The silence of the dunes, the slow swaying rhythm, long shadows stretching across the sand and the sky turning from gold to pink: a camel ride in Morocco is one of those experiences that lives up to every postcard. It is also simple, accessible to most travellers and included in all our desert circuits. But where you ride, when and with whom makes a big difference.
Here is our practical guide.
Camel or dromedary?
The animals you ride in Morocco are dromedaries, with one hump, perfectly adapted to the heat and the sand. In everyday language everyone says "camel", and so do we. They are calm, patient animals when well treated, and they are still used by some nomad families to carry loads across the desert.
Where to ride a camel in Morocco
Merzouga and Erg Chebbi
The most spectacular setting: high golden dunes, a caravan silhouetted against the sunset and a camp waiting in a hollow between the crests. The ride to the camp usually takes about an hour. It is the highlight of our 4-day Merzouga tour — see our Merzouga guide.
Zagora and the Draa valley
Smaller dunes, but lovely rides through palm groves and over sandy hills, often to a camp for the night. Ideal on a short trip — see our Zagora desert tour.
The Agafay desert
A stone desert 40 minutes from Marrakech, with gentle rides across golden hills and views of the Atlas. Perfect if you only have one evening, or with young children. Read our Agafay desert guide.
Essaouira and the Atlantic coast
Riding along the long beach of Essaouira towards the ruined fort of Borj El Berod, with the ocean on one side and dunes on the other, is a very different but beautiful experience — and much cooler in summer.
The Marrakech palm grove
If you have no time to leave the city, short camel rides are also offered in the Palmeraie, the palm grove on the northern edge of Marrakech. It is not the desert, and the setting is more suburban, but it can be a fun first taste for children on a city break. Our guide to things to do in Marrakech lists other ideas for a city break.
Sunset, sunrise or a longer trek?
- Sunset ride (1 hour): the classic. Light is at its best and the heat has gone.
- Sunrise ride: quieter, cooler and magical, often on the way back from the camp.
- Overnight trek: ride to the camp in the evening, sleep in the dunes, ride back after breakfast.
- Multi-day camel trek: for adventurous travellers, mainly in the remote Erg Chigaga area, with nights in simple bivouacs.
How to get on and off
The camel kneels for you to climb on. Hold the handle at the front of the saddle firmly, and lean back when the animal stands up — it rises back legs first, tipping you forward — then lean forward as the front legs straighten. Do the opposite when it kneels to let you off. It sounds dramatic but takes three seconds, and the cameleer will guide you. Once moving, relax your hips and follow the rhythm; it is more comfortable than it looks.
What to wear and bring
- Long, comfortable trousers — shorts rub against the saddle.
- Closed shoes or secure sandals, and nothing that falls off easily.
- A scarf or chèche against sun, wind and sand.
- Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat.
- A small bag only: large luggage stays in the vehicle and is usually brought to the camp separately.
- A phone strap if you want photos without dropping your phone in the sand.
Our Sahara packing list covers the rest of your desert kit.
Photography tips
For the classic silhouette shot, ask the cameleer to let you walk a few metres ahead or behind the caravan for a minute and shoot towards the sun just after it touches the horizon. Keep your phone on a strap, avoid changing lenses in the wind, and do not forget to put the camera away for a while: the best memory of a camel ride in Morocco is often the silence.
Choosing a responsible camel ride
Animal welfare matters, and travellers can make a difference by choosing well:
- Animals should look healthy, with no visible wounds, and padded saddles.
- They should have shade, water and rest between rides.
- Each animal should carry one adult; small children may ride with a parent if the cameleer agrees.
- Cameleers should walk at a calm pace and never hit the animals.
We work with local camps and cameleers who respect these principles, and we listen to our guests' feedback. If something feels wrong, tell us.
A camel ride in Morocco with children
Children usually love it. Young ones can ride with an adult or on a camel led by the cameleer, and rides can be shortened. Our family desert guide has more tips.
Book your camel ride
A camel ride in Morocco is included in our circuits to Merzouga, Zagora and Agafay, and can be lengthened on request — or combined with a quad or buggy session. Send us your dates on WhatsApp, or explore our guide to multi-day tours from Marrakech to choose the right desert for you.
