Morocco price guide
How much does camel ride cost in Morocco?
Camel ride prices in Morocco average 200–350 MAD ($20–$35 USD) for a 1-hour sunset excursion. In Morocco, camels are one-humped dromedaries, and trekking on them is a signature cultural activity. Most structured tours include roundtrip hotel transfers, local nomadic handlers, a traditional scarf wrapping session, and fresh mint tea.
Quick reference
per person
Price examples
Typical amounts in MAD
Camel trekking rates depend on geographic location (city palm grove vs. Sahara sand dunes) and package inclusions:
If you have already booked a multi-day desert tour to Merzouga or Zagora, camel rides to and from the desert camp are typically included in your overall tour package. Compare the full trip with our desert tour prices.
Always verify whether hotel or riad pickup is included in the quoted price, as private transfer fees can add 100–150 MAD if arranged separately. Clarify the actual time spent in the saddle—some operators list total excursion time (including travel and tea) as the 'ride duration'.
Location and timing heavily influence camel ride prices. Casual rides in busy tourist spots like the Marrakech Palmeraie or Agadir beach are lower-priced due to intense competition. Remote Sahara desert treks (Erg Chebbi or Erg Chigaga) command higher prices due to the logistics of maintaining desert camps and transportation.
Location (City palm grove vs. Agafay rocky desert vs. Merzouga sand dunes)
Actual saddle time vs. total excursion duration
Time of day (Golden hour sunset and sunrise rides command premium rates)
Inclusion of hotel pickup and return transportation
Provision of traditional Berber scarves (cheche) and fresh mint tea
Combination with quad biking, dune bashing, or desert dinner shows
Riding a dromedary is a slow, rhythmic way to explore Morocco's desert landscapes. It is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, offering an iconic photo opportunity and a peaceful connection to traditional nomadic transport.
A useful rule when comparing private guide prices
Wear long, flexible trousers to prevent skin irritation from the wooden camel saddle and coarse hair.
Bring sunglasses and a scarf (cheche); handlers will happily wrap it into a desert turban to protect your face from dust and sun.
Tip your camel handler (chamelier) 20–50 MAD if they help take photos and guide you safely along the trail.
Hold tight to the metal handle when the camel stands up or sits down—the forward and backward movement can be sudden.
For sunrise or sunset rides, bring a camera or phone with a neck strap to avoid dropping devices into the dunes while riding.
Budget 250 to 350 MAD ($25–$35 USD) per person for a memorable, well-organized 1.5-hour sunset camel ride including transport and mint tea. Avoid paying more than 200 MAD for short, impromptu roadside rides without confirmed hotel transfers.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
A few practical questions travelers may have before choosing or paying for this in Morocco.
Is riding a camel in Morocco uncomfortable?
It can be, especially if you have never ridden a camel before. The hardest part for many people is not the ride itself but getting used to the camel's movement when it stands up and sits down. A short ride is usually easier to handle than spending several hours on a camel. If you are not comfortable during the ride, tell the guide rather than trying to push through it.
What should I wear for a camel ride in Morocco?
Wear comfortable clothes that allow you to move easily and shoes that will stay on your feet. Long trousers are generally more practical than shorts or skirts, particularly if you will be riding for a while. Sunglasses, sunscreen and a light layer can also be useful because desert areas can feel very different once the sun goes down.
Is a camel ride in Morocco safe for first-time riders?
For most travelers, a guided camel ride is manageable even if it is your first time riding. The guide normally helps you get on and off the camel and leads the animals during the ride. Pay close attention when the camel is standing up or sitting down, as this is when you are likely to feel the biggest movement. If you have a medical condition or physical limitation, check with the operator before booking.
Can children go on a camel ride in Morocco?
Children can take part in many camel-riding experiences, but the rules depend on the operator and the child's age and size. Some experiences allow younger children to ride with an adult rather than alone. Check the operator's age requirements before booking, particularly if you are traveling with toddlers or very young children.
Can I do a camel ride if I have back problems?
A camel ride may not be suitable for everyone with back, hip or other physical problems because the movement can be uncomfortable. Some Moroccan camel excursions specifically advise against riding for people with certain back conditions or during pregnancy. If you have a medical condition, ask the operator about the ride conditions before booking rather than assuming a short ride will be suitable.
How do I know if the camels are being treated well?
If animal welfare matters to you, look at the condition of the camels before getting on. Avoid an experience where animals appear injured, extremely thin, overloaded or visibly distressed. You can also ask the operator how long the animals work each day and whether they have regular access to water, food and rest. Traveler experiences in Morocco vary, so choosing an operator that clearly cares for its animals is worth taking seriously.
