Family Trip to the Sahara: Is it a good idea?

“The desert with kids? Aren’t you afraid?” This is often the first reaction. Yet, the Sahara is an unexpected playground for the youngest. It is a school of life, nature, and simplicity. Here is how to succeed in your family adventure in Djanet.

From what age?

• 7-8 years old is often the ideal age for a first “real” trek where the child walks a bit. They are curious, enduring, and marvel at everything.
• Before 7 years: It is quite possible, but favor 4x4 circuits with short walks. Children love playing in the sand (the world’s biggest sandbox!) and sleeping in tents.
• Teens: It is the perfect remedy against screen addiction. Forced disconnection recreates family bonds like nowhere else.

Which type of circuit to choose?

For a family, we recommend:

1. The Red Tadrart in 4x4: Less tiring than the Tassili plateau (which requires a lot of difficult walking).
2. Adapted pace: Ask your guide for shorter stages, with “play” breaks in the dunes.
3. The Meharée (Camel): Kids love it! Doing part of the journey on camelback is an unforgettable adventure for them.

Practical Tips “Parents Special”

Hygiene

Often the #1 concern.

• Wipes: Plan a good stock of biodegradable wipes (and a trash bag to bring them back!).
• Shower: We don’t shower every day. It’s an adventure! Children don’t care, it’s often the parents who are bothered. A basic wash is enough.

Occupation

“I’m bored…” Impossible!

• Games: Uno, cards, frisbee (great on sand).
• Nature: Searching for wood for the fire, observing animal tracks, spotting constellations.
• Travel journal: Give them a notebook to draw or tell their day.

Child Equipment

• Sunglasses (Index 4 mandatory).
• Covering clothing but light (sun protection).
• Warm fleece for the evening (it gets cold at night!).
• Comfortable closed shoes (no flip-flops in the rocks).

Safety

Tuareg guides are extremely kind to children. They watch over them as their own.

• Hydration: This is the critical point. Make your children drink very regularly, even if they are not thirsty.
• Scorpions/Snakes: In winter (tourist season), they hibernate. Risks are minimal. Guides always check bivouac sites.

Testimonial

“Our children aged 9 and 12 forgot their iPad after 2 hours. They played with the guides, learned to make sand bread, and slept under the stars. It is our most beautiful family memory.” — Marc and Sophie

Want to live this experience? Discover our ‘Family Special’ circuits adapted to your tribe.