St Wilfrid’s Hospice (Chichester) Sahara Trek 2027

The Sahara Desert offers a surprisingly varied landscape. While much of the terrain is flat and open, you will also cross areas of soft sand, undulating dunes, and ancient dried riverbeds. Walking on sand can be more demanding than firm ground, and the dunes provide the greatest changes in gradient throughout the trek.

Underfoot conditions can shift quickly, from a compact desert floor to loose sand, so expect a mix of steady walking and sections that require more effort. The environment is dry and exposed with little natural shade, adding to the remote and adventurous feel of the journey.

Overall, this terrain is rewarding, atmospheric, and immersive, a true desert experience.

The Sahara Desert has an extreme desert climate, characterised by significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. You can typically expect daytime temperatures of around 26°C (CHANGE DEPENDING ON TIME OF YEAR!!), dropping to approximately 2°C overnight, so layers are essential for comfort and warmth after sunset.

The climate is dry, and conditions are usually clear, though strong winds can occur. Rain is rare, but not impossible; desert weather can be unpredictable, and variations do happen.

Please note: the temperatures and conditions above are based on historical averages for this time of year; however, climate change means weather patterns can vary, and unseasonal conditions may be experienced. If weather conditions require any changes to the itinerary, your expert guide will assess the situation and make decisions to ensure the group’s safety and enjoyment at all times.

This trek is rated moderately challenging and is best suited to participants with a good base level of fitness. The terrain is mostly flat, but walking on soft sand requires extra effort, and the dunes provide the biggest changes in gradient along the route.

The most demanding element of this challenge can be the heat, with desert temperatures historically reaching up to 40°C. Consecutive days of trekking in these conditions can be physically tiring, so good preparation is key.

We recommend training in the months leading up to the trip to build stamina, strength, and confidence walking on varied surfaces. Being well-prepared will help you recover quickly each day and make the most of this inspiring desert adventure.

All meals are freshly prepared by your dedicated trek chef, who will serve up hearty and delicious Moroccan dishes to keep your energy levels high throughout the challenge. Expect nourishing meals inspired by traditional Berber cuisine, using local ingredients wherever possible.

Breakfast and lunch are enjoyed alfresco in the desert, taking in the dramatic surroundings, while evening meals are served in a communal mess tent at camp. This is a great time to relax, refuel, and share stories from the day with your fellow trekkers.

All plates, mugs, cutlery, and cooking equipment are provided, so you can simply sit back and enjoy the food and experience.

During the trek, you will camp in the desert, sleeping in shared tents (two people per tent). If conditions are suitable, you also have the option to sleep outside under the stars, a truly unforgettable experience and highly recommended. A sleeping mat and tent are provided; you will need to bring your own sleeping bag.

Before and after the trek, you will stay in comfortable hotels (in Marrakech and Ouarzazate, if applicable), with en-suite facilities. This allows you to relax and refresh before heading into the desert, and again at the end of your adventure.

During the trek, basic toilet facilities are provided in the form of a small private toilet tent set up over a simple ground toilet. There are no showers or bathing facilities in the desert, so we recommend bringing biodegradable wipes and hand sanitiser to stay fresh while camping.

This is a true wilderness experience, and while facilities are basic, they are clean, private, and designed to make the journey as comfortable as possible in a remote environment.

This challenge is open to adults aged 18 and over. Participants aged 16 or 17 may be able to join if accompanied by a parent or guardian. There is no upper age limit; enthusiasm, preparation, and a positive attitude are far more important.

The ideal participant is fit, healthy, and motivated, with a sense of adventure and the ability to embrace new experiences. Flexibility and an open mind are key, as conditions in the desert can be unpredictable and plans may occasionally need to adapt.

You will be supported throughout the journey by professional English-speaking Berber guides, whose deep knowledge of the desert, local culture, and trekking routes is invaluable. They are first-aid trained and will be with you every step of the way to ensure your safety and enjoyment.

In addition, you will be accompanied by a support team, including cooks and camel handlers who transport the camp equipment and supplies. A Different Travel Company UK tour manager will also travel with the group to provide further support and ensure the trip runs smoothly from start to finish.

Any luggage that is not needed during the trek can be safely stored at the hotel for the duration of the trip. This allows you to carry only the essentials while trekking, with the peace of mind that your remaining belongings are secure and will be waiting for you upon your return.

Any day-to-day items that you do not need to carry yourself, such as spare clothing, toiletries, or sleeping gear, will be transported in a separate bag to your next accommodation or campsite by camels, so they are ready and waiting for you at the end of each day’s trek.

During the trek, you will only need to carry a small daypack containing essential items for that day, such as water, snacks, a basic first aid kit, sun protection, and any personal items you may need.

Visit here to find the kit list relevant to this trip.