Overview

Escape the city and dive into the heart of the Moroccan desert on this express 2-day tour to Zagora. Journey across the spectacular High Atlas Mountains, explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou, and experience the magic of a camel ride at sunset. Spend a night in a traditional Berber desert camp under a blanket of stars. This tour is perfect for travelers short on time but eager for an authentic Sahara experience.

Highlights

Cross the magnificent High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka pass.
Explore the iconic Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a famous Hollywood backdrop.
Ride a camel over the dunes of Zagora at sunset.
Spend a night in a traditional Berber desert camp.
Enjoy traditional Moroccan dinner and music around a campfire.
Pass through the lush Draa Valley with its endless palm groves.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech → Ait Benhaddou → Ouarzazate → Zagora

Our journey begins early in the morning from Marrakech. We'll drive through the High Atlas Mountains, admiring the breathtaking landscapes from the Tizi n'Tichka pass (2260m). Our first major stop is the ancient Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, a fortified village and UNESCO World Heritage site. After exploring this historic location and having lunch, we continue towards Ouarzazate, known as the "Hollywood of Morocco," before heading south through the Draa Valley. Upon arrival in Zagora, you'll meet your camel caravan for a memorable trek into the desert as the sun sets. The day ends at our Berber camp, where you'll enjoy a delicious dinner and a night under the stars.

Day 2: Zagora → Draa Valley → Marrakech

Wake up early to witness a beautiful desert sunrise and enjoy breakfast at the camp. You'll ride your camel back to meet your driver, and we'll begin our return journey to Marrakech. We will travel back through the stunning Draa Valley, famous for its millions of palm trees, and once again cross the High Atlas Mountains. We expect to arrive back in Marrakech in the late afternoon, where your unforgettable desert adventure concludes.

What's Included

A/C vehicle transportation from and to your accommodation in Marrakech.
Experienced English-speaking driver/guide.
One night in a traditional Berber desert camp in Zagora.
Camel trek (one camel per person).
Dinner at the desert camp.
Breakfast at the desert camp.

What's Not Included

Lunches and drinks.
Entrance fees to monuments (Ait Benhaddou).
Personal expenses and tips.

Why Choose This Tour?

This tour is the perfect solution for those who want to experience the magic of the Sahara but have limited time. In just two days, you'll cross the Atlas Mountains, visit a world-famous Kasbah, and ride a camel into the sunset. It's a compact, affordable, and deeply memorable Moroccan adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Zagora a "real" desert with big dunes? Zagora offers a rocky, arid desert landscape. While it doesn't have the massive sand dunes of Merzouga (which requires a 3+ day trip), it provides an authentic and beautiful desert experience, complete with a camel trek and a night in a camp.

What should I pack? We recommend comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, a small backpack for essentials, and a warmer layer for the evening, as desert nights can be cool.

Are there bathrooms at the desert camp? Yes, the camp is equipped with basic shared bathroom and toilet facilities.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, this tour is suitable for all ages. Camel riding is a gentle activity, and the driving times are broken up with interesting stops.