In case you are already in Marrakech for a short break and looking for an ideal desert experience that you can undertake in the shortest time possible, then the 2 days desert trip from Marrakech to Zagora is the perfect option you can opt for. This desert experience includes the drive through the spectacular High Atlas Mountains, a visit to the majestic & UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Benhaddou, the palm grove valley of Draa, the camel ride experience and spend the night in the desert camp or under the stars.
Look it up on the map
Itinerary
Most of our tour itineraries & packages are private as we aim to clear the ground for purely cultural experiences while maintaining the delivery of personal service. However, we may take shared bookings on some occasions when the group (maximum 8) is already set. The featured price can change based on the number of passengers & the category of the desert camp.
Day 1 – Marrakech – High Atlas – Ait Benhaddou – Draa Valley – Zagora
Our 2 days desert trip from Marrakech to Zagora starts at around 8 a.m. so that you can have enough time to get the most out of the day during your journey down to the barren desert. Your private driver/guide will pick you up from your hotel, Riad, Villa, or apartment and head south crossing the spectacular High Atlas Mountains with its majestic panoramic views. “Berber Villages” built-in adobe and stones along the feet of the lush valleys are perfect for nice shots. You may include a visit to the women’s Argan Cooperative where Argan oil is being extracted and as a result a source of income for the local community.
You’ll continue on the track to explore the majestic village of Ait Benhaddou. A UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of numerous Kasbahs (fortresses) on the edge of the river & has been used as a backdrop for Hollywood movie makers including Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, Prince of Persia, and much more. After lunch, you’ll drive through the Anti-Atlas Mountains with its unique geological formations, then the lush palm valley of Draa before reaching Zagora, which marks the end of today’s journey.
You’ll have a camel trek for around an hour to the desert camp. Attend the gorgeous view of the sunset, enjoy a nice dinner & spend the night in your private tent or under the stars.
Day 2 – Zagora – Agdz – Ouarzazate – High Atlas – Marrakech
Early wake up in the morning, attend the panoramic view of the sunrise atop the hill. Have a nice breakfast served under the sunlight before heading back to Marrakech through Ouarzazate (Hollywood of Africa) named after the local Atlas Film Studios (It’s possible to include a visit to the studios). You may also want to explore the Taorirt Kasbah (Located in the heart of the city).
You’ll continue further on the track to Marrakech with a nice drive through the spectacular High Atlas Mountains. We’ll make sure to drop you off at your chosen accommodation or arrange with the staff members of your Riad to come escort you if you are staying within the old walls of Marrakech’s Medina.
Image Gallery
Video
Important Information
Price Includes
- A/C & well-maintained 4WD driven by an expert English-speaking driver/guide.
- Pick up from your Marrakech hotel/Riad/Villa
- Camel ride experience for sunset
- Overnight in the Sahara Desert camp in Zagora (private tent) with shared bathrooms & showers.
- Dinner & breakfast are included.
- Local taxes
- Drop off at your Marrakech accommodation or in the closest accessible location if we can’t do it by car as we’ll make sure you get there safely by prior arrangement.
Price Excludes
- Beverages including water.
- Entrance fees to sites and places of attractions
- Lunches on the way
- Tips when appropriate.
Terms & Conditions
Prices are “from”, per person, based on at least 3 adults sharing, and include all taxes. Prices can change based on the number of passengers sharing & the quality of accommodation. Subject to availability. One night accommodation in the desert camp but you can upgrade to a deluxe one with an en-suite tent.
It was a rewarding experience not to forget for a lifetime