Camel Ride & overnight stay in Desert Camp Merzouga

Camel Ride & Overnight Stay in Desert Camp Merzouga: An Authentic Sahara Adventure

Travelers dreaming of the famed Moroccan Sahara, this tour offers a solid taste of desert life without breaking the bank. It’s a well-rated experience that combines the magic of camel trekking, stunning sunset and sunrise views, and an overnight stay in traditional nomad tents.

What makes this journey stand out? First, the guided nature of the trip, complete with knowledgeable guides like Hassan and Saeed, ensures you’ll get insider tips and smooth logistics. Second, the opportunity to photograph the incredible desert sunsets and starry nights in true solitude is a highlight many mention fondly. Lastly, the value is impressive — for around $82.22, you get not just a camel ride but a comprehensive desert experience, including dinners, breakfasts, and a night in the Sahara.

A possible consideration? The tour is quite focused on the overnight experience and may not suit travelers looking for a longer or more varied Moroccan adventure. It’s best suited for those who want a quick but memorable desert escape, especially if you’re short on time but craving the iconic Sahara scenery.

If you’re after an authentic, well-organized desert experience with stunning views and friendly guides, this tour should definitely be on your shortlist. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a visually spectacular night under the stars without the fuss of overly touristy setups.

Key Points

Authentic Sahara Experience: Spend a night sleeping under the stars in traditional tents with campfire dinners.
Stunning Views: Enjoy breathtaking sunsets and sunrises from high dunes, perfect for photography.
Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Hassan and Saeed make the trip informative, safe, and fun.
Value for Money: For around $82, you receive a complete experience including camel rides, meals, and overnight stay.
Limited Duration: This is a two-day trip, ideal if you want a quick desert escape rather than an extended tour.
Group Size: The tour generally accommodates up to 15 travelers, ensuring a friendly and intimate atmosphere.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins in Hassilabied, a village near the sand dunes of Merzouga, where pickup is offered, making the start seamless. The tour operates from early morning until late at night, with flexible times from 5:30 AM to late evening. The meeting point is easily accessible, and since it’s a mobile ticket, you’ll have your confirmation in hand to avoid any confusion.

Day 1: Into the Sahara

The journey kicks off in the evening, with a scenic drive to a hotel close to the dunes—an ideal base to start the camel trek. The camels are loaded with essentials like food, blankets, and equipment, which signals how prepared this experience is.

The 1.5-hour camel ride into the desert is a highlight. Imagine sitting comfortably atop a camel, swaying gently as the vast sands stretch in all directions. Many reviews shared that their guides, like Hassan, took care to make the ride smooth and memorable, often capturing photos for travelers or sharing interesting tidbits about desert life.

Once at the camp, the magic truly begins. The camp is described as well-equipped, with a traditional Berber setup, and offers a chance to walk to high dunes to watch the sunset. Travelers have noted the sky is incredibly clear, making the star-gazing spectacular. The campfire dinners, often accompanied by drums and music, are described as cozy and authentic—perfect for swapping stories or just soaking in the ambiance.

Night in the Sahara

Many comments highlight how the night spent in nomad tents is surprisingly comfortable despite the rustic setting. The experience of being under a blanket of stars, with the sounds of the campfire and occasional music, leaves a lasting impression. The guides’ friendliness and attentiveness help foster a warm, welcoming atmosphere, making it more than just a tourist activity.

Day 2: Returning and Relaxing

The next morning, the group rides camels back to Merzouga, often in time for breakfast and a shower at the hotel. Reviewers appreciated the smooth transition back to comfort after their desert night, with many mentioning the guides’ professionalism and care. The early morning is ideal for capturing sunrise photos, adding a poetic end to the desert adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides bottled water, camel rides, private tents, dinners, and breakfasts, all included in the price. Notably, lunch is not included, so travelers should plan accordingly. The meals are described as hearty and satisfying—often a welcome reprieve after a day of travel and adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those wanting a quick, immersive Sahara adventure. It’s well-suited for photographers eager to catch sunset and starry skies, as well as those seeking a taste of traditional desert life without a multi-day commitment. The group size of up to 15 travelers promotes a personal, friendly vibe but still leaves room for new friends.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance: The tour is popular, and spots fill up quickly, especially in peak seasons.
• Bring layers: Evenings and mornings can be cool, so pack warm blankets and layers.
• Respect the environment: The desert is fragile; follow guides’ instructions to minimize your impact.
• Prepare for rustic comfort: The tents are functional but not luxury – bring your own toiletries if desired.
• Capture the moments: The guides often take photos, but bringing your own camera or phone with good battery life is wise.

The Authentic Sahara Experience for You?

If your idea of travel involves seeing iconic landscapes, enjoying peaceful nights under a canopy of stars, and experiencing genuine local hospitality, this tour fits perfectly. It combines the thrill of camel riding with the tranquility of the desert, all at a reasonable price point.

While it’s a short trip, the memories created—sunset walks, campfire dinners, star gazing—are long-lasting. For travelers who appreciate well-organized excursions led by friendly guides, this experience offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and authenticity.

FAQ

How long is the camel ride? The trek into the desert lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Are meals included? Yes, you will get dinner around the campfire and breakfast the next morning; lunch is not included.
Is pickup offered? Yes, the tour includes pickup from the designated meeting point near Hassilabied.
Can I participate if I’m traveling alone? Absolutely, the group size usually caps at 15 travelers, making it friendly for solo adventurers.
What should I bring? Pack warm layers for evenings, a camera for photos, and any personal toiletries you prefer in your tent.
Is this a rustic experience? Yes, sleeping in nomad tents and camping in the Sahara offers a charming but simple and authentic environment.
Is the tour suitable for children? Most travelers find it family-friendly, but consider the physical comfort of young children due to the rustic tents and outdoor setting.

To sum it up, this camel ride and desert camp experience in Merzouga provides a stunning, well-priced opportunity to connect with the Sahara’s natural beauty. It’s ideal for those seeking a snapshot of desert life, with the guidance ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure. Whether you’re a photographer, a romantic couple, or a solo traveler looking for a memorable night under the stars, this tour promises a genuine taste of Morocco’s iconic landscape—simple, authentic, and beautiful.