun for groups of friends. Try a 2 hour quad or a buggy tour.
- Sandboarding: the best laughs of the trip.
- 4×4 jeep tour: nomad families, Gnawa music in Khamlia and oases. See our jeep tours.
- Stargazing: an unforgettable night sky, with no light pollution.
Budget Tips for Students
- Travel as a group: private transport and camps are much cheaper per person when shared.
- Choose a standard camp: traditional tents are cheaper and more social than luxury camps.
- Travel outside peak holidays when possible.
- Use dirhams and bring cash for the desert; see the best currency to use in Morocco.
- Compare carefully: very cheap tours can mean huge groups and compulsory shopping stops.
Safety Tips for Student Groups
- Book with a reputable, well-reviewed operator.
- Always wear helmets on quads and buggies and follow the guide.
- Never wander into the dunes alone at night.
- Drink plenty of water and protect yourselves from the sun.
- Dress respectfully in towns and villages; read Is Morocco female friendly?
- Get travel insurance that covers adventure activities.
More in our Merzouga safety guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do students need for a Sahara trip?
At least 3 days from Marrakech or Fes. A 4-day Marrakech to Fes route is ideal.
When is the best time for a student trip to the desert?
Spring and autumn are ideal. Winter is good with warm clothes; summer is very hot.
Bringing a Group to Merzouga?
We are a local Berber family in Merzouga and welcome groups of all sizes in the dunes. Tell us how many you are, your dates and your budget, and we will suggest the best options for your group. Contact us on WhatsApp.