| Item | Why | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Light long trousers | Protect from stones and sun | Shorts, skirt |
| Long-sleeved top | Sun, dust, heat | Tank top |
| Closed shoes | Feet on the footrests, stony ground | Flip-flops, sandals |
| Scarf or buff | Dust on nose and mouth | Nothing |
| Glasses | Dust and sun | Loose-fitting frames |
| Jacket (winter, evening) | Cool after sunset | Nothing |
What the operator provides
Depending on the listing, the helmet is provided, sometimes the scarf, sometimes the glasses. Check the offer before paying, as you would for fuel and the instructor: it is the point to verify in our quad and buggy comparison. Age and licence rules are in the guide to quad, buggy and camel rides.
By location
- Agafay desert: tracks of stones and dry earth, fine dust, wind. A scarf is useful all year.
- Palmeraie: flat tracks between palm trees, more dust than stones, more shade.
By season
- Summer (June to September): light, pale fabric, long sleeves anyway, plenty of water, leave early in the morning or late afternoon.
- Winter (November to February): layers, a windproof jacket, thin gloves; Agafay evenings are cool. See also what to wear in Marrakech.
- Spring and autumn: the basic outfit is enough, plus a light jacket for the evening.
What gets dirty, and how to cope
Anything light-coloured will turn brown. Choose clothes that wash easily and leave jewellery and precious clothing behind. Protect your phone (pouch or zipped pocket) and leave valuables at the hotel. Contact lenses are uncomfortable in dust; wrap-around sunglasses are better.
Which tour to book?
- First time, close to town: buggy in the Palmeraie.
- Scenery: quad in Agafay in a small group, $88, 6 hours, 4.9 from 136 reviews.
- Couple or group, premium option: private buggy in Agafay and at the lake, $91 to $137.
- Evening with dinner: quad or camel ride, dinner and show, $41, 4.5 from 986 reviews.
The traps
- Riding time: ask for the real minutes at the handlebars, excluding transfers and breaks.
- Glasses and scarf sold on site: bring your own rather than buying at the start.
- Insurance: read the conditions in case of damage to the vehicle.
Booking at the right time
From May to September, go early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Book a few days ahead at weekends or in school holidays.
