From Essaouira: Horseback Tour with Overnight Berber Camp

Travelers seeking a unique blend of adventure, culture, and authentic Moroccan experiences will find this horseback tour from Essaouira to be an excellent choice. It offers a full day of riding through stunning coastal and inland landscapes, topped with an overnight stay in a traditional Berber tent on the beach. This tour promises a memorable escape into nature, with plenty of opportunities for scenic views, culture, and genuine hospitality.

What we love about this experience is the chance to canter along endless sandy beaches, explore untouched forests inaccessible by vehicle, and enjoy a star-lit night around the campfire. The inclusion of authentic Moroccan dinner and a hearty breakfast the next morning adds great value, making this more than just a riding trip. A potential consideration is the need for participants to be mindful of their physical comfort—particularly in regard to packing suitable clothing and shoes, and understanding the tour’s suitability based on weight and mobility restrictions.

This tour is best suited for those who love outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and don’t mind spending time in nature—whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner eager to learn. It’s a fantastic option for travelers wanting a taste of Morocco’s natural beauty combined with traditional Berber hospitality.

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Key Points

Scenic riding along beaches and through forests offers diverse landscapes.
Flexible riding levels accommodate both beginners and experienced riders.
Authentic Moroccan dinner and starry night camping create a memorable overnight experience.
Guided tours with knowledgeable guides enhance safety and cultural insights.
All-inclusive price covers meals, transportation, and accommodations.
Booking flexibility allows you to reserve with the option to pay later, subject to availability.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Horseback Tour Experience

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The Journey Begins: Pickup and Meeting Point

Starting at Petite Porte de Bab Marrakech in Essaouira, the tour includes a convenient pickup and drop-off service, making logistics straightforward. You’ll recognize your driver thanks to the “Ranch de Diabat” signage, which adds a layer of reassurance. The journey to the ranch is a good time to get excited about what’s ahead, with scenic views of the Moroccan countryside. The drive generally takes place in a car equipped for comfort, ensuring you arrive refreshed and ready to ride.

Riding Through Varied Landscapes

Once at the ranch, you’ll meet your guide—most likely someone well-versed in local wildlife, terrain, and riding techniques. The tour offers two routes depending on your riding experience. The easier route, ideal for beginners, follows the wide, deserted beach of Diabat towards the south, where the expansive sands stretch endlessly. Here, a long, exhilarating canter along the shoreline is likely to be a highlight—“a dream canter on the beach” according to reviews.

For those with more experience, the inland route takes riders along a river, climbing uphill to the village of Ghazoua, then descending towards the ocean. This inland route offers a richer variety of scenery, with lush greenery in the forested areas and a chance to see local village life up close.

The Lunch Break and Scenic Rest Stops

After about three hours of riding, both routes stop for a carefully packed picnic lunch, stored in saddlebags. The lunch spot is typically in a shady forested area, shielding from the wind and offering peaceful surroundings. Reviewers mention that the lunch is simple but nourishing—perfect for refueling before the return journey. Sitting in these tranquil spots, many riders find themselves captivated by the sounds of nature and the quiet beauty of Morocco’s countryside.

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The Return Ride and the Beach Canter

Post-lunch, the route for both groups converges—returning along the Infinite Sand Beach. This stretch is renowned for its smooth, endless sands and is the ideal terrain for a dream canter—a fast, exhilarating ride that feels like a moment out of a movie. The reviews highlight the thrill of riding along such a pristine shoreline, with some calling it the “highlight” of the entire experience.

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Transition to the Berber Camp

From the beach, your guides will arrange transport to the Berber camp, located right on the beach itself. The camp setting is quintessentially Moroccan: simple, cozy, and surrounded by nature. Here, you will be welcomed with mint tea and Moroccan pastries—a comforting treat after the day’s ride. The camp’s location provides a perfect vantage point to watch the sunset, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, as you unwind after your journey.

An Authentic Moroccan Dinner Under the Stars

As dusk descends, the camp cook prepares a traditional Moroccan dinner using fresh local ingredients. The meal is served in front of the tent, featuring flavors that are both hearty and aromatic. There’s a warm, communal atmosphere, enhanced by the campfire and storytelling. Many reviewers emphasize the magic of dining outdoors beneath a canopy of stars, with the sound of waves as a peaceful backdrop.

Night in the Berber Tent: Comfort and Simplicity

Overnight stays in the Berber tents are surprisingly comfortable, considering the rustic setting. The tents are simple but well-equipped enough for a restful night, with enough space to relax, sleep, and enjoy Morocco’s starry sky. The overnight experience is particularly memorable, as you feel fully immersed in the natural environment away from modern distractions.

The Morning After: Breakfast and Return

The next morning starts with a generous breakfast, including fresh bread, Moroccan pastries, and hot drinks—fuel for the journey back. After breakfast, your driver will escort you back to Essaouira, completing this enriching adventure.

The Value of This Tour

At $323 per person, the price covers a lot of ground. From the inclusive pickup and drop-off to guided riding, meals, overnight stay, and breakfast, it offers a comprehensive experience. When you consider the cost of individual components—meals, accommodations, transportation—the package provides good value, especially given the unique nature of the overnight camping and the guided expertise involved.

The Guide and Group Experience

While specific guide names aren’t mentioned, reviews praise the knowledgeable guides for their friendly demeanor and safety-conscious approach. They are adept at adjusting the riding to match each participant’s skill level, ensuring everyone feels comfortable. Small group sizes enhance the personal touch, making the experience feel more intimate and tailored.

What to Pack and Considerations

The tour recommends packing comfortable clothes, long pants, outdoor clothing, and closed-toe shoes. Because the camp is on the beach, bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, and perhaps a hat is advisable. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with animal allergies, and there are weight restrictions over 200 lbs (91 kg). Participants must also present passport copies and Covid vaccination passes, which underscores the importance of planning ahead.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This horseback adventure offers a rare combination of coastal riding, inland exploration, and culture that few other tours can match. The chance to canter along a deserted beach with the wind in your hair or to spend a night under a blanket of stars in a Berber tent creates memories that last a lifetime. It’s a well-organized, authentic experience that balances adventure with comfort and cultural authenticity.

The knowledgeable guides and the stunning natural scenery are the main draws, with many reviewers noting how they appreciated the personal attention and expert insights. The overnight tent experience adds a special, intimate touch that turns a day trip into a truly immersive escape.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for travelers who crave outdoor adventure and scenic landscapes, whether they’re experienced riders or first-timers. It’s especially suited for those interested in Moroccan culture and looking for a unique overnight experience. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find this to be a rewarding activity, though younger children or those with mobility restrictions should consider the physical demands.

The Sum Up

This horseback tour from Essaouira to the Berber camp offers an authentic taste of Morocco’s natural beauty and cultural richness. The combination of beach riding, forest exploration, and traditional Berber hospitality makes it a well-rounded, memorable adventure. The inclusive nature of the package—meals, transport, accommodation—adds great value, making it accessible for most travelers looking to step outside typical tourist experiences.

If you’re eager to experience Morocco’s coastline from horseback and sleep under the stars in a desert-like setting, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for those who want a genuine, guided adventure with plenty of opportunities for photos, relaxation, and cultural connection.

FAQ

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot through the provided link on GetYourGuide, with the option to pay later. Remember, the overnight stay must be booked at least 10 days in advance.

What is the meeting point?
The meeting point is Petite Porte de Bab Marrakech at 211 Rue Chbanat in Essaouira. The driver will be identifiable with “Ranch de Diabat” signage.

What should I bring?
Comfortable outdoor clothes, long pants, closed-toe shoes, passport or copy, and a mask are recommended. Sunscreen and a hat are also a good idea for daytime riding.

Is this activity suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour accommodates riders of all levels, with a route adapted to your experience. The guides are experienced in adjusting the pace and offering riding tips.

Can I do this if I am not a confident rider?
Absolutely. The easier route is designed for less experienced riders, and guides are attentive to individual comfort levels.

What is included in the price?
Pickup and drop-off, a guided horse ride, overnight in a Berber tent, meals (lunch, dinner, breakfast), water, coffee, and tea.

Are alcoholic drinks included?
No, alcohol is not included, and alcohol and drugs are not permitted during the activity.

What is the overnight accommodation like?
The Berber tents are simple but comfortable, offering a cozy experience with an authentic Moroccan vibe, right on the beach.

Is this activity suitable for children?
This tour is best suited for adults or older teens; children should be aware of the physical nature and restrictions related to weight and mobility.

Travelers seeking a genuine Moroccan adventure will find this horseback trip a rewarding blend of scenic riding, culture, and outdoor camping—an experience that truly captures the spirit of Morocco’s natural landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: