Merzouga Experience Camp suits travellers who want an authentic night in the dunes at a moderate price. The camp is set among the sand ridges of Erg Chebbi and welcomes guests with mint tea, a camel ride or 4x4 transfer, and a traditional dinner. Evenings are social, with drumming, songs and sometimes sandboarding, and the tents are comfortable and warm. It is not a hotel in the usual sense, since facilities are simpler than at a resort, but the setting and the hospitality are the main attractions. Many guests join through a tour package, and it is also possible to reserve directly for one or more nights.
Location and setting
The camp is deep enough in the dunes to be quiet and free of village light, giving a clear sky for stargazing. Arrival by camel is a highlight, and the ride is usually around an hour. The camp is usually run by a family or small team from the region, which adds a personal touch to meals and conversation.
Tents and facilities
Tents are usually twin or double with blankets and mattresses, and bathrooms may be private or shared depending on the tent type. Ask about hot water and the walking distance to facilities. Dinner is often a tagine or couscous with bread and fruit, and breakfast is served in the morning before the ride back. Evenings include music, and guides may lead a sunrise climb.
Who it suits and good to know: first-time visitors, backpackers and couples looking for a good-value camp. It is not meant for guests who need a spa or a pool, and mobility can be a concern in soft sand. In summer, expect high daytime temperatures and warm nights, while winter requires warm clothes. Confirm the cancellation and weather policy, and ask about dietary options. Bring a torch, a scarf and small bills for tips. The camp can often help with onward transfers to Erfoud, Errachidia or Fez.
When comparing camps, ask a few simple questions. How many tents are there, and how many guests share the evening? Is the bathroom inside the tent or a short walk away? Is hot water available in the morning? Does the price include the camel ride and transfers or only the night? A good camp answers clearly. Pack a warm layer for winter nights, light clothes for summer days and a small bag for essentials, and remember that the best things here are the sky and the silence.
If you are travelling in a group, ask whether the camp can arrange tents together and a shared dinner table. Large parties sometimes get a better rate, and the staff can plan a longer evening with music. For solo travellers, a camp is a good place to meet others, and communal dinners make conversation easy. Always keep a small light handy for walking between tents at night.
Why stay here
- ✓Dune views
- ✓Camel ride or 4x4 arrival
- ✓Dinner and breakfast
- ✓Evening music and fire
- ✓Sandboarding on request
- ✓Blankets provided
- ✓Stargazing
- ✓Sunrise dune walk
Good questions
Is the camp private?+
It is usually shared with other guests. Ask about private tents if you want more seclusion.
What food is served?+
Moroccan dishes such as tagine or couscous, plus breakfast.
Can the camp arrange transfers?+
Often yes. Ask when you reserve.
