2 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Zagora – Short tour from Marrakech to discover the south of Morocco.
Overview
This 2 days desert tour from Marrakech to Zagora is a perfect escape for travelers who wish to discover the charm of the Moroccan Sahara in a short time. In just two days, you will cross the majestic High Atlas Mountains, explore ancient Berber villages and kasbahs, visit the legendary Aït Ben Haddou, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the Draa Valley before spending an unforgettable night in a desert camp under the starry sky. It’s the ideal combination of adventure, culture, and relaxation, offering a glimpse of Morocco’s desert life and traditions.
Itinerary
Day 1: Marrakech – Aït Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Agdz – Draa Valley – Zagora
Your adventure begins early in the morning when your driver picks you up from your accommodation in Marrakech. The road quickly rises into the High Atlas Mountains, following a breathtaking route through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass at an altitude of 2,260 meters. Along the way, you’ll enjoy spectacular panoramic views of mountain peaks, valleys, and small Berber villages nestled on the slopes. This scenic drive offers a great opportunity to stop for photos and to learn about the lifestyle of the mountain communities.
The first highlight of the day is the visit to the Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous ksars in Morocco. Built from clay and straw, this fortified village stands as a masterpiece of traditional southern Moroccan architecture. You’ll have time to walk through its narrow alleys, climb to the top for stunning views of the surrounding valley, and explore the locations where many famous movies and series were filmed, including Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, and Game of Thrones.
After visiting Aït Ben Haddou, continue toward Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa.” Here, you can stop for lunch and optionally visit the Taourirt Kasbah or one of the film studios before continuing the journey south. The road then leads to Agdz, marking the beginning of the Draa Valley, a lush oasis stretching for over 200 kilometers and filled with thousands of palm trees, small fortified villages, and ancient kasbahs.
As the afternoon progresses, you will arrive in Zagora. Here, your camel will be waiting to take you on a short trek through the soft dunes as the sun sets and paints the sky in shades of gold and red. This is a magical moment and one of the highlights of the trip. After the ride, you’ll reach your desert camp, where you’ll be welcomed with traditional mint tea and a delicious Moroccan dinner. Enjoy an evening of Berber music and dance around the campfire before falling asleep under a sky filled with stars.
Overnight: Desert Camp in Zagora
Meals: Dinner included
Day 2: Zagora – Agdz – Ouarzazate – Marrakech
Wake up early to admire the sunrise over the Zagora dunes, a truly unforgettable sight as the desert slowly comes to life with the first light of day. After breakfast at the camp, you’ll either ride your camel or take a 4×4 back to meet your driver and begin your return journey to Marrakech.
The drive back follows the same scenic route through the Draa Valley, allowing time for more photo stops or a short walk in one of the palm groves. You’ll pass again through Agdz and Ouarzazate, where you can take a final break for lunch or visit the local markets. As you cross the High Atlas Mountains, you can enjoy one last look at the changing landscapes—from the dry desert plains to the green valleys and mountain peaks.
Arrive in Marrakech by late afternoon or early evening, where your driver will drop you off at your accommodation. This marks the end of your 2-day desert adventure, filled with unforgettable memories of Morocco’s landscapes, culture, and hospitality.
Meals: Breakfast included
Included
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with driver/guide
- Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or riad in Marrakech
- 1 night in a desert camp in Zagora (standard or luxury option)
- Camel ride at sunset and sunrise
- Dinner and breakfast at the camp
Not Included
- Lunches and drinks
- Entrance fees to monuments or studios
- Personal expenses and tips