Sleeping in the Desert in Morocco: Camps and Bivouacs
Spending a night under the stars in the Sahara is one of the most memorable experiences of a Morocco trip. From a simple bivouac to a luxury camp with a king-size bed and a private bathroom, there's an option for every budget. Here's how to choose well.
You sleep in the Moroccan desert at a camp (Merzouga, Zagora, Agafay). Two levels: the standard camp (Berber tent, shared facilities, €30-60) and the luxury camp (spacious tent, real bed, private bathroom, €100-250). The night usually includes dinner, breakfast and often the camel ride. Bring warm clothes: nights are cool to cold from October to March. Camps can sit in the dunes (camel/4x4 access, more immersive) or on the edge (easy access) — always ask which before booking. Expect Gnaoua music, mint tea and stargazing; for the highlight of the stay, get up 15 minutes before sunrise. The simplest option is booking via an organised tour (3-day Merzouga or 2-day Zagora), which bundles transport, the camel ride, meals and the camp night into one package.
Standard or luxury camp?
| Criterion | Standard camp | Luxury camp |
|---|---|---|
| Bedding | Floor mattress, Berber tent | Real bed, sometimes king-size |
| Facilities | Shared | Private bathroom |
| Price/night | €30-60 | €100-250 |
| Vibe | Authentic, simple | "Glamping" comfort |
| Ideal for | Backpackers, young, budget | Couples, comfort, honeymoon |
The standard camp leans on authenticity (music around the fire, simplicity), the luxury camp on comfort without giving up the desert's magic.
What's usually included
- Dinner (often tagine) and breakfast.
- An equipped tent (bedding, blankets).
- Often the camel ride at sunset.
- Sometimes Gnaoua music, mint tea, stargazing.
To check: heating/extra blankets in winter, electricity (often limited), bathroom (private or shared), access (by camel or 4x4).
Tips for a great night
- Warm clothes are essential from October to March (down jacket, hat).
- Head torch and a power bank (limited electricity).
- A scarf (chèche) against sand and cold.
- Book via an organised tour (3-day Merzouga or 2-day Zagora): everything is handled.
- For sunrise, get up 15 min early: it's the highlight.
Camp nights in Merzouga· GetYourGuide
Camps and kasbahs to book· Booking.com
Also read: the Merzouga desert guide, the 3-day tour and which desert to choose.
The catalogue of camp nights and desert tours sits in desert and Sahara excursions.
FAQ — Sleeping in the desert in Morocco
How much does a night at a desert camp cost?
Is it cold at night in the Moroccan desert?
Are there toilets and showers at the camps?
Is the camel ride included with the camp night?
How do I book a night in the desert?
In short
Sleeping in the Moroccan desert is an unforgettable experience, accessible to every budget: from an authentic bivouac to a luxury camp. Bring warm clothes, book via a tour for simplicity, and don't miss sunrise over the dunes. Want to camp on your own somewhere other than the Sahara? Our camping guide to Morocco covers wild camping, established campsites and van life on the Atlantic coast.
