Essaouira: Sunset Camel Ride with Picnic & Ruins Walk

Summary

Sunset camel ride through dunes wild beaches & old ruins near Essaouira

You’ll ride camels along wild beaches near Essaouira, wander through eucalyptus forests and past old sultan ruins, and pause for a picnic of homemade bread, cakes, tea, and argan oil with your local guide. As the sun sets over dunes and sea, you’ll feel that slow hush settle in—and maybe wish you could stay just a bit longer.

What’s the experience like?

We were already halfway across the sand when I realized how quiet it was—just the soft thump of camel feet and this salty wind from the Atlantic. Our guide, Youssef, handed me a djellaba at the start (I didn’t know how to tie it right—he laughed and fixed it for me), and then we set off from Diabat village, heading toward those eucalyptus trees that always seem to lean sideways here. The camels looked half asleep but somehow managed to keep us moving in line, their shadows stretching out behind us.

I kept catching whiffs of sea air mixed with something earthy—maybe argan trees or just the dampness from last night’s fog. After about an hour, we stopped near some old stone ruins. Youssef laid out homemade bread and poured Royal Tea so carefully you’d think it was gold. The bread was still warm; I dipped mine in argan oil and honestly, I could’ve eaten twice as much. There were these little cakes too, crumbly and sweet. We sat on a faded blanket watching waves crash way out past the dunes. I tried to ask about the sultan who built those ruins but probably mangled my French—Youssef just smiled and told us stories anyway.

The light started shifting orange as we walked again, past wild beaches where a couple of local kids waved at us from behind driftwood forts. My legs felt wobbly by then (camels are taller than you think), but I didn’t really care. The sun hung low over Cap Sim, everything turning gold except for the blue flashes on the water. It’s strange how quiet it gets before sunset here—you almost want to whisper so you don’t break it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Camel ride and sunset tour

• Meet clients at chosen point
• Provide djellaba and chick
• Brief clients about camel ride
• Start 3-hour camel ride
• Explore beaches, forest, dunes, ruins
• Take picnic break with royal tea
• Resume camel ride
• Watch sunset show by sea

Top questions

How long does the sunset camel ride near Essaouira last?

The camel ride lasts about three hours in total.

Is hotel pickup included for this camel tour?

Pickup is included from your chosen meeting point near Essaouira.

What food is served during the picnic break?

The picnic includes Royal Tea, homemade bread with argan oil, and homemade cakes.

Do I need special clothing for riding camels?

A shawl (chick) and a djellaba are provided to protect you from wind or sand.

Is this camel ride suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels and beginners are welcome.

Are there any historical sites visited during the tour?

You’ll pass by ruins of a sultan’s historic place and see Portuguese Borj along the route.

Can infants join this camel ride?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap during the ride.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup at your preferred meeting spot around Essaouira, bottled water for the journey, snacks like homemade bread with argan oil plus cakes at your picnic stop, Royal Tea poured by your guide, and both a shawl and djellaba to keep off wind or sand while you’re riding between dunes and ruins.