Travelers looking to step outside typical Moroccan sightseeing and into the quiet majesty of the Sahara will find this overnight camel trek in Merzouga offers an authentic taste of desert life. With glowing reviews praising the guides, scenery, and immersive experience, it’s clear this is a memorable journey.
We love how this tour combines stunning desert vistas, culture with native Berber guides, and the chance to sleep under the stars in traditional tents. The inclusion of meals, bottled water, and tea adds to the value, making it a well-rounded experience.
One potential consideration is the timing, since the trek starts in the late afternoon and involves about an hour and a half of climb to the camp. Travelers who prefer morning adventures or have mobility concerns might want to plan accordingly.
This tour suits those craving an off-the-beaten-path adventure, lovers of photography and sunset views, and anyone eager for a taste of nomadic culture. If you’re comfortable with basic outdoor activity and want genuine desert immersion, this is a fantastic pick.
Key Points
- Authentic Experience: Guided by native Berbers, providing genuine insights and hospitality.
- Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking sunset views and a starry desert night.
- Comfort and Meals: Spacious tents, dinner, breakfast, and drinks included.
- Value for Price: At around $58.73, this offers a complete overnight desert experience.
- Flexible Activities: Options like sandboarding and camel rides deepen the adventure.
- Easy Booking & Pickup: Convenient mobile ticket and pickup from Merzouga.
What to Expect from the Tour
This overnight camel trek begins with a meeting at the village of Merzouga. Guests leave their cars at a secure parking spot and pack essentials for a night in the desert. The journey starts in the late afternoon, about two hours before sunset, allowing you to enjoy the changing landscape as you ride into the heart of the Erg Chebbi dunes.
The camel ride, lasting approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, offers a gentle, rhythmic journey through the shifting sands. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to try sandboarding if you’re feeling adventurous, as some reviews mention. The trip pauses mid-way for a scenic photo break, where travelers can soak in the vastness of the Sahara, and enjoy the sights of dunes stretching infinitely in all directions.
Looking for more options in Merzouga? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Camp Arrival & Sunset
Arriving at the desert camp, you’ll be greeted with a refreshing mint tea — a Moroccan staple— and shown to your tent. These are traditional, roomy, and designed for comfort, giving you a restful sanctuary after your day of travel. The highlight is climbing a nearby dune to witness a sunset that paints the sands in hues of gold, amber, and fiery orange, providing unforgettable photo opportunities.
Staying in a Nomad Camp
The camp is run by native Berbers, ensuring an experience rooted in local culture. The ambiance is laid-back, with space for everyone to relax, chat, or enjoy live entertainment like drumming. The camp’s setting offers complete privacy and spacious tents, making it suitable for families and groups alike.
Night Under the Stars
One of the most cherished parts of this trip is sleeping outdoors under a canopy of stars. The quiet, still desert night offers a chance to disconnect, reflect, and enjoy the sheer volume of stars visible without city lights. Reviewers highlight the authenticity of this experience, emphasizing the warm hospitality and regional cuisine served at dinner.
Sunrise & Breakfast
Waking up early rewards you with a spectacular sunrise over the dunes, a moment many describe as magical. After breakfast, you can relax before heading back on the camel ride to the starting point, our guides eager to share stories and answer questions along the way.
The Logistics & Practical Details
The tour is priced at $58.73 per person, which covers meals (dinner and breakfast), bottled water, and hot drinks like coffee or tea. The total duration is approximately 12 hours, making it a full, immersive day from morning pickup to late morning return.
Pickup is offered, and you’ll meet at the designated spot in Merzouga village, starting at 9:00 am. The tour is private, meaning your group gets personalized attention and flexibility, enhancing the overall experience.
Travel and Group Size
Travelers praise the small group atmosphere and attentive guides, often native Berbers, who bring a wealth of local knowledge and friendliness. The timing, starting from Merzouga, allows you to enjoy the journey with minimal hassle.
What’s Not Included
While most essentials are covered, snacks and alcohol are not included, so you might want to bring some extras if desired. The tour emphasizes local authenticity, so it encourages respecting cultural norms and the natural environment.
Real Traveler Insights from Reviews
Multiple reviewers mention the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, with some praising their ability to answer questions about desert life. One reviewer notes, “We passed by beautiful sights and stayed at a luxury hotel afterwards.” The guides’ local roots ensure an authentic experience, with some travelers mentioning live entertainment and regional dishes enhancing the night.
While weather can sometimes impact the sunset or sunrise, as noted by one family encountering cloudy skies, the overall impression is of a magical experience. Several reviews highlight the stunning views and night sky, with some describing the trip as “wordless landscapes” that leave a lasting impression.
The Sum Up
This overnight camel trek provides a well-balanced, authentic taste of Moroccan desert life. For travelers who value culture, stunning scenery, and a chance to sleep under the stars, it offers significant value for its price. The combination of guided tours, comfortable tents, and local hospitality ensures an experience that’s both immersive and comfortable.
It’s particularly suited for travelers wanting a deep desert experience without over-complication, and those eager to photograph breathtaking sunsets and stargazing in one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes. The tour’s focus on native Berber guides and regional cuisine enriches the journey, making it more than just a scenic ride — it’s a cultural adventure.
If you’re ready to embrace the simplicity and beauty of the Sahara, this tour is a wonderful choice. Expect warm hospitality, jaw-dropping views, and memories to last a lifetime. Just remember to pack your camera, some extra snacks if you like, and a sense of adventure.
FAQ
How do I book this tour? You can reserve your spot online through the provided link, and the tour offers a mobile ticket for convenience.
What time does the tour start? Pickup begins at 9:00 am in Merzouga, with the adventure typically lasting around 12 hours.
Is transportation included? Yes, pickup from Merzouga is offered, and you will be taken directly to the meeting point and back afterward.
Are meals provided? Yes, breakfast and dinner are included, along with bottled water and hot drinks like coffee or tea.
Can I participate if I have mobility issues? Since the tour involves camel riding and climbing to the camp, travelers with mobility concerns should consider this before booking.
Is this tour suitable for children? Many reviews mention families enjoying the experience, especially with the sandboarding and star-gazing, making it suitable for kids.
What is the group size? This is a private tour, so your group will enjoy a personalized experience with no strangers.
What should I bring? Pack comfortable outdoor clothing, a camera, sunscreen, and any personal snacks or essentials you might want for the overnight.
Are there any hidden costs? No, all major meals and drinks are included. Snacks and alcohol are not, so bring your own if desired.
What if the weather is cloudy? Cloud cover may obscure sunset or sunrise views, but the experience itself remains authentic and memorable. The guides are flexible and will do their best to enhance your stay regardless.
If you’re seeking a genuine, scenic, and culturally rich desert adventure—this overnight camel trek in Merzouga has what you need. Prepare for a journey full of breathtaking vistas, warm Berber hospitality, and unforgettable nights under the stars.