Sahara Camel Trekking Guide
What Camel Trekking Is Really Like
A Sahara camel trek means riding dromedaries (single-humped camels) led on foot by a Berber guide across sand dunes and desert plains. Camels move at a slow, swaying pace, so it is more about scenery and atmosphere than speed.
Most visitors do a short trek of one to two hours, timed for sunset, to reach a desert camp for the night. The rocking motion takes a little getting used to, and the saddle can feel hard, but the experience of crossing dunes on camelback is unforgettable.
Where to Trek
The two main destinations are Erg Chebbi near Merzouga and Erg Chigaga near M'Hamid. Erg Chebbi is easier to access and offers many short sunset rides, making it ideal for first-timers and families.
Erg Chigaga suits those wanting longer, wilder expeditions. Multi-day caravans here cross stony plains and remote dunes, camping in mobile bivouacs each night, far from roads and crowds.
Trek Lengths and Routes
Short treks (1-2 hours) take you from the edge of the dunes to a fixed camp and back the next morning. These are the most popular and require no special preparation.
Multi-day treks of two to six days follow nomadic routes, moving camp daily. These deeper journeys reveal changing landscapes, oases, and the rhythm of desert life, but demand reasonable fitness and tolerance for basic conditions.
Costs and What's Included
A short sunset camel ride with one overnight in a standard camp typically costs a modest fixed price per person, usually including dinner, breakfast, and a tent. Luxury camps with private en-suite tents cost considerably more.
Multi-day treks are priced per day and usually include camels, a guide, meals, and camping equipment. Always confirm exactly what is included, whether transfers, water, and camp upgrades are extra, and clarify tipping expectations in advance.
Comfort and Safety Tips
Wear long, loose trousers to prevent chafing against the saddle, and bring a scarf to protect against sun and blowing sand. Hold the front of the saddle firmly when the camel stands and sits, as it lurches forward and back sharply.
Drink plenty of water, use strong sunscreen, and tell your guide if you feel unwell. People with back or hip problems should consider shorter rides or a 4x4 transfer to camp instead.
Animal Welfare and Responsible Choices
Camels are working animals central to local livelihoods. Choose operators who keep their animals well-fed, properly rested, and free of sores, and who do not overload them. Reputable camps rotate their camels and avoid riding in the worst midday heat.
If you have concerns, you can always choose to walk part of the route or take a 4x4. Tipping the camel handlers fairly supports the families who depend on this work.
Best Time of Year
Autumn (October-November) and spring (March-April) offer the most comfortable temperatures for trekking, with warm days and cool, starlit nights. These shoulder seasons are also the most pleasant for camping.
Avoid the deep summer months of June to August, when daytime heat in the dunes can be dangerous. Winter trekking is fine for days but nights are very cold, so pack warm clothing.
| Trek type | Duration | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Sunset ride | 1-2 hours | First-timers, families |
| Overnight | 1 night | Most travellers |
| Multi-day expedition | 2-6 days | Adventurers, photographers |
| Erg Chebbi | Easy access | Quick desert taste |
| Erg Chigaga | Remote | Wild, crowd-free trek |
Camel trek options compared
FAQ
Is camel trekking uncomfortable?
The swaying motion and firm saddle take some adjustment, but most people find a short trek very manageable. Wear long trousers, hold on when the camel rises, and choose a shorter ride if you have back problems.
How long is a typical camel ride to a desert camp?
Usually one to two hours, timed to arrive around sunset. Multi-day treks cover several hours of riding per day with stops for rest and meals.
Is camel trekking safe?
Yes, when done with an experienced guide. Stay hydrated, protect yourself from the sun, and follow your guide's instructions when mounting and dismounting.
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