Camel Treks & Desert Nights
From sunset rides across the dunes to an overnight bivouac beneath the stars.
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Choose the desert journey, not just the photo
A camel trek through Erg Chebbi offers a different perspective on the dunes than travelling by road. At a slower pace you can appreciate the scale of the sand formations and the changing light, especially early or late in the day.
Experiences vary. A short guided ride, a sunset outing and a night at a camp are not interchangeable products. Before making a reservation, ask for the full route, timing, transport and accommodation details. Our aim is to help visitors choose an outing that suits their comfort, fitness and available time.
Compare the three classic options
Short guided camel ride
Suitable for travellers who mainly want an introduction to the dunes. Ask how long you will actually ride, whether there are photo stops and what the starting point is.
Sunset or sunrise experience
Sunset light is especially photogenic, while an early start may mean a cooler morning in some seasons. Actual departure times and safety decisions depend on weather and daylight.
Overnight desert camp
An extended itinerary can include a ride, an evening meal, sleeping at the camp and a return after sunrise. Verify whether a camel ride is part of the package and which facilities the tent provides.
A thoughtful approach to a desert outing
Select a realistic itinerary
Consider travel time to Merzouga, your group’s mobility, the weather and whether you prefer an activity lasting hours or an overnight stay. Ask for the total duration, not only the riding time.
Check the arrangements and animal welfare
Ask about the guide, meeting point, pace, breaks and how the animals are cared for. Follow the guide’s instructions and never feel obliged to ride if the conditions seem unsuitable.
Prepare for sand, sun and cold evenings
Bring water, sun protection, closed footwear and a warm layer if staying late or overnight. Secure electronics and loose items from windblown sand, and confirm how large bags are handled.
Questions that affect comfort and safety
Young children
Suitable ages and riding conditions should be discussed individually. A shorter outing or alternative vehicle arrangement may be preferable.
Accessibility
Mounting, balancing and dismounting can be difficult for some people. Ask about alternatives before reserving.
Weather
Strong winds, high temperatures or other conditions can change the plan. The guide’s safety decision should take priority over a fixed photo opportunity.
Camp inclusions
Ask about beds, toilets, showers, dinner, breakfast, transport, electricity and whether sandboarding is included rather than assuming these services.
Questions before a camel trek
Can we choose a private departure?
Enquire with your preferred date, group size and pace. A private option is not guaranteed until confirmed.
What if somebody in the group does not want to ride?
Ask whether an alternative transfer or activity is available for your particular itinerary.
Are the old trek prices current?
The old price table is historical. Final prices, departures and inclusions must be quoted anew.
Find the desert experience that fits your group
Tell us whether you prefer sunrise, sunset or a camp night and we can confirm possible arrangements.
One-night camel trek
The original experience begins in the evening near Merzouga with a roughly 90-minute camel ride to an equipped desert bivouac. Enjoy the sunset in the dunes, dinner and music at camp, then sunrise and the return journey for breakfast and a shower at the hotel.
Previously listed inclusions: camel and guide, nomad-style tent, dinner and breakfast, bottled water, parking for guests arriving by car, use of a hotel room for luggage/shower arrangements, and sandboarding.
Two-night camel trek
The longer experience adds more time in the desert, with a visit and lunch with nomad families, dune walks, oasis exploration and another night at camp. Exact itinerary and inclusions should be confirmed before booking.
Camel-trek prices
These figures are preserved from the previous website for reference; contact us for an up-to-date quotation.
| Experience | Low season | High season |
|---|---|---|
| 1-hour camel trek | 100–150 MAD | 150–200 MAD |
| 2-hour camel trek | 200–250 MAD | 250–350 MAD |
| Sunset or sunrise | 150 MAD | 200 MAD |
| Overnight trek + camp | 350–400 MAD | 400–450 MAD |
Historic rates only; subject to current availability and confirmation.
Explore more of Merzouga
You can also ask our team about 4×4 excursions in the dunes, sandboarding, quad rides and encounters with the traditions of nomadic desert life.
Guests arriving by bus can enquire about meeting arrangements in Merzouga; those driving can request parking guidance at the riad.
Choose your desert adventure
Tell us whether you prefer a shorter ride, sunset excursion or overnight camp.
Request a reservationWhatsApp usWhat to expect on a camel trek in Erg Chebbi
Each journey is planned according to your group’s needs, weather conditions and the available experience. A shorter ride is a way to discover the atmosphere of the dunes; an overnight trek allows additional time for sunset, camp hospitality and sunrise.
Before departure
Confirm your meeting point, departure time, return plan, luggage arrangements and any mobility or age-related concerns with the organiser.
In the dunes
Wear comfortable clothing, closed shoes and sun protection. Follow the guide’s instructions when mounting and dismounting and bring drinking water.
At the camp
For overnight experiences, confirm the tent type, bathroom facilities, meals, bedding, lighting and transport before making a booking.
Choosing between sunset, sunrise and overnight experiences
Sunset treks are popular for golden light over the dunes. Sunrise outings can offer cooler temperatures at some times of year, though early starts are required. An overnight camp is best considered when you have time for dinner, a desert night and the morning return. Weather can affect any itinerary.
Safety and suitability
If anyone in your group has a mobility limitation, is pregnant, is travelling with young children or has concerns about camel riding, ask about the suitability of the activity and possible alternatives before booking. Never assume a particular trek is accessible or appropriate for everyone.
Camel trekking FAQs
What should we bring?
Sun protection, a head covering, closed shoes, drinking water and a warmer layer for the evening. Confirm the full packing advice for your season.
Are meals included in the overnight camp?
The original overnight itinerary included dinner and breakfast, but exact inclusions depend on your confirmed offer.
Is sandboarding always included?
Sandboarding was mentioned in the original overnight description; availability and equipment should be confirmed for your selected experience.
Can we arrange a private trek?
Send your preferred dates, number of guests and interests. The team can advise what is possible for your group.