Merzouga Desert, Fes & Ouzoud Waterfalls — 6-Day Camel Trek and Berber Camp

THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel

Read the full experience

A long, low sun pulls gold across the crests of Erg Chebbi as camels file like punctuation along the dune edge. You arrive at the camp with sand in your boots and a small caravan of stories — a guide, a tasselled saddle, and the soft thump of hooves that sets the evening rhythm.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

moderate.

Duration

6 days.

Fitness level

Basic cardiovascular fitness for short hikes, dune climbs and 1–1.5 hour camel treks; able to manage long vehicle days.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the camel ride to the desert camp?

Typical camel treks from the hotel to the camp are about 1–1.5 hours each way, timed to reach the dunes for sunset or sunrise.

What level of comfort are the desert camps and accommodations?

Accommodations range from standard hotels and riads to luxury Berber camps with private tents, shared facilities vary by camp selection.

Is the itinerary suitable for children or people with limited mobility?

The tour is family-friendly but camel rides and soft sand can be difficult for those with limited mobility; check with the operator about alternate transfers and assistance.

Are meals and guide fees included?

Breakfasts and several dinners are included per the itinerary; local guides and private transport are included but check specifics for optional extras and gratuities.

Local insights

Wildlife

Barbary macaque (in Cedar Forests near Azrou)
Fennec fox or other small desert mammals near Merzouga at dusk

History

The route links caravan-era kasbahs and Roman ruins—Ait Ben Haddou guarded trade routes and Volubilis records Morocco’s Roman period influence.

Conservation

Water is scarce across the region; favor refillable bottles, minimize campfire impact, and support local guides and community-run accommodations to keep tourism benefits local.

About Discover Morocco Tours

Discover Morocco Tours operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.

Base locationMerzouga, Drâa-Tafilalet

Tours offered4+

Specialtyland-adventures

StewardshipLeave No Trace

Adventure tips

Catch the sunrise on the dunesAim to be on the crest 30–45 minutes before sunrise — the climb is easier on cool sand and the light is worth the wake-up call.

Hydrate proactivelyCarry 2–3 liters of water for dune walks and camel transfers; bottled water is available in towns but limited in remote stretches.

Footwear for mixed terrainPack sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes for gorges and medina cobbles, plus sandals for the camp and poolside breaks.

Carry small cash and local notesMany small vendors, guides and remote guesthouses prefer cash—ATMs are scarce outside major towns.

Recommended gear

Sturdy walking shoes (closed-toe): Protects feet on rocky gorges, medina cobbles and during short hikes.
Sun protection (hat, SPF 30+): Direct sun on the dunes is intense—shade and sunscreen reduce sunburn and fatigue.
Warm layer (fleece or light down): Desert nights and early mornings in the Atlas can be cold; a light layer is compact and effective.
Reusable water bottle with filter: Keeps you hydrated on long transits and reduces reliance on single-use plastic in remote areas.