Saying goodbye to the year under the starry Sahara sky is something our travelers never forget. I was born in Merzouga, at the foot of the Erg Chebbi dunes, and every 31 December we host a very different New Year's Eve there: no traffic, just a campfire, Berber drums and millions of stars.
What New Year's Eve in the desert looks like
- Sunset camel ride: you reach Merzouga in the afternoon and ride into the dunes as the sand turns orange.
- New Year's dinner at the camp: Moroccan cooking (harira, tagine, couscous and pastries) served in a dining tent.
- Berber music around the fire and a countdown under the stars.
- The first sunrise of 2027 from the top of a dune — for many, the highlight of the trip.
Where to sleep: standard or luxury camp
December nights in the desert are cold (they can drop to 0–5 °C), so we recommend the luxury camp: tents with a private bathroom, real beds and thick blankets. On ordinary nights the standard camp costs 70 € and the luxury camp 200 € per person per night; 31 December has a special price because of the gala dinner, so ask us for a quote for your dates.
Routes to reach the desert for New Year
- From Marrakech: 3 or 4 days is ideal, crossing the High Atlas, Aït Ben Haddou and the Dades Valley. See our 3-day desert tour.
- From Fes: 3 days to Merzouga and down to Marrakech: desert tour from Fes to Marrakech.
- From Errachidia: if you fly in, the desert is just 2 days away: Errachidia, desert and Marrakech.
Tips for New Year's Eve in the Sahara
- Book early: camps fill up for 31 December as early as November.
- Warm clothes: a jacket, hat, gloves and a wool layer for the night and the sunrise.
- Drinks: if you'd like to toast with sparkling wine, let us know when you book.
- Extra activities: on 1 January you can go quad biking, ride a buggy or take the 4×4 tour; all prices are in things to do in Merzouga.
Want to see 2026 out in the dunes? Message us on WhatsApp at +212 708 644 837 or at info@marruecosprivado.com and we'll plan your tailor-made route.
Frequently asked questions
Is it cold in the desert on New Year's Eve?
Yes. Days are usually sunny at around 15–20 °C, but at night it can drop to 0–5 °C. Bring warm clothes; luxury camps have thick blankets and private bathrooms.
How many days do I need to spend New Year in Merzouga?
From Marrakech or Fes, at least 3 days. From Errachidia, 2 days are enough.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. 31 December is the most requested night of the year in the desert and camps fill up quickly.
