Set out on a captivating journey through the Sahara Desert with the ‘From Merzouga: Desert Overnight in Heated Tent and Camel Ride‘ package. Explore the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes on a scenic camel ride, learn about the local culture, and savor delectable meals prepared by knowledgeable guides. As the sun sets, unwind in the comfort of a cozy, heated tent and marvel at the breathtaking night sky. This all-encompassing experience promises to transport you to the heart of Moroccan desert life, leaving you with memories that will linger long after your return.
Key Points
- The desert overnight experience includes a camel ride, heated tent accommodation, meals, and various camp activities, priced at $73.89 per person.
- The package covers a 2-day duration with a one-hour camel ride, 3-hour dinner and entertainment, and an overnight stay in private tents.
- The experience is highly rated at 4.9/5 from 53 reviews, praised for its organization, hospitality, and immersive desert ambiance.
- The itinerary includes a 4×4 transfer, camel ride, sunset viewing, campfire, stargazing, sandboarding, and a cultural drum performance.
- The experience concludes with a sunrise viewing and return to the meeting point at Auberge Salama, providing a complete desert escapade.
Overview and Pricing
The activity on offer is a desert overnight experience in Merzouga, including a camel ride and accommodation in a heated tent, priced from $73.89 per person for a 2-day duration with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Travelers can reserve the experience now and pay later. The package covers the camel ride, meals, camp activities, and equipment like sandboards. Excluded are alcoholic beverages, gratuities, and lunch.
With an overall rating of 4.9/5 from 53 reviews, the experience receives high praise for its organization, hospitality, and camp ambiance.
Some suggestions for improvement include optimizing waiting times for the sunset and clarifying pricing details upfront.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Errachidia.
Itinerary Highlights
On the first day, travelers meet at AUBERGE SALAMA before embarking on a 4×4 transfer to Erg Chebbi, where they’ll enjoy a one-hour camel ride over the dunes, followed by a 40-minute tea break. Afterward, they’ll savor a three-hour dinner, partake in camp activities, and watch a dance show before settling into their private tents with bathrooms for the overnight stay. The next morning, guests rise early to witness the sunrise for one hour before a brief breakfast and their return to AUBERGE SALAMA via camel or 4×4.
| Day 1 | Activity | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Meet at AUBERGE SALAMA | – | – |
| 4×4 transfer to Erg Chebbi | – | – |
| Camel ride over dunes | 1 hour | – |
| Break time with tea | – | 40 minutes |
| Dinner, camp activities, and dance show | – | 3 hours |
| Overnight stay in private tent with bathroom | – | – |
Included and Excluded
The package includes a camel ride, breakfast, dinner, a live guide, bivouac camp accommodation, a drum party, water at dinner, tea, and sandboarding.
However, it excludes alcoholic beverages, gratuities, and lunch.
This comprehensive package ensures you’ll experience the highlights of a desert overnight in Merzouga, from riding camels over the dunes to enjoying a lively drum party at the bivouac camp.
While the price doesn’t cover everything, it provides excellent value for the activities and amenities included.
Whether you’re looking to learn about Moroccan culture or simply enjoy the breathtaking desert scenery, this overnight experience has a lot to offer.
Meeting Point and Language Options
Travelers meet at AUBERGE SALAMA at 5 PM, following signs for Hotel Yasmina, to begin their desert overnight adventure in Merzouga. The tour offers language options to accommodate a diverse range of customers:
| Language | Option |
|---|---|
| Arabic | ✔ |
| English | ✔ |
| French | ✔ |
| Spanish | ✔ |
Whether English, French, Spanish, or the local Arabic, guests can fully enjoy the experience and communicate with the knowledgeable local guide. With clear meeting instructions and flexible language support, the desert overnight excursion ensures a seamless and inclusive journey for all participants.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Reviews and Ratings
By all accounts, the desert overnight experience in Merzouga earns an impressive 4.9 out of 5 rating based on 53 reviews.
Customers praise the overall organization, warm hospitality, and immersive camp experience. They especially appreciate the value for money, with the camel ride, meals, and accommodation included at a reasonable price.
The transportation arrangements also receive high marks, with 4.8 out of 5 for this aspect.
While the experience is overwhelmingly positive, some reviewers suggest optimizing waiting times for the sunset and clarifying pricing details upfront.
Camel Ride Experience
A core component of the desert overnight experience is the camel ride over the dunes of Erg Chebbi, which travelers embark on shortly after arriving at the meeting point.
This 1-hour journey across the undulating sands offers participants a quintessential Moroccan adventure, allowing them to enjoy the serene beauty of the Sahara Desert.
Seated atop the sturdy, patient camels, explorers will sway rhythmically as the caravans make their way across the vast expanse, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding dunes.
The camel ride not only provides an authentic cultural experience but also serves as the perfect transition into the peaceful solitude of the overnight desert camp, setting the stage for a truly memorable adventure.
Desert Camping and Activities
After the captivating camel ride, the desert overnight experience truly comes alive at the private tented camp nestled amidst the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi. Guests can look forward to an evening filled with authentic Moroccan hospitality, including a delectable dinner, traditional music and dance performances, and ample opportunities to engage with the local Berber culture. The camp experience offers a wide range of activities to take in the desert environment, as showcased in the table below.
| Activity | Duration | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Sunset Viewing | 1 hour | Witness the breathtaking spectacle of the sun dipping behind the dunes. |
| Campfire and Stargazing | 2 hours | Gather around the campfire and gaze up at the mesmerizing night sky. |
| Sandboarding | 1 hour | Try your hand at gliding down the soft, golden dunes. |
| Drum Performance | 1 hour | Enjoy a captivating display of traditional Berber drumming and music. |
| Cultural Interaction | 1 hour | Engage with the local Berber nomads and learn about their way of life. |
Return to Auberge Salama
The desert overnight experience culminates with guests’ return to Auberge Salama, the starting point of their Saharan adventure, either by camel or 4×4 vehicle.
After witnessing the breathtaking sunrise over the dunes, guests enjoy a quick breakfast before heading back. The return journey offers one last chance to soak in the awe-inspiring desert landscape:
-
Glide across the golden sands on a camel, feeling the gentle sway of the animal’s gait.
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Admire the vast, undulating dunes that stretch out to the horizon, a mesmerizing panorama.
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Spot wildlife like gazelles and birds of prey thriving in the harsh yet captivating desert environment.
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Savor the serene silence, broken only by the occasional call of the wind, a meditative experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Camel Ride Suitable for First-Time Riders?
The camel ride is suitable for first-time riders. The experienced guides provide instruction and assist riders throughout the journey. The camels are well-trained and able to accommodate those new to camel riding, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
What Should I Pack for the Overnight Desert Stay?
When packing for an overnight desert stay, it’s important to bring lightweight, breathable clothing, sturdy shoes, a warm jacket, flashlight, sunscreen, hat, and any personal toiletries. Bringing snacks and water is also recommended to stay hydrated during the experience.
Are There Any Medical Facilities Nearby in Case of an Emergency?
There are basic medical facilities available nearby, but given the remote desert location, it’s recommended to pack any necessary personal medications and first-aid supplies. In case of a serious emergency, the nearest hospital is about an hour’s drive away.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?
The tour can likely be customized to include additional activities. Customers should inquire with the tour operator about the possibility and associated costs of adding activities like sandboarding, hiking, or visiting nearby villages to the standard itinerary.
How Can I Ensure a Comfortable Night’s Sleep in the Desert Tent?
To ensure a comfortable night’s sleep in the desert tent, dress warmly, bring a sleeping bag or blankets, and request an extra mattress or padding for the bedding. The tent should be well-insulated to maintain a cozy temperature throughout the night.
The Sum Up
This unforgettable desert adventure offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of the Sahara.
Guests will enjoy a scenic camel ride, a cozy overnight stay in heated tents, and immersive cultural activities like a drum party and stargazing.
With delicious meals and the warm hospitality of local guides, this package provides a truly memorable glimpse into Moroccan desert life.
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