Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Camel Treks
Exploring the Sahara by camel - whether on an overnight excursion or a longer desert sa-
fari - is one of Morocco's signature activities and most rewarding wilderness experiences.
Morocco's most evocative stretches of Saharan sand are Erg Chebbi, near Merzouga, and
Erg Chigaga, near M'Hamid and Zagora, and past the more accessible Tinfou Dunes.
Only consider doing your camel trek in autumn (September and October) or winter
(November to early March). Outside these months, the desert experiences gruelling ex-
tremes of heat, as well as sandstorms in the spring.
Prices start at around Dh300 per person per day, but vary depending on the number of
people, the length of the trek and your negotiating skills.
The agency organises the bivouac (temporary camp), which may be a permanent camp
for shorter trips, and may offer Berber music and
mechoui
(barbecued lamb).
Organising a Camel Trek
Travellers with lots of time can organise a guide and provisions in situ. This benefits the
local community and counters the trend towards young guides leaving home to look for
work in more popular tourist centres.
M'Hamid is probably the most hassle-free of the main desert gateways, although the
choice is wider at Zagora and Merzouga. Try to get recommendations from other travellers.
It's quicker and easier, involving less negotiations and waiting, to organise a trip in ad-
vance - either through an international tour operator or a company based in Ouarzazate or
Marrakesh.
