What are the Best Shoes to Wear in the Sahara Desert

Traveling in the Sahara desert can be a unique and unforgettable experience, and it’s something at the top of many travel bucket lists. However, it’s important to come prepared with proper gear and precautions to ensure safety and comfort. The best shoes to wear in the Sahara desert are first and foremost what’s comfortable for you but if you’re looking for what to pack for Morocco and shoes are on the list this should help!

When it comes to footwear for the Sahara, there are several factors to consider. The Sahara is a vast desert with scorching temperatures, shifting sand dunes, rocky terrain, and potential hazards like scorpions and other desert creatures.

The shoes you wear should not only be comfortable but also protect your feet from the harsh environment. Additionally, they should be breathable to prevent your feet from getting too hot and should offer adequate traction to prevent slips and falls.

I’ve compiled some of the best types of shoes to wear in the Sahara to ensure your comfort and safety while exploring this magnificent desert!

Are you ready to start planning your adventure in the Sahara!?

Where is the Sahara Desert?

The Sahara Desert is not located within a single country, but rather stretches across several countries in North Africa. These countries include Algeria, Chad, Egypt, Libya, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Western Sahara, Sudan, and Tunisia. The Sahara covers about 30% of the African continent, making it one of the largest deserts in the world.

Most people think that Morocco is primarily desert however this isn’t true. Not all of the country is desert and you will want to have shoes that are versatile to go along with this diverse terrain.

Why is the Sahara Desert so special?

The Sahara Desert is a special place for several reasons. First and foremost, it is the largest hot desert in the world, spanning over 3.6 million square miles across North Africa. Its vast expanse and unique landscape of sand dunes, rocky plateaus, and mountains make it a captivating sight to behold. 

The Sahara is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna that have adapted to survive in the harsh environment. From camels and goats to snakes and scorpions, the desert is home to a wide array of species that have learned to thrive in the arid climate. 

Additionally, the Sahara has played an important role in human history, serving as a crossroads for trade, migration, and cultural exchange for thousands of years. The ancient cities of Timbuktu, Gao, and Ghadames once flourished as oases along the trade routes that crisscrossed the desert. Today, the Sahara continues to draw adventurers, scientists, and tourists alike who seek to explore its unique ecosystem and rich cultural heritage.

What Are The Best Shoes To Wear In The Desert?

If you’ve decided the Sahara is a place you need to see for yourself, you will certainly need to bring the right kind of clothing, and wearing the right kind of shoes in the desert is important. 

You’ll want to have shoes that are comfortable, sturdy, and durable enough to withstand the rough terrain, while still being comfortable to move around in. 

Features to consider Sahara Desert shoes:

1. Closed-Toe: The sand can be scorching hot and dangerous to walk on in sandals, so closed-toe shoes will protect your skin. Additionally, closed-toe shoes are needed to ride camels.
2. Durable: Hiking boots or trail shoes are ideal for trekking through the dunes and rough terrain as they are made to withstand various elements and typically have sturdy, rubber soles.
3. Breathable: Breathable materials are recommended for hot weather to keep your feet cool, but make sure the shoes still have good grip and ankle support. Leather, mesh or synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester all have good, breathable properties. In fact, many hiking and trail shoes have nylon or polyester in the upper portion to assist in breathability. 
4. Good Treads & Ankle Support: The sandy and rocky terrain can be slippery, so your shoes should have good tread grip as well as cover your ankles to prevent injury. Covering your ankles is also important if riding camels to minimize any rubbing. 
5. Dark Colors: Avoid shoes made of light-colors, as they will get dirty quickly in the desert environment. 

Other Items To Pack For Your Feet

While shoes may be the first thing that come to mind when packing footwear, there are other items you should bring to protect your feet in the desert.

1. Extra Pair Of Lightweight Shoes: Consider bringing along a pair of lightweight, packable shoes like foldable flats or sneakers, as they can come in handy when you need a break from your main shoes or want to explore the desert in a more leisurely way, especially if you are staying at a camp.
2. Moisture-Wicking Socks: Bring extra pairs of moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry as you explore. 
3. Foot Powder: Foot powder can help keep your feet dry and prevent blisters and other foot injuries. It can also help control odor and bacteria.
4. Bandaids: I always travel with bandaids, as there is nothing worse than blisters with no way to protect them. Even if you wear shoes you’ve broken in, hiking always has the possibility of bringing on a blister, which you can easily cover with a bandaid.
5. Sun Protection: The desert can be scorching, so it’s essential to bring sun protection for your feet & ankles if your skin will be showing. Some socks come with built-in UV protection but you can also just apply sunscreen to your ankles before setting out on your hike.

In conclusion, the best shoes to wear in the Sahara Desert should prioritize protection, support, and breathability. 

Additionally, bringing extra pairs of socks and shoes to prepare for unexpected environmental changes or damage is also key. 

By considering these factors and packing appropriately, you can help ensure a comfortable, enjoyable, and safe trek through the vast and fascinating landscape of the Sahara Desert.

My Picks for the Best Shoes to Wear in the Sahara

More Packing Tips For Morocco

If you are planning a Morocco adventure, here are more packing tips and guides to ensure you have the right gear!

What To Wear In The Sahara Desert

What To Wear To The Beach In Morocco

What To Pack For Women In Morocco

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