Desert Tour From Marrakech to Zagora
(76 Reviews)
Overview
Short on time but dreaming of a desert escape? Our 2-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Zagora is the perfect way to experience Morocco’s Sahara in just two days. This express adventure takes you through the High Atlas Mountains, the cinematic city of Ouarzazate, and the palm-filled Draa Valley, before reaching the peaceful dunes of Zagora.
Though Zagora’s dunes are smaller than those of Merzouga, this tour offers an authentic desert experience complete with camel trekking, Berber music under the stars, and an overnight stay in a luxury nomad-style camp. It’s the ideal blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation for travelers seeking a genuine Moroccan journey in a limited timeframe.
Please note: This itinerary is just a suggested program. If it doesn’t fully match what you’re looking for, feel free to contact us. We’ll be happy to design a customized itinerary tailored to your preferences, travel dates, and duration of stay. We specialize in creating personalized tours and experiences across Morocco.
Pricing: The cost of the tour varies depending on the number of travelers, the more people joining, the lower the price per person. Since transportation is a fixed cost, it will be divided among participants. Prices also depend on the category and quality of accommodation selected.
Please contact us for an exact quote based on your group size and travel preferences.
Trip Highlights
- Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Benhaddou Kasbah.
- Explore Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Africa,” and its famous film studios.
- Travel through the lush Draa Valley, dotted with ancient Kasbahs and palm groves.
- Experience a camel trek at sunset across the Zagora dunes.
- Spend the night in a luxury desert camp with Berber music and dinner under the stars.
- Enjoy a traditional Berber breakfast at sunrise before returning to Marrakech.
Itinerary
Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Benhaddou – Ouarzazate – Draa Valley – Zagora
Begin your adventure with an early 7:00 AM pickup from your Marrakech hotel or riad. Travel in comfort across the High Atlas Mountains, winding through the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 m), where scenic stops offer panoramic views and photo opportunities.
Arrive at the Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most iconic film locations. Enjoy a guided visit to this historic fortress before continuing to Ouarzazate, where you’ll explore the Kasbah of Taourirt and have lunch in a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, journey south through the spectacular Draa Valley, Morocco’s longest river valley, lined with lush oases and fortified villages. Arrive in Zagora, where your camel will be waiting to carry you across the desert to your Berber camp.
As night falls, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner accompanied by local drumming and songs around the campfire. End your evening under the starlit sky in the peaceful stillness of the Sahara.
Day 2: Zagora – Ouarzazate – Marrakech
Wake up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Zagora dunes, a truly magical moment. After a Berber-style breakfast, ride your camel back across the sand to meet your driver.
Depart for Ouarzazate, where you’ll stop for lunch and have time to explore more of the “Hollywood of Africa.” Afterward, journey back across the High Atlas Mountains, passing scenic viewpoints and Berber villages along the way.
You’ll arrive in Marrakech by late afternoon (around 5:00 PM), where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel marking the end of your unforgettable Sahara adventure.
What's included
- Free airport transfer to your hotel in Marrakech.
- Private transfer in a luxury air-conditioned 4WD or minibus.
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide.
- Pick-up & drop-off at your Marrakech accommodation.
- Visit to Ait Benhaddou Kasbah with a local guide.
- Visit to Atlas Film Studios and Taourirt Kasbah in Ouarzazate.
- 1 night in a nomad-style desert camp (private ensuite tent with hot shower).
- Camel trekking (approx. 1 hour each way).
- Breakfast and dinner during the tour (vegetarian options available).
- Free time to explore sites such as Ait Benhaddou, Draa Valley, and Ouarzazate.
What’s Not Included
- Lunches and beverages.
- Personal expenses and optional activities.
- Entrance fees (if any) not listed as included.
Know Before You Go
- This tour is ideal for travelers short on time seeking a genuine desert experience.
- Warm clothing is recommended for cooler desert nights (especially Nov–Feb).
- The Zagora dunes are smaller than Merzouga’s, but offer a closer and more accessible desert experience.
- The Zagora dunes are smaller than Merzouga’s, but offer a closer and more accessible desert experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a lot of driving on this tour?
Yes, the Zagora desert is approximately 6–7 hours from Marrakech (one way), but the scenery and cultural stops make the drive enjoyable.
Can I skip the camel ride?
Yes. A 4×4 transfer to the camp can be arranged for those who prefer not to ride camels.
What is the difference between Zagora and Merzouga?
Zagora is closer to Marrakech (ideal for 2-day trips), while Merzouga has higher dunes and is better suited for 3–4 day tours.
Is the desert camp comfortable?
Yes, you’ll stay in a luxury tent with a private bathroom, hot shower, and comfortable bedding.
Contact Us
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