Sahara Wellness Camp — Hotel in caïdat d'Er-Rissani

I strongly advise choosing a different accommodation if you are considering staying in the desert under such harsh conditions, which can potentially be life-threatening. The high ratings for this place may very well be artificially manipulated. I was abandoned in the middle of the desert at 9 p.m. in the rain.

First of all, as others have mentioned in their reviews, the accommodation is located deep in the desert, making it virtually impossible to reach on foot. You need a camel or a vehicle, both of which must be arranged through the accommodation. However, the communication from the accommodation does not clearly mention that transport will be charged separately for both trips. In the end, you should expect to pay nearly double the advertised room price.

In my case, I took a bus that arrived in Merzouga at 9 p.m., and I contacted the host 30 minutes beforehand, at which point I was told they would be waiting at the meeting point. After that, they asked if I needed dinner. I said no, but I was told they had already prepared it and was pressured to eat it. When I repeatedly refused, I was suddenly informed that the accommodation was overbooked and that my booking was being canceled. It is extremely suspicious for a place to suddenly realize they are overbooked at 9 p.m. Dinner was a €15 option, which I had not agreed to previously, and meals in Merzouga typically cost around €4.

When I asked to speak directly with someone, I was told they were at the accommodation and couldn’t talk—contradicting the earlier claim that they were waiting at the meeting point. As a result, I was left stranded in the rain in the middle of the desert, knocking on doors in the dark trying to find another place to stay.

Below is the WhatsApp conversation as proof [19:50] Guest: I'm in Lisani now. I'm gonna arrive in Merzouga at 20:30 [19:51] Guest: Sorry I didn't know the system. I'm here [19:52] Host: Thanks a lot [19:52] Host: Ok [19:52] Host: Dinner do you eat everything [19:53] Guest: I don't need it!! Thank you!! I'm hungry now so I want to buy something in Merzouga [19:54] Host: But we did already cook [19:54] Host: Dinner [19:54] Host: You should have said this before. Now it is late [19:55] Host: We did send you messages on Booking and got no answer [19:55] Host: For dinner because we did it already [20:00] Guest: You didn't ask me it... [20:02] Guest: You can just prepare dinner in the message by €15 [20:03] Guest: Why did you prepare it regardless of no answer?? And why did you ask me when I answered about the car... [20:05] Guest: I'm so confused [20:05] Host: But it is ready [20:06] Guest: I don't know... It's your problem... [20:06] Host: Ok [20:06] Host: Do you want also for tomorrow or no? [20:06] Host: Dinner for tomorrow? [20:06] Guest: I don't need it tomorrow as well [20:07] Guest: Thank you [20:07] Host: So please cancel. It is not possible [20:07] Host: You don’t need because we did prepare dinner and you say you don’t pay. So please cancel and I send you free cancel [20:08] Host: It is full tomorrow and we don’t have place [20:08] Host: In Booking we sell dinner to make some money. Just booking is not possible [20:09] Host: Sorry we did send you all so sorry. Just send me cancel and I will cancel for free [20:09] Host: That way you get money back [20:09] Guest: I cannot understand [20:09] Guest: Can I talk to you directly? [20:10] Host: Yes, because if we don’t sell dinner or extras we don’t do it [20:10] Host: So cancel please. You can book something in the village and buy something to eat there. It is not possible with us [20:11] Host: No, please cancel [20:11] Host: I will send you free cancel [20:11] Host: It...

My recent stay at Sahara Wellness Camp was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we arrived until the time we reluctantly checked out, every aspect of our experience exceeded expectations.

The staff at Sahara Wellness Camp are the true gems of this oasis. Warm, friendly, and genuinely caring, they go above and beyond to ensure guests feel not just welcome, but truly at home. Omar, Hamid, Aziz, and the entire team, including friends and family, made our stay memorable with their infectious positive energy and warm-hearted hospitality. They took the time to share their traditions, sing traditional songs, and engage in delightful conversations, providing a unique cultural experience.

The accommodations were impeccable. The rooms were not only spacious and comfortable but also exuded an undeniable charm. The cleanliness of the bathrooms was outstanding, and the refreshing scent added an extra touch of luxury to our stay.

One of the highlights of our evenings was the captivating post-dinner entertainment. The talented staff at Sahara Wellness Camp showcased their musical prowess, treating us to an unforgettable performance. The harmonious blend of voices and skillful instrumentals created an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie that will linger in our memories.

The culinary offerings at Sahara Wellness Camp were a true delight. The food was not only delicious but also a wonderful reflection of the local cuisine. We wholeheartedly recommend trying the meals offered – a true culinary adventure that adds to the overall richness of the experience.

In terms of value for money, Sahara Wellness Camp stands out as the epitome of affordability without compromising on quality. This is undeniably the best choice for accommodation in the area, and we wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone seeking an authentic and...

Can I give 6 stars for Service?

The property is very clean, the rooms are huge and the shared areas indoor and outdoor are decorated very beautifully. Warm showers are available and toilets are clean.

The best thing about this camp however was the excellent service that the family owned business offers. Omar made sure that everything is organized, from booking to pick up and arrival and all the activities. He also made all the prices transparent, no one should be surprised. His brothers, Aziz and Hamid, made sure that we had a pleasant stay and all our wishes had been fulfilled. Mustafa was very professional in catering breakfast and dinner - but warning: there’s a lot of food, so you will need a good hunger to finish up!

The camp dogs and the cats were cute and lovely. We stayed 2 nights - and you should definitely do that, too! I can recommend the day tour. Aziz took lots of time to guide us to a traditional nomad village, to the mines and the lake.

The huge bed was very comfy and we’ve had a good sleep. There are enough blankets so you will be warm in cold desert nights.

Lovely regards...