Can You See Camels in Morocco?
Quick answer
Yes — camels (technically dromedaries) are common in Morocco, especially in and around the Sahara. The classic experience is a sunset camel trek over the dunes at Merzouga or Zagora; you’ll also find camel rides near Marrakech (Agafay/Palmeraie) and on some beaches.
Riding a camel into the dunes is one of Morocco’s signature experiences, and yes, you’ll have plenty of chances to see (and ride) them. Where and how varies from a genuine desert trek to a short beach plod.
Here’s where to find them and what to expect.
Where to see camels
The real deal is the Sahara: camel treks over the big Erg Chebbi dunes at Merzouga or the dunes near Zagora, usually at sunset or sunrise, often as part of an overnight desert-camp tour. This is the iconic, photogenic camel experience.
Closer to Marrakech, you can ride camels in the Agafay desert and the Palmeraie (palm groves) for a shorter taste, and you’ll spot camels along southern roads and even on some beaches (like Essaouira and Agadir) offering short rides.
What a camel trek is like
Camels are led in a string by a guide; you mount while the camel is kneeling (hold on as it stands — it lurches back then forward!), and sway along at walking pace. A sunset dune trek is typically 30–90 minutes to a viewpoint or camp; longer expeditions exist.
It’s gentle but can be a bit uncomfortable on the hips and back over long rides — wear long trousers, hold the saddle horn, and bring a scarf for sun and sand.
Doing it kindly
Choose operators that treat their animals well — camels that look healthy and well-fed, reasonable group sizes, and not overloaded. Reputable desert-tour companies generally maintain their animals properly since it’s their livelihood.
If you’d rather not ride, you can still walk the dunes and photograph the camels — a sunrise over the dunes with a camel caravan is unforgettable either way.
Key takeaways
- Yes — camels are common, especially around the Sahara.
- Classic experience: sunset/sunrise dune trek at Merzouga or Zagora.
- Shorter rides near Marrakech (Agafay, Palmeraie) and some beaches.
- Choose kind operators; you can also just walk and photograph the dunes.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to ride a camel in Morocco?
The Sahara dunes at Merzouga (Erg Chebbi) for the classic big-dune trek, usually at sunset or sunrise as part of an overnight desert tour. Zagora and the Agafay desert near Marrakech are alternatives.
Are the camels in Morocco treated well?
Generally yes with reputable operators, since the animals are their livelihood. Choose tours where camels look healthy and aren’t overloaded, and you can always walk the dunes instead of riding.
Are they camels or dromedaries in Morocco?
They’re dromedaries (one-humped), commonly called camels. You’ll see them across the south and especially in the Sahara.
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