Our day trip deeper into the Moroccan Sahara offered a raw and deeply authentic glimpse into nomadic Sahara life. From camel trekking and picnic-style meals to stargazing beside a campfire, this experience showed us a slower, more human side of Morocco’s desert — one we won’t forget.

Overview

Our nomadic desert camp experience in Morocco at Arawan Luxury Desert Camp in Erg Lihoudi turned into one of the most meaningful days of our entire trip. After enjoying the comforts of the luxury desert camp, we were excited to step into something more traditional — a slower, more grounded way to experience the Sahara.

This day trip allowed us to see the desert through nomadic eyes, carried by camels, welcomed by warm people and surrounded by landscapes that feel endless.

Beginning the Day at Arawan Luxury Desert Camp

We started with breakfast at Arawan Luxury Desert Camp before meeting Mohamed, our guide, at 11 am. Two camels waited for us, each with its own calm personality, while Mohamed walked the entire way on foot.

This marked the beginning of our Sahara desert camel ride in Morocco, a peaceful two‑hour journey that moved at the rhythm of the dunes.

Leaving camp behind, we crossed through rich golden sand before reaching stretches of black desert — an area covered with tiny volcanic stones that create a beautiful contrast against the orange dunes.

Even in late November the sun was strong, and we were grateful for our scarves, light clothing, suncream and constant lip balm.

Crossing the Sahara by Camel

The desert camel trek in Moroccan Sahara took us deeper into silence and into that famous Sahara stillness. Mohamed impressed us with his endurance, walking without a break or even sipping water.

If you’re doing a desert trip in the Moroccan Sahara, we’d say: hydrate more than you think, wear breathable clothing and protect your skin.

Arriving at the Nomadic Camp Spot for the Day

When we reached the end point under a tree at the beginning of the sand dunes we dismounted and Mohamed began setting up our resting spot, true to the simplicity of a nomadic desert camp.

We helped him lay out blankets and soon found ourselves sipping tea with a handful of nuts. In every direction, sand stretched without interruption — an ocean you simply have to pause and admire.

Exploring the Dunes and Setting Up Camp

While Mohamed unpacked, we climbed the surrounding dunes for photos and to enjoy the sweeping views. Soon after, the owners of the camp arrived with additional supplies. Together we helped build the tent, although Mohamed kept insisting politely that he could manage alone.

Lunch came picnic‑style: fresh garden salad, chicken skewers grilled over hot coals and fruit for dessert. It was simple, generous and exactly what a nomadic dining experience should feel like.

Slow Moments Before Sunset

We spent the afternoon chatting with the team and enjoying more tea. As sunset approached, we all climbed the dunes together. The way the desert shifts from bright gold to deep amber and then to muted violet is something beyond words.

Dinner Under the Stars

Dinner was a slow‑cooked beef tagine prepared in a metal camping tagine placed directly over the fire. While waiting, we shared stories with the team around the flames — one of the most beautiful parts of the Sahara experience in Morocco.

When dinner was ready, the staff set up a romantic little arrangement for us with a candle balanced on an upside‑down tea glass. Instead of eating alone we chose to sit by the fire with everyone else, wanting to stay in the moment.

Stargazing in the Sahara Desert

One of the most unforgettable highlights of our journey was the stargazing. The Sahara at night feels almost otherworldly — the sky opens up into a vast, crystal‑clear dome of stars, unobstructed by city lights or haze.

We could see constellations we rarely spot back home. The silence of the desert makes the moment even more powerful; without wind or noise, every breath feels amplified.

Sitting by the fading campfire, wrapped in blankets, we found ourselves completely absorbed in the stillness. It’s the kind of scene that stays with you long after the trip ends, and one of the reasons a Sahara experience in Morocco feels so magical and grounded at the same time.

Sleeping in the Desert

After more conversations, the team returned to camp around midnight, leaving us with Mohamed for the night. We stayed up chatting until about 1 am before settling into our tent. Temperatures were milder than the night before at the luxury camp, around 15°C. With foam mattresses and blankets, we slept surprisingly well.

The real magic came from the night sky — bright, open and impossibly clear. Sahara nights make you feel small in the best possible way.

Breakfast in the Wilderness

By sunrise Mohamed was already preparing coffee and tea. Breakfast exceeded expectations: caraway seed bread, msemmen with cheese triangles, two types of jam and fresh fruit.

Afterwards he even washed the dishes using water and soap — not quite dishwasher level but impressive for the Sahara (we joked it was the nomadic rinse cycle!).

The Journey Back to Arawan Luxury Desert Camp

We spent a few more hours relaxing, taking photos and soaking up the final bits of desert quiet. Our luggage was collected by car while Mohamed prepared the camels for our return.

Riding back through the dunes reminded us why Sahara desert camping is so special. It’s the combination of landscapes, people and slow living that creates what many would call the best desert experience in Morocco.

Staying Connected with Saily (eSIM for Morocco)

Even deep in the desert we stayed connected thanks to Saily. Their eSIM gave us signal throughout the dunes, letting us share photos with family back home in real time. For anyone planning a desert camp in Morocco or venturing into more remote areas, Saily genuinely made our trip easier.

Final Thoughts

This day trip gave us a deeper, more human connection to the Sahara. If you’re searching for something beyond a typical excursion — something authentic, warm and reflective — this is the kind of journey that stays with you long after you leave.

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