1 night Camel Treking in Merzouga Desert Luxury Camp

Imagine wrapping yourself in the serenity of Morocco’s vast Sahara, riding a camel at sunset, and waking up under a sky bursting with stars — that’s exactly what this luxury desert camp experience promises. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it offers a genuine, well-organized adventure into the heart of the desert, with a touch of comfort that even seasoned travelers will appreciate.

What stands out? The small-group size means a more intimate journey, the luxury camp with modern amenities makes it a comfortable escape, and the culture with Berber music and cuisine adds authenticity. The only thing to consider is that the desert surroundings are somewhat affected by nearby activities—like electric cables and tracks—which may detract from the wild, untouched vibe for some.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of adventure and comfort, those wanting to experience the Sahara in style, or anyone looking for a memorable night under the stars. Now, let’s explore the experience in detail.

Key Points

• Authentic culture with Berber music, dinner, and campfire storytelling.
• Luxury camping with private tents and modern facilities like bathrooms and hot water.
• Stunning sunset and sunrise views over the Erg Chebbi dunes.
• Small-group tours (max 15 people) for more personalized attention.
• Excellent value at just under $100 per person, including meals and camel rides.
• Ideal for travelers who want comfort, culture, and desert scenery in one package.

The Experience: From Marrakech to Merzouga’s Dunes

The tour begins with a pickup from Marrakech and then a long, scenic drive to Merzouga — a journey of about a day. While the pick-up details are not included, the entire experience is designed to be a seamless adventure, with transportation arranged through Morocco Delighted Tours. The tour’s price of $98.87 per person reflects good value, especially considering meals, camel rides, and the luxurious camp stay are included.

Arrival and Preparation

You’ll meet your guide in Merzouga, a small desert town that serves as the gateway to the Sahara. From there, it’s a short transfer to the starting point of your camel trek. The group size is limited to 15 guests, which is ideal for those wanting more personal interaction and a chance to ask questions about Berber culture and desert life.

Camel Ride into the Dunes

The highlight of the day is the camel trek — approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes riding through the sand. Reviewers mention that guides, such as Brahim, are attentive and gentle, ensuring beginners feel comfortable on their camels. You’ll stop mid-dune for a spectacular sunset, a prime photo opportunity that truly captures the desert’s golden hues. Several reviews praise the “magnificent” views, with one traveler describing it as a moment that “blows your mind.”

Arriving at the Luxury Camp

Once you reach the camp, you’ll be welcomed with a glass of mint tea, a simple but heartfelt gesture that sets the tone. The camp is described as “luxury,” with private tents featuring bathrooms and hot water, making the experience both authentic and comfortable. One reviewer emphasized that the camp’s quality of service and hospitality was the best part of their Morocco trip—something many travelers look for after long days of sightseeing.

Evening Activities and Dinner

As night falls, you’ll enjoy Berber music performances around the campfire, listening to traditional drumming and singing. The dinner served in the camp is described as delicious, with a mix of local Berber dishes like tajines. Reviewers mention the food is “very good” and ample, often accompanied by nuts, tea, or coffee for a cozy desert evening.

Star Gazing and Night Under the Stars

One of the standout moments is simply lying back and looking up. The desert’s remote location offers a clear, star-filled sky — a favorite among reviewers. Many describe the experience as “enchanting” and “relaxing,” especially after a day of adventurous riding and culture.

The Next Morning: Sunrise and Return

Early risers will love the sunrise over the dunes, a truly breathtaking sight that makes the early wake-up worth it. After breakfast, you’ll ride your camels back to Merzouga, enjoying the peaceful morning views. One reviewer noted that the dunes can be crowded with 4×4 tracks and nearby houses, which might detract slightly from the pristine desert feel, but overall, the experience remains deeply memorable.

Additional Highlights from Reviews

• Many guests appreciated the professional and friendly staff, with guides like Brahim and Hassan getting especially high praise.
• The camp’s luxury amenities (showers, hot water) contrasted with the rustic desert setting, offering comfort without losing the authentic Sahara vibe.
• Travelers also loved how flexible the tour was, with some mentioning the possibility to postpone due to weather or unforeseen circumstances.
• The value is clear: for under $100, you get a camel ride, meals, guided experience, and a night in a luxurious desert camp—making it a highly attractive option.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Authentic cultural exposure is a big plus here. From traditional Berber dinner to live music and storytelling, you get a taste of local traditions. The sunset and sunrise views are undeniably stunning, with some reviewers calling the sunset “magnificent” and the experience “enchanting.” The luxury camp elevates the classic desert overnight, providing essential comforts like private bathrooms and hot showers, which are often missing in more rustic setups.

On top of that, the small-group size makes for a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere, allowing guides to tailor the experience and answer questions. The camel rides are considered gentle and scenic, providing a genuine sense of connection with the desert landscape.

Caveats and Considerations

While the experience is largely praised, some reviewers mention that the desert environment is somewhat marred by nearby electric cables, houses, and 4×4 tracks, which can detract from the sense of wilderness. If you’re dreaming of a completely untouched desert, this is worth keeping in mind.

Plus, the dinner and breakfast are described as “acceptable” but not gourmet. The emphasis is on local, hearty dishes that keep you warm and satisfied, rather than fine dining.

Weather can be unpredictable — a sandstorm or wind might cause slight changes in plans, but tour providers seem flexible and communicative about rescheduling if needed.

Practical Details

• Duration: Approximately 1 day, with the overnight camp experience included.
• Start Time: 4:00 pm from Merzouga, perfect for catching the sunset.
• Price: About $98.87 per person, with meals, camel rides, and accommodation included.
• Transport: Provided from a designated meeting point in Merzouga, with arrangements made beforehand.
• Group Size: Max 15 guests, ensuring an intimate experience.
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—great for flexible planning.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers who want a luxurious yet authentic Sahara adventure. It’s suitable for those who enjoy culture, scenic views, and the chance to relax in comfort after a day of riding. If you’re a photography enthusiast, the sunset and starry night will be especially memorable.

It’s also a solid choice for first-timers, due to the friendly guides and manageable group size, or for those traveling on a budget but unwilling to sacrifice quality and comfort in the desert.

Final Thoughts

This 1-night camel trek with luxury camping in Merzouga offers a balanced blend of adventure, culture, and comfort. The reviews highlight how well-organized and genuine the experience is, with the added bonus of stunning desert scenery and authentic Berber hospitality. While not a completely unspoiled wilderness experience, it provides excellent value and memorable moments that will stay with you long after you leave.

Whether you’re craving a romantic night under the stars, a cultural journey, or simply a way to see the desert in style, this tour ticks many boxes. Just remember to pack your camera, a sense of adventure, and an appreciation for cozy desert nights.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You get camel riding for each person, a park for your car, a camel guide, dinner, breakfast, and a private luxury tent with a bathroom.

How long is the camel trek?
The camel ride lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, taking you through beautiful dunes with a chance to watch the sunset.

What are the accommodation details?
You’ll stay overnight in a luxury campsite with private tents featuring bathrooms and hot water, providing comfort in the desert.

Can I see the stars at night?
Yes, the camp is in a remote part of the Sahara, offering clear, star-filled skies—an unforgettable experience according to guests.

Is this tour suitable for children or beginners?
Yes, guides are friendly and attentive, and the two-hour camel ride is generally suitable for most travelers, including beginners.

Are meals included?
Yes, dinners and breakfast are included, with traditional Berber dishes served in a cozy desert setting.

Overall, this tour delivers a well-rounded Sahara experience that combines authentic culture, stunning landscapes, and comfortable amenities. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking to tick the desert off their bucket list with style and sincerity.