Merzouga: 1-Night Camel Trek & Erg Chebbi Luxury Camp

Erg Chebbi camel ride to desert camp with Berber music and glamping

You’ll ride camels across Erg Chebbi’s shifting dunes, watch sunset with mint tea, try sandboarding if you want, then sleep in a luxury tent after Berber music by the fire. Wake early for sunrise before your return ride—this overnight Merzouga camel trek leaves you changed in small ways you won’t expect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Overnight camel trek and desert camp

• Meet in Merzouga desert
• Start camel trek to Sahara camp
• Stop for sunset and sandboarding
• Continue camel trek to camp
• Welcome with mint tea
• Enjoy Berber music and campfire
• Dinner at desert camp
• Overnight glamping under stars

Day 2 — Sunrise and return to Merzouga

• Wake up early for sunrise
• Breakfast at camp
• Ride camel back to Merzouga
• End of camel trek tour

The Experience

I didn’t expect the sand to feel so cool at sunset. We met our camel guide just outside Merzouga—he called my camel “Sultan” and grinned when I looked nervous about climbing on. The camels moved slow, swaying side to side, and honestly, I was worried I’d drop my phone trying to take pictures of the Erg Chebbi dunes. Our group got quiet for a while—just the sound of hooves in the sand and the wind. It’s strange how peaceful it gets out there.

We stopped halfway for the sunset. The sky went from this pale gold to something almost purple, and someone tried sandboarding (I passed—the idea of eating sand didn’t appeal). Our guide poured us sweet mint tea right there, which tasted way better than I expected after an hour on a camel. He told us about growing up nearby—how his family used to cross these dunes for days at a time. There was something grounding about hearing that while sitting in all that emptiness.

The camp itself felt like a mirage—big tents with real beds (and yes, private bathrooms). Dinner was tagine by lantern light. Afterward, some guys from the camp played Berber drums around a fire; they handed me one but I had no rhythm at all—everyone laughed, including me. That night I lay awake for ages listening to distant drumming and watching stars I’d never seen before. Next morning we rode back just as the sun came up over Erg Chebbi; my legs were sore but I didn’t care. There’s still sand in my shoes.

What’s included

Your overnight includes a guided camel ride each way from Merzouga into Erg Chebbi dunes, a private luxury tent with bathroom at camp, dinner under lanterns followed by Berber drum music by the fire, breakfast in the morning before riding back, plus sweet mint tea on arrival—and there’s safe parking for your car too.

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessibleAccessible transportStroller friendlyInfant seats availablePets welcomePublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Visit Merzouga

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Top questions

How long is the camel ride from Merzouga to camp?

About 1 hour and 30 minutes each way across the dunes.

Is dinner included at the Erg Chebbi desert camp?

Yes, dinner is included along with breakfast the next morning.

Are there private bathrooms in the tents?

Yes, each luxury tent has its own bathroom.

Can children join the Merzouga camel trek?

Yes, infants and small children are welcome and can ride with adults or use specialized seats.

Is transportation wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible for this tour.

Do I need to bring my own sandboard?

No, sandboarding is available during your stop in the dunes if you want to try it.

Will there be Berber music at camp?

Yes, traditional Berber drum music is played around the campfire after dinner.

What time do we return to Merzouga after sunrise?

You’ll return to Merzouga after breakfast following sunrise at camp.