If there is one experience that defines Morocco like no other, it is camel trekking Erg Chebbi. Riding a camel through towering golden dunes as the sun melts into the horizon is not just a travel activity — it is a life-changing moment that stays with you forever.
Located near the village of Merzouga in southeastern Morocco, Erg Chebbi is home to some of the most breathtaking sand dunes in all of Africa, reaching heights of over 150 metres. Whether you are a solo adventurer, a couple seeking romance, or a family craving an extraordinary experience, a camel trek through these legendary dunes will exceed every expectation.
This complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know before embarking on your camel trekking Erg Chebbi journey in 2026.
Why Choose Camel Trekking in Erg Chebbi?
There are many ways to explore a desert — jeep tours, quad bikes, sandboarding — but none of them compare to the timeless magic of a camel trek. Here is why camel trekking Erg Chebbi stands apart from all other desert experiences:
A journey through time : Camel caravans have crossed the Sahara for thousands of years. When you climb onto a dromedary and begin your slow, rhythmic journey through the dunes, you are following in the footsteps of ancient Berber and Tuareg traders.
Pure silence and connection with nature : Unlike motorised tours, a camel trek allows you to experience the desert at its true pace. You hear the wind, the soft crunch of sand beneath the camel’s hooves, and nothing else. It is meditative and deeply peaceful.
Breathtaking photography : The silhouette of a camel caravan against the orange dunes at sunset is one of the most iconic images of Morocco. Your camera will never stop clicking.
Authentic cultural experience : Your camel guide is often a local Berber who has grown up in the desert. Travelling with them offers a rare window into a centuries-old way of life.
What to Expect During Your Camel Trek
A typical camel trekking Erg Chebbi experience begins in the late afternoon near the edge of the dunes, just outside Merzouga village. Here is what a standard overnight trek looks like:
Late afternoon departure (around 4:00 PM) Your guide introduces you to your dromedary and helps you mount. The trek begins with the soft golden light of the afternoon sun casting long shadows across the dunes. This is prime photography time.
Sunset on the dunes (around 6:30 PM) Your caravan pauses at a high dune to watch the sun disappear below the horizon. The colours transform from gold to deep orange, then purple and red. It is an experience of pure, wordless beauty.
Arrival at the desert camp (around 7:00 PM) You reach your Berber camp nestled between the dunes. Traditional tents are set up with comfortable mattresses and warm blankets. The camp is lit by lanterns and candles.
Dinner and music under the stars A traditional Moroccan dinner of tagine or couscous is served. After dinner, local musicians play Gnawa and Berber music around the campfire. The sky above is an explosion of stars — there is zero light pollution in the Erg Chebbi desert.
Sunrise trek (5:30 AM) You wake before dawn and mount your camel again to ride back to Merzouga, watching the desert come alive in the first light of morning. The dunes glow in a completely different palette — soft pink and pale gold.
How Long Should Your Camel Trek Be?
There are several options when it comes to the duration of your camel trekking Erg Chebbi experience:
2-hour sunset ride : Ideal for those short on time. You ride to a dune, watch the sunset, and return. No overnight stay. Perfect for day-trippers.
Overnight camel trek (most popular) : The classic experience. Depart in the afternoon, spend the night in a desert camp, and return at sunrise. Highly recommended for first-time visitors.
2-day / 1-night extended trek : Covers more ground and allows you to explore deeper into the dunes, visit nomadic families, and discover hidden oases.
3-day Sahara expedition : For serious adventurers who want a true wilderness experience. You camp under the stars for multiple nights and travel far from any village.
Best Time for Camel Trekking Erg Chebbi
Timing your visit is crucial to getting the most out of your camel trekking Erg Chebbi experience.
October to November : Excellent conditions. The summer heat has passed, temperatures are comfortable (around 25°C in the day), and the light for photography is superb.
December to February : Peak season and arguably the best time to visit. Days are warm and sunny (18–24°C) and nights are cold and clear, making for perfect stargazing. Book well in advance.
March to April : Spring is beautiful, with wildflowers blooming around the oases. Temperatures are rising but still very manageable. Great for families.
May to September : Not recommended. Daytime temperatures regularly exceed 40–45°C, making camel trekking dangerous and very uncomfortable.
What to Pack for Your Camel Trek
Packing correctly can make a huge difference in your comfort during camel trekking Erg Chebbi :
- A chèche or scarf : Essential for protecting your face and neck from the sun and sand.
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+) : The desert sun is intense, even in winter.
- Sunglasses : Protect your eyes from the bright reflected light and blowing sand.
- Closed-toe shoes : Sandals are not suitable for walking on hot sand.
- A light jacket or warm layer : Desert nights can be surprisingly cold, especially from November to February.
- A fully charged camera or power bank : You will want to capture every moment, and camps rarely have electricity.
- A reusable water bottle : Stay hydrated throughout your trek.
- Minimal luggage : Most camps will store your large bags at the guesthouse. Bring only what you need for the night.
Where to Book Your Camel Trekking Erg Chebbi Experience
The easiest and most reliable way to book your camel trek is directly through your guesthouse or riad in Merzouga. Most accommodation providers in the area offer complete packages that include the camel ride, overnight camp, dinner, breakfast, and return trek.
You can also book through a reputable Moroccan travel agency if you are planning a longer circuit that combines Erg Chebbi with other destinations such as the Draa Valley, the Todra Gorges, or the ancient ksar of Aït Benhaddou.
When comparing offers, make sure to clarify what is included: number of camels per group, type of camp (standard or luxury), meals, and whether a guide is provided throughout the trek.
Camel Trekking Erg Chebbi : Prices to Expect
Prices vary depending on the type of experience you choose:
- Sunset camel ride (2 hours) : From 150 to 250 MAD per person
- Overnight camel trek with standard camp : From 400 to 700 MAD per person
- Overnight trek with luxury camp : From 1,000 to 2,000 MAD per person
- Multi-day expedition : From 1,500 MAD per person per day
Always negotiate respectfully and confirm the full price before departure to avoid any misunderstandings.
Tips for a Respectful and Responsible Trek
- Respect your camel : These animals work hard. Avoid pulling the reins aggressively and follow your guide’s instructions on how to interact with them.
- Leave no trace : The Erg Chebbi dunes are a natural treasure. Bring your rubbish back and never leave anything behind in the desert.
- Tip your guide : A fair tip for a camel guide is between 50 and 100 MAD per person for an overnight trek.
- Learn a few Berber words : Your guide will greatly appreciate the effort, and it adds a wonderful personal touch to the experience.
Conclusion
Camel trekking Erg Chebbi is far more than a tourist activity — it is an immersion into the soul of Morocco, a communion with one of the world’s most spectacular landscapes, and a memory you will carry with you for life.
From the hypnotic sway of the dromedary to the crackling of the campfire under a sky crowded with stars, every moment of your Erg Chebbi camel trek is a gift. Do not just dream about it — book your camel trekking Erg Chebbi adventure in 2026 and let the magic of the Sahara transform you.