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Morocco: Sahara Trek & Community Project 2028

4th Mar 2028 - 11th Mar 2028

8 days/Morocco /Moderate

Overview

Trip Summary | Sahara Trek & Community Project 2028

Support your favourite charity and take on an unforgettable trek across the Sahara Desert before spending two days supporting a community project in Marrakech. Combining adventure with hands-on volunteering, this unique charity challenge offers a remarkable insight into Morocco’s landscapes, culture and communities.

What to Expect

You’ll spend two full days and two half days trekking through ever-changing desert terrain, including ancient dried riverbeds, rolling dunes, occasional oases and vast sun-baked plains. The journey is both rewarding and awe-inspiring, offering moments of challenge, tranquillity and breathtaking natural beauty.

Life in the Desert

Each night you’ll camp beneath the expansive desert sky, giving you the chance to experience incredible star-filled nights, weather permitting. Gather around the campfire, share stories with your fellow trekkers and enjoy the peace of the Sahara after dark.

Authentic Berber Experience

Your local Berber support team will guide you through the desert and prepare delicious traditional Moroccan meals. Their warm hospitality, expert knowledge and deep connection to the region will make your time in the Sahara even more memorable.

Supporting a Community Project

After completing your trek, you’ll spend two days assisting at a community project in Marrakech. The project supports a residential home for adults and teenagers who are unable to live at home, providing 24-hour care alongside education, training and supplementary therapies. Depending on the centre’s priorities at the time of your visit, tasks may include painting and decorating, creating garden or relaxation areas, and helping to improve the overall environment for its residents.

Make a Difference

By joining this challenge, you’ll be raising vital funds for your chosen charity while also contributing your time and energy to a valuable local project. This makes your Moroccan adventure not only a memorable personal challenge, but also a meaningful opportunity to support communities both at home and overseas.

Find out more about Charity Challenges

Fitness Requirements

This challenge is moderately demanding and suitable for those with a good level of fitness. While much of the desert terrain is relatively flat, walking on soft sand and crossing dunes requires additional effort, particularly over consecutive days.

One of the greatest challenges may be the heat. Temperatures in the Sahara have historically reached up to 40°C, making even steady-paced walking feel considerably more demanding. Following the trek, you will also spend two days assisting with a community project, which may involve practical activities such as painting, decorating or gardening.

We recommend building your cardiovascular fitness, strength and stamina before departure, together with regular walks on varied terrain. The fitter you are, the better prepared you will be to manage the desert conditions, recover each day and contribute fully to the community project.

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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.

Your suggested kit list can be found here

Itinerary

Morocco: Sahara Trek & Community Project 2028

Day 1 (Saturday 4 March 2028):

London to Marrakech
Your adventure begins with a flight from the UK to the vibrant city of Marrakech. Upon arrival, the group will transition into the Moroccan wilderness.
Depending on your flight’s arrival time, you will either settle into Marrakech or begin an immediate 4.5-hour scenic drive across the majestic High Atlas Mountain Range. This range serves as a dramatic gateway to the desert regions.
The day concludes with a welcoming dinner and an overnight stay in a local hotel in Ouarzazate or Marrakech, preparing you for the trek ahead.
Meals: Lunch & dinner

Day 2 (Sunday 5 March 2028):

Journey to the Desert & Meeting Your Guides
After an early start, you will travel farther south along ancient caravan routes used for centuries.
The landscape transforms into the arid, breathtaking scenery of the Sahara. Following lunch, you will meet your dedicated trekking team: local Berber guides and their hardy camels. You will begin your trek into the dunes this afternoon.
As night falls, you will experience the magic of the desert with an overnight stay in traditional tents under the vast Moroccan sky.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Approx. trek distance: 5km
Overnight: Camping

Days 3 – 4 (Monday 6 – Tuesday 7 March 2028):

Sahara Desert
Our trek continues across the Sahara over the coming days, taking us through rolling dunes, rocky plains and striking lunar-like landscapes. We are supported by an experienced local Berber team, including guides, a cook and camel handlers. The camels act as porters, carrying the group’s luggage and equipment.
Each day offers a different perspective of the Saharan landscape and a greater understanding of the importance of respecting the desert environment. We will cover approximately 15 to 20km each day, although distances may vary depending on the terrain and conditions. Along the way, we will gain an insight into the traditional nomadic way of life, from preparing meals in the desert to camping beneath the magnificent Saharan night sky.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Approx. trek distance: 15-20km
Overnight: Camping

Day 5 (Wednesday 8 March 2028):

Sahara to Marrakech
This morning marks your final trek back to the village of Ouled Driss.
Here, you will bid a fond farewell to your Berber guides and the camels that have been your companions. You will then begin the approximately 8-hour overland journey back to Marrakech.
The drive includes stops for lunch and rest, allowing you to witness the changing landscapes once more.
Upon arrival in Marrakech, the group will celebrate the completion of the trek with a festive dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Approx. trek distance: 5km
Overnight: Hotel

Day 6 (Thursday 9 March 2028):

Community Project: Giving Back in Marrakech

Today marks the start of the community project phase of your trip.
You will visit a residential home that supports adults and teenagers who are unable to live at home.
This centre provides vital 24-hour support, education, and training. You will spend the day assisting with various tasks to improve the living environment, which may include redecorating, painting, or gardening.
It is a rewarding opportunity to make a tangible difference in the local community while staying at a hotel in the heart of Marrakech.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 7 (Friday 10 March 2028):

Project Completion & Celebratory Finale
You will continue your volunteer work at the community project, finalising the improvements started the previous day.
Whether you are finishing a mural or completing a new relaxation area for the residents, your efforts contribute to the long-term well-being of the centre’s inhabitants.
After a fulfilling day of work, the group will gather for a final celebratory dinner in Marrakech to reflect on the trek and the project achievements before the journey home.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 8 (Saturday 11 March 2028):

Free Time in Marrakech & Departure
On your final day in Morocco, you may have some free time this morning to explore the exotic and bustling city of Marrakech. You could visit the vibrant souks, the historic Jemaa el-Fnaa square, or simply enjoy a final Moroccan mint tea.
Depending on your flight schedule, you will then be transferred to the airport for your return flight to London, bringing your Sahara adventure and community project to a close.
Meals: Breakfast

Optional trip extension

There is also the option to extend your stay after the trek to explore more of Morocco. See the Costs + how to pay tab for more details.

N.B. This itinerary may change due to weather, the ability of the group and so on. We do our best to keep to the itinerary, but we cannot be held responsible for changes that occur outside of our control. Your guide and tour leader has the final say in the interest of the group.

Costs & How to pay

Non-refundable registration fee: £395
and then either…

Self-funded: £1,400

or

Sponsorship: £2,800

or

Flexi: £1,400 trip costs and £1,400 sponsorship for a charity of your choice

SELF-FUNDED

This option is for those who choose to pay the trip costs (flights, accommodation, food, guides, etc.) themselves. There is no sponsorship required, although if you wish to raise sponsorship for a charity, you are welcome to do so.

  • A non-refundable registration fee is payable at the time of booking.
  • Trip cost balance is payable to Different Travel 10 weeks prior to departure.
  • You are welcome to fundraise separately for any charity of your choice, but this is not mandatory. Any fundraising undertaken cannot be used for your trip costs.

SPONSORSHIP

This option is for those who wish to raise sponsorship to cover both the costs of the trip (flights, accommodation, food, guides, etc.) and a donation to their chosen charity. There is a minimum sponsorship amount for each trip that you are required to raise in order to participate.

  • A non-refundable registration fee is payable at the time of booking.
  • The minimum sponsorship must be paid to the charity 12 weeks before departure.
  • The amount the charity receives is at least 50% of the minimum sponsorship total.

FLEXI

This option is for those who choose to pay the trip costs (flights, accommodation, food, guides, etc.) themselves while still raising some funds for the charity.

  • A non-refundable registration fee is payable at the time of booking.
  • Trip cost balance is payable to Different Travel 10 weeks before departure.
  • Your fundraising is payable directly to the charity. Any fundraising undertaken cannot be used for your trip costs.
  • Any fundraising undertaken cannot be used for your trip costs.

*If your chosen charity is not on this list, please seek permission to fundraise for them by taking part in this challenge before making your booking.

OPTIONAL TRIP EXTENSION

2-night shared occupancy (twin or triple) extension: £210

  • Two additional nights’ accommodation* with breakfast plus a return airport transfer based on 2 people sharing a twin room.

*You will be accommodated in the same hotel as is used for the group during the main trip. This is TBC but is likely to be Hotel El Andalous or similar.

  • You must pay £105 at point of booking to confirm the arrangements.
  • The remaining £105 is due 10 weeks before departure.
  • Payments for any additional arrangements must be received before they can be confirmed.

2-night single occupancy extension: £290 

  • Two additional nights’ accommodation* with breakfast plus a return airport transfer in a single occupancy room.

*You will be accommodated in the same hotel as is used for the group during the main trip. This is TBC but is likely to be Hotel El Andalous or similar.

  • You must pay £145 at point of booking to confirm the arrangements.
  • The remaining £145 is due 10 weeks before departure.
  • Payments for any additional arrangements must be received before they can be confirmed.

Independent extension: £45

  • Fly home on any date of your choosing (subject to flight schedules). Please specify your preferred date in the booking notes section.
  • You will need to arrange your own accommodation and airport transfers for your additional days.
  • The cost is £45 plus any difference in cost in the flight airfare on your chosen return date.

NB. Optional trip extensions are subject to availability and flight costs.

  • Payments for any additional arrangements must be received before they can be confirmed.

What's included

  • Return flights from the UK
  • Airport taxes and charges
  • Local transfers and transport in Morocco
  • Accommodation in 3 star hotels, tents and sleeping mats on trek
  • English-speaking local guides
  • Support staff, camels and camel handlers on trek
  • All meals as specified
  • Access to travel app
  • Different Travel UK tour manager

 

 

 

What's not included

  • Any necessary vaccinations
  • Drinks, laundry and personal expenses
  • Spending money (tips and gratuities, souvenirs)
  • Transport to/from UK airports
  • Personal trek kit
  • Travel insurance

 

 

 

Have a question?

If you’ve a question about this challenge that you can’t find the answer to within the given information then complete this quick form and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.