2 Days excursion to Zagora desert from Marrakech: an unforgettable experience
The 2 Days excursion to Zagora is the perfect escape for those who long to experience the magic of the Moroccan desert but are short on time. This unforgettable journey takes you from the vibrant streets of Marrakech to the serene silence of the Sahara, winding through the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains and the timeless Berber villages nestled along the way. As the road opens onto the vast Draa Valley, lined with endless palm groves and ancient kasbahs, a sense of wonder begins to grow. In Zagora, you’ll ride a camel through the warm sands just as the sun begins its golden descent. As night falls, a peaceful bivouac awaits, where you’ll share traditional meals, enjoy Berber rhythms by the campfire, and fall asleep under a blanket of stars. The desert sunrise the next morning will leave a lasting mark on your heart—quiet, glowing, and unforgettable.
Itinerary: 2 Days excursion to Zagora
📍Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas – Aït Ben Haddou – Draa Valley – Zagora Desert
Your 2 Days excursion to Zagora starts bright and early with a comfortable pick-up from your hotel or riad in Marrakech, setting the stage for an unforgettable desert adventure. As you leave the bustling city behind, the road begins to climb gently toward the legendary Tizi n’Tichka pass, peaking at 2,260 meters. The winding journey through the High Atlas Mountains unveils awe-inspiring views—snow-dusted peaks, deep valleys, and traditional Berber villages that cling to the slopes, untouched by time.
Your first pause will be at the spectacular Kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou, a fortified red-earth village recognized by UNESCO for its historical and cultural importance. As you wander through its narrow alleys and sun-baked walls, you’ll feel transported to another era. After exploring this cinematic site, relax over a hearty lunch in a traditional restaurant nearby, enjoying local flavors in an authentic setting.
The journey continues southward, winding through the rugged Tizi N’Tnifift gorge, where the landscape shifts dramatically into jagged cliffs and sweeping mountain views. As the road carves its way through this breathtaking terrain, travelers are treated to glimpses of remote Berber hamlets clinging to the hillsides. Soon, the path leads to Agdz, a charming village nestled at the edge of the vast Draa Valley. Known as the gateway to this fertile oasis, Agdz welcomes visitors with its palm-fringed horizon and ancient kasbahs that whisper stories of the old caravan routes. It’s a moment where the harsh beauty of the mountains gives way to the serene rhythm of life along Morocco’s longest river—a perfect transition deeper into the heart of the southern desert. This lush ribbon of palm groves and age-old kasbahs stretches like an oasis across the desert horizon. By late afternoon, you arrive in Zagora, where a caravan of camels awaits. As you sway gently on camelback through the vast, rocky terrain, the sky begins to glow with the warm hues of sunset—a moment of pure serenity.
At the desert camp, a traditional Moroccan dinner awaits under the open sky, where the aroma of tagine and freshly baked bread mingles with the cool night air. As stars begin to pierce the darkness above, casting a silver glow over the dunes, you’ll gather around the fire with fellow travelers, sharing stories and laughter to the rhythm of Berber drums. The warmth of the hospitality and the flavors of the cuisine create a magical atmosphere—one where time seems to pause, and the simplicity of the moment becomes unforgettable. The evening unfolds around a crackling fire, accompanied by the hypnotic rhythms of Berber drums and songs. Whether you choose a standard bivouac or a luxury tent, your night beneath the stars will be one to remember—an intimate, timeless experience at the edge of the Sahara.
📍Day 2: Zagora – Ouarzazate – Marrakech
The second day of your 2 Days excursion to Zagora begins with a magical moment: the desert awakens in soft golden light as the sun rises over the rocky dunes. After a traditional breakfast and a refreshing shower at the camp, you’ll enjoy a short camel ride across the tranquil morning landscape, making your way back to your vehicle.
As you journey northward once more, the Draa Valley reveals itself in a new light—its lush palms, ancient kasbahs, and quiet villages offer a last glimpse of this serene oasis. A pause in Ouarzazate, known as the gateway to the Sahara, invites you to discover the fascinating Taourirt Kasbah or, if you wish, visit the famous Atlas Studios, where legendary films were brought to life.
After a relaxing lunch in town, you’ll set off to cross the majestic High Atlas Mountains once more, taking the scenic Tizi n’Tichka pass. This winding route offers breathtaking views of dramatic peaks, terraced hillsides, and remote Berber villages clinging to the mountainsides. As you ascend the pass, each curve reveals a new panorama, blending rugged beauty with moments of serenity. The journey through this legendary route is not only a visual delight but also a final chance to savor the raw and authentic charm of Morocco’s mountainous heartland. Along the winding road, dramatic views and peaceful Berber hamlets accompany your return to Marrakech, where your heart will remain full of the silence of the desert, the warmth of Berber hospitality, and the unforgettable memories of this short yet deeply moving 2 Days excursion to Zagora.
Highlights of 2 Days excursion to Zagora
- Take a trip across the stunning Atlas Mountains through the Tizi n’Tichka pass.
- Visit the kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou, architectural jewel of southern Morocco
- Discover the palm groves and kasbahs of the Draa Valley
- Experience the authenticity of a camel ride
- Enchanting sunsets and sunrises in the desert
- Magical evening in a bivouac with musical entertainment
- Visit Ouarzazate and see the film studios
Useful information about 2 Days excursion to Zagora
Good to know
The Zagora desert is a rocky desert, different from the large dunes of Merzouga. If you’re looking for high dunes, consider a 3 or 4 day excursion.
Weather conditions may affect some activities (sunset, camel ride).
The route is long: around 7 hours a day, but there are plenty of breaks and discoveries to be made.
The camel ride can be uncomfortable for some people (pregnant women, people with back or hip problems).
What’s included and excluded
✅Included in 2 Days excursion to Zagora:
✔️Comfortable private transport with a professional driver
✔️Overnight stay in standard or luxury camps with dinner and breakfast
✔️Camel ride in the Zagora desert
✔️Visit to the kasbahs of Aït Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate
✔️Stops for photographs and panoramic views
Not included in 2 Days excursion to Zagora:
❌Lunches and drinks
❌Entrance to optional sites (kasbahs, film studios)
❌Tips and personal expenses
FAQ: Everything you need to know
📌What are the accommodation options?
You can choose between a comfortable standard camp or a luxury camp with more amenities.
📌When is the best time to do this trip?
The Zagora desert is accessible all year round, but March to May and September to November offer pleasant temperatures.
📌How do I book and pay?
You can book online on our website with a deposit, the rest being paid on the spot.
📌Is this a private or group tour?
We provide a variety of options for tours, whether you prefer a private experience or a fun group outing.
📌How long is the trip?
About 7 hours a day, with plenty of breaks to enjoy the scenery.
Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in the stunning Moroccan desert? Book your 2-day excursion from Marrakech to Zagora now and let yourself be enchanted by the magic of the Sahara!
