Skip to content
Merzouga.camp
Camels resting on the sand at the foot of the Merzouga dunes

Experiences

Nomad family visits

Meet a semi-nomadic family living around Erg Chebbi, share tea and learn about life in the desert — with respect and without staging.

Semi-nomadic families still live in the desert around Erg Chebbi, moving with their goats, sheep and camels according to the seasons and the availability of grazing. Some welcome visitors through local guides.

What to expect

A visit is simple and informal: usually tea in or beside the family tent, and a chance to ask your guide about daily life, water, herding and how things have changed. It is not a performance.

Being a good guest

  • Ask before taking photos of people, and accept a “no”.
  • Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
  • Follow your guide’s lead on gifts or contributions. Practical items are often more welcome than sweets for children.

These visits are not included in our overnight packages unless a package says so. Ask us if you would like one arranged.

Experiences

Long shadows of a camel caravan stretching across the sand of Erg Chebbi

Camel trekking

Ride a dromedary across the dunes of Erg Chebbi — the classic way to arrive at a desert camp, timed for the soft light of late afternoon.

The sun setting over rippled orange dunes in Erg Chebbi

Sunset in the Sahara

Watch the dunes of Erg Chebbi change colour as the sun goes down — the moment most travellers remember long after their trip.

Early morning light falling across the dunes of Erg Chebbi

Sunrise in the dunes

Wake before dawn, climb a dune in the half-light and watch the first sun spill across the Sahara before breakfast at camp.

Small figures walking along the crest of a tall red dune under a blue sky

Sandboarding

Slide down the slopes of Erg Chebbi on a board — an easy, fun activity for families and groups, with no previous experience needed.

Book on WhatsApp