1 night Merzouga camel Trekking

Imagine riding a camel across vast, rolling dunes in Morocco, watching the sunset paint the sky in fiery hues, then settling into a cozy desert camp under a blanket of stars. That’s exactly what the 1 Night Merzouga Camel Trekking tour promises — a chance to step out of everyday life and into the heart of the Sahara. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, detailed reviews, itineraries, and insider tips suggest it’s a memorable experience.

What really makes this tour stand out are the stunning views of Erg Chebbi’s towering dunes, the chance for authentic Berber music around the campfire, and the opportunity to see Morocco’s highest sand dunes—famous for their postcard-perfect landscapes. Plus, with options for a simple or luxurious desert camp, there’s flexibility to suit different budgets and comfort preferences.

One thing to keep in mind is the early start time of 4:00 a.m., designed to maximize your desert experience with sunrise views and cooler morning temperatures. This might not suit everyone’s schedule, but it’s a small price to pay for the chance to witness one of Morocco’s most photographable moments. This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone craving an authentic desert night.

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Key Points

Authentic Sahara Experience: Camel trek, sunset views, and camping under the stars.
Flexible Options: Choice between a simple or luxury desert camp.
Cultural Touch: Traditional Berber dinner and music add local flavor.
Value for Money: Around $72 per person, including meals and activities.
Early Start: Tour begins at 4:00 a.m., perfect for catching sunrise.
Free Cancellation: Offers peace of mind if plans change.

An In-Depth Look at the Merzouga Camel Trekking Experience

Looking for more options in Merzouga? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start in Merzouga at dawn or early morning: The tour kicks off with a pick-up or meeting in Merzouga, a small town near the Algerian border, known as the gateway to the Sahara. You’ll then hop onto your camel, beginning a trek that lasts approximately 1.5 hours. This part of the journey is where you’ll get your first real sense of the scale and beauty of Erg Chebbi’s dunes — the tallest in Africa, rivaled only by their panoramic, sun-soaked vistas.

Sunset over the dunes: One of the highlights is watching the sun set behind the dunes, casting long shadows and turning the landscape golden. Many reviews highlight this as a breathtaking moment. As one traveler put it, the views “are simply unforgettable” and worth the early morning wake-up.

Arrival at the desert camp: Upon reaching the camp, you’ll be welcomed into either a simple standard tent or a more luxurious setup. Both options come with private tents, offering a cozy retreat after your trek. The inclusion of dinner and breakfast ensures you’re well-fed amid the desert’s serenity.

Evening activities: After dinner, guests gather around a fire for traditional Berber music, an experience many visitors find enchanting. The starry sky above the camp is often described as “full of stars,” making for a magical night’s sleep.

Return journey: The next morning, breakfast is served before your camel ride back to Merzouga, completing your desert adventure.

What Makes the Stops Special?

Erg Chebbi Dunes: As the highest sand dunes in Africa, Erg Chebbi’s dunes are striking. Their vastness offers incredible photo opportunities, especially during sunset and sunrise. Several reviews emphasize how the views “are unlike anything else,” with some likening the experience to stepping into a different world.

Camel riding: The camel trek itself isn’t just a ride—it’s a slow, rhythmic glide across an otherworldly landscape. Many travelers mention that the guide’s knowledge enhances the experience, providing insights into Berber culture and desert ecology.

Desert town of Merzouga: While primarily a launching point for desert adventures, Merzouga itself offers a glimpse into local Berber life. Its proximity to the Algerian border adds a touch of frontier adventure, though the tour focuses mainly on the desert and dunes.

Optional activities: Sandboarding and quad biking aren’t included but are available separately, giving those with extra time some fun ways to explore more of the dunes.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

All meals (lunch, dinner, and breakfast) offer good value, allowing you to enjoy hearty Berber dishes in the desert setting.
Camel rides to and from the camp, ensuring a traditional experience.
Sandboarding adds a fun, adrenaline-filled twist on the dunes.

Not Included:

Drinks and scarves are extra; bringing your own scarf can protect against the sun and sand.
Tips are optional but customary.
Optional 4WD or quad biking are available, but at an extra cost.

Practical Details

Timing: The tour starts at 4:00 a.m., perfect for catching the sunrise or experiencing the desert during cooler hours. The entire trek lasts approximately 15 hours, making it a full-day adventure.

Transportation: The tour offers pick-up in the Merzouga area, making logistics straightforward. If you prefer, you can also meet at the designated meeting point.

Group Size and Privacy: It’s a private tour, so you’ll enjoy the experience without large crowds—ideal for intimate travel or small groups.

There's plenty more to explore in Merzouga

Real Traveler Insights

From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Moha significantly enhance the experience. One reviewer described it as a “life-time experience,” praising the blend of camel trekking, a Berber traditional meal, and music around the fire. The authenticity of the Berber dinner and the friendly guide help make this a genuine cultural encounter.

Another mention worth noting is the high regard for the views — “the sunset behind the dunes is simply unforgettable,” highlighting the visual power of this landscape. The star-gazing is also a highlight, with many guests remarking on how clear and spectacular the night sky is.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At just over $70 per person, this experience includes transport, meals, camel rides, and accommodation—elements that could easily add up if booked separately. The fact that you get to camp under the stars and enjoy traditional music around the fire makes it a genuinely immersive experience, not just a quick photo stop.

The optional luxury camp adds a layer of comfort, but even the standard tent provides a cozy, authentic setting that feels both rustic and welcoming. Plus, with free cancellation, there’s flexibility if your plans shift.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for those wanting a genuine Sahara experience without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves. It suits adventurous travelers, photography buffs, and anyone eager to witness Morocco’s iconic dunes at sunset and under the stars. If you appreciate local culture, great views, and a touch of adventure, this trip will tick all your boxes.

However, if you’re sensitive to early mornings or prefer a more relaxed schedule, the 4:00 a.m. start might be a challenge. Also, those seeking an ultra-luxury experience should look into the luxury camp option.

FAQs

What is the start time of the tour?
The tour begins at 4:00 a.m., allowing travelers to enjoy the desert during cooler morning hours and catch a beautiful sunrise.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, with traditional Berber dishes served during your stay in the desert camp.

Can I choose between a simple or luxury camp?
Most descriptions mention a standard camp, but some references suggest a luxury camp option as well. Check with the provider for availability if you prefer extra comfort.

What should I bring?
Although not explicitly stated, bringing a scarf for sun and sand protection is advisable. Comfortable clothing, a camera, and perhaps a small amount of cash for optional extras are also recommended.

Is this experience suitable for children or all travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The experience is designed to be accessible, but keep in mind the early start and physical activity involved.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The 1 Night Merzouga Camel Trekking tour offers a well-rounded taste of Morocco’s Sahara desert — from awe-inspiring dunes and sunset views to an authentic night under the stars, complemented by Berber music and cuisine. Its value lies not just in the scenery but in the culture and the chance to disconnect from daily life.

Ideal for those seeking an authentic adventure, it balances memorable sights with a cozy, personal atmosphere. Whether you’re an avid photographer, a cultural explorer, or simply craving a unique escape, this experience delivers the magic of the Moroccan desert in a compact, thoughtfully curated package.

While the early start might be a hurdle for some, the payoff—a night in the dunes, a star-studded sky, and memories to last a lifetime—makes it more than worthwhile. Pack your sense of adventure and a camera, and get ready for a desert odyssey you won’t forget.