How to Plan Your Overnight Camel Trek over Erg Chebbi Dunes in Merzouga

If you want to experience the enchanting beauty of the Moroccan Sahara Desert, then a camel trek over the Erg Chebbi Dunes is an adventure you don’t want to miss. This overnight camel trek from Merzouga will take you on a journey that will allow you to experience the nomad lifestyle, dine on delicious Moroccan cuisine, and sleep under the stars. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your overnight camel trek in Merzouga.

Experience

Riding a camel is a unique and unforgettable experience. Imagine the gentle sway of your camel as you trek over the Erg Chebbi Dunes, the vast expanse of golden sand dunes stretching out before you. The sunset and sunrise over the dunes are breathtaking, and you will feel a sense of tranquility and peace that comes from being in such a remote and stunning location. After an invigorating camel ride, gather around a crackling campfire and feast on a traditional Moroccan tagine meal. Listen to the rhythms of a drum circle as you relax in your authentic Berber tent. Spend the evening stargazing, watching the Milky Way and constellations slowly move across the sky. Wake up before dawn to watch the sunrise over the dunes, and share breakfast with your fellow travelers and Berber guides before returning to Merzouga.

Highlights

– Ride a camel as you trek over Morocco’s Erg Chebbi Dunes – Play a drum around the campfire after feasting on a traditional Moroccan tagine meal – Sleep under the stars and watch the sun rise over the dunes of the Sahara Desert – Experience the lifestyle of desert nomads as you sip tea and share meals with Berbers – See pink flamingoes at an oasis near Merzouga and search for desert reptiles and mammals as you trek

Full Description

Your overnight camel trek over the Erg Chebbi Dunes in Merzouga begins with a pickup from your accommodation in the morning. From there, you will travel by 4×4 to a local Berber village, where you will have the opportunity to learn about the Berber culture and lifestyle. Your camel trek over the dunes will begin in the afternoon, and you will have ample time to take in the stunning scenery and watch the sun set over the desert landscape. Your Berber guide will lead your camel caravan to an oasis near Merzouga, where you can see pink flamingoes and search for desert reptiles and mammals. As night falls, you will arrive at your authentic Berber tent, where you will be welcomed with a traditional Moroccan tagine meal. After dinner, you can enjoy a drum circle or relax around the campfire while sipping mint tea. Watch the stars come out as you settle in for the night in your cozy tent, equipped with comfortable bedding and blankets. Wake up before dawn and climb to the top of the dunes to witness the sunrise over the desert. After breakfast, you will ride your camel back to Merzouga, where you will be dropped off at your accommodation.

How to Book

Ready to plan your overnight camel trek in Merzouga? Book your tour here: book the tour here. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as it can get very sunny in the desert during the day. Dress in loose, comfortable clothing and wear closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on sand.

Book Your Tour Now

An overnight camel trek over the Erg Chebbi Dunes in Merzouga is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether you are traveling solo or with friends, this adventure is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of Morocco’s Sahara Desert. With proper planning and preparation, you can enjoy a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable journey that will stay with you forever.

Frequently Asked Questions about Merzouga

Are you planning a visit to the charming city of Merzouga? Here are some frequently asked questions to help you prepare for your trip.

1. Where is Merzouga located?

Merzouga is a small town located in southeastern Morocco, near the Algerian border. It is part of the Errachidia province, which belongs to the Drâa-Tafilalet region.

2. What is the best time to visit Merzouga?

The best time to visit Merzouga is during the months of October to April. During this period, the weather is cooler and drier, making it more comfortable to explore the Sahara Desert. However, if you want to witness the beauty of the desert in full bloom, plan your visit around March or April when the wildflowers are in full bloom.

3. How do I get to Merzouga?

The easiest way to get to Merzouga is by flying into the nearest airport, Errachidia Airport. From there, you can hire a driver or take a bus to Merzouga. Alternatively, you can also take a taxi or a shared grand taxi from Marrakech or Fes.

4. What are some of the things to do in Merzouga?

Merzouga is famous for its Saharan adventures. Here are some of the things to do in Merzouga:

– Camel trekking

Camel trekking is one of the top experiences in Merzouga. You can take a camel ride and explore the sand dunes of Erg Chebbi. The ride usually lasts for 1-2 hours, and you get to experience the beauty of the desert first-hand.

– Camping in the Sahara

Camping in the Sahara Desert can be a magical experience. You can choose between traditional nomadic tents or luxurious glamping tents. Spend a night under the stars and enjoy the silence of the desert.

– 4×4 desert tours

If you’re not up for camel trekking, you can opt for a 4×4 desert tour. This can take you to some of the most impressive locations in the desert, such as abandoned villages and stunning canyons.

– Sandboarding

If you like adrenaline-pumping activities, sandboarding is a must-try. It’s like snowboarding, but on sand dunes. You can rent a board and hit the slopes for a thrilling adventure.

5. What are the main attractions in Merzouga?

Merzouga is primarily known for its beautiful golden sand dunes, which are the main attraction. Some other popular attractions include:

– Lake Merzouga

Lake Merzouga is a seasonal lake that forms in the middle of the sand dunes. It’s a beautiful sight to behold, and you can enjoy a peaceful picnic near the lake.

– Khamlia village

Khamlia is a small village near Merzouga, known for its Gnawa music. You can attend a music performance and experience the traditional music and dance of the region.

– Rissani

Rissani is a historic town near Merzouga, famous for its traditional souks and historic landmarks. You can visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif or explore the local market.

6. What should I pack for Merzouga?

Here are some essential items that you should pack for your trip to Merzouga: – Comfortable and loose-fitting clothes – Sunscreen and hat – Sunglasses – Comfortable shoes for walking on sand dunes – Warm clothing for chilly desert nights – Sleeping bag if camping in the desert – Camera to capture the beautiful desert landscapes – Water bottle to stay hydrated

7. What is the cuisine like in Merzouga?

The cuisine in Merzouga is similar to traditional Moroccan cuisine. You can expect flavorful tagines and couscous, as well as delicious street food like harira soup and shawarma. Make sure to try out the local dates, which are famous for their sweetness.

8. Is Merzouga safe for tourists?

Merzouga is considered safe for tourists, and the people are friendly and welcoming. However, as with any travel destination, it’s essential to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

9. What is the currency used in Merzouga?

The official currency used in Morocco is the Moroccan dirham (MAD). It’s recommended to exchange currency when you arrive in Morocco. There are also ATMs available in Merzouga, but it’s wise to carry cash when exploring the desert.

10. What languages are spoken in Merzouga?

The official language of Morocco is Arabic, but French is also widely spoken. In Merzouga, you may also hear Berber and English.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Merzouga

Merzouga is a small charming village in the southern part of Morocco, located around 35 kilometers southeast of Rissani. It is famous for its gigantic sand dunes that attract thousands of visitors every year. If you are planning to visit Merzouga for the first time, there are several things to do and places to visit that you surely don’t want to miss. In this blog post, we will guide you through some of the best activities, places to visit, and local experiences to try during your visit to Merzouga.

1. Enjoy a Night in the Sahara Desert

The most popular activity to do in Merzouga is undoubtedly spending a night in the Sahara desert. Local tour operators offer various options, ranging from one night to several nights, depending on your travel itinerary. The typical tour includes a camel ride to the desert camp, where you will be served a traditional dinner, listen to live Berber music, and try some stargazing.

2. Visit the Nomads, Berber Villages, and Gnaoua Communities

Merzouga is surrounded by several Berber villages, nomadic communities, and Gnaoua musicians. Exploring these villages is a unique experience that will leave you with a better understanding of Moroccan culture and history. One of the most popular villages is Khamlia, where you can experience Gnaoua music, dance performances, and have a cup of traditional mint tea while chatting with locals.

3. Quad Biking Across the Sand Dunes

If you are a fan of adventure and adrenaline, then quad biking across the sand dunes is a perfect activity for you. Many local tour operators provide quad bike tours that last for around two hours, during which you will have a chance to admire the stunning landscape of the Sahara desert from a different perspective.

4. Go on a Camel Trek

A camel trek is a unique way to experience Merzouga’s sand dunes’ magic. These tours depart mainly in the early morning or late afternoon, where the camel guide will lead you through the desert while explaining the mysteries of the Sahara’s vast environment. These tours are typically timed to get to the highest dune to admire the sunset or sunrise view, a truly unforgettable experience.

5. Watch the Milky Way

Merzouga is well known for its pristine skies, with no light pollution or any other interference. As a result, it is a perfect spot to watch the Milky Way’s stars over the Sahara desert. You can join one of the stargazing tours that include transport to the desert and professional telescopes to help you discover more about the galaxy and the constellations.

6. Explore Rissani Market

Rissani is a town of sandstone buildings and a historic market that is worth exploring. You can visit some of the local shops selling traditional Moroccan artifacts, ceramics, fabrics, and spices. It is a perfect place to experience the local culture, mingle with the locals, and try some of the Moroccan cuisine.

7. Hike to the Sidi Naji Mausoleum

If you feel like hiking and exploring the desert’s remote landscapes, then hiking to the Sidi Naji Mausoleum is a perfect choice. This mausoleum is located around 13 kilometers east of Merzouga and is accessible by foot or car. The shrine is well known for its unique architecture style, and it is believed to possess some spiritual power.

Book Your Tour Now

In summary, if you are planning to visit Merzouga for a few days, there are plenty of activities and places to explore. In this blog post, we have highlighted some of the most popular things to do, such as visiting the Berber villages, going on a camel trek or quad biking, and exploring Rissani market. We hope that this guide has helped you to plan your trip to Merzouga better and enjoy your time in Morocco’s southern charms.