Camel Ride in Morocco with Kids: What to Expect, What to Pay, and What to Skip
From Morocco Travel Experts, written by Hamid El Maimouni
Camel Ride in Morocco with Kids: What to Expect, What to Pay, and What to Skip
Written by Hamid El Maimouni, licensed Morocco tour guide and founder of Morocco Travel Experts. Hamid runs private family tours from Marrakech and writes about Morocco travel on his personal blog at travelwithhamid.com.
A 30-minute camel ride at sunset over Erg Chebbi can be one of the best family memories in Morocco. A two-hour ride with tired children is often uncomfortable for everyone, including the camel. Shorter is usually better.
Best Places for Camel Rides with Kids
| Location | Setting | Age | Duration | Price estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Merzouga / Erg Chebbi | Real Sahara dunes | All ages with judgement | 30 min-2 hr | 200-400 MAD/person |
| Agafay Desert | Rocky desert near Marrakech | All ages | 20-40 min | 150-250 MAD/person |
| Palmeraie Marrakech | Flat palm grove | All ages | 30 min | 100-200 MAD/person |
How It Works with Young Children
The camel sits down, you mount from the side, and the big moment is when it stands. That forward-back lurch surprises children, so hold them close. Children under 7 usually sit in front of a parent on the same camel. Use long trousers and closed shoes.
What to Pay in 2026
In Merzouga, a one-hour ride is commonly 200-400 MAD per person, though camp transfers are often included in the camp price. Agafay organized rides are usually 150-250 MAD for about 30 minutes. Avoid random roadside operators; book through your guide, riad, or camp.
Animal Welfare
Morocco’s working animal welfare is uneven. Reputable desert camps depend on healthy camels and tend to maintain better conditions than street photo setups. Avoid camel photo props around Marrakech tourist zones, especially in heat. Hamid writes more candidly about this side of travel on travelwithhamid.com.
For the full desert context, read Sahara desert with kids and Morocco with kids.
See the Marrakech to Sahara Family Tour
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe for toddlers?
Toddlers can sit with a parent for a very short ride, but many families choose a 4×4 transfer and let older children ride.
Do camels bite?
They can, like any working animal, so children should not touch the face or feed them unless the handler says it is fine.
Can I skip the camel ride and still do the Sahara?
Yes. Desert camps can usually arrange 4×4 transfers instead.
