Camel Trekking Over Erg Chebbi Dunes in Merzouga – A Beginner’s Guide

The magical desert of Merzouga, located in Morocco, is home to some of the most beautiful sand dunes in the world. The sand dunes of Erg Chebbi, reach an impressive height of up to 250 meters, forming an impressive sight. The vastness of the golden desert makes it a destination suitable for almost any kind of adventure. An activity that stands out among all of these is the overnight camel trek over the Erg Chebbi dunes.This experience is unique and unforgettable, combining the calmness of the Moroccan desert with the gentle bouncing of the camel’s walk. The trek is comfortable and in a respectful way, the guides introduce you to the camels and to this magical place. If you’re wondering if an overnight camel trek over the Erg Chebbi dunes is something that you should experience, we know that the answer is yes. But let’s take a closer look at what is involved and what you should know before starting your camel trek in Merzouga.

What Is a Camel Trek?

Camel trekking is a great way to explore Morocco’s most beautiful desert landscape, and make some fascinating discoveries along the way. The journey begins when your guide introduces you to your camel for the day (or in this case the night), which you will be riding for the duration of your trip. The trek usually takes place in the morning a few hours after sunrise and again a few hours before sunset. You’ll travel along flat, sandy terrain and weave between sand dunes. During the journey, your guide can offer information on some of the local wildlife, plants, and fossils.

What Is Included In an Overnight Camel Trek Over Erg Chebbi Dunes?

A classic overnight camel trek over Erg Chebbi dunes will include several activities including dune trekking, Berber hospitality dinner, traditional music, Berber hospitality breakfast, and a unique Berber bedroom setup.

Dune Trekking

You’ll be taken on an unforgettable journey through some of the highest sand dunes in North Africa— Erg Chebbi. As you travel across this terrain, your knowledgeable guide will point out interesting points of interest along the way about plants, wildlife, fossils and historic sites.

Berber Hospitality Dinner

In addition to dune trekking, you’ll get to sample a variety of local delicacies prepared by your guides. Be sure to try the delicious tagines cooked over wood fires! After dinner, you can enjoy some traditional music under a blanket of stars. This is a truly magical experience.

Berber Hospitality Breakfast

Your overnight camel trek wouldn’t be complete without some sustenance in the morning too! On the morning after your dinner you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast cooked over firewood by your guides.

Unique Bedouin Bedroom Setup

After dinner and before breakfast, you’ll be invited to witness a beautiful display of Bedouin hospitality and stay the night in a unique bedouin bed setup with Berber carpets and comfortable mattresses. No matter which way you look, you’ll be able to admire the peacefulness that comes with spending a night in the desert.

Benefits of an Overnight Camel Trek

There are a number of benefits that come with taking an overnight camel trek over Erg Chebbi dunes:

• Experience local culture: Thanks to your knowledgeable guide and local cooks, you’ll get to learn about day-to-day life in the desert. Your guide can teach you about the traditional music, customs and beliefs of this region.
• Unforgettable views: Not only do you get to witness some of the world’s most majestic sand dunes, you also get to experience some spectacular sunsets and sunrises.
• Feeling of adventure: When you opt for an overnight camel trek over Erg Chebbi dunes, you don’t just get to experience breathtaking views—you also get to feel the adventure as you explore new lands, taste local flavors and stay in traditional setups.

Things To Consider Before An Overnight Camel Trek Over Erg Chebbi Dunes

Although an overnight camel trek can be one of the most enjoyable ways to explore buildings deserts landscapes, there are some considerations that need to be made before you decide to embark on this journey.

• Physical fitness: You should be physically fit if you plan to take an overnight camel trek. While it is not too demanding, it requires a bit of physical activity throughout the day.
• Desert heat: Remember that temperatures can get quite hot during the day and cool during the night. So make sure you are wearing clothes that are suitable for both temperatures and keep some water bottles handy.
• Guide: Asking for personal recommendations from friends who have already experienced a camel trek over Erg Chebbi dunes is an excellent way to find a guide who can help make your experience more enjoyable.
• Camera: Taking your camera with you on this journey is a must because you’re sure to snap some incredible photos along the way.
• Rain: Keep in mind that it occasionally rains in Merzouga which can cause the dunes (and your journey) to become very slippery. So make sure that you plan your trip accordingly.
• Clothing: Wear lightweight clothing that is airy and comfortable during warmer days. During cooler evenings it is advised to add some layers so as not to feel uncomfortable.

Conclusion: Should You Take an Overnight Camel Trek Over Erg Chebbi Dunes?

An overnight camel trek over Erg Chebbi Dunes in Merzouga is one of those experiences that shouldn’t be missed if you’re able to do so. Not only do you get to enjoy breathtaking views, lush vegetation and unique night skies without any artificial light pollution, but you’ll also get to meet new people, learn about new cultures and make unforgettable memories along the way. So if you’d like to immerse yourself in traditional Berber culture and have an adventure that won’t soon be forgotten – we highly recommend that you take an overnight camel trek over Erg Chebbi Dunes in Morocco. To book your own ride over the Erg Chebbi Dune sand experience all its beauty for yourself visit GetYourGuide website.