A night in a desert camp is the reason most travellers make the long journey to Merzouga. Done well, it is one of the most memorable experiences in Morocco: a camel ride at sunset, dinner in the dunes, a sky full of stars and sunrise over the sand. This guide explains how desert camps work, the differences between them and what to check before you book.

In short

  • Where: Camps are spread across Erg Chebbi, the dune field next to the village of Merzouga in south-east Morocco.
  • How long: Most travellers stay one night; two nights is more relaxed.
  • Getting to camp: by 4x4, by camel, or both, from Merzouga or Hassi Labied.
  • Usually included: transfer, dinner, breakfast and your tent — but always check, because it varies.
  • Biggest differences between camps: private or shared bathroom, air conditioning and heating, bed quality, location and food.

What is a desert camp?

A desert camp is a group of tents set among the dunes, with a dining area and bathrooms. Camps range from a handful of simple nomad-style tents to large, permanent camps with suites, private bathrooms and electricity. They are not hotels — water, power and supplies all have to be brought into the dunes — but the best camps are very comfortable.

The three main types of camp

Traditional camps

Traditional camps use tents made from woven fabric or wool, often with mattresses rather than beds, and shared bathrooms. They are the most affordable option and feel closest to the way desert travellers have always camped. Comfort is basic.

Comfort camps

Comfort camps typically offer tents with real beds and, increasingly, private bathrooms with hot showers. They are the best fit for most travellers who want a comfortable night without paying luxury prices.

Luxury camps

Luxury camps offer large tents or suites, high-quality beds and linens, en-suite bathrooms and more refined dining. Some provide air conditioning and heating. They are the most expensive option.

Read our full comparison: luxury vs standard desert camps.

How a night at camp unfolds

  1. Late afternoon: meet your driver or guide in Merzouga or Hassi Labied. Leave your main luggage and car if you are driving.
  2. Sunset: ride a camel or take a 4x4 to camp, often stopping to watch the sunset from a dune.
  3. Evening: settle into your tent, then dinner — commonly soup, salads, a tagine and fruit. Many camps have music around a fire afterwards.
  4. Night: stargazing, if the sky is clear.
  5. Sunrise: climb a dune to watch the sunrise, then breakfast.
  6. Morning: return to Merzouga by 4x4 or camel.

What should be included?

A complete overnight package usually includes the return transfer, your tent, dinner and breakfast, and often a camel ride. Some listings advertise only the tent price and add everything else on arrival. We explain the difference in detail in what is included in a Merzouga desert camp.

Facilities to check before booking

On Merzouga.camp, each of these is shown on the camp page as included, available at extra charge, not available or to be confirmed — never assumed.

Getting to Merzouga

Merzouga is in south-east Morocco, roughly 550 km from Marrakech and 470 km from Fes. Most travellers arrive by road as part of a multi-day route, by rental car or by long-distance bus. The nearest airport is Errachidia, about two hours away. See our Merzouga guide.

When to go

Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons. Winter is mild by day and cold at night; summer is very hot. Read the best time to visit the Sahara.

How to book with us

Choose a camp and package in our camp directory, send your dates through the WhatsApp booking form, and we confirm availability with the camp in writing. If the camp you want isn’t listed, send us a request and we’ll check it for you.