Merzouga Camel Trek

Journey into the authentic Sahara. Cross the High Atlas Mountains, explore ancient UNESCO Kasbahs, and trek deep into the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi on camelback. Spend a magical night under the clearest stars at a Berber desert camp, complete with traditional music and fire-side tales.

Merzouga Camel Trek

Tour Overview

The Merzouga Camel Trek is a captivating desert adventure that takes you deep into the heart of the Erg Chebbi dunes, a sea of towering, orange-hued sand ridges in the Moroccan Sahara.

This experience offers a powerful immersion into Berber desert culture. The trek begins with a scenic camel ride at sunset, leading you to a secluded nomadic-style desert camp. After a traditional dinner, the evening is spent under a breathtaking sky full of stars, often accompanied by the mesmerizing rhythm of Berber drumming around a campfire. The climax of the trip is watching the sunrise paint the dunes in vibrant colors before returning to Merzouga. It is an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and cultural encounter.

Location.  Erg Chebbi dunes, near Merzouga, Morocco

Duration.  Typically 1 night (though 2- and 3-night options are available)

Travel Mode.  Camel trekking

Highlight.  Sunrise and sunset over the massive golden dunes, and clear night stargazing.

Accommodation. Traditional, modern, or luxury Berber tents (bivouacs)

Experience.  Cultural immersion with Berber music, traditional food, and desert life.

Day 1: Marrakech → Aït Ben Haddou → Dades Gorge

Morning

  • Pick-up from your riad/hotel in Marrakech

  • Drive through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m)

  • Scenic stops for photos

Midday

  • Visit the UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou ksar, a famous film location

  • Optional guided tour of the old kasbah

Afternoon

  • Continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa”

  • Drive through the Skoura Oasis and the Valley of Roses

Evening

  • Arrive at the Dades Gorge

  • Dinner + overnight in a guesthouse overlooking the valley

Morning

  • Breakfast at the hotel

  • Drive to the stunning Todra Gorge, walk between its 300m canyon walls

Midday

  • Continue past desert towns (Tinjdad, Erfoud)

  • Arrive in Merzouga, gateway to the Sahara

  • Prepare for your camel trek

Sunset Camel Trek

  • Camel ride (1–1.5 hours) across the dunes of Erg Chebbi

  • Stunning sunset photo stops

Night

  • Arrive at your desert camp (standard or luxury)

  • Traditional Moroccan dinner

  • Berber music around the fire

  • Stargazing in the Sahara

  • Overnight in a comfortable tent

Before sunrise

  • Sunrise camel ride back to the village OR 4×4 transfer

  • Breakfast + quick shower at the lodge

Return to Marrakech

  • Long scenic drive (approx. 9–10 hours)

  • Stops along the way for food, photos, and stretching

  • Late evening arrival in Marrakech

The standard Merzouga Camel Trek generally includes:

  • Accommodation: One night in a private or shared tent/lodge at a desert camp.

  • Meals: Dinner on Day 1 and Breakfast on Day 2.

  • Trekking: A private camel for each person (plus a guide).

  • Guide: An experienced local Berber camel guide.

  • Refreshments: Bottled water, Moroccan Mint Tea.

  • Entertainment: Evening campfire, drum music, and traditional storytelling.

  • Luggage Storage: Secure place to store large luggage back in Merzouga.

Merzouga Camel Trek & Camp: Your Essential Questions Answered

What should I wear/bring?

Bring a small backpack with: Warm clothing (the desert gets very cold at night and in the early morning, even in summer), a hat or scarf/turban for sun protection, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, and any personal toiletries.

You will leave your main suitcase or travel bag securely at the local operator’s office or hotel in Merzouga. You only take a small backpack with essentials for the overnight stay.

It can be a little bumpy, but it is not physically strenuous. The 1–2 hour ride is managed at a slow pace. Guides are experts and will stop for breaks.

Yes, all reputable camps and treks are led by experienced local Berber guides who are extremely familiar with the dunes and desert conditions.

Yes, most modern or luxury camps offer private tents with en-suite toilets and hot showers. Standard camps typically have shared, clean facilities.

Yes, especially during the long journey to Merzouga, it is recommended to bring water and snacks. Most camps will provide basic water and tea.

Most treks are timed for the sunset. If you arrive past the departure time (usually around 4:30 PM–5:30 PM), you may have to take a 4×4 vehicle to catch up to the camp or opt for an early-morning departure the next day.

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