Marrakech 2 days 1 night to zagora desert with camel ride

Planning a quick escape from Marrakech to see the Sahara’s lesser-known side? This 2-day, 1-night trip to Zagora offers a taste of desert life, with highlights like camel rides, the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, and an overnight stay in a traditional Berber camp. While it’s a popular choice, it’s also a well-balanced mix of comfort and adventure.

We particularly love the chance to cross the Atlas Mountains via the Tizi N Tichka Pass, the thrill of riding a camel at sunset, and the opportunity to sleep under the stars. The tour’s highlights promise authentic moments immersed in Moroccan scenery and culture. However, some travelers mention the route includes stops at shops that can feel a bit touristy, which is worth knowing if you crave total authenticity.

This experience suits anyone eager to see Morocco’s desert without a lengthy trip, or those interested in a manageable, well-organized adventure that combines scenery, cultural sights, and relaxed camping. It’s especially great for first-timers wanting a snapshot of Morocco’s varied landscape.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with air-conditioning makes the long drive more pleasant.
• Expert guides and drivers enhance safety and provide insightful commentary.
• Iconic stops like Ait Ben Haddou and the Draa palm groves add cultural and natural dimension.
• Camel rides at sunrise and sunset offer memorable photo ops and a real desert feel.
• Overnight in a desert camp provides an authentic Berber experience with dinner and breakfast included.
• Tour price at around $65 per person offers good value for the range of activities and transportation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Marrakech to Zagora – A Scenic Journey

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Marrakech. From there, the journey takes you through the majestic Atlas Mountains, crossing the famous Tizi N Tichka Pass — North Africa’s highest road. This route alone is worth the trip, offering breathtaking views of rugged peaks, winding roads, and small villages clinging to the mountainside.

Expect a stop at Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved kasbahs and role in movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Here, you’ll have some free time for a guided walk, soaking in the cinematic scenery and local architecture. Many visitors mention that the guide at Ait Ben Haddou is knowledgeable, and having a local guide for this part costs just 2 euros per person, which adds value.

Lunch in Ait Ben Haddou is usually included or at least available during free time, offering a chance to sample Moroccan cuisine and enjoy the atmosphere of this historic village. Some reviews note that stops at shops are part of the route, and while they can feel touristy, they also support local crafts and businesses.

Post-lunch, the drive continues southward, gradually revealing the dunes and dunes of Zagora. As evening approaches, the highlight is the camel ride at sunset, where you glide over the sands atop a gentle camel, capturing stunning desert views. The ride is the tour’s jewel and most appreciated by travelers.

Day 2: Desert Sunrise and Return to Marrakech

Early risers will be rewarded with the spectacle of sunrise in the desert — a truly magical moment. After breakfast at the camp, you’ll mount your camel once again for the ride back to the main road. The ride offers a different perspective of the dunes, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Once back on solid ground, your driver will be waiting to guide you through the last leg of the journey back to Marrakech. The drive is smoother, giving you time to relax or reflect on the desert vistas. Many reviews praise the calm and professional driving that made the trip comfortable, with some mentioning their driver, such as Bijad or Jawad, by name for their friendly and attentive service.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $65, this tour covers quite a bit — transportation in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, pickup and drop-off at your accommodation, an English or French-speaking driver, a local guide at Ait Ben Haddou, and an overnight stay in a desert camp with dinner and breakfast. The camel rides at sunrise and sunset are also included, making it a packed experience in a budget-friendly package.

However, entrance fees and lunches or soft drinks are not included. Many travelers reported that stops at shops are pre-planned, which can be a downside if you’re seeking less commercialized experiences. Also, the guide at Ait Ben Haddou is optional at 2 euros, so plan accordingly.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Travelers Say

The reviews paint a balanced picture. Some reviewers, like the traveler from GetYourGuide, mention that certain tourist sites feel less authentic, with shops and movie references overshadowing history. One quoted review says, “the route is designed to make you stop in the shops,” which might feel a little commercial if you’re after genuine local encounters.

That said, others found the camel rides and desert nights truly memorable. For example, gerrit vd loved sleeping in the desert, and Karren praised the organization and the driver Faisal for making the journey seamless. Many reviewers appreciated the knowledgeable guides and drivers, who made the drive both safe and pleasant.

One traveler, Lisa, called the experience “perfect,” highlighting the helpfulness of the guide and the overall smoothness of the trip. The desert camp experience receives glowing reviews, with some describing it as “a moment out of time.”

The Experience: What You Will Love

Crossing the Tizi N Tichka Pass is a highlight — expect panoramic views that make the drive entertaining. Be sure to bring sunglasses and sunscreen for the mountain ascent and desert later. The stop at Ait Ben Haddou is a cultural gem; a photo-worthy site and a chance to explore a traditional ksar, even if the commercial aspect is noticeable.

The camel ride in Zagora is the central activity, and it’s often praised as the highlight. Many travelers mention that the Berber guides are friendly, and the experience of riding a camel at sunset or sunrise captures the kind of Morocco postcard moments everyone dreams about. The desert camp provides basic but authentic accommodation, with dinner and breakfast included, adding to the immersion.

The natural beauty of the Draa valley and palm groves is another unexpected delight, offering tranquil landscapes and photo opportunities that are quite stunning. Plus, the relatively short duration makes this a perfect introduction to Morocco’s desert regions without feeling rushed.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring comfortable shoes for walking around Ait Ben Haddou and the desert camp — the terrain can be uneven. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essentials, especially during midday. Cameras will want to get plenty of use, but always be mindful of your surroundings and respect local customs.

If you’re vegetarian, note that a vegetarian option is available — just make sure to request it at booking. The tour lasts about 2 days and includes all transfers and activities, so it’s good value for travelers on a budget or those with limited time.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers wanting a quick, affordable taste of the desert with manageable logistics. It’s suitable for first-time visitors looking to combine cultural sights like Ait Ben Haddou with the magic of the desert landscape. If you’re seeking a more authentic, less touristy experience, some reviews suggest that the stops at shops might feel commercialized, so keep expectations aligned.

It’s also a good pick for those who enjoy comfortable transport, stunning scenery, and memorable camel rides. Travelers with limited time in Morocco will find this a convenient way to see the desert without sacrificing comfort.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day trip to Zagora offers a compact yet richly visual Moroccan experience. The highlight — the camel rides during sunrise and sunset — are well worth the modest price, especially considering the included overnight in a desert camp and visits to iconic sites like Ait Ben Haddou.

It’s a trip that balances comfort, affordability, and authentic moments, making it perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time. The guides and drivers are praised for their professionalism and friendly attitude, which helps make the journey enjoyable.

While some parts might feel a little touristy, the natural beauty and unique desert experience compensate for it. For travelers wanting a memorable taste of Morocco’s desert, this tour ticks many boxes.

FAQ

Is pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your accommodation or at the nearest accessible meeting point.

How long is the tour?
It lasts 2 days and 1 night, covering all transfers, activities, and overnight stay.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, sun hat, sunglasses, and a camera are recommended.

Is vegetarian food available?
Yes, a vegetarian option can be requested during booking.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included, but they are minimal and can be paid locally.

What language are guides and drivers?
The tour features English or French-speaking guides and drivers.

How is transportation arranged?
Transport is by a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, providing a comfortable ride through scenic routes.

Can I book this tour with flexible payment?
Yes, you can reserve and pay later, with full refunds available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

What is the quality of the desert camp?
The camp provides basic but authentic accommodation, with dinner and breakfast included, ideal for experiencing desert nights.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate pace and stable transportation make it generally suitable for families, but check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

In summary, this tour is a practical, enjoyable way to explore Morocco’s desert landscapes and cultural sites without the fuss or expense of longer trips. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of the Sahara, a touch of history, and a memorable overnight experience, all at an accessible price point.

You can check availability for your dates here: