Marrakech: Desert Tour with Dinner, Show and Camel Ride

Travelers looking to escape the lively chaos of Marrakech and dive into a peaceful desert escape will find this Desert Tour with Dinner and Camel Ride a delightful mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. For just $18, this experience offers a memorable evening in the Agafay Desert, complete with a camel trek, breathtaking sunset views, and authentic Moroccan cuisine.

What sets this tour apart? We love the friendly and attentive guides, the stunning desert scenery, and the delicious, locally prepared dinner – all at an affordable price. That said, the journey lasts about four to five hours, which might be a long evening for some travelers, especially with young children or those prone to motion sickness. Still, if you’re after a genuine taste of Morocco’s desert without a hefty price tag, this tour is an excellent pick. It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families seeking a manageable, well-organized adventure with authentic touches.

Contents show

Key Points

Affordable Price: At $18 per person, this tour offers great value considering the activities included.
Authentic Experiences: Camel rides, Moroccan dinner, and live local music create a truly immersive desert night.
Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking sunsets and rocky desert landscapes that look like a scene from a postcard.
Family & Solo Friendly: The tour is suitable for a wide range of travelers, including children, with a focus on safety and fun.
Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides like Jawad and Omar make the experience more engaging and informative.
Flexible & Convenient: Hotel pickup and drop-off make it easy to fit into your Marrakech itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: A Detailed Look

Looking for more options in Marrakesh? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Departure from Marrakech and Scenic Stop

The evening begins around 17:30 with a hotel pickup in Marrakech, which is a real bonus for avoiding the hassle of finding a meeting point. The ride out to the Agafay Desert takes approximately an hour, during which you’ll enjoy views of the Moroccan countryside. Reviewers note the drive is smooth, with some mentioning the driver’s careful, safe style—crucial when traveling in unfamiliar territory.

On the way, there’s an optional stop at Takerkoust Dam, where travelers often enjoy a quick tea break and admire the peaceful water views. It’s a nice touch that breaks up the journey and offers a glimpse of Morocco’s natural beauty.

Arriving in the Desert & Camel Ride

Once in the desert, you’ll be greeted and introduced to your guide—someone like Jawad or Omar—who will share insights and keep the mood lively. The highlight here is the camel ride, which lasts enough time to really enjoy the rocky dunes but isn’t overly long to become tiring. Many reviews mention the camels are well-behaved, and it’s a chance to photograph some adorable moments, like a baby camel following along.

Riders will appreciate the timing of the sunset—a truly spectacular sight that transforms the rocky landscape into a canvas of fiery oranges and pinks. It’s a peaceful moment that many reviewers describe as “breathtaking,” perfect for some memorable photos and reflection.

Dinner in the Desert

Following the camel trek, you’ll settle into a desert camp for dinner. The atmosphere is relaxed, with the starry sky overhead and ambient Moroccan music adding a festive touch. The dinner, prepared by local chefs, is described as delicious and hearty—a mix of traditional flavors that leave most guests full but not uncomfortable. Reviewers love that the portions hit the right balance, and some mention trying Moroccan specialties like tagines and other local dishes.

More Great Tours Nearby

Live Entertainment & Nighttime Atmosphere

The evening’s entertainment is lively, featuring live traditional music and a fire show. The atmosphere is joyful, with many guests participating in the dance and music, creating a communal and authentic vibe. The stars overhead and the fire’s flickering light add a magical dimension to the experience. Some reviewers note that the show is “fire” (literally and figuratively), and the star-filled sky makes for an unforgettable backdrop.

There's plenty more to explore in Marrakesh

Return to Marrakech

The trip winds down around 22:00 with a comfortable ride back to your accommodation. While the entire experience lasts about five hours, many guests comment on how smoothly everything runs and how satisfied they are with the overall value.

What’s Included & What To Keep in Mind

Included

Hotel pickup and drop-off in Marrakech—convenience that’s highly appreciated.
Camel ride across the rocky dunes—an authentic Moroccan highlight.
Dinner under the stars—local cuisine served in a tranquil desert setting.
Live fire show and traditional music—adding a celebratory feel to the night.
Tour guide—knowledgeable and attentive, making the experience richer.
Tea, water, and breakfast—a thoughtful touch that rounds out the experience.

Not Included

Soft drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some if you prefer variety or non-alcoholic beverages.

Practical Tips

Timing: The tour starts at 17:30; plan your day accordingly.
Comfort: Wear layers; desert evenings can be cool, especially after sunset.
Children: Many reviews mention family-friendly guides and activities, but check with the provider if you have very young children.
Flexibility: You can reserve now and pay later, offering peace of mind to those unsure about their plans.

Authentic Experiences That Matter

One of the qualities that make this tour stand out is the authentic Moroccan touch. From the warm hospitality of the guides to the traditional music and food, the tour feels genuine. Guest reviews highlight guides like Jawad and Omar, who go out of their way to ensure everyone has a fun and safe time, sharing interesting facts about camels and Moroccan culture.

Many reviewers also mention the delicious food—saying they couldn’t stop eating—and the friendly, professional staff who seem genuinely invested in providing a memorable experience. The starry night sky and fire show add a sense of wonder that many guests say is hard to forget.

The Value for Money

For just $18, this experience is hard to beat. It packs in a camel ride, dinner, entertainment, and transportation—making it excellent value. Guests consistently mention how much they get for the price, especially compared to more expensive desert tours that might only offer a ride or a meal.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxing yet engaging evening that combines adventure, culture, and stunning scenery, this tour is a winner. It’s particularly well-suited for solo travelers, families, and couples looking for an affordable, authentic Moroccan experience. Those who love photography will relish the sunset views and starry sky, while food lovers will appreciate the delicious local dinner.

However, if you’re looking for an all-day desert experience or a more luxurious setup, you might want to explore other options. This tour balances quality and affordability, making it an ideal introduction to Morocco’s desert landscapes.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs from around 17:30 to 22:00, roughly five hours in total, including pickup, travel, activities, and return.

Is the camel ride suitable for children?
Based on reviews, the camel ride is family-friendly and well-managed by guides like Jawad and Omar. However, it’s always good to check with the operator if you have very young children or specific concerns.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably with layers. Evenings in the desert can get chilly after sunset, so a light jacket or scarf is recommended.

Are drinks included?
Tea and water are provided, but soft drinks are not included, so bring some if you want variety.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is there a vegetarian or special dietary option?
While specific dietary options aren’t mentioned, the dinner is prepared by local chefs, so it’s worth requesting special needs in advance if possible.

Final Thoughts

This Marrakech desert tour offers a wonderful blend of authentic cultural experiences, stunning scenic views, and affordable fun. With attentive guides, delicious food, and memorable activities like camel riding and star gazing, it’s a perfect way to spend an evening outside the bustling city. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as a couple, you’ll cherish the tranquility and beauty that the Agafay Desert has to offer.

For anyone seeking value and authenticity in a Moroccan adventure, this tour should definitely be on your list. It’s straightforward, well-organized, and leaves you with stories and photos that will last a lifetime.