From Marrakech: Zagora 2-Day Desert Safari with Food & Camp

Medina, Marrakech, Marrakech



Escape to Zagora on a 2-day desert trip from Marrakech. Ride camels at sunset, sleep under the stars in a Berber camp, and explore the famous Ait Ben Haddou.

Zagora Desert 2-Day Adventure from Marrakech

This 2-day tour from Marrakech suits travelers seeking a cultural and desert experience, including camel rides, Berber camping, and mountain scenery.

Highlights

  • Ride camels across the Zagora Desert at sunset and sunrise
  • Sleep in a Berber desert camp with dinner, music, and stargazing
  • Explore the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou kasbah featured in Gladiator and Game of Thrones
  • Discover Draa Valley, home to Morocco’s largest palm oasis and ancient kasbahs
  • Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n'Tichka Pass

Description

Begin with a morning pickup from your Marrakech accommodation. Travel through the High Atlas Mountains on the Tizi n'Tichka Pass, stopping at over 2,200 meters elevation. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, Ait Ben Haddou, for a guided tour and lunch at a local café.

Continue through Ouarzazate before entering the Draa Valley, full of extensive palm groves and historic kasbahs. Arrive in Zagora to meet your camel caravan and embark on a sunset trek across the desert. Settle into a private tent at the desert camp, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, and listen to live Berber music by the campfire under the stars.

On day two, wake early to watch the sunrise over the desert. After breakfast, return by camel to the main road and begin the return to Marrakech. Travel back through the Draa Valley and High Atlas Mountains, stopping for lunch in Ouarzazate or along the route. Arrive in Marrakech by approximately 6:00 PM and receive drop-off at your hotel or riad.

Includes

  • Hotel or riad pickup and drop-off in Marrakech
  • Air-conditioned transportation
  • Driver-guide with onboard Wi-Fi
  • One night in a private tent at a standard or luxury desert camp (option selected at booking)
  • Sunset and sunrise camel rides in the Zagora Desert
  • Moroccan dinner and breakfast (including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options)
  • Live Berber drumming and campfire music experience
  • Access to toilets and showers
  • Secure luggage storage in the vehicle

Excludes

  • Optional local guide at Ait Ben Haddou (€2 per person)
  • Lunches and drinks
  • Tips and gratuities

Important Information

  • Departure at 7:00 AM on Day 1; return around 6:00 PM on Day 2. Be ready 5–10 minutes before pickup.
  • Pickup available from Marrakech hotels and apartments; for Medina riads inaccessible by vehicle, a nearby walking meeting point will be arranged.
  • Choose between standard camp (shared bathroom) or luxury camp (private en-suite) for your desert stay.
  • Camel trek lasts approximately 45–60 minutes each way; walking alongside camels is possible at the standard camp.
  • Long trousers are recommended for the camel trek.
  • Luggage remains in the vehicle during the tour; bring a small overnight bag for the desert.
  • Multiple stops for lunch, restroom breaks, photos, and refreshments are included during travel.
  • Weather varies: very hot in summer (June–August) and cold nights in winter (November–February); pack clothing layers accordingly.
  • Lunch, drinks, and incidental expenses are not included; carry cash in EUR or MAD (approximately €10–13 per meal). Some locations may not accept cards.

Easy Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, book in advance and bring suitable clothing for variable temperatures, comfortable walking shoes, and cash for meals and extras.

Frequently Asked Questions

The safari includes camel rides at sunset and sunrise, overnight Berber camp accommodation with dinner and entertainment, and visits to Ait Ben Haddou kasbah and Draa Valley.
Transportation is provided via a scenic drive crossing the High Atlas Mountains through the Tizi n'Tichka Pass from Marrakech to Zagora.
Yes, camel rides are offered at both sunset and sunrise during the Zagora Desert Safari.
You will spend the night in a traditional Berber desert camp in Zagora, including dinner, music, and stargazing.
The tour includes exploring the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou kasbah and the Draa Valley with its palm oasis and ancient kasbahs.
Yes, the journey from Marrakech to Zagora crosses the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka Pass.
No special gear or previous experience is required to ride camels on this tour; basic instructions are provided.
Dietary restrictions can usually be accommodated; check with the tour provider when booking for specific needs.
The Sahara is best visited in spring and autumn for moderate temperatures; check with the tour provider for seasonal recommendations.
The drive typically takes around 6 to 7 hours including stops along the route from Marrakech to Zagora.

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