2 Day Desert Tour From Marrakech To Zagora

Review of the 2 Day Desert Tour From Marrakech to Zagora

Taking a two-day trip from Marrakech to Zagora offers an authentic taste of Moroccan desert life, historical sites, and stunning landscapes. While we haven’t personally been on this exact journey, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect.

What really stands out for us are the well-organized transport, guides with local expertise, and the chance to sleep under the stars in the desert. The opportunity to visit a UNESCO World Heritage site like Aït Ben Haddou, combined with camel trekking and overnight camping, makes this trip a memorable experience.

One potential consideration is the long drive, which might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to extended car journeys. However, the comfort of private transfers and frequent stops helps make the trip more enjoyable.

This tour is best suited for travelers eager for an adventure-filled escape, interested in Moroccan culture and history, and who don’t mind spending significant time on the road for authentic desert experiences.

Key Points

• Authentic Moroccan experience with visits to UNESCO sites and desert camps
• Comfortable private transfers with ample stopping points and scenic views
• Camel trekking and camping in genuine desert bivouacs or luxury tents
• Guides with local knowledge who provide insightful commentary and friendly service
• Choice of camping options to suit different budgets, including luxury upgrades
• Included meals of dinner and breakfast in the desert, with additional site visits

An in-depth look at the Marrakech to Zagora 2-Day Experience

Convenient and Private Transportation

From the moment your adventure begins, you’re met by a professional driver with a spacious, air-conditioned vehicle. The journey kicks off at 7:30 am, giving you plenty of daylight to explore at each stop. The private transfer means more space to stretch out, making the long 6-hour drive bearable—and even enjoyable.

Traveling in a private vehicle is a major plus, especially considering reviews mentioning the driver’s helpfulness, punctuality, and friendly attitude. One reviewer praised driver Reda for being professional and punctual, which is reassuring when you’re on a tight schedule. The flexibility of private transport also means additional stops or photo opportunities along the way.

The Road to Aït Ben Haddou

Crossing the high Atlas Mountains via the Tizi-n-Tichka pass, travelers are greeted with breathtaking views of the mountain’s foothills and terraced fields. The highlight here is the Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning mud-brick architecture and its Hollywood fame—used as a backdrop for films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones.

Visitors often find the view from the highest hill of Aït Ben Haddou especially marvelous, and the guided tour offers rich insights into the history of this ancient village. One reviewer mentioned the guide’s helpfulness, with the tour of the kasbah being a highlight, adding depth to the visit.

Exploring Ouarzazate and the Draa Valley

After Aït Ben Haddou, the journey continues to Ouarzazate, known as Africa’s Hollywood, where the Kasbah Taourirt and film studios await. Here, travelers can enjoy a lunch break, which some reviews describe as satisfying, though options might be limited, and the quality could vary.

Following lunch, the drive takes you through the Draa Valley, a lush corridor of palm oases and traditional villages stretching over 180 km. This area offers some of the most stunning scenery of the trip, with reviewers noting the beautiful oases and the intriguing mix of desert and greenery.

The Desert Camp and Camel Trekking

Arriving in Zagora, the real adventure begins. The highlight? Camel riding through the Zagora rock desert. Several reviews praised the camel trek as a memorable, fun activity, with around an hour of riding giving you a real sense of desert life.

The desert bivouac options are diverse—ranging from basic tents to luxurious setups with en-suite bathrooms and hot showers, depending on your booking. Many guests appreciated the authentic camp experience, with some noting the clear allure of star-gazing, campfires, and the peaceful desert night. One reviewer highlighted the joy of seeing every star in the sky, emphasizing the magic of these overnight stays.

Camp Facilities and Comfort

Standard tents do not include showers or private restrooms, which might be a consideration if comfort is your priority. However, upgraded packages with luxury tents provide en-suite bathrooms and hot water, making the stay more comfortable after a day of travel and adventure. Reviewers who chose luxury options expressed satisfaction with the spacious tents, friendly staff, and good food.

Sunrise and Breakfast

A unique part of this experience is waking up before sunrise to witness the desert’s tranquil beauty, followed by a traditional Berber breakfast. This early start is often highlighted as a must-do for capturing incredible desert photographs and experiencing the peaceful morning silence.

Returning to Marrakech

The journey back to Marrakech begins after breakfast, with stops in Ouarzazate for lunch and a repeat crossing of the Atlas Mountains. The return trip offers a chance to reflect on your adventure, review your photos, and perhaps plan your next Moroccan trip. Reviewers note a smooth, timely return, with one mentioning the driver stopping at every scenic point for photos—adding to the overall value.

What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour covers a lot, which makes the price of around $569.11 per person quite reasonable given the inclusions. Meals—dinner at the camp and breakfast—are included, along with entrance fees to sites like Aït Ben Haddou and the film studios.

Transportation is private, ensuring comfort and flexibility. The guide, who speaks English, enriches your experience with local insights and helpful explanations about each site. The overnight in desert tents is a core part of the experience, with options to upgrade for added comfort.

Not Included But Worth Considering

Lunch and drinks are not included, so travelers should budget for them during stops. While the food options are generally sufficient, some reviews mention the limited variety and occasional dissatisfaction—so packing snacks or extra drinks might be wise.

The Authenticity Factor

Many reviews highlight the helpfulness and friendliness of guides and staff, with some mentioning specific guides by name, such as Hakim and Reda. Knowing you’re in good hands with guides who go “far and beyond” can make a considerable difference in your overall experience.

The Value of Flexibility

Since it’s a private tour, you have the chance to tailor some parts of your trip or ask for additional stops—an advantage over group tours. The choice of camping options allows for customization based on your budget and comfort preferences.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This adventure appeals most to those craving a cultural and scenic escape in Morocco, with a willingness to spend several hours in the car. It suits travelers who value authentic experiences like camel riding, UNESCO site visits, and starry desert nights.

It’s also ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike—many reviews mention the inclusive, friendly atmosphere and the ease of organization. However, those with mobility issues or looking for a “luxury hotel in the desert” might prefer a different kind of trip, as the standard tents are more rustic, though upgrades exist.

The Sum Up

The 2-day Marrakech to Zagora tour offers a comprehensive blend of history, culture, and adventure. With the convenience of private transfers, knowledgeable guides, and authentic desert camping, it provides immersive moments that are hard to match in a standard Moroccan holiday.

While the long drive might not suit everyone, the scenic stops and genuine camp experience make it worth the effort. The ability to choose from different camping packages, including luxury options, ensures it can cater to various comfort levels and budgets.

Overall, for those eager to see Morocco’s iconic landscapes, visit legendary sites like Aït Ben Haddou, and spend a night under the desert stars, this tour presents excellent value and memorable moments. It’s perfect for travelers who want a well-organized, authentic adventure that balances sight-seeing with genuine culture.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers? Yes, since it’s a private tour, solo travelers are welcome, and the experience can be tailored to individual preferences.

What is the pickup time? The tour begins at 7:30 am, with pickup offered from your Marrakech accommodation.

Are meals included? Dinner and breakfast are included, but lunch and drinks are not, so plan accordingly.

Can I upgrade to a luxury camp? Yes, the tour offers options that include en-suite bathrooms and hot showers.

How long is the drive? The journey from Marrakech to Zagora takes approximately 6 hours each way, with stops along the way.

What should I pack? Comfortable clothes for the drive, a hat, sunscreen, and perhaps warm layers for the desert night.

Are there shower facilities? Standard tents do not have showers, but luxury packages include hot showers.

What is the accommodation like? You’ll stay in tents—either basic or upgraded—set up in the desert, offering a true nomadic experience.

Is it suitable for families? Yes, many reviews mention family groups, including grandparents and children, enjoying the trip.

What makes this tour stand out? The combination of UNESCO site visits, desert camping, and the personalized private transfer makes it both authentic and comfortable.