Short (≤ 2 h)Sunset Camel Trekking in Erg Chebbi
The classic Merzouga ride: camels, long shadows and sunset from a dune ridge.
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Erg Chebbi dunes, Merzouga
Private Camel Excursion in Erg Chebbi
Prefer not to share? On a private excursion the camels, guide and route are just for you, so the timing, length and stops can follow your interests rather than a fixed plan.
- approx. 2–4 h (flexible)
- Half day
- Erg Chebbi dunes, Merzouga
About this activity
Private rides suit couples, families and small groups who want quieter dunes and more flexibility. You choose whether to go at sunrise, sunset or in the cooler part of the day outside summer, and how long to stay out — from a couple of hours to a longer half-day loop. Outside the busy sunset window, the dunes are often almost empty, and a private guide can easily choose a time when you will barely see another caravan.
A longer route might cross the dunes towards a viewpoint over the highest crests, pause at a spot of shade for mint tea, or continue on foot for a short dune walk. Your guide can slow the pace for photography or for children, and can suggest less-visited corners of Erg Chebbi. Because the outing is private, it is easy to add something extra: a picnic, sandboarding, or a drop-off at your camp for the night. Tell us what you have in mind and we will shape the plan around it.
- Camels and guide for your group only
- Choose sunrise, sunset or a longer loop
- Flexible stops for tea, photos or a dune walk
- Easy to add a picnic or sandboarding
- Quieter routes where possible
Typical plan
- Agreed start timeMeet your guide and camels; briefing tailored to your group.
- First hourRide into the dunes on a route chosen for your interests.
- MidwayStop for mint tea, photos or a short walk to a viewpoint.
- Final stretchReturn at your own pace, or continue to a camp or picnic spot if pre-arranged.
Timings shift with the season (sunrise and sunset change by more than two hours across the year).
What’s included
Typically included
- Private camel ride and local guide
- Route and timing agreed in advance
- Mint tea stop (typical plan — to be confirmed)
Not included
- Picnic, sandboarding or camp stay unless added
- Transfers from outside Merzouga (can be arranged)
- Tips
We confirm these details in your written quote:
- Exact duration and timing
- Whether tea or water is included
- Add-ons requested
- Weight guideline and minimum age
Safety, ages & accessibility
Camel riding is gentle but not for everyone. The camel kneels for you to mount and dismount, and the two lurches as it stands and sits can jar the back, so tell us beforehand about back or neck problems, recent surgery or hip issues. We do not recommend riding during pregnancy. A weight guideline applies for the animals’ welfare — the exact limit is set by the operator and must be confirmed before booking. On steep descents your guide may ask you to dismount and walk, which is safer for you and easier on the camel. Our camels are rested between rides, watered, and never overloaded; a guide leads the caravan on foot at all times. In summer we avoid midday rides; longer excursions are planned for early morning or late afternoon.
Good to know
- Longer rides can be tiring if you are not used to riding — 2 hours is plenty for most first-timers.
- Bring sun protection and water for longer outings.
- Mention any special occasions so we can plan accordingly.
- Book ahead in busy seasons (spring, autumn, Christmas–New Year).
Price & booking
Contact us for a price. Every trip is priced for your dates, group size, tour type and accommodation level. Send us your plan on WhatsApp or by email and we will send you the price. [TO CONFIRM: payment method (e.g. bank transfer), deposit amount and balance deadline]. A booking is confirmed only after we confirm availability and payment arrangements in writing. We never ask for card details on this website.
FAQs
How long can a private camel excursion be?
Most last 2–4 hours. Longer rides are possible, but we usually recommend breaking them up with walking and rest stops for both you and the camels.
Can we combine it with a night at camp?
Yes. The private ride can end at a desert camp; see our camp stays for options.
Where it happens & what pairs well
Combine it with
See allRelated experiences
Short (≤ 2 h)
Half dayPrivate Desert Picnic in Erg Chebbi
Rugs, cushions and a Moroccan spread set out in a quiet hollow of the dunes — just for your group.
Contact us for a priceView details
Short (≤ 2 h)Sandboarding in Erg Chebbi
Board or slide down the soft dunes — beginners welcome.
Contact us for a priceView details