This is not a tour.
Embark on a unique self-drive adventure through the stunning Sahara desert with Scarab Adventures.
Drive a 4x4 vehicle, camp under the starry sky, and experience the thrill of navigating through majestic sand dunes with our experienced desert guide.
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No previous experience necessary.
What It's Like
Testimonials
"Heading out, doing these amazing dunes with Tibet, camping, sitting by the fire... it has been one of the best adventures of my entire life. If you've got the chance, do it.
Chris, VP Product & Product Coach
Meet the Guide
My name is Tibet Fonteyne
I caught the desert bug growing up in Egypt, going to the Western Desert. Since then I’ve overlanded through deserts in Morocco, Peru, Chile and Bolivia in 4x4s and on motorcycles, and have been to over 70 countries total. I’ve always been captivated by the raw beauty and endless horizons of the Sahara and when I’m not at my Product Management job in London, I’m sharing my passion for desert adventures with others from all walks of life.
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I’m not trying to start a tour company - there are enough of those. I want to empower people to have their own adventure in the desert - I am there to teach you the ropes, show you the way and make sure you don’t do something silly.
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If you have an adventurous spirit, are excited by the idea of carving your own path through the savage beauty of the Sahara, want to see the Milky Way with no light pollution or you just want to try something different to anything you’ve done before, let’s talk. I promise you we can put something together that you’ll never forget.
Details & FAQs
The Experience
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From only 1 week off work
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At least 4 nights of camping in the Moroccan desert - pick a dune and pitch your tent!
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Pick your path through a martian landscape in your own rental 4x4
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At least 3 nights in charming hotels with pools
Sample 1 week itinerary:
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Day 1: Fly into Ouarzazate, Morocco, load up on food and water and head to a hotel on the edge of the Sahara.
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Day 2: Last dip in the pool before leaving civilisation behind
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Day 2-6: 5 days exploring the riverbeds, dunes, and desert villages of the Draa region.
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Day 6: Jump in the pool at the hotel on the other end of the desert
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Day 7: Return to Ouarzazate via asphalt
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Day 8: Fly out of Morocoo or continue on to Marrakesh
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We can adjust this however you’d like - we can tailor this to whatever you’re looking for and start or end in several different locations.
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What's included?
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​A rental 4x4 vehicle fit for desert driving waiting for you at the airport
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Recovery gear and a walkie talkie
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Hotels with swimming pool & all meals when not in the desert
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Basic camping gear (optional)
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Prepared meals in the desert (optional)​
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All tuition, guidance and navigation
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Is my flight included?
No, but we will advise what flight to take.
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​Is this experience family-friendly?
It absolutely can be. I’ve hosted families with children of all ages, from toddlers to teenagers—even a 6-month-old baby. Children love the desert as it gives them a lot of freedom to play and explore. They will not be bored! The experience can tailored to accommodate anyone.​​
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​What should I pack?
A full packing list will be provided on booking a trip. Generally, lightweight, breathable clothing and sturdy shoes or sandals are best for the desert. Bring a jacket for cooler nights.
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Do I join a group or bring my own?
Either works! We aim to run with 3-5 vehicles (plus mine, based on 2-3 adults per vehicle) so if you have 6 or more people who want to come, let’s tailor a trip around you. Otherwise, get in touch so we can put a group together.
What is the price?
The price depends heavily on the number of vehicles and the details of the trip. Prices start around £1,995 per person (based on 2 people sharing a vehicle and 4 guest vehicles total).
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Camping
Where will we sleep?
Before and after the desert, in nice boutique hotels with swimming pools. In the desert, pick a dune and pitch your tent underneath bright starry skies - no light pollution in the desert.
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What if I’ve never camped before?
No problem! The desert is the best place to camp for the first time. Beware though, after the desert camping anywhere else might be a let down!
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Do I need to bring my own camping equipment?
We can provide all basic camping equipment or you can bring your own if you prefer.
Is the food provided on the trip?
We can provide a cook and freshly prepared meals, or we can make sourcing, haggling for, and preparing your food in the desert part of the adventure.
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Do I need experience driving 4x4 vehicles off-road?
No! Both complete novices and seasoned off-road drivers will enjoy this adventure. No prior experience is required—I will guide and teach you how to handle the vehicle safely in the desert. Most customers have never driven off road on day 1 and five days later are driving confidently up some of the highest dunes in the Sahara. I’m here to show you the ropes and slowly build up your confidence.
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If you're experienced and looking for a rush, I guarantee we can get your blood pumping too.
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Will we get stuck in the sand?
Almost definitely, it’s all part of the fun.​
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