2 Days Desert Tour From Marrakech To Zagora And Camel Trek

Introduction

Taking a 2-day desert trip from Marrakech to Zagora is a popular way to see a side of Morocco that many travelers dream about. This tour promises a mix of mountain scenery, historic kasbahs, cinematic studios, and a night under the stars in a desert camp—an authentic taste of Moroccan nomadic life.

What we love about this experience? First, the way it balances structured visits with free time, like the optional outside visit to Kasbah Taourirt. Second, the chance to ride a camel at sunrise and sunset—those moments really stick with you. And third, the guides and drivers are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, making the trip feel personalized and safe.

On the flip side, it’s a long journey packed into just two days, so if you’re prone to travel fatigue or prefer luxury pampering, this might feel hurried. Still, if your aim is to see iconic sights without breaking the bank, this tour offers excellent value. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to southern Morocco’s highlights, especially those seeking adventure or photo-worthy moments in the desert.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Ride camels at sunrise and sunset, and sleep in traditional Berber tents.
• Cultural Insights: Visit Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore Ouarzazate’s famous cinema studios.
• Scenic Journey: Cross the High Atlas via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, known for its breathtaking mountain views.
• Expert Guides: Highly praised guides like Hammid and Mohamed make the trip engaging and informative.
• Value for Money: At just over $100, the tour includes transport, accommodations, meals, and activities.
• Travel Consideration: It’s a full two-day trip, so be prepared for long hours on the road, but with rewarding sights along the way.

A Full Breakdown of the 2-Day Marrakech to Zagora Desert Tour

Day 1: From Marrakech to Zagora — Mountains, Kasbahs, and Camel Rides

Starting Point: The adventure kicks off early at the Hôtel Restaurant Café de France in Marrakech, with the group gathering at 7:30 am. From here, you’ll be whisked away in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, a crucial feature considering the long hours on the road.

Crossing the High Atlas: The journey immediately elevates in scenic beauty as you pass through Berber villages and climb the Tizi n’Tichka pass. This stretch is often highlighted as one of the most stunning parts of the trip—mountain peaks, winding roads, and traditional villages painted with earthy tones. It’s a good spot for photos and stretching your legs.

Visit Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou: This UNESCO-listed site is a major highlight. The fortress-like Kasbah, with its mud-brick walls and ancient watchtowers, has served as the backdrop for many films. Book a local guide here for deeper insights, but even self-guided, it’s a must-see for architecture and history lovers.

Ouarzazate and the Cinema Studios: Passing by Ouarzazate, known as Morocco’s “Hollywood of Africa,” offers a quick glimpse into the Moroccan film industry. Some tours include a short visit or photo stop at Kasbah Taourirt, a striking example of traditional Moroccan architecture, although this is optional.

Heading South to Zagora: The landscape shifts from mountains to arid plains, dotted with palm groves and kasbahs. The “Thousand Kasbahs Valley” and Morocco’s largest palm grove are scenic highlights. Here, the tour allows a 1-hour camel ride, offering a taste of desert life. Several reviewers mention this as a memorable part of the trip—some note camel rides at both sunset and sunrise, which add a serene, almost magical element to the experience.

Overnight in the Desert: The camp is often praised for its comfort and authenticity. Guests typically sleep in Berber tents, with some mentioning that the camp is quite cozy and well-equipped. The evening often includes a traditional dinner and a chance to stargaze away from city lights.

Day 2: Sunrise in Zagora and Return to Marrakech

Early Sunrise: Waking up early to see the desert sunrise is a common highlight. Some reviews mention the guide taking guests in a camel to a vantage point for this stunning view, which is often accompanied by a simple breakfast.

Return Journey: After breakfast and some free time, you’ll hop back on the camel and head out towards Zagora. The return trip retraces your route, crossing the Draa Valley—famous for its lush palm groves and ancient kasbahs—and passing through Agdez village.

Ouarzazate and Lunch: En route, there’s a stop for lunch in a local restaurant, giving you a taste of Moroccan cuisine. The journey continues through the Anti-Atlas mountains, with a final stop at the Tizi n’Tichka pass for more mountain scenery.

Back in Marrakech: Arriving in Marrakech in the late afternoon or early evening, most tours include drop-off at your hotel or accommodation, making the return seamless.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for the entire trip, which is appreciated considering the long hours on the road. With a maximum of 100 travelers, it’s a group tour but not overly crowded—most reviews mention the guides’ personal attention and helpfulness. Smaller groups tend to feel more intimate, but even larger groups report smooth logistics and friendly guides.

Duration and Timing

The tour runs for about 2 days, with the first day starting early at 7:30 am. Expect around 8 hours on Day 1, including stops, sightseeing, and travel. Day 2 is slightly shorter, approximately 6 hours, with a mix of sightseeing, camel rides, and travel back to Marrakech.

Cost and Value

At $106.02 per person, this tour offers good value, especially when considering what’s included: meals, accommodation, camel rides, and expert guides. The reviews consistently note the professionalism and knowledge of guides like Hammid, Chaimae, and Mohamed, which elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing.

What’s Not Included

You’ll need to budget for lunch (13-15 EUR), drinks (starting at 1 EUR), and personal expenses. Tips are optional but appreciated, especially for guides and drivers who go above and beyond.

Authentic Experiences and Reviewer Insights

Several reviewers highlight the guides’ warmth and local knowledge. For example, Hammid is described as “a great guide,” making the long trip fun and insightful. Mohamed Ouzanzoul is credited with creating “an amazing experience” through his helpfulness and welcoming attitude, making travelers feel at home even in remote environments.

One reviewer mentioned celebrating their birthday during the tour, with guides bringing a cake and making it a special occasion. This personal touch seems to be a common theme with guides who go the extra mile.

The camel rides especially stand out as a favorite feature. Travelers often mention riding at sunset or sunrise, which creates stunning photos and peaceful moments. The camps, praised for their comfort and authenticity, offer a true taste of desert life, with many describing their nights as memorable highlights.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This 2-day Marrakech to Zagora desert tour is ideal for those looking for an affordable, well-organized introduction to southern Morocco. It suits travelers who want a good mix of cultural sights, outdoor adventure, and authentic desert nights without spending days or breaking the bank.

If you’re a history buff, you’ll appreciate visiting Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou and the cinematic history of Ouarzazate. For nature lovers, the mountain crossings and desert scenery are spectacular. And if you’re seeking a photo-worthy experience, the sunrise and sunset camel rides deliver exactly that.

The tour’s pace is brisk but manageable, making it suitable for those comfortable with long travel days. It’s also a good choice for groups or solo travelers who enjoy guided trips with fellow adventurers.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the long hours and camel rides if traveling with very young children or elderly. It’s best suited for those in good health and able to handle a full schedule.

Do I need to bring anything special?
It’s advisable to bring warm clothing for early mornings and evenings, especially if visiting in winter, as it can get cold in the desert. Comfortable shoes for walking and camera gear are also recommended.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast and dinner are included, offering a chance to enjoy Moroccan cuisine. Lunch is not included but can be purchased during the trip.

Can I visit Kasbah Taourirt?
It’s optional on this tour, with a short outside visit or photo opportunity. If you’re keen on a deeper exploration, you might want to plan a separate visit later.

Is the tour safe?
Yes, the reviews consistently mention feeling safe during the trip, thanks to professional guides and drivers. It’s a well-organized tour aimed at providing a secure experience.

What are camel rides like?
Guests typically ride camels at sunrise and sunset, often for about an hour each time. Some mention that the camels are comfortable and well cared for, making the experience enjoyable.

How are the accommodations?
The desert camp is praised for its comfort and authenticity, with Berber tents furnished for a cozy night under the stars.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Most reviews reference winter visits, highlighting the cold mornings and nights, but the experience is enjoyable year-round with appropriate packing.

What’s the overall duration of the trip?
Expect approximately 8 hours on Day 1 and 6 hours on Day 2, including travel, sightseeing, and camel rides.

Can I customize this tour?
As a group tour, customization options are limited, but guides are generally accommodating and can answer questions or suggest additional stops if time permits.

To sum it up, this 2-day Marrakech to Zagora desert trip offers a rewarding combination of natural beauty, cultural sights, and authentic desert nights—all at a price that makes it accessible. With experienced guides, scenic routes, and memorable moments, it’s a fantastic way to step into Morocco’s vast and varied landscape. Suitable for curious travelers, adventure seekers, and those wanting a taste of desert life, this tour strikes a great balance between value and experience.