Sahara Desert Camel Ride in Morocco
Experience a Sahara Desert Camel Ride in Morocco
A Sahara Desert camel ride in Morocco is one of the most memorable experiences you can enjoy during a trip to Morocco. Imagine crossing golden sand dunes on a camel as the sun disappears behind the horizon, then spending the night in a desert camp beneath a sky full of stars.
For most travellers, Merzouga is the best place to experience camel trekking in Morocco. Located beside the spectacular Erg Chebbi dunes, Merzouga offers a classic Sahara experience with camel rides, desert camps, spectacular sunsets and peaceful mornings. Morocco’s National Tourist Office also highlights Merzouga as one of the country’s leading destinations for camel trekking.
At Package Morocco, we can arrange private Sahara desert experiences for couples, families, solo travellers and small groups. Your camel trek can also be combined with a Morocco desert tour, luxury desert camp, 4×4 excursion and visits to some of southern Morocco’s most impressive landscapes.
What Is a Sahara Desert Camel Trek?
A Sahara camel trek is a guided journey through the desert on a camel, usually lasting around one to several hours. In Merzouga, camel trekking commonly begins near the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes.
Your local camel guide leads the group through the sandy landscape while you enjoy the changing colours of the dunes. Depending on your itinerary, you can ride during the afternoon, watch the sunset from the dunes and continue to a desert camp for the night.
The next morning, you can return by camel after watching the Sahara sunrise.
The Moroccan National Tourist Office specifically recommends camel excursions in the desert and describes Merzouga’s dunes as a popular location for camel trekking.
Best Place for a Camel Ride in Morocco
Merzouga and Erg Chebbi
If your main goal is to experience a traditional Sahara Desert camel ride, Merzouga should be high on your list.
The Erg Chebbi dunes create the classic golden-sand scenery that many visitors imagine when they think about the Sahara Desert in Morocco.
A typical Merzouga camel trek can include:
- Camel ride across the Erg Chebbi dunes
- Sunset from the Sahara
- Overnight stay in a desert camp
- Traditional Moroccan dinner
- Berber/Amazigh music
- Stargazing
- Sunrise over the dunes
- Camel ride back to Merzouga
Discover our Camel Treks in Morocco
Sunset Camel Ride in Merzouga
A sunset camel ride in Morocco is one of the most popular ways to explore the Sahara.
Usually, you leave Merzouga in the afternoon when the temperature becomes more comfortable. Your camel slowly climbs and crosses the dunes towards the desert camp.
As the sun gets lower, the sand changes colour from bright gold to orange and red. Your guide can stop at a suitable viewpoint so you can take photographs and enjoy the silence of the desert.
After sunset, continue to your camp for dinner and an evening of traditional music.
Sunrise Camel Trek in the Sahara
A sunrise camel trek is another unforgettable experience.
Wake early and watch the first sunlight appear over the Erg Chebbi dunes. The changing shadows create beautiful patterns across the sand.
After breakfast, you can ride your camel back towards Merzouga or continue with your private Morocco desert itinerary.
Morocco’s tourism authority recommends spring and autumn as particularly good seasons for visiting the Sahara because of the desert climate.
Sahara Camel Ride and Desert Camp
Combining a camel ride with an overnight Sahara desert camp gives you much more than a short excursion.
After crossing the dunes, arrive at your camp and relax in your tent. Depending on the package you choose, your accommodation may include a traditional desert tent or a more comfortable luxury camp.
Your evening can include:
- Moroccan dinner
- Traditional Amazigh music
- Campfire
- Stargazing
- Relaxing around the dunes
- Overnight accommodation
The following morning, enjoy breakfast before returning from the desert.
Camel Trekking in Morocco from Marrakech
Many UK travellers search for a camel ride from Marrakech or a Marrakech to Sahara Desert tour.
It is important to understand that Merzouga is not a short day trip from Marrakech. The journey takes time, so a multi-day itinerary is the better option if you want to experience the real Erg Chebbi dunes.
A longer itinerary can combine:
Marrakech → High Atlas Mountains → Ait Ben Haddou → Ouarzazate → Dades Valley → Todra Gorges → Merzouga → Erg Chebbi → Sahara Desert Camp
Our existing 5-day Marrakech to Merzouga tour includes camel trekking, the Erg Chebbi dunes and a desert camp experience.
See our 5-Day Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour
Is Camel Trekking in Morocco Suitable for Beginners?
Yes. You do not need previous camel-riding experience for a standard Sahara camel trek.
The pace is generally slow, giving you time to enjoy the landscape and take photographs. However, camel riding can feel uncomfortable for some people, particularly after a longer ride.
If you have mobility concerns or simply prefer not to ride, ask your tour operator about a 4×4 desert transfer instead.
How Long Is a Sahara Camel Ride?
The length depends on your tour.
A short Morocco camel ride may last around one hour, while a desert camp experience can involve a longer ride each way.
The important point is that camel trekking is usually only one part of a wider Sahara experience. You can combine it with desert camping, sandboarding, 4×4 excursions and cultural experiences.
What to Wear for a Sahara Camel Trek
For a comfortable Sahara camel trek, pack light and practical clothing.
We recommend:
- Comfortable trousers
- Breathable clothing
- Comfortable closed shoes
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Hat or scarf
- Water bottle
- Camera or smartphone
- Warm layer for the evening
Desert temperatures can change considerably between day and night, so layers are useful.
Best Time for a Sahara Desert Camel Ride
The best periods for a Sahara Desert camel tour are generally spring and autumn when temperatures are more comfortable.
Summer can be extremely hot during the day, while winter evenings and nights can be cold.
If you want the most comfortable camel trekking experience, consider travelling during March to May or September to November.
For current seasonal travel information, check the official Moroccan National Tourist Office.
Moroccan National Tourist Office – Morocco Travel Information
Responsible Camel Tourism in Morocco
A memorable desert experience should also respect the animals, local communities and fragile desert environment.
Choose a responsible local operator that:
- Treats camels properly
- Provides appropriate rest and water
- Works with local guides
- Respects local communities
- Avoids unnecessary environmental damage
- Follows responsible tourism practices
Morocco’s National Tourist Office promotes responsible and sustainable tourism across the country.
Why Choose Package Morocco for Your Sahara Camel Experience?
At Package Morocco, we specialise in private and personalised Morocco tours.
Our Sahara experiences can be adapted for:
- Couples
- Families
- Solo travellers
- Friends
- Small groups
- Luxury travellers
- First-time visitors to Morocco
You can combine your Sahara Desert camel trek with Marrakech, Fes, Chefchaouen, Casablanca, the Atlas Mountains, Ait Ben Haddou, Dades Valley and Todra Gorge.
Our goal is to make your Morocco holiday comfortable, authentic and easy to organise.
Explore our Marrakech Trips and Sahara Desert Tours
Book Your Sahara Desert Camel Experience
Ready to experience the golden dunes of Morocco?
Let us create a private Sahara Desert camel tour based on your travel dates, starting city, number of travellers and preferred accommodation.
Contact Package Morocco to plan your private Sahara camel trek today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Sahara Desert camel ride worth it?
Yes. A camel ride is one of the most popular ways to experience the dunes around Merzouga and Erg Chebbi. You can combine the ride with sunset, desert camping and sunrise.
Where is the best place for camel trekking in Morocco?
Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes are among the most popular destinations for camel trekking in Morocco. The Moroccan National Tourist Office specifically identifies Merzouga as a major camel-trekking destination.
How much does a camel ride in Morocco cost?
The price depends on the location, duration, transport, accommodation and whether you choose a private or shared tour. An overnight Merzouga camel trek with a desert camp costs more than a short camel excursion.
Can I ride a camel in the Sahara from Marrakech?
Yes, but Merzouga is a considerable distance from Marrakech. Most travellers choose a multi-day Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour rather than attempting it as a day trip.
How long is a camel trek in Merzouga?
Camel trekking times vary by itinerary. Many experiences are designed around sunset and the journey to a desert camp, followed by a return journey after sunrise.
Is camel trekking in Morocco safe?
Camel trekking is generally suitable for beginners when organised with an experienced local guide. Follow your guide’s instructions and tell them if you feel uncomfortable during the ride.
What should I wear for a Sahara camel ride?
Wear comfortable clothing, closed shoes, sunglasses and sunscreen. A scarf can also help protect you from sun and wind. Bring a warm layer because desert evenings can become cold.
Can children ride camels in Morocco?
Children can often participate in camel rides, but suitability depends on their age, size and the specific tour. Families should discuss this with their tour operator before booking.
Can I visit the Sahara without riding a camel?
Yes. You can travel to the desert camp by 4×4 and enjoy the dunes, sunset, sunrise and desert camp without riding a camel.
What is the difference between a camel trek and a camel ride?
The terms are often used interchangeably. A camel ride normally refers to a shorter experience, while a camel trek can describe a longer journey through the dunes, sometimes including an overnight desert camp.