Sandboarding & Overnight in Merzouga Desert Camp Camel Trekking

If you’re dreaming of wide-open dunes, starry nights, and the thrill of riding camels across the Sahara, this 2-day Merzouga adventure might just be your perfect escape. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews consistently praise its authenticity, value, and unforgettable scenery. From peaceful desert sunsets to cozy nomad-style tents, it’s designed to give you a genuine taste of desert life.

What we love about this experience? First, the stunning desert vistas and sunset views that look like they’re straight out of a movie. Second, the knowledgeable guides who share insights into the nomadic lifestyle and keep everything running smoothly. Third, the affordable price point makes it accessible to many travelers without sacrificing the authentic experience. The only caveat? The timing of early morning sunrise means you should be prepared for a very early start—definitely worth it, but not for everyone.

This trip is ideal if you’re after a balanced mix of adventure, cultural insight, and relaxation. It suits outdoor lovers, families, and anyone eager for an authentic Sahara experience without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Authentic Sahara Experience: Camel trekking, sandboarding, and staying in traditional Berber tents provide a genuine desert adventure.
• Value for Money: At around $58 per person, the tour offers a lot of activity, comfort, and cultural insight for the price.
• Expert Guides: Guides speak English and Spanish, offering friendly, informative support throughout.
• Stunning Views & Sunrises: You’ll enjoy breathtaking sunsets and early morning sunrises, perfect for memorable photos.
• Comfortable & Safe: Private tents, places to charge phones, and safe parking make the logistics smooth.
• Group Size & Flexibility: Tours are capped at 20 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

This camel trek is well-regarded for its ability to balance adventure with comfort and authenticity. Starting from Merzouga, you’ll be picked up from your hotel, which makes logistical planning straightforward. After a roughly 1.5-hour camel ride, you’ll arrive at your desert camp, where traditional tents await. Many reviewers mention the welcoming atmosphere, with mint tea served in the traditional way, setting a relaxed tone for the night ahead.

The camp’s location is perfect for catching sweeping views of the golden dunes—an ideal backdrop for photos and unwinding. As one reviewer noted, the camp was “beautifully arranged, with traditional tents that felt welcoming,” and the food was described as “tasteful,” adding to the overall value.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Merzouga to the Desert Camp

The journey begins in the afternoon, usually around 3:45 to 5:00 pm depending on the season. The pickup from your hotel is included, which means you skip the hassle of arranging transport. The camel ride itself lasts about an hour and a half, giving you enough time to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

Along the way, you’ll get a chance to rest, climb some dunes for panoramic sunset views, and even try sandboarding—an activity highly praised by those seeking a bit of adrenaline. Sandboarding is included in the tour, offering a fun twist on desert exploration.

Once you arrive at the camp, the warm welcome continues with traditional mint tea, served in the classic Moroccan style. The night is spent in a Berber Beduin tent, which many reviewers describe as cozy and well-maintained. The camp’s setup allows for a genuine desert experience, with enough amenities like charging stations for phones and a safe parking area for your vehicle.

Dinner is a traditional affair—many highlight the delicious local dishes, which add a hearty touch after a day of exploration. Some guests mention it as a highlight, praising the quality and taste.

Day 2: Sunrise and Return

Waking up early to see the sunrise over the dunes is a must-do. Reviewers repeatedly mention how magical the early morning light is—truly a once-in-a-lifetime moment. After sunrise, a full breakfast awaits, giving you energy for the journey back.

You can choose to ride camels back to Merzouga, or if you prefer, a hot shower and comfortable transport back to town are available. The tour ends back at your hotel in Merzouga, leaving you with a fresh perspective—and plenty of photos and stories to share.

What Makes This Tour Worthwhile?

Authentic Cultural Experience

From riding camels to sipping mint tea with nomads, you’ll get a window into desert life. Several reviews emphasize the friendly guides who are fluent in English and Spanish, making the experience accessible and engaging. One reviewer appreciated how the guides shared insights about nomad lifestyles, adding depth to the tour.

Stunning Scenery & Unique Activities

The sand dunes are nothing short of spectacular—golden, expansive, and perfect for photography. You’ll also have the chance to climb dunes for incredible sunset views and sandboard down the slopes, which many find exhilarating. The desert’s serenity combined with these activities creates a memorable atmosphere.

Value and Comfort

For around $58 per person, this tour includes all major activities, meals, and necessary equipment. The tents are described as clean and traditional, with beds comfortable enough for a good night’s sleep. The inclusion of charging stations and safe parking enhances convenience.

A Well-Organized Experience

From pickup to drop-off, the tour feels seamless. The small group size (maximum 20 travelers) ensures you don’t feel lost in a crowd. The guides are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and attentive service.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Transportation & Timing

Your day starts early, with pickup around 5:00 am. This is to accommodate the early start for the sunrise, which many reviewers say is their favorite part. The tour duration is approximately two days, with the overnight stay in the desert camp.

Group Size & Flexibility

Limited to 20 travelers, this small-group approach enhances the experience’s intimacy. You’ll share the adventure with others but still enjoy personalized attention, especially from guides who are familiar with the area and culture.

Meals & Included Activities

You’ll be served dinner at the camp—many describe it as tasty and satisfying—and breakfast to start the next day. Sandboarding and camel trekking are core activities, providing both fun and authentic desert exploration.

What’s Not Included

Drinks are not included, so consider bringing water or purchasing beverages at the camp. The tour’s price covers the essentials, but extra drinks or souvenirs are on you.

What You Should Bring

A camera to capture the incredible scenery, layers of clothing for temperature changes (cool evenings, warm days), and a sense of adventure. Comfortable shoes for dune climbing and sandboarding are recommended.

Authentic Reviews & Hidden Gems

Many reviewers mention the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, with some noting that guides like Youssef took extra care to explain the nomadic lifestyle and entertain with local music like Gnawa. The camp’s setup and the traditional tents create a cozy, authentic feel—several say it’s “beautifully arranged” and “idyllic.”

Notably, several reviews mention the value for money, with participants feeling they got a lot of activity, stunning views, and cultural insights for just over $50. The inclusion of activities like sandboarding and the opportunity to watch the sunset and sunrise makes this a well-rounded desert adventure.

This Sandboarding & Overnight in Merzouga Desert Camp Camel Trekking tour offers a genuine Sahara experience that balances adventure, culture, and relaxation. It’s perfect for travelers craving a taste of desert life without the hefty price tag, thanks to its affordability and comprehensive itinerary. The guides’ friendly approach and the scenic beauty of the dunes ensure you’ll leave with unforgettable memories.

While the early start might be a challenge for some, the breathtaking sunrise and the peaceful camp atmosphere make it more than worth it. Whether you’re a family seeking a fun adventure or a solo traveler eager for authentic desert experiences, this tour suits a wide range of travelers.

In a nutshell, if you want a well-organized, value-packed desert trip with plenty of photo-worthy moments and authentic touches, this is a fantastic choice.

FAQs

How long is the camel trek to the camp?
The camel ride takes about an hour and a half, giving you enough time to enjoy the scenery and rest along the way.

What time does the tour start?
Pickup is scheduled for around 5:00 am, to allow for an early start and to catch the sunrise over the dunes.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers camel trekking, sandboarding, dinner, breakfast, a private tent, charging stations, and the services of guides who speak English and Spanish.

Can I leave my car safely?
Yes, the tour offers safe parking for your vehicle during the trip.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, many reviews highlight how families enjoyed the experience, especially with activities like camel riding and dune climbing suitable for children.

What should I bring?
Bring layers of clothing, a camera, comfortable shoes, and water. Extra items like sunscreen or a hat may also be helpful for daytime exploration.

In summary, this desert tour delivers a memorable blend of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and adventure at a reasonable cost. It’s a great way to experience the Sahara’s magic, whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group. Expect breathtaking views, warm hospitality, and stories you’ll cherish long after you leave the dunes behind.