Group 2 Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Zagora

Desert Tours
Duration

2 Days

Max People

120

Period

Year round

Tour Type

Shared

Starting from

Marrakech

Overview

Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the Sahara Desert on this 2-day desert tour from Marrakech to Zagora. Perfect for travelers with limited time but a desire to experience the magic of the Moroccan desert, this group tour is an affordable and unforgettable journey. You’ll join a small group of up to 17 adventurers and travel through the dramatic landscapes of the Atlas Mountains, ancient kasbahs, and lush valleys, ending with a night under the stars in a traditional Berber camp. Highlights include a camel ride through the Zagora Desert, visits to UNESCO sites, and a chance to witness an awe-inspiring Saharan sunset.

Trip Highlights

    • Cross the scenic High Atlas Mountains via the breathtaking Tizi N’tichka pass.
    • Explore the historic Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    • Drive through the lush Draa Valley, home to Morocco’s largest palm grove.
    • Experience an unforgettable sunset camel ride in the Zagora desert.
    • Spend the night in a Berber camp, complete with local music and cuisine.
    • Visit Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Sahara.”

Included/Excluded

    • Pickup and drop-off from your hotel or riad in Marrakech.
    • Transportation in a modern, air-conditioned minibus with a bilingual (English and French) driver.
    • One night stay in a Berber desert camp in Zagora, including dinner and breakfast.
    • Camel trekking experience during both sunset and sunrise.
    • Lunches along the way (available at local cafes/restaurants).
    • Beverages.
    • Optional guided tour of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou (€3 per person).
    • Personal expenses and tips.

Tour Plan

(8-Hour Drive)

Your adventure begins with a morning pick-up from your Marrakech hotel or riad around 7:30 AM. As you leave the city behind, the journey takes you into the heart of the High Atlas Mountains, where the winding road through the Tizi N’tichka pass offers jaw-dropping views of rugged mountain peaks and remote Berber villages. You’ll stop for refreshments and photos along the way, allowing you to take in the scenic beauty of this mountainous region.

Continuing on, you’ll arrive at Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, one of Morocco’s most iconic historical sites. This ancient fortified village, with its striking mud-brick architecture, has served as the backdrop for many famous films and TV shows. Here, you can opt for a guided tour to learn about the kasbah’s rich history, from its origins as a vital stop for traders to its modern-day cultural significance. (Optional: €3 per person)

After a relaxing lunch, you’ll pass through the Ouarzazate region, known for its cinematic landscapes and film studios. The road then follows the Draa Valley, a verdant stretch of palm groves that contrasts starkly with the surrounding desert terrain.

As the sun begins to set, you’ll arrive in Zagora, a rocky desert region with a distinctive, tranquil beauty. Your day ends with a sunset camel ride, where you can soak in the serenity of the desert as the sky shifts from vibrant orange to deep purple. The journey leads to your overnight camp, where you’ll be treated to a traditional Berber dinner and music around the campfire, set against the backdrop of a star-filled desert sky. The camp offers basic but comfortable amenities, including shared tents and showers.

(7-8 Hour Drive)

Rise early to witness a magical Sahara sunrise! After breakfast at the camp, we begin our journey back to Marrakech. On the way, we’ll stop in Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Africa,” and visit Kasbah Taourirt, an impressive fortress with fascinating history. Enjoy lunch in Ouarzazate before continuing our scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains, reaching Marrakech by early evening.

This 2-day Sahara tour from Marrakech blends culture, history, and adventure into a compact yet enriching experience that will leave you with lasting memories of Morocco’s desert landscape.

Before you go

    • The drive from Marrakech to Zagora takes about 7-8 hours, depending on traffic and sightseeing stops.
    • This shared Marrakech desert tour is perfect for laid-back travelers seeking a communal experience. For a more exclusive option, consider our private Marrakech to Zagora tour.
    • Feel free to bring your luggage along; it will be securely stored in the van while you’re camping in the desert.
    • For your camel ride and overnight camp stay, pack a small backpack or rucksack with essentials.
    • Remember to bring personal bathroom items and a towel for use at the camp.
    • Items like a hat, sunglasses, sturdy walking shoes, and wet wipes will enhance your comfort and convenience during the tour.
    • For a pleasant camel trek in the Zagora desert, wearing jeans, trousers, or long shorts is recommended.

Why Choose this Trip

    • Affordable Adventure: Experience the Sahara without breaking the bank!
    • Time-Efficient: Perfect for travelers with limited time in Morocco.
    • Small Group Experience: Enjoy a more intimate and personalized journey with a small group of fellow adventurers (max 17 people).
    • Authentic Berber Culture: Immerse yourself in traditional Moroccan hospitality, cuisine, and music around the campfire.
    • Iconic Landmarks: Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites like Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou and witness the beauty of the Draa Valley.
    • Unforgettable Moments: From camel trekking to desert sunsets, create memories that will last a lifetime.
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