Activity in Merzouga
Camel trek Merzouga: sunset on the dunes
A camel trek in Merzouga: an hour and a half at a camel’s pace across the Erg Chebbi dunes, with a Berber guide, to the top of a dune to watch the sun go down over the desert.
What you will see
- Sunset from the top of a dune
- A Berber guide who knows the erg
- Sandboarding on the same outing
- The silence of the desert
What the camel ride in Merzouga is like
We set off in the late afternoon from the edge of the dunes. The guide walks, leading the caravan, and after a good hour we reach a high dune. There you get off the camel to watch the sunset and, if you like, try sandboarding down the slope. We ride back in the last of the light.
It’s a gentle ride, suitable for almost everyone. The trickiest moment is getting on and off, when the camel stands up and kneels down: the guide tells you when to hold on.
Camel or dromedary?
The ones in Merzouga are dromedaries, with a single hump, although everyone calls them camels. They’re the animals of the caravans that used to cross the Sahara.
The camel trek, step by step
Meeting at the edge of the dunes
We meet in Hassi Labied in the late afternoon, in time to reach the top before the sun sets. The exact time changes with the season: we’ll tell you when you book.
Getting on
The camel waits kneeling down. You sit, hold the handle on the saddle and, when it stands up, lean back a little: first the back legs rise, then the front ones. The guide warns you before every move.
The caravan
The guide walks in front, leading the dromedaries in a line. You move slowly through the valleys between the dunes, with no engine noise, and watch them change colour in the low light.
Sunset and sandboarding
On top of a dune, you get off the camel. It’s time to sit on the sand and watch the sun go down and, if you feel like it, slide down the slope on the sandboard.
Back in the last light
We ride back in a caravan towards Hassi Labied as it gets dark. In total, between an hour and an hour and a half.
What to bring on a camel ride in Merzouga
- Long trousers: more comfortable in the saddle
- Closed shoes for walking on sand
- Sunglasses and a scarf in case the wind picks up
- Sunscreen and water
- A warm layer in winter: once the sun sets, the temperature drops fast
- Your phone or camera secured: you need one hand free to hold on
Who it’s for
The camel ride is the most unhurried activity in Merzouga, and the one that best lets you feel the silence of the desert. You don’t need experience or any particular fitness: you sit, at walking pace, and the guide is in control of the animal at all times.
If you’re travelling with children, tell us their ages when you book and we’ll advise you. And if someone would rather not ride, just let us know: the desert can also be explored by 4x4.
When to go
The ride takes place at sunset. In summer it’s the best time of day, because the heat has eased; in spring and autumn the temperature is lovely; and in winter the light is beautiful, but as soon as the sun goes down it gets cold, so bring a warm layer.
Combining it with other activities
Because it happens at the end of the day, the camel ride leaves your morning free. Many travellers head out earlier by 4x4 around the area — the nomads, Khamlia, the Mfis mines — or try a quad or buggy ride on another day of their stay.
How to book
Message us on WhatsApp or by email with the date, how many people are coming, the children’s ages if they’re travelling and where you’re staying. We’ll reply with the departure time and a fixed price, with no obligation.
If you’d rather not ride
On all our tours the camel is optional. If you’d rather not ride, you can explore the desert by 4x4, including the transfer to the camp.
Durations and prices
What’s included
Included
- Dromedary and Berber guide
- Sandboard
Not included
- Tips
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Merzouga camel tour?
Between an hour and an hour and a half, at sunset, with a stop on top of a dune.
Is riding a camel uncomfortable?
Not for a ride of this length. The only thing that needs care is when the animal stands up and kneels down.
Can children come?
Yes, usually accompanied by an adult. Tell us their ages when you book.
Can I do it at sunrise?
Ask us: it depends on the season and where you’re staying.
What should I wear for a camel ride in Merzouga?
Long trousers, closed shoes, sunglasses and a scarf in case of wind. In winter, a warm layer for the ride back, which is after dark.
What is sandboarding?
Sliding down a dune on a board, as you would on snow. It happens at the sunset stop, and it’s optional.
Can I combine it with a quad or 4x4 trip?
Yes. The usual plan is the 4x4 in the morning and the camel at sunset. Tell us what you’d like to do and we’ll arrange it.
Do you pick us up from our accommodation?
Yes, from hotels, riads and camps in and around Merzouga. We confirm the time and meeting point before the activity.
More activities in Merzouga
Where to sleep in the desert
A night in a private tent
If you want to stay longer in the desert, Tassili Luxury Desert Camp has ten tents with private bathrooms in Erg Znaigui, away from the main camp area.
- Ten private tents
- A private bathroom in every tent
- In Erg Znaigui, away from the main camp area