Late Afternoon: Arrival and Camel Ride
Your desert adventure begins in the village of Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. You will meet your camel guide at the designated meeting point.
The camels will be waiting, already saddled and ready. These gentle, well cared for animals are accustomed to desert travelers. Your guide will help you mount your camel and show you how to sit comfortably. Each person receives their own camel.
As you set off, you will feel the soft breeze on your face while the friendly camels carry you through the ever changing dunes. The landscape is simply stunning, with the dunes stretching as far as the eye can see. Some of these dunes reach up to 150 meters in height.
The camel trek lasts approximately one to one and a half hours, depending on the distance to your camp. This is the perfect amount of time to experience the traditional desert transport without becoming uncomfortable.
Sunset in the Desert
One of the most memorable moments of your journey will be the sunset in the desert. Your guide will time the trek so that you arrive at a high dune just as the sun begins its descent.
You will stop to watch as the sun paints the sky with warm and golden colors. The shifting light transforms the dunes from gold to orange to deep purple. This is the moment when most travelers fall in love with the Sahara. The silence is broken only by the whisper of the wind.
Take your time. Take photographs. Breathe it all in.
Evening: Berber Desert Camp
Your experience culminates with a night in a Berber camp in the heart of the desert. The camp is located between the dunes, far from any artificial lights or noise.
Upon arrival, you will be welcomed with traditional Moroccan hospitality. A glass of sweet mint tea will be offered to refresh you after your camel ride.
The camp consists of comfortable nomadic tents with real beds, mattresses, blankets, and pillows. While the camp is basic compared to a hotel, it is designed for comfort. Shared bathroom facilities are available.
You will enjoy a delicious traditional dinner prepared by your hosts. Typical dishes include:
- Moroccan soup (harira)
- Chicken or vegetable tagine
- Couscous with vegetables
- Fresh bread
- Seasonal fruit for dessert
After dinner, the magic continues. Your hosts will play live Berber music around the campfire. The rhythmic drumming and singing will transport you to another world. You may be invited to join in the dancing.
Above you, the night sky reveals thousands of stars. With no light pollution, the Milky Way is visible as a bright river across the sky. The sound of the wind in the dunes will accompany you as you fall asleep in your cozy nomadic tent.
Early Morning: Sunrise and Return
Wake up early for the sunrise over the dunes. This is the other unforgettable moment of your desert experience. As the first light touches the sand, the desert transforms into a sea of amber and gold.
After watching the sunrise, you will enjoy a typical Berber breakfast at the camp. Breakfast usually includes:
- Fresh bread
- Butter and jam
- Pancakes (msemen or baghrir)
- Coffee or tea
- Sometimes eggs or cheese
After breakfast, you will ride your camel back to the village of Merzouga. The morning trek takes approximately one hour. Alternatively, if you prefer not to ride the camel back, a 4x4 transfer can be arranged for a small additional fee.
Your desert adventure ends upon arrival in Merzouga.
