Camel Rides in Essaouira — Beach & Sunset Treks
A slow, scenic ride along the beach and through the dunes on gentle, well-cared-for camels, led by handlers who have worked with the same animals for years.
The camel ride is the calmest thing we run, and for a lot of guests it ends up being the photo they keep. You head south from Diabat along the open beach, past the Oued Ksob river mouth, with the dunes on one side and the Atlantic on the other. It is slow — that is the point. A camel walks at about four kilometres an hour and there is nothing to do but look at where you are.
Our camels are dromedaries and they belong to handlers we have worked with for years, from families who have kept these animals for generations. They are not a rotating rental fleet. The same handler works with the same animals every day, knows their temperament, and can tell you what each one is called and how old it is. If you have concerns about how animals are treated on tourist rides — reasonable concerns, in this region — come and look at ours first. We would rather you did.
Mounting is the only part that surprises people. The camel kneels, you climb on, and then it stands back legs first — so you lurch forward before you go up. Hold the front of the saddle, lean back, and it is fine. Your handler talks you through it and holds the animal throughout.
The sunset departure is the local favourite and the one we recommend. You ride out with the light going amber, stop on the sand for mint tea while the sun drops into the ocean, and come back in the blue hour. In summer that means leaving around 18:30; in winter around 16:30. We confirm the exact time the day before, based on actual sunset.
This is the one activity on our list that works for essentially everybody — small children ride with a parent, older guests manage it comfortably, and no fitness or experience is needed at all.
What's included
- Camel and experienced handler for the full ride
- Traditional saddle and blanket
- Mint tea stop on the dunes (sunset and 2-hour rides)
- Hotel pickup in Essaouira and Diabat, on request
- Photos taken during your ride
What to bring
- Long trousers — more comfortable in the saddle than shorts
- A hat and sunglasses
- A scarf for wind-blown sand
- A light jacket for sunset rides, it cools quickly
- Your camera
Meeting point
We pick you up from your riad, hotel or apartment anywhere in Essaouira or Diabat — just send us the address on WhatsApp when you book.
Questions about this activity
Is it suitable for children?
Yes — it is the gentlest thing we run. Tell us your children's ages when you book and we will confirm what works: younger ones ride in front of a parent, older ones are usually fine on their own camel with the handler leading. It is the most family-friendly activity we run.
How are the camels treated?
They belong to handler families we have worked with for years, work limited hours with rest between rides, and are fed, watered and checked daily. We are happy for you to meet the animals before you commit — if a company isn't happy for you to do that, book elsewhere.
Is it uncomfortable?
It is a rocking motion rather than a bumpy one, and most people find it relaxing within a few minutes. If you have back or hip problems, a one-hour ride is usually fine but tell us in advance so we can pick a smoother animal and saddle.
When is the best time for a camel ride?
Late afternoon into sunset, without question — better light, cooler air, and the tide is usually right for the beach stretch. Sunset rides book out first in summer, so message us a day or two ahead.