Ride camels into Erg Chebbi, help set a wild bivouac, and sleep beneath a wide Saharan sky. This hands-on overnight blends Berber hospitality, dune-climbing sunsets and a sunrise camel return.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The first step off the camel sinks you into sand that moves like a slow sea; Erg Chebbi’s rust-colored ridges roll away to the horizon and the sky opens so wide the stars feel within reach. In the late afternoon you meet your camel handler, load the sparse kit, and walk—swaying with the camel’s rhythm—45–60 minutes into a quiet pocket of dunes where a simple bivouac is raised by hand.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
18–22 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to mount/dismount camels, walk on soft sand, and help with simple camp tasks.
Wildlife
History
Merzouga sits at the edge of long Saharan trade routes; its communities are tied to Berber and nomadic traditions that adapted to life between dunes and oasis.
Conservation
Tourism concentrates impact on specific dune corridors—stay on designated routes, avoid leaving waste, and use local guides to minimize erosion and disturbance.
Reserve your spot on the Overnight Wild Desert Bivouac in Merzouga with Camel Trek today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Hydrate before and during the trek
Bring at least 1.5–2 liters of water per person for the trek and another bottle for the evening—desert dehydration is fast.
Layer for temperature swings
Days can be hot while nights drop below 10°C (50°F); pack a light insulated layer and a wind shell.
Protect skin and eyes
Sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and sunglasses are essential; sand reflects sunlight intensely during the day.
Trust the camel handlers
Handlers know animal behavior and safe mounting; follow their directions for loading luggage and riding posture.
Closed-toe walking shoes or lightweight boots
Protects feet from hot sand and provides support when walking on dunes.
Insulating midlayer (fleece or light down)
Nights in the desert can be cold; a warm layer keeps you comfortable after sunset.
fall
Broad-spectrum sunscreen & sunglasses
Prevents sunburn from direct and reflected sunlight off the sand.
summer
Headlamp with fresh batteries
Hands-free light for moving around camp after dark and for early-morning preparations.