Riding camels is one of the highlights of visiting Morocco and a truly unique way to connect with the country’s history and traditions. Many places in Morocco offer camel rides, from palm groves near Marrakech to the Atlantic coast. But the most authentic experience is in the desert, where camels have always been at home.
The Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga are the best place in Morocco for camel trekking. These golden dunes are the tallest in the country, offering the perfect backdrop for a true ride. In Merzouga, you do not just ride camels, but you also have the chance to spend a night in a desert camp, taste traditional meals, and enjoy local music. It is an experience that brings together adventure, culture, and the magic of the Sahara Desert.
Camel Ride Experience in Morocco
In Morocco, you can ride camels in three different terrains, and they go as follows:
Sahara Dunes Camel Ride
The classic and most popular option is in the Sahara Desert. The Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga and the Erg Chigaga dunes near M’hamid are the top spots for camel rides in Morocco. You can ride to watch the sunset or even stay overnight in a desert camp.
Stone Desert Camel Ride
If you are short on time and based in Marrakech, the Agafay Desert or Marrakech Palm Grove are great choices. Agafay is a rocky desert with stone hills and wide open views of the Atlas Mountains. While it is not a real desert and has no dunes, it still gives you the desert feel without long hours of travel.
Beach Camel Ride
For a different experience, coastal cities like Essaouira, Agadir, and even Tangier offer camel rides by the beach.
Best Camel Ride Locations in Morocco
| Location | Type of Ride | Highlights | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merzouga (Erg Chebbi) | Sunset – Sunrise – Overnight | Big Golden Dunes, Full Sahara Experience | 1 Hour Ride: €20-30 (200-300 MAD) |
| Zagora (Erg Chigaga) | Sunset – Sunrise – Overnight | Remote Smaller Dunes, Quieter Experinece | 1 Hour Ride: €20-40 (200-400 MAD) |
| Agafay | Short Rides | Easy Access, Stone Desert Style | 1 Hour Ride: €15-30 (150-300 MAD) |
| Palmeraie, Marrakech | Limited Rides | Palm Groves Ride | Half-Hour Ride: €10-20 (100-200 MAD) |
| Essaouira, Tangier, Agadir, Dakhla | Short Rides | Sea Views | Half-Hour Ride: €10-15 (100-150 MAD) |
Map of the Best Places to Ride Camels in Morocco
How to Choose the Right Camel Ride for You
Choosing the perfect place for a camel ride in Morocco depends on a few key factors: how much time you have, how far you are from the desert, the scenery you want to see, and the level of comfort you are looking for.
Here are some quick tips:
- Limited time: If you don’t have many days, choose Marrakech’s nearby Agafay Desert or one of the coastal cities like Essaouira or Agadir.
- Best scenery, real desert: If you want the iconic Sahara dunes, Merzouga (Erg Chebbi) is the top choice.
- Less crowded areas: For a quieter desert adventure, pick Zagora or Erg Chigaga.
How to Reach Each Camel Ride Location
| Camel Ride Location | How to Reach |
|---|---|
| Merzouga (Erg Chebbi) | Plane (Moulay Ali Cherif Airport), Public Bus, Shared Taxi, Private or Shared Tours. |
| Zagora (Erg Chigaga) | Bus/Taxi to Zagora, 4×4 vehicle (guide) needed. Private or Shared Tours. |
| Agafay & Palmeraie Marrakech | Private Transfers, Day Trips, Car Rental |
| Coastal Cities | Private Transfers/tours, day Trips, Shared Taxis, Car Rental, Plane, some places by Train. |
Practical Tips
- What to Wear: Dress in layered clothes. It can be warm during the day and cool at night (If you choose Overnight Camel Trekking). Wear comfortable shoes (closed shoes are better for sand). Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection.
- How to Book Safely: Always book with a reliable desert camp or through a travel agency. Check reviews online before confirming. Avoid street offers that may not be trustworthy.
- Best Times: The most beautiful rides are at sunrise and sunset, when the colors of the dunes are stunning. For seasons, spring and autumn are best for pleasant weather.
- Health & Water Tips: Camels are safe to ride, but it is best to hold firmly and relax your body. Carry a bottle of water to stay hydrated, especially in the desert sun. Avoid the camel ride if you have a back problem.
