Merzouga: Camel Ride & Overnight Desert Camp Stay

Summary

Merzouga overnight with camel trek, Berber campfire and desert silence

You’ll cross golden dunes by camel from Merzouga as evening falls, sip mint tea at sunset on Erg Chebbi’s ridge, share Berber music and stories around a campfire, and sleep beneath desert stars in comfort. Dinner and breakfast are included — just bring your sense of curiosity (and maybe ask someone to help with your scarf).

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really know what to expect from a Merzouga camel ride — I mean, I’d seen photos of Erg Chebbi dunes but being there is something else. Our guide, Hassan, handed me a blue scarf and showed me how to wrap it (I got it wrong twice, he just grinned). The camels smelled a bit earthy, not bad though, and their footsteps made this soft crunch in the sand that somehow made everything quieter. I remember the way the air cooled off just as we started moving — you could feel the sun dipping behind us.

We rode for maybe an hour? Time gets weird out there. The dunes kept changing color — gold, then almost pink as the light shifted. At one point Hassan stopped us on a ridge so we could just sit and watch the sunset over Erg Chebbi. He poured sweet mint tea from this battered silver pot he’d carried in his bag. I’m still thinking about that taste — hot and sugary with a hint of dust in the air. There was this silence that felt huge but not lonely. Just us, some distant laughter from another group somewhere out of sight.

The camp itself was more comfortable than I’d expected (there’s even free car parking if you’re driving yourself). Dinner was tagine around a low table, everyone kind of sleepy from the ride. Afterward some local guys played drums by the fire — honestly I didn’t understand all the words but you don’t need to. The rhythm sort of gets into your chest after a while. I tried clapping along; probably off-beat but no one seemed to mind. Later, lying on my back outside my tent looking up at more stars than I’ve ever seen… That’s what sticks with me most.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Merzouga desert camel ride and stay

• Arrive at Merzouga desert
• Enjoy camel trekking
• Watch sunset over Erg Chebbi
• Experience traditional Berber music
• Overnight stay at Desert Luxury Camp

Top questions

Is dinner included in the Merzouga camel ride overnight?

Yes, both dinner and breakfast are included during your stay at the desert camp.

How long does the camel trek in Merzouga last?

The camel ride usually takes about an hour each way between Merzouga and the camp.

Is there free parking available at the Merzouga desert camp?

Yes, free car parking is available if you’re arriving by car.

Are infants allowed on this Merzouga overnight tour?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap; specialized infant seats can be provided.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels and is wheelchair accessible.

What’s included

Your night includes a guided camel ride across Erg Chebbi dunes from Merzouga to camp and back again, dinner under desert skies with traditional Berber music by firelight, breakfast before heading out in the morning, plus free car parking if you need it.