Discovering the Beauty of Merzouga’s Sahara: A Closer Look at the Private Luxury Tents, Camel Ride, and Sandboarding Tour
If you’re dreaming of a night under the stars in Morocco’s stunning Sahara Desert, this luxury desert camp experience in Merzouga might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this specific tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of unforgettable moments, from riding camels over towering dunes to watching awe-inspiring sunsets.
What truly draws us in are the luxury tents with private bathrooms, the chance to sandboard down dunes, and the magic of Berber music around a campfire. Plus, the fact that the tour is at a reasonable price—around $70 per person—makes it appealing for those craving adventure without breaking the bank.
One thing to consider is that the fire circle around the campfire might feel a bit spontaneous and less polished, according to some reviews. Still, for most travelers, the authentic, laid-back vibe adds to the charm.
This tour suits anyone looking for a mix of adventure, comfort, and culture—whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or part of a small group eager to explore the desert in style.
Key Points
- Luxury Tents with Private Bathrooms: Comfort in the desert with modern amenities.
- Stunning Dune Sunsets: A must-see highlight, with stops for photo opportunities.
- Camel Rides & Sandboarding: Unique ways to explore and have fun on the dunes.
- Authentic Experience: Traditional Berber music and campfire under the stars.
- Value for Money: Well-priced at $69.79 per person, including most essentials.
- Limited Group Size: Maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience
Looking for more options in Merzouga? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Starting Point and Transportation
The adventure kicks off at the meeting point near Merzouga Quad Biking (Akabar) around 5:00 pm. From here, the journey into the desert begins with a sense of anticipation. While the tour description mentions camel rides and a private tent set-up, what truly sets the tone is the small group size—up to 10 travelers—which keeps things intimate and allows for more personalized interactions.
Day 1: Crossing the Dunes and Sunset Views
The first highlight is the camel trek into Erg Chebbi, crossing high dunes that seem to stretch forever. Your camels are led by experienced guides, who often tell stories or share insights into desert life, making the journey both scenic and educational.
One of the biggest perks is the sunset stop in the middle of the dunes. According to reviews, this is a genuinely breathtaking moment, where the sky transforms into a canvas of warm colors. Francesca_B describes it as “tempo lento e colori meravigliosi,” translating to a slow tempo and wonderful colors, highlighting how peaceful and photogenic this moment is.
Before reaching the camp, you’ll get a chance to enjoy the sunset—an experience that’s not just beautiful but also perfect for capturing memories. The 30-minute free admission makes it accessible for all.
Luxurious Desert Camp: Comfort Meets Authenticity
Once at the camp, you’ll find luxury tents equipped with private bathrooms and showers—a rare treat in the desert. The tents are designed to blend traditional Berber aesthetics with modern comfort, ensuring you can relax after a day of adventure.
Guests often praise the quality of the food—with options accommodating vegetarian and vegan diets—making it inclusive for various dietary restrictions. The included dinner and breakfast are typically hearty, flavorful, and a nice break from typical camping fare.
Evening Activities: Campfire, Music, and Star Gazing
The highlight of the night is the fire party, where traditional Berber music is played around the campfire. While some reviews mention that the fire circle might feel a bit improvised or the fire itself is sometimes not very active, the experience of listening to local music under a canopy of stars still makes up for it. Many travelers note that the starry sky above the desert is astonishingly clear—an ideal setting for contemplative moments or simply marveling at the universe.
Day 2: Return Journey and Dune Crossing
The next morning, you’ll wake early to witness the sunrise—arguably the most photogenic time of the day in the desert. After breakfast, the return trip is either via camel or jeep, crossing the dunes once more before heading back to Merzouga.
The return journey offers more opportunities for photos and quiet reflection, often accompanied by the desert’s tranquil silence. The tour ends back at the initial meeting point, making logistics straightforward.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour covers most essentials, including private tents with bathrooms, camel rides, dinner, breakfast, and the sandboard activity. The fire party adds a cultural touch to your desert night, and the sandboarding promises fun sliding down dunes—something many reviews mention as a memorable highlight.
However, extra drinks and lunch are not included, so bring some cash if you want additional beverages or snacks. Also, the tour is priced very reasonably, especially considering the quality of tents and activities, but it’s worth noting that you’ll need to arrange your own lunch on the second day.
Accessibility and Group Size
The fact that the tour accommodates most travelers and keeps group numbers small (max 10) means you’re likely to receive personalized attention. The near public transportation meeting point simplifies logistics, especially for solo travelers or those staying in nearby accommodations.
Flexibility and Cancellations
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving flexibility if your plans change. Confirmations are immediate upon booking, and the activity runs smoothly with minimal hassle.
Authentic Experiences That Shine
One reviewer, Francesca_B, describes the trip as “tutto molto bello”—all very beautiful—highlighting the sunset, camel ride, sandboard, campfire, and starry nights as incredible moments. She also mentions that the campfire circle was a little spontaneous, which actually adds to the authenticity—no overly scripted tourist show here.
Guests also appreciate the professional guides and the level of comfort provided, which is quite rare for desert camping. The private tents with bathrooms mean you don’t compromise on comfort, and the cultural experience of Berber music enriches the evening.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?
This luxury desert experience strikes a balance between adventure and comfort, making it ideal for travelers who want a taste of authentic Sahara life without sacrificing modern amenities. It’s perfect for those celebrating a special occasion, small groups seeking intimacy, or solo explorers eager to bond over shared adventures.
The price point makes it accessible for many, considering the included activities and accommodations. If you’re after stunning desert views, intimate cultural moments, and the thrill of sandboarding, this tour delivers on all fronts.
In summary, this experience offers genuine value through its combination of luxury, authentic desert charm, and memorable activities. It’s a well-rounded choice for anyone wanting to see the Sahara in style and comfort, with enough flexibility and personalization to make it special.
FAQ
What is the meeting point for this tour?
You’ll meet near Merzouga Quad Biking (Akabar), with the activity starting at 5:00 pm. The location is accessible by public transportation, making it convenient for most travelers.
How long does the tour last?
The experience spans approximately 2 days, with the main activities taking place in the late afternoon and overnight, returning the next day.
Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, the tour offers food options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs. Just inform the provider during booking.
What activities are included?
You’ll enjoy camel rides, sandboarding, dinner and breakfast, stay in a private tent with bathroom, and a fire party with Berber music.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund. After that, refunds are not available.
Is the group size small?
Yes, the tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.
What is the price, and is it worth it?
At $69.79 per person, considering the included activities, comfortable tents, and cultural experiences, it offers good value—especially for an overnight desert adventure.
This tour offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and modern comfort. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, looking for adventure, or simply want a night under the stars, it’s a memorable way to experience Morocco’s Sahara.
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