Morocco : 2 days to the midle of the desert with camp

Morocco: 2 Days in the Middle of the Desert with Camp – An Honest Review

Traveling to Morocco and craving a taste of its iconic desert? This 2-day Zagora Desert tour promises an adventure filled with camel rides, breathtaking sunsets, and a night under the stars in a traditional Berber camp. While it’s a memorable experience, it’s not without its quirks, so understanding what’s included—and what isn’t—can help you decide if it’s right for you.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see the stunning Atlas Mountains, visit the UNESCO-listed Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, and enjoy authentic desert hospitality. The sunset camel trek and the early morning sunrise are highlights that make the trip feel truly special. Plus, the opportunity to stay overnight in a Berber camp offers a glimpse into local life.

However, one notable consideration is the long driving times—around 7 hours each way—that can feel quite tiring, especially if you’re not used to lengthy bus journeys. Also, reviews indicate some issues with organization and communication, so managing expectations is key.

This tour appeals most to those who are seeking an authentic desert experience with a taste of Moroccan tradition and don’t mind long travel days. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers, cultural explorers, and those eager to see the Sahara without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Scenic Routes & Photo Stops: Expect beautiful views of the Atlas Mountains and Draa Valley.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit the UNESCO-listed Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou with a local guide.
• Desert Adventure: Camel ride at sunset, with stunning desert vistas.
• Overnight Stay: Experience authentic Berber hospitality in a desert camp.
• Early Sunrise: Wake up early to see the desert in the soft morning light.
• Transport & Duration: Around 7 hours of driving each way in comfortable AC vehicles.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting from Marrakech, the journey takes you across the High Atlas Mountains. This drive alone is worth the trip, as you’ll pass through rugged terrain, and if you’re lucky, catch views of local wildlife or even some monkeys during the stops. We loved the way the scenery shifted from lush mountains to the arid Draa Valley, giving a real sense of changing landscapes.

One of the tour’s standout moments is visiting the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a fortified village with ancient clay buildings perched on a hilltop. The local guide shares insights into its history, making the visit both educational and atmospheric. Since the site attracts movie productions, you might recognize it from films like Gladiator or Game of Thrones.

After lunch, the journey continues toward Zagora, where the highlight is a camel trek at sunset. Riding camels through the shifting sands with the sun dipping below the horizon sets a magical mood. Reviewers mention that the camels and guides are well-organized, and the experience is genuinely beautiful.

Once at the Berber camp, you’ll be welcomed with traditional Moroccan dinner and music around a campfire. The experience of sleeping under the stars—wrapped in blankets provided to combat desert chill—is quite memorable. Some travelers comment on the warmth of the hosts and the authenticity of the setting, making it a highlight of the trip.

The next morning, you’ll wake early for the sunrise over the desert—a serene, almost surreal moment that makes the early wake-up worthwhile. After breakfast, you depart, returning to Marrakech via a different route, with scenic stops in small villages and gorges that break up the long drive.

What’s Included and Not

The tour package covers camel rides, an overnight stay in a desert camp, dinner and breakfast, and transportation in an AC vehicle. These essentials ensure you’re comfortable during the long drives and get the full desert experience.

What’s not included is mainly lunch and drinks, which typically cost between 10-12 USD. Also, a local guide in Ait Ben Haddou costs around $2, so budget accordingly if you want a more in-depth visit.

Some reviews highlight that the guidance during the journey can be inconsistent. While one traveler appreciated the knowledgeable guide on the first day, the second day felt more like a taxi service with minimal information and skipped stops. So, if guided insights are important, be prepared for variability.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Pack comfortable shoes and clothes, as you’ll be covering a lot of ground and possibly chilly nights.
• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and camera to capture the stunning scenery.
• Be aware that the drive each day is around 7 hours, so some patience and readiness for long bus rides are needed.
• Dress warmly at night, as desert temperatures can drop significantly after sunset, even if daytime is hot.
• The tour is not suitable for those with back problems or wheelchair users due to the nature of the transportation and accommodations.

The company contacts you a day before for pickup details, making the process smoother. Just remember, the tours are pay later, giving you flexibility to plan.

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Authentic Experience or Commercial Tour?

While some reviews mention organizational hiccups—such as the bus leaving without certain travelers or skipped stops—the overall vibe remains authentic. The guides and hosts seem genuinely committed to sharing their culture, and the chance to enjoy Moroccan music and traditions around the campfire is a real plus.

One reviewer who celebrated New Year in the desert appreciated the opportunity to be under the starry sky and enjoy a special celebration. Others, however, had less seamless experiences, like a 5-hour return journey with minimal stops. These comments serve as a reminder that organization can vary, and flexibility is key.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best for adventurous travelers seeking an affordable way to see the Sahara and experience Moroccan culture firsthand. If you’re okay with long travel times and looking for authentic moments in the desert, this tour delivers.

It’s also ideal for culture enthusiasts who want to explore Ait Ben Haddou and enjoy local music and hospitality. However, if you prefer a more structured, guided, or luxury experience, you might find this tour a bit rough around the edges.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day desert adventure offers a snapshot of Morocco’s iconic landscapes, culture, and hospitality. You’ll get a taste of the majestic Atlas Mountains, the historic kasbahs, and the serenity of the Sahara. While the journey involves significant driving, the highlights—especially the sunset camel ride and the overnight in a Berber camp—fill the experience with memorable moments.

The experience balances value and authenticity, making it a popular choice for those eager to see the desert without a hefty price tag. Just be mindful of the organizational quirks and long travel hours; packing patience and flexibility will ensure you get the most out of your trip.

For anyone craving a genuine Moroccan desert experience, this tour offers enough magic and local flavor to justify the trip, especially if you’re looking for a mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with pickup arranged the day before your tour.

How long is the drive each way?
The drive each day is approximately 7 hours, so prepare for a long but scenic journey.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and warm clothes for the desert night are recommended.

Are meals included?
Breakfast and dinner at the camp are included, but lunch and drinks are not. Lunch typically costs around $10-12.

Can I join if I have limited mobility or back problems?
No, the tour isn’t suitable for those with back issues or wheelchair users due to transportation and camp setup.

What is the experience like at the Berber camp?
You’ll enjoy traditional dinner, music, and the chance to sleep under a starry sky in blankets provided by the hosts.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While generally suitable for active travelers, the long drives and camping might not be ideal for very young children or those seeking luxury accommodations.

Embark on this Moroccan desert adventure if you’re craving an authentic, culturally rich experience with unforgettable views. Just keep in mind the long hours and organizational quirks, and you’ll find it to be a genuinely rewarding journey into the heart of Morocco.

You can check availability for your dates here: