The sunset camel trek is the postcard image of a Sahara tour, but it isn't for everyone — and it's a request we get regularly enough that it's worth answering directly rather than assuming everyone wants to ride. Whatever your reason, skipping the camel is a straightforward request, not an awkward one, and it doesn't mean missing the dunes themselves.
Why travelers ask to skip it
- Animal welfare concerns. This is the most common reason we hear, and a fair one — travelers increasingly want to know their trip isn't relying on an animal being overworked. It's a reasonable thing to ask your operator about directly.
- Back, hip, or joint issues. The mounting and dismounting motion, and the sway of the ride itself, isn't comfortable for everyone.
- Motion sickness or a fear of large animals. More common than people expect, and nothing to feel self-conscious about.
- Simply wanting more time, not less. The camel trek takes roughly 45–60 minutes each way; some travelers would rather spend that time settling into camp or resting after a long driving day.
Your alternatives
Every camp we work with is reachable by vehicle, not only by camel — the camel trek is the traditional, scenic route in, not the only one.
- 4×4 transfer. The most common alternative — a direct drive to camp along the vehicle track that runs alongside the dune trail. Takes about 15–20 minutes, works for any group size, and costs nothing extra.
- Quad bike or buggy. If you'd rather stay active than sit in a vehicle, the same quad and buggy add-ons available at camp (see our activities section) can double as your way in, sunrise or sunset.
- Walk in. For fit travelers on a clear evening, some camps are a manageable walk from the vehicle drop-off — ask your guide whether this is realistic for your specific camp before planning on it, since dune terrain is more tiring than it looks.
How to request it
Just mention it when you book — there's a "Dune activity" field on our inquiry form where you can note a 4×4 transfer instead of the camel trek, or simply add it in the notes. It's easiest to arrange on a private tour, since the vehicle is already yours for the day; on a shared tour, let us know in advance and we'll confirm the transfer works with your specific group's schedule.
What doesn't change
Skipping the camel doesn't affect anything else about your trip — same camp, same tier options, same sunset or sunrise timing, same price. It's a swap in how you arrive at the dunes, not a different tour.
Want to skip the camel on your trip?
Tell us when you request a quote — we'll arrange the transfer in advance so there's no confusion when you arrive.
Send an inquiry See all dune activities