Merzouga Desert Campsite &Camel Excursions

If you’re dreaming of lying beneath a vast canopy of stars, riding camels across endless dunes, and savoring authentic Moroccan hospitality, this overnight desert experience in Merzouga might just be your ticket. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itineraries paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect.

What we love about this adventure is how it balances adventure with comfort: from the scenic camel rides and exhilarating sandboarding to cozy tents and lively campfire gatherings. Plus, the incredible value at just over $80 per person makes it accessible for many. That said, a possible consideration is that it’s a one-night trip, so those seeking a longer desert trek might want to explore additional options.

This experience is ideal for travelers craving an authentic Moroccan desert night without breaking the bank. Whether you’re on a tight schedule or just want a taste of Sahara magic, this tour offers a genuine, fun, and memorable escape into the sands.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines camel riding, sandboarding, and traditional Berber hospitality.
• Value for Money: Offers a comprehensive overnight desert experience at a reasonable price.
• Stunning Scenery: Capture breathtaking sunsets and sunrises in the Sahara.
• Flexible Options: Upgrade tents with en-suite bathrooms or choose alternative transport like jeeps.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Enjoy music and fire-side gatherings around the campfire.
• Traveler Feedback: Consistently high ratings for guides, views, and overall experience.

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour offers an easy and well-rounded introduction to the Sahara’s beauty and culture. Starting at the designated meeting point in Merzouga, you’ll be picked up and transported—either by camel or jeep, depending on your preference—to the desert camp. The journey itself is part of the fun, with stops for photos and sandboarding on the dunes, which is a highlight for many travelers.

Day 1: The Journey and the Camp

After meeting your guide, Saïd, and the friendly team, you’ll hop on a camel for a scenic ride through the dunes. This isn’t just a simple trek; you’ll pause to watch a spectacular sunset, with the golden sands turning fiery under the setting sun—a moment many reviewers describe as unforgettable. Sandboarding is included, giving you a chance to experience the thrill of sliding down dunes that seem to stretch forever.

Once you arrive at the camp, the hospitality kicks in. The Berber team welcomes you with fresh mint tea—simple, genuine, and a warm taste of Morocco. Your private tent, whether standard or upgraded with an en-suite bathroom, becomes your cozy retreat for the night. Dinner follows, often described as flavorful and hearty, followed by a social evening around the campfire. The guides and fellow travelers gather to play desert instruments, share stories, and soak in the star-studded sky, creating a truly immersive experience.

Day 2: Sunrise and Return

Waking early for the sunrise over the dunes is a highlight—early enough to catch the desert waking up in a soft, golden glow. After a delicious breakfast, you’ll saddle your camel again and head back toward Merzouga, enjoying a different perspective of the desert’s vastness.

According to the reviews, this part of the trip is equally enjoyable, with many travelers noting the stunning scenery and the friendly, knowledgeable guides like Saïd who add a personal touch to the journey.

Additional Options and Flexibility

If riding camels isn’t your thing, the tour offers jeep transfers to the camp, allowing for a quicker or more comfortable journey. Activities like quad biking, buggy tours, or hiking are available if you want to extend your desert adventure beyond the basic package.

The Experience in Detail

Camel Riding: The core activity, with the journey to and from the camp providing plenty of photo opportunities. Guides are experienced, and reviewers mention Saïd as particularly charming and helpful, making the rides more than just transportation.

Sandboarding: A fun addition that appeals to thrill-seekers and casual travelers alike. Travelers report that the dunes are perfect for sliding, with some describing it as “a great way to add a little adventure.”

Camping & Accommodation: The tents are described as private, with some with shared bathrooms, and an upgrade option for en-suite facilities. Many reviews highlight the authenticity of the Berber tents and the cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

Food & Hospitality: Included meals are hearty, tasty, and enough to satisfy. The hospitality—represented by mint tea, warm welcomes, and campfire camaraderie—is a big part of the appeal.

Evening Activities: Playing desert instruments and storytelling around the campfire, all set against a backdrop of incredible starry skies, make the nights special. Reviewers mention the music and fire as memorable highlights.

Sunrise & Breakfast: Rising early to see the sun crest the dunes is considered a must-do, with many describing it as a “magical start to the day.”

Transportation & Logistics: The tour offers a pickup from a central location in Merzouga, with private parking available. The duration of the trip is about two days, making it manageable for most travelers.

The Value of This Experience

For $81.42 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive Sahara adventure—camel rides, sandboarding, authentic camping, and culture—without the hefty price tag of longer or more luxury-focused trips. While some reviewers note that the tents are basic, the overall experience is praised for its authenticity, warmth, and stunning scenery.

The all-inclusiveness of meals, activities, and the guided journey makes it a good value, especially considering how memorable and photogenic the desert views are. The availability of tent upgrades and optional activities like jeep tours adds flexibility, catering to different comfort levels and interests.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a straightforward, immersive desert night with a good mix of adventure and cultural charm. It suits those on a budget but still craving authentic Moroccan hospitality, stunning landscapes, and memorable activities. If you’re looking for a short but meaningful Sahara experience without the fuss of luxury, this is an excellent choice.

It’s also well-suited for first-timers to desert camping, families, or groups looking for a fun, social night under the stars. If you’re after a deeply relaxing or ultra-luxurious desert retreat, you might want to consider other options, but for genuine Sahara magic at a fair price, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This overnight Merzouga desert tour offers a lively, authentic taste of Morocco’s Sahara. You’ll enjoy scenic camel rides, exhilarating sandboarding, and nights spent under the stars with welcoming Berber hosts—all at a very reasonable price. The knowledgeable guides, especially Saïd, enhance the experience with local insights and friendly service, making every moment enjoyable.

While accommodations are basic, the charm of sleeping in a desert tent and the chance to witness a Sahara sunset and sunrise make it worthwhile. Plus, the flexibility to upgrade tents or add activities means you can tailor the trip to your preferences.

For travelers seeking a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and stunning scenery without a hefty price tag, this tour provides a memorable and rewarding experience. Just pack your camera, a sense of adventure, and an appetite for authentic Moroccan hospitality.

FAQ

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour starts at HouseOnHoliday3XPV+M4W near Les Pyramides Hotel in Merzouga, Morocco. The pickup is included, and the location is close to public transportation.

Can I choose a different mode of transport to the camp?
Yes, if you prefer not to ride camels, there is an option for jeep transfer to the desert camp.

What activities are included?
Your package includes camel riding, sandboarding, dinner, breakfast, and the animation of desert instruments around the campfire. Additional activities like jeep tours and quad biking are available separately.

Are the tents private?
Yes, each guest gets their own private tent, with options for shared or en-suite bathrooms. Upgrades are available for more luxurious accommodations.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and confirmation is received at booking. It’s a short overnight trip, making it accessible and convenient.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes for the desert, good footwear for sandboarding, and a camera for the stunning scenery. The tour provides most essentials, but consider bringing a flashlight for night walks.

This Merzouga desert adventure combines genuine hospitality, stunning landscapes, and fun activities, making it a worthwhile addition to your Moroccan itinerary. Whether you’re after a quick taste of Sahara life or looking to capture unforgettable sunsets, this tour offers an authentic and affordable route into the heart of the dunes.