Expeditions, trekking and walks in the Moroccan Sahara

Description

Merzouga is the best place in Morocco for desert trekking and walking tours. With its endless golden dunes and breathtaking landscapes, it offers unforgettable adventures for every traveller. Whether you choose a short walk across the soft sands or a multi-day journey discovering remote villages and hidden oases, Merzouga has something for everyone.

The Sahara desert around Merzouga is perfect for trekking. The silence of the dunes, the vast open skies and the shifting colours of the sand create a magical experience. Time seems to slow down as you walk, guided only by the wind and the rhythm of your own steps. Every journey is unique, from desert excursions at dawn to sunset walks, and every moment is full of beauty.

Walking tours in Merzouga suit all fitness levels. Beginners can enjoy gentle walks, while more experienced hikers can challenge themselves with longer routes through untouched desert landscapes. Local guides share their knowledge and lead you along ancient trails, through palm groves and past traditional Berber settlements.

At night, the desert turns into a starlit wonderland. Camping under the sky after a day of trekking is an experience like no other. The warmth of Berber hospitality, the taste of mint tea and the sound of desert melodies make every moment special.

1-day desert trek

A one-day trek is perfect for travellers who want a quick but immersive taste of the desert. Usually starting in the morning from a village in the Merzouga area or from your accommodation, you walk alongside camels or with a local guide across the soft dunes of Erg Chebbi. Stops may include nomad camps, fossil sites or shaded palm groves. After a few hours of walking, you relax under a tamarisk tree or enjoy a lunch prepared by your guide. These treks end with a gentle walk back or a camel ride at sunset, making for a short, peaceful and unforgettable escape.

2-day desert walking tour

The 2-day trek starts in Merzouga and allows a deeper exploration of the desert. On the first day, you walk among the dunes with a camel caravan carrying the bags and food. You visit traditional Berber nomads and have lunch among the dunes. In the evening, you reach our own Camel Trips Camp, where you have dinner by the fire under a starry sky. The night is spent in a tent or under the stars. The second day follows a different return route, often visiting areas such as the village of Khamlia or a nearby oasis, with stops along the way for tea and traditional snacks.

3-day trek in the Merzouga desert

For those who want to switch off and truly experience the slow rhythm of desert life, the 3-day trek offers an ideal blend of adventure and cultural connection. You walk 5 to 6 hours a day with frequent stops. The journey crosses varied terrain: dunes, black desert, dry riverbeds and rocky plains. You camp in a different place each night, guided by local nomads who know every corner of the desert. You can enjoy fresh meals cooked on the spot, listen to desert stories and wake to silence and the sunrise over the dunes. On the third day, you return to Merzouga along a new route, for a well-rounded exploration.

5-day walking expedition in the Sahara

The 5-day trek is the ultimate desert experience. This longer adventure lets you fully immerse yourself in the natural and cultural richness of the Sahara. Each day is carefully planned to include walks through new landscapes: orange dunes, salt flats, volcanic stones and ancient camel tracks. You visit remote desert families, camp in the wild and discover how nomads survive in one of the harshest environments on Earth. Expect long walks of 5 to 7 hours a day, but with plenty of stops and nourishing meals. The journey builds resilience and awareness, and rewards you with rare beauty and unforgettable moments.

What to expect and useful tips:

1. Suitable for couples, families and small groups.
2. All treks are led by experienced local guides.
3. Camels usually carry luggage and supplies.
4. You only need a small backpack with water and essentials.
5. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a scarf or turban and trekking shoes.
6. Nights can be cold, so bring warm clothes, especially in winter.
7. Meals are usually included and freshly cooked every day.

Tour prices

1 day	2 days	3 days	5 days
100 euros/pp	175 euros/pp	220 euros/pp	690 euros/pp