What to Expect During Your Camel Ride in Morocco

A camel ride in Morocco is one of the most iconic and unforgettable experiences you can have while exploring this fascinating country. Whether you’re trekking through the Sahara Desert, crossing the Atlas Mountains, or exploring the Agafay Desert, riding a camel offers a unique perspective of Morocco’s vast landscapes. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about what to expect during your camel ride in Morocco, from preparation to the experience itself, so you can enjoy your adventure to the fullest.

Why Choose a Camel Ride in Morocco?

Camels, often called the “ships of the desert,” have been an integral part of Moroccan culture for centuries. They are the perfect companions for traversing the desert’s endless dunes and rocky terrains. Here’s why a camel ride should be on your Morocco travel itinerary:

• Authentic Experience: Camel rides offer a traditional and authentic way to explore Morocco, allowing you to immerse yourself in the culture and landscape like the locals have for centuries. For more on unique Moroccan experiences, check out our Ultimate Guide to Sahara Desert Tours in Morocco.
• Stunning Landscapes: Camels are perfect for navigating through Morocco’s diverse landscapes, from the endless dunes of the Sahara Desert to the rugged paths of the Atlas Mountains. For more desert adventures, read about How to Plan a Luxury Morocco Tour: Everything You Need to Know that includes a camel ride.
• Relaxing Pace: The slow, rhythmic pace of camel travel allows you to absorb the surroundings, relax, and enjoy the peacefulness of Morocco’s vast desert regions.

What to Expect Before Your Camel Ride

Before you set out on your camel ride, there are a few things you should expect to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

1. Meet Your Camel and Guide

Once you arrive at your starting point, your guide will introduce you to your camel. Don’t worry if you’ve never ridden a camel before—your guide will ensure you’re comfortable and give you detailed instructions. Camels are gentle creatures, but they are large, and their height may seem intimidating at first. For more on private guided tours and tips for comfort, see our Why Private Morocco Tours Are Perfect for Families.

2. Mounting the Camel

Getting on a camel can be a bit tricky if you’ve never done it before, but your guide will assist you. Camels kneel down to make it easier for riders to mount, but once they stand up, they rise in two stages, with the back legs going up first, followed by the front legs. Expect a bit of a lurch as the camel rises to its full height—this is completely normal, but it can feel a bit jarring at first.

• Pro Tip: Hold onto the saddle or the reins tightly when the camel stands up, as this is when you may feel the most movement.

3. Comfortable Riding Position

Once you’re on the camel, you’ll be seated comfortably in a saddle or a cushion, which should provide ample support for your ride. You’ll be riding in a relaxed position, often with a slight lean forward, which allows you to sit comfortably for hours without straining.

• Pro Tip: Keep your knees relaxed and avoid gripping the camel too tightly to ensure a smooth ride.

What to Expect During the Camel Ride

A camel ride in Morocco is a unique and leisurely experience. Here’s what you can expect during your journey:

1. The Gentle Rocking Motion

Camels are known for their unique walking gait, which involves a gentle swaying motion. As your camel walks, you will feel a slight rocking motion that is rhythmic and soothing. Some riders find it incredibly relaxing, while others might take a few minutes to adjust to the movement.

• Pro Tip: Relax your body, especially your lower back and legs, to adapt to the camel’s motion. If you’re riding in a group, the guides often encourage a slow pace, so you can take in the surroundings at leisure.

If you’re looking for more relaxing activities in Morocco, check out our Top 10 Must-See Destinations on Your Morocco Tour blog for a look at the best peaceful spots.

2. Time to Soak in the Desert Landscape

Whether you’re trekking across the vast dunes of the Sahara Desert or passing through the rocky terrain of the Agafay Desert, a camel ride allows you to experience the landscape in a peaceful, immersive way. You’ll have time to marvel at the panoramic views, feel the desert breeze on your face, and soak in the tranquility of Morocco’s vast wilderness.

• Pro Tip: Keep your camera handy to capture the stunning desert views, but be mindful of the camel’s movement when taking photos.

3. Interaction with Local Culture

Many camel ride tours in Morocco include stops at local Berber villages, where you can interact with the local people, learn about their culture, and experience traditional desert life. These interactions offer a deeper connection to the landscape, as well as insights into how the Berber people have thrived in such harsh conditions for centuries. To know more about Berber culture, check out our Exploring Morocco’s Imperial Cities blog.

• Pro Tip: Be respectful when interacting with locals, and always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their property.

4. Camel Ride Timing

Camel rides can range from a short 30-minute ride to a multi-day adventure. If you’re taking a longer ride, you may stop at various points along the way for breaks, to take in the scenery, or enjoy a Moroccan tea in a desert camp. If you’re on a shorter ride, it may be combined with other activities like a visit to an oasis or watching the sunset over the dunes.

• Pro Tip: For longer rides, stay hydrated and wear sunscreen, especially if the ride is in the afternoon sun.

What to Expect After the Camel Ride

Once the ride is over, your camel will kneel again to allow you to dismount. Some riders may feel a bit unsteady after getting off, as the camel’s motion can affect your balance. This is perfectly normal, and you’ll quickly get back to your feet.

After dismounting, you may have the opportunity to relax in a desert camp and enjoy traditional Moroccan hospitality, including a mint tea and a traditional Moroccan meal. The peaceful desert surroundings offer a perfect opportunity for stargazing before heading back to your accommodation.

• Pro Tip: Stretch your legs and back after dismounting to alleviate any stiffness from the ride.

Safety Tips for Your Camel Ride

• Wear comfortable clothing: Loose, lightweight clothes will help you stay cool during your ride. Long sleeves and pants are recommended to protect you from the sun and sand.
• Sun protection: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the intense desert sun.
• Stay hydrated: The desert can be extremely hot, so always drink plenty of water before, during, and after your ride.
• Listen to your guide: Always follow the instructions given by your guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.

Conclusion

A camel ride in Morocco is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that provides a unique way to explore the desert landscape and connect with the local culture. Whether you’re crossing the majestic dunes of the Sahara or exploring a remote Berber village, your camel ride will be an unforgettable adventure that you’ll cherish for years to come. By understanding what to expect before, during, and after your ride, you can ensure that your camel trekking experience is as comfortable, enjoyable, and safe as possible.