Camping and Camel Riding in Morocco
Camping and camel riding in the Sahara desert was one of our greatest experiences in Morocco. Seeing the massive sand dunes can humble just about anybody and seeing camels up close makes a person appreciate how they were created.
The options are endless regarding how you want to experience the Saharas. From luxurious options that can cost well over $1,000 to more budget friendly options costing less than $200. You can be picked up and dropped off in a different city. Private or shared experience. Giving you great flexibility in your budget and itinerary.
During your planning be aware that not all “deserts” are created equal. There is a desert about two hours away from Marrakech, Agafay desert. Which is technically a desert, but is more rocky than sandy and not as picturesque. But if you are wanting towering sand dunes you might want to consider going to Erg Chebbi. This desert has sandy dunes reaching over 490 feet (150 meters) tall. However, it is going to be at least a ten hour drive from Marrakech.
Our tour included being picked up in Marrakech and dropped off in Fez. We also opted for the shared option. Meaning we had our own tent in the desert, but shared the tour part with a group of about 15 people. Such a fun way to meet people and make connections.
The first day we were picked up in Marrakech and drove halfway to the Sahara Desert. Stopping at the ancient city, Air Benhaddou. After a quick tour and lunch, we hopped back in the van and traveled the remaining two and half hours to Boumalne Dades. Where we spent the night in a very nice hotel.
The next day we drove to Erg Chebbi, but not without stopping at a local Moroccan village and getting a tour of the area and explanation of how they make the famous Moroccan rugs. After making it to the Sahara’s we were introduced to our camels and rode them for about 45 minutes to our campsite.
The campsite was modest, but offered your own tent with a bed, blanket, and pillows. There is also a community bathroom, with a western toilet, sink, but no showers.
That night we ate dinner as a community in the dinning hall tent. Then finished the night with a campfire, local songs and dancing.
In the morning, we woke up early enough to catch the sun rising over the massive sand dunes. Afterwards we rode our camels back to where we started the day before. Where we were met with our driver who would take us to Fez. Seven hours later we found ourselves being dropped off right in front of our hotel in Fez. Concluding out time in the breathtaking Sahara’s.
If you find yourself in Morocco making a trek out to the desert is definitely worth it, whatever style you choose.
