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The Sahara is one of the hottest places on Earth, where temperatures exceeding 50°C are not uncommon. Thermoregulation, or the regulation of body temperature, is crucial for survival, and without water, it is impossible to survive more than a few days.
The Berbers, masters of survival in these extreme conditions, have developed ingenious strategies to endure the heat. Here are their seven main techniques.
Table of Contents
1. An airy habitat rather than a sealed one
Unlike cold environments, airy shelter is essential in hot deserts. The Berbers' tents or adobe houses, opened to encourage airflow, offer a temperate refuge. The dark fabric or material absorbs heat, creating convection currents that cool the air inside.
2. Drink plenty... and hot in the desert
Continuous rehydration, sometimes up to 10 liters a day, is necessary to compensate for water loss due to sweating. The Berbers drink boiling mint tea, a ritual that, despite its paradoxical appearance, stimulates sweating and thus helps cool the body.
3. Beware of night-time thermal shock in the desert
In the desert, the temperature can drop from 45°C to 15°C at night. The Berbers use fires to warm up and carefully choose their campsite to protect against wind and sun. They often sleep on mats directly on the ground, sometimes with woollen blankets for warmth.
4. Eat light and salty
The intense heat makes digestion difficult. The Berbers prefer light, fibre-rich foods like vegetables, milk, pita, and poultry, adding a bit of salt to compensate for the mineral loss due to sweating. Contrary to popular belief, eating salty food makes you less thirsty.
5. Avoid the desert midday sun
When the temperature peaks at midday, any physical activity becomes exhausting. The Berbers prefer to move early morning to take advantage of the residual nighttime coolness.
6. Wear dark colors and layer up
The Berbers cover themselves from head to toe with loose, dark clothing to protect them from the sun. These clothes promote air convection, helping to cool the body by evaporating sweat. They wear a combination of cotton shirts, trousers (sarouel), and a robe-like thoab.
7. Protect your skin from UV rays
While some Berbers have tanned skin, they also use scarves and high-SPF sunscreens to protect against intense UV rays. Sunglasses are also essential to protect the eyes from sunlight and sandstorms.
These techniques, developed over centuries of adaptation, demonstrate a deep understanding of the challenges posed by desert life. By applying them, we can all learn to better manage extreme heat.
8. Experience authentic Morocco with Nomadik Morocco
Our tours offer more than sightseeing; they provide an authentic adventure where you can meet the nomads, learn from their traditions, and immerse yourself in Morocco's rich culture and history.
Join us on a journey that promises to connect you with Morocco's beauty and ancient traditions, all while enjoying warm hospitality and genuine experiences. For more information or to book your tour, visit our Nomadik Morocco Tours and feel free to ask any questions.
Note: This is an adaptation of the following article in French, "Chaleur : 7 techniques des Bédouins pour survivre dans le désert," published on June 13, 2022, at 1:00 PM, modified on December 30, 2022, at 10:26 AM, by Coraline Loiseau and Karine Jacquet.
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