Merzouga Sahara: Camel Trek & Overnight Desert Camp

Erg Chebbi camel trek with Berber campfire & desert sunrise

You’ll ride camels through Erg Chebbi’s golden dunes with a local guide from Merzouga, try sandboarding, share traditional tagine by firelight, and sleep in a private tent—or under open stars if you want. Wake up to sunrise coffee and desert silence before heading back across the Morocco Sahara Desert. This overnight trip leaves you feeling both tiny and connected.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Camel trek and overnight desert camp

• Meet hospitable nomad guides
• Prepare tents and cooking equipment
• Ride camels through Erg Chebbi dunes
• Set up camp before sunset
• Enjoy traditional tagine and mint tea
• Drumming and singing around campfire
• Sleep in tent or under stars
• Breakfast prepared by nomads next morning
• Continue trekking into the desert

The Experience

We were already halfway into the dunes outside Merzouga when I realized how quiet everything had gotten. Our guide, Hassan, just smiled and let the camels set their own slow pace—he said they know the desert better than we do. The air felt warm but dry, and every now and then you’d catch this sweet, earthy smell from the sand. I tried to take a photo but honestly, it never looked like what I was seeing right in front of me. The Morocco Sahara Desert is bigger than you think—like your thoughts get swallowed up out here.

Hassan showed us how to tie our scarves (mine kept slipping off) and pointed out Lake Dayet Sriji shimmering in the distance. He laughed when I asked if there were flamingos—apparently sometimes there are, but not today. When we reached camp near Erg Chebbi, the tents were already set up and tea was waiting. Dinner was tagine cooked over an actual fire (I can still smell that mix of spices), and after eating everyone drifted toward the drums. The rhythm was off at first—probably because of me—but it didn’t matter. Someone tried sandboarding down a little dune; I chickened out after watching them wipe out in slow motion.

I ended up sleeping outside my tent for half the night just to see more stars than I’ve ever seen before—no exaggeration. There’s something about hearing nothing but wind and distant drumming that makes you feel small in a good way. Breakfast was simple bread and strong coffee as the sun came up pink over Merzouga. It’s funny—I didn’t expect to feel so calm out here, or to laugh so much with people I’d only just met.

Top questions

How long is the camel trek in Merzouga?

The camel trek lasts from afternoon until the next morning, including an overnight stay in the desert camp.

Is dinner included at the Sahara Desert camp?

Yes, dinner (traditional tagine) is included at camp along with tea or coffee.

Can I sleep outside instead of inside my tent?

Yes, you can choose to sleep inside your private tent or outside under the stars.

Are guides local Berbers?

Yes, experienced nomad guides from the area lead your group and share their culture during the tour.

Is sandboarding available on this Sahara tour?

Sandboarding is included—you can try it on the dunes near camp if you want.

Does this tour include pickup?

The tour includes all activities starting from Merzouga; check for transfer options if needed.

Are vegetarian meals available at camp?

Vegetarian options are available—just let them know your dietary needs when booking.

What’s included

Your overnight adventure includes a camel for each person led by an experienced local guide, all taxes and fees covered, private tents ready on arrival near Erg Chebbi, traditional Moroccan dinner with tea or coffee around a campfire (vegetarian available), sandboarding gear for anyone feeling brave enough to try it, plus breakfast as sunrise colors sweep over Merzouga before you head back out of the Morocco Sahara Desert.