Authentic Camel Ride in Erg Chebbi Desert with a Night in a Berber Tent
Travelers looking for a memorable desert experience will find this tour to be a fantastic choice. It combines the magic of camel riding through the dunes, stunning sunset and sunrise vistas, and a night spent comfortably in a traditional Berber tent. With excellent reviews and a well-loved itinerary, this adventure offers more than just sightseeing; it’s an opportunity to connect with the desert’s soul.
What makes this trip stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides really enhance the experience, sharing insights and making sure everyone feels comfortable. Second, the included camel rides are a key highlight — no extra charges or surprises. Third, the private tent with bathroom offers comfort in the middle of the dunes, making the overnight stay both authentic and convenient. One thing to consider is the timing — the tour is an evening start, which might not suit those with early morning plans.
This experience is perfect for travelers who want to explore the Sahara without a multi-day commitment. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a good mix of adventure, comfort, and cultural authenticity. If you’re after a straightforward yet immersive desert getaway, this tour is worth considering.
Key Points
- Authentic Sahara experience with camel riding, sunset, and sunrise views
- Comfortable private tents with en-suite bathrooms and showers
- All-inclusive: dinner, breakfast, tea, and sandboarding
- Guided by knowledgeable locals who enhance the experience
- Flexible cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Ideal for those short on time but wanting a genuine desert adventure
Looking for more options in Merzouga? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Experience in Detail
Starting Point and Transport
The tour kicks off in the late afternoon at 6:00 pm from the designated meeting point at Dar MoroccoKsar Tabomiat, about 5 km south of Merzouga’s center. From there, a comfortable ride takes you into the heart of the Sahara. The group size is typically small, providing a more intimate experience, and the tour is fully private, meaning it’s just your group enjoying the desert together.
Camel Ride to the Desert Camp
One of the core moments is the camel trek, which lasts about 1.5 hours. You’ll hop on your camel, guided by experienced handlers, and glide over the sand dunes. The guides are praised for their warmth and friendliness — one reviewer mentioned that the guide often offered to take photos, helping create lasting memories. The ride itself is smooth, giving you ample time to soak in the scenery and appreciate the vastness of the dunes.
Travelers often report that the sandboarding option is available for those feeling adventurous. While not everyone uses it, it adds a fun element to the trip and is included in the price.
The Desert Camp and Sunset Views
Arriving at the camp, you’ll walk to the dunes of Erg Chebbi to catch the sunset — a highlight for many. The pictures from this moment, especially with the golden light over the dunes, are unforgettable. Reviewers like Fien_W described it as a “wonderful local experience,” emphasizing the warm welcome and the precious photo memories created during the trek.
The camp itself is equipped with Berber-style tents that feature private bathrooms, showers, and WCs, which sets this experience apart from more rustic, shared options. The guides and staff create a cozy, authentic atmosphere, often accompanied by traditional Sahara music around the campfire.
Dinner and Night Under the Stars
As evening settles in, you’ll enjoy a local dinner amid the dunes, with music that captures the desert’s enchanting spirit. Guests have described the meal as delicious and authentic, adding to the overall immersion. The night is spent in comfortable Berber tents, designed with travelers’ comfort in mind, offering a peaceful retreat under the stars.
Sunrise and Breakfast
The early morning offers one of the most breathtaking moments — watching the sunrise over the dunes. Many reviews highlight how special this is, with some quoting that it’s a “beautiful way to start the day.” After sunrise, breakfast is served back at the camp, providing a hearty start before the camel ride back to Merzouga.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
While the price of $76.35 per person might seem modest, the experiences included justify the cost. You gain a comprehensive desert adventure, from camel riding and sandboarding to cozy overnight stays and culture through music and local cuisine.
The all-inclusive nature — with dinner, breakfast, water, tea, and the private tent — removes the guesswork and extra expenses travelers often face on similar tours. The private tents with en-suite bathrooms are a standout feature, offering a level of comfort that many comparable desert experiences lack.
On top of that, the positive reviews mention the professionalism and warmth of the guides, especially highlighting the local knowledge that enriches the trip. The fact that the tour is booked well in advance (on average 72 days ahead) indicates its popularity and reliability.
The Itinerary Breakdown
- Evening departure at 6:00 pm from Merzouga
- Camel ride lasting about 1.5 hours to the camp
- Dune walk for sunset viewing
- Dinner in the camp with traditional music
- Overnight stay in private Berber tents with private bathrooms
- Early morning wake-up for sunrise over the dunes
- Breakfast at the camp
- Camel ride back to Merzouga
This well-structured itinerary balances adventure, relaxation, and cultural authenticity. It also offers ample time to take photos, enjoy the scenery, and connect with guides and fellow travelers.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Timing: The tour starts at 6:00 pm, so plan your day accordingly to arrive relaxed.
- What to bring: While water and tea are included, packing extra bottled water and a scarf or hat for sun protection is wise.
- Comfort: The private tents with bathrooms mean you can enjoy a cozy night, but bringing a sleeping bag or extra blanket might increase comfort, especially if the night is cool.
- Photography: Prepare your camera or smartphone for stunning sunset and sunrise shots — guides often help with photos.
- Sandboarding: Feel free to try it out, as it’s included, and adds a playful element to your desert day.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This tour is ideal for those craving a taste of Sahara adventure without a multi-day commitment. It’s suited for travelers who want the authentic desert experience, with the comfort of private tents and guided excursions. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate local culture and scenic beauty will find it particularly rewarding.
If you’re looking for a well-organized, authentic yet comfortable desert overnight, this trip ticks all the boxes.
FAQs
What is included in the tour?
The tour covers camel rides, sunset and sunrise viewing, dinner, breakfast, tea, sandboarding, and a private tent with bathroom facilities.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Dar MoroccoKsar Tabomiat, south of Merzouga, and returns to the same point after the experience.
How long is the camel ride?
The camel trek lasts approximately 1.5 hours each way, totaling around two hours of camel riding throughout the trip.
Is the tent comfortable?
Yes, the tents are described as Berber-style and include private bathrooms with showers and WCs, offering a comfortable stay.
What should I bring?
Extra bottled water, a scarf or hat for sun protection, and possibly a sleeping bag for added comfort.
Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews mention guides who are friendly, enthusiastic, and eager to help take photos, making the experience more personal.
Can I participate in sandboarding?
Absolutely, sandboarding is included and available for those interested in trying it out.
Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
How far in advance should I book?
The tour is popular, with bookings made on average 72 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended.
Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
While most travelers can participate, consider the physical demands of camel riding and early morning wake-up for sunrise.
Final Thoughts
This camel ride and desert overnight tour in Erg Chebbi offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and cultural charm. It’s a wonderful way for travelers to experience the Sahara’s magic without the complications of longer treks. The inclusion of private tents, guided experiences, and local music makes it feel authentic yet manageable.
For those seeking a short but impactful desert escape, this tour delivers on all fronts. Its positive reviews, knowledgeable guides, and well-organized itinerary make it a trusted choice for an unforgettable Moroccan Sahara adventure.
Whether it’s your first visit to Morocco or a repeat journey, this experience captures the essence of the Sahara and offers lasting memories of golden dunes, starry nights, and desert sunsets.
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