Marrakech : Ride buggy in the desert of the palm grove

Marrakech: Ride buggy in the desert of the palm grove offers a chance to experience the outskirts of Marrakech in a way that’s both adventurous and scenic. While reviews are mixed, the tour promises a half-day escape into Morocco’s lush palm groves, volcanic landscapes, and traditional Berber villages—all on a rugged all-terrain vehicle. It’s a trip that could be memorable, but it’s worth knowing what to expect before booking.

We love that this tour features small group sizes, which can make for a more personalized experience. The inclusion of Moroccan tea and pancakes at a village stop adds a cultural touch, and the opportunity to capture photos with a top photographer appeals to those looking for professional memories. However, some reviews raise concerns about safety and equipment quality, so potential participants should weigh the adventure against these risks.

Ideal for travelers craving a fun outdoor activity with a bit of local flavor, this tour suits those who don’t mind a slightly rougher ride and are curious to see Marrakech’s rural side. It’s less about high-speed thrills and more about taking in the scenery and sharing a novel experience with a small group.

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Key Points

Scenic Route: Enjoy views of ancient volcanic landscapes and traditional Berber villages.
Small Group: Tours are private and limited to 2 people per buggy, offering a more intimate experience.
Cultural Touch: Stops for Moroccan tea and pancakes provide a local flavor.
Safety Concerns: Some reviews highlight safety issues with the buggies, so caution is advised.
Value for Money: At $56 per person, the tour offers a decent price for a half-day adventure.
Photo Opportunities: Professional photography helps preserve your trip’s memories.

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The Experience Breakdown

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Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with round-trip transport from your Marrakech accommodation in an air-conditioned vehicle. This setup ensures you travel comfortably to the outskirts where the adventure starts. The group size is kept small, focusing on personalized attention. The pick-up location and timing are typically arranged to fit your schedule, making it a convenient option for travelers staying within Marrakech.

The Buggy Adventure

Once at the starting point, you’ll receive safety instructions, helmets, and goggles—crucial for a safe ride. The ride itself takes you through the palm groves outside Marrakech, a landscape that might surprise some visitors expecting desert dunes but instead reveals lush greenery and local agriculture.

The buggies are all-terrain vehicles, suitable for exploring uneven terrain, but some reviews suggest that the condition can vary. Several travelers reported faulty or poorly maintained equipment, with one even describing the buggy as “more like a child’s toy,” and safety concerns like faulty brakes and missing mirrors being a recurring theme.

The drive passes through traditional Berber villages, offering a glimpse into rural Moroccan life. Along the way, there are photo stops, allowing you to capture the stunning scenery with professional help, which many found to be a highlight.

Scenic Stops and Cultural Experiences

One of the tour’s best features is the pause at a village or bivouac where you can enjoy Moroccan tea and pancakes. This small break provides an authentic moment, where you can interact with local residents and take a breather amid beautiful surroundings. Reviewers appreciated this part, describing it as a “nice touch” that added to the overall experience.

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The Landscape and Scenery

While many travelers find the scenery beautiful, some mention that the palms and volcanic landscapes resemble more an open-air quarry than lush, picturesque scenery. The activity is less about adrenaline and more about taking in the views at a relaxed pace. Expect moderate speed—not the high-octane thrill some might hope for—and ample opportunities for photos.

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Duration and Pace

The tour is advertised as a half-day activity, but some reviewers have expressed disappointment over the actual length, mentioning it lasted closer to 1.5 to 2 hours rather than the full three hours promised. This discrepancy can be frustrating, especially if you’re paying for a longer experience.

Safety and Equipment

This part is a sensitive topic. Multiple reviews criticize the safety standards, mentioning faulty buggies, lack of helmets, and missing safety instructions. One reviewer even described the experience as “dangerous,” citing broken rearview mirrors and unsecure steering wheels. It’s important to note that safety is essential, and if you’re concerned about equipment quality, you may want to consider this before booking.

Pricing and Value

At $56 per person, the tour is generally considered affordable for a half-day adventure. It includes helmets, goggles, bottled water, and transport. However, considering the mixed reviews on safety and equipment, some travelers might feel the value is reduced. For those who prioritize scenic views and cultural stops over adrenaline, the price still offers a decent way to explore outside Marrakech without breaking the bank.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is well-suited for families, couples, or small groups eager for a gentle ride through Morocco’s rural landscapes. It appeals to those looking for photo opportunities and a taste of Berber culture. If you’re seeking high-speed thrills or top-notch safety standards, you might want to explore other options.

It’s also ideal if you’re on a budget and want a half-day activity that combines adventure, scenery, and cultural insights. Be aware that the ride may not be as intense or as well-maintained as some travelers expect, so temper your expectations accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This buggy tour offers a unique glimpse into Marrakech’s outskirts, combining natural beauty with cultural stops. The price point makes it accessible, and the scenic views can be quite memorable for those who don’t mind a rougher ride. The small-group format encourages a more personal experience, especially with the added bonus of professional photography.

However, safety concerns raised in reviews cannot be ignored. If safety and well-maintained equipment are priorities, you might want to proceed with caution or look for alternatives. Nonetheless, for those seeking a relaxed, scenic, and culturally infused outing, this tour provides a fun way to explore beyond the city walls.

For travelers who are flexible, adventurous, and curious about rural Moroccan life, this activity can be an enjoyable, if imperfect, addition to your Marrakech itinerary.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides round-trip transport from your Marrakech accommodation in an air-conditioned vehicle, making it easy to start your adventure without extra fuss.

What is the group size?
The tour is a small private group, with 2 people per buggy, allowing for a more personalized experience and easier communication with guides.

Are helmets and safety gear provided?
Yes, helmets and goggles are included, along with safety instructions. However, some reviews suggest safety standards may vary, so be attentive during the briefing.

How long does the tour last?
It’s advertised as a half-day activity, but actual durations reported by travelers range from 1.5 to 2 hours, so plan accordingly.

What can I expect at the stops?
You’ll have photo opportunities along the route, and a cultural stop where you can enjoy Moroccan tea and pancakes, providing a taste of local hospitality.

Is this activity suitable for children?
The activity is designed for 2 people per buggy; some reviews mention safety issues, so it’s best suited for confident drivers and older children capable of handling the ride.

To sum it up, this buggy tour in Marrakech’s palm groves offers a relaxed way to see some of Morocco’s rural scenery, with the chance for memorable photos and cultural moments. It’s best suited for travelers who value affordability and scenic views over ultimate safety and high-speed thrills. Always consider safety reviews carefully and weigh them against your own comfort level before booking.