Camel Trekking Camps | Merzouga

Camel Trekking Camps are a popular and unique way to experience the Sahara Desert and its stunning landscapes. They offer visitors the opportunity to explore the vast sand dunes of Morocco, such as the Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga or the Erg Chigaga dunes near M'Hamid, on the back of a camel. These camps allow you to immerse yourself in the desert, spend a night under the stars, and get a feel for the lifestyle of the Berber nomads who once roamed these vast desert landscapes.

What Are Camel Trekking Camps?

Camel trekking camps are desert campsites set up for travelers who wish to experience a night or several days in the Sahara Desert. Visitors typically ride camels from the starting point, often located in desert towns such as Merzouga or M'Hamid, into the desert. The trek ends at a camp where guests stay overnight in traditional Berber tents or luxury desert tents. These camps are carefully designed to give you an authentic experience, combining comfort with the thrill of desert adventure.

Types of Camel Trekking Camps

Basic Desert Camps

These are more traditional camps with Berber-style tents made from goat hair or canvas, providing a rustic yet authentic desert experience.

They often have minimal facilities, but you can expect dinner and breakfast provided by the local staff.

The camp may have open spaces where visitors can sit around a bonfire in the evening, enjoy the starry skies, and listen to traditional Gnawa music or stories told by the camel guides.

Luxury Desert Camps

These camps offer a more comfortable and luxurious experience, with larger, more spacious tents and better amenities such as en-suite bathrooms, hot showers, electricity, and comfortable beds.

The luxury camps often have fine dining options and may include additional services like spa treatments, private treks, or stargazing sessions.

Guests can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere while still having an immersive desert experience.

Nomadic-style Camps

These camps aim to give visitors a sense of what life was like for the Berber nomads who have historically lived in the desert. The tents are usually simple and provide the essentials.

These camps may involve traditional activities like camel milking, local cooking, and learning about the nomadic desert lifestyle.

What to Expect During a Camel Trek

A typical camel trek usually lasts 1–3 days (or longer, depending on the itinerary) and involves the following:

Camel Ride

Your adventure begins with a camel ride through the desert, which can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours or more depending on the distance to the camp.

Riding a camel through the dunes is a unique experience as these animals are perfectly adapted to desert life and will carry you across the sand at a steady pace.

The ride can be challenging for first-timers, but the experience of seeing the desert landscape unfold in front of you is worth it. Guides accompany the group, ensuring the trek is safe and enjoyable.

Scenic Views and Desert Exploration

As you ride, you will be treated to spectacular views of the Erg Chebbi dunes or other desert regions, which change throughout the day. The golden sands and dramatic dunes are particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset.

The trek allows you to fully immerse yourself in the desert and explore areas inaccessible by vehicle. Along the way, you might encounter Berber villages, oasis, and small dunes perfect for photography.

Arrival at the Camel Trekking Camp

Once you reach the camp, you’ll be welcomed with refreshments and shown to your tent.

The evening is often spent around a bonfire where guests can share stories, play traditional music, or listen to guides and locals talk about desert life and the history of the region.

The sunset in the desert is a spectacular sight as the colors of the sky change and the dunes are bathed in golden light.

Overnight Stay

You will spend the night in the desert camp under a blanket of stars. If you’re staying at a basic camp, the tents may be simple, with blankets and mattresses, while in luxury camps, the amenities will be more upscale.

Depending on the camp’s style, you might enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, which could include tagine, couscous, bread, and mint tea.

For a more immersive experience, some treks include local music (such as Gnawa music), dancing, and storytelling by the campfire.

Sunrise and Return

Waking up at dawn is a magical experience in the desert, as you witness the sunrise over the dunes. After a simple breakfast, you’ll begin the return journey to your starting point, which may involve another camel ride or a 4x4 vehicle if necessary.

Things to Consider Before Booking a Camel Trekking Camp

Duration of the Trek: Camel treks can range from a single-night stay to several days. The longer the trek, the more you’ll be able to explore deeper parts of the desert.

Level of Comfort: Choose your camp based on how comfortable you want to be. Some camps offer luxury accommodations, while others provide a more authentic, rustic experience.

Time of Year: The best time to experience camel trekking in Morocco is during the cooler months of the year, typically from October to April. Summer temperatures in the desert can be extremely high and uncomfortable.

Physical Fitness: While camel trekking is not very strenuous, it is important to be in good health, as the trek can involve long hours in the sun and some physical activity. If you're not used to camel riding, it may take some time to get accustomed to the motion.

Cultural Etiquette: Be mindful of local traditions and respectful of the guides and locals. The desert culture is rooted in hospitality, so show appreciation for their knowledge and customs.

Popular Locations for Camel Trekking Camps

Erg Chebbi (Merzouga): One of the most famous areas for camel trekking. It is known for its high dunes, which can reach up to 150 meters in height.

Erg Chigaga (M'Hamid): Another large sand dune area, known for its more remote and quieter atmosphere compared to Erg Chebbi.

Tinfou Dunes: Located near Zagora, these dunes are smaller but still offer an incredible desert experience.

M'Hamid: Often used as the starting point for treks into Erg Chigaga dunes.

In Summary

Camel trekking camps offer one of the most unforgettable ways to experience the Sahara Desert. Whether you're looking for a basic, rustic experience under the stars or a more luxurious desert getaway, these camps provide a unique adventure into Morocco’s vast, sandy landscapes. They give you the chance to not only ride camels and explore the desert but also to immerse yourself in the culture, history, and hospitality of the Berber people. For anyone visiting Morocco, especially those heading into the desert regions, a camel trekking camp experience is a must-do adventure.