As the sun begins its slow descent over the Moroccan horizon, the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi stir with a quiet energy. This vast expanse of sand, rising and falling like liquid gold, calls for a unique mode of travel — the camel trek. Leaving behind the dusty edge of Merzouga, you mount your ship of the desert and set off into the shifting sands, each step imprinting a rhythm against the wide stillness. The camels, steady and unhurried, respond to the fading light, their shadows stretching long across rippled dunes that dare you to keep pace.

Covering around 12 kilometers during a typical sunset trek, you’ll find the journey both accessible and immersive. The elevation gain is minimal—Erg Chebbi’s sands form gentle hills rather than sheer slopes—but every crest delivers an expansive view that sharpens as the sun dips lower. The terrain invites a measured pace; sand shifts beneath every foot and hoof, testing balance and awareness. The air cools quickly, carrying the desert’s dry scent and whispering stories of survival and endurance.

This trek isn’t about conquering the desert but working with it. Camels, ancient partners of Saharan life, guide you with steady, purposeful steps, translating the dune’s subtle rolls and dips into a journey that is both meditative and invigorating. Along the way, the landscape changes color—from harsh gold to deep orange and then to purple shadows—each hue a signal of the sand’s fierce personality.

Practical planning matters here. Hydration packs and light, breathable clothing are essentials as the day can still hold residual heat even at sunset. Footwear with good grip helps steady you during dismounts and moments on foot near the camp. Timing is crucial: start the trek about ninety minutes before sunset to experience the full transition of light and temperature. Expect to finish just as stars begin to claim the sky, often followed by a desert camp experience with local Berber music and a warm fire.

Sunset camel trekking in Erg Chebbi blends sensory wonder with practical adventure. You’ll learn the art of desert travel — patience, respect for nature’s pace, and anticipation of fleeting beauty. This is the Sahara on its own terms, a vast force fiercely itself, inviting you to flow with its rhythm rather than fight it.