2 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Zagora
overview :
This 2 days desert tour from Marrakech to Zagora is perfect for travelers looking for a short but immersive desert experience. The journey starts from the bustling red city of Marrakech, taking you through the dramatic landscapes of the High Atlas Mountains and the famous Tizi-n-Tichka mountain pass.
Along the way, you’ll stop by the ancient Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed site and one of Morocco’s most iconic landmarks. Continue your desert journey through the cinematic city of Ouarzazate before reaching the Zagora Desert, where your adventure continues with a camel ride and a memorable overnight stay in a Berber camp under the stars.&
This Zagora desert tour is one of the most popular Marrakech desert tours, ideal for those with limited time who want to get a taste of the Sahara’s charm and traditional Berber culture.
Highlights :
- Drive through the scenic High Atlas Mountains and Tizi-n-Tichka Pass
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah
- Discover Ouarzazate, the gateway to the desert and the Moroccan Hollywood
- Enjoy a camel trekking experience in the Zagora Desert
- Witness the magical Sahara sunset and sunrise
- Overnight in a traditional Berber desert camp
- Explore the stunning Draa Valley and its vast palm groves
Itinerary
Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Zagora Desert
Your adventure begins early in the morning as we depart from Marrakech toward the High Atlas Mountains. We will drive across the Tizi-n-Tichka pass at an elevation of 2,260 meters, offering stunning panoramic views of the Berber villages, green valleys, and terraced mountainsides. Along the way, you’ll have several chances to take photos and learn more about the local culture.
Our first major stop will be the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, an ancient fortified village and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famous for being a backdrop in films such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones, the kasbah showcases traditional Moroccan clay architecture and history. After lunch near the site, we continue our route through Ouarzazate, also known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” where you can admire the exterior of the famous Atlas Film Studios.
From there, we journey through the Draa Valley, known for its endless palm groves and ancient ksours (fortified villages). As the sun begins to lower, we arrive in Zagora, where your camel trekking in the Sahara begins. Cross the rolling dunes on camelback, guided by a local nomad, until you reach your Berber camp. There, you’ll enjoy dinner under the stars, traditional music by the campfire, and sleep in a cozy tent in the heart of the desert.
Day 2: Zagora Desert – Draa Valley – Ouarzazate – Marrakech
Wake up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Zagora dunes — a moment of peace and beauty that will stay with you. After breakfast at the camp, you’ll ride the camels back to the starting point where your driver will be waiting. We begin our return journey to Marrakech, retracing our path through the scenic Draa Valley and its vast date palm oases.
On the way, we stop again in Ouarzazate where you can optionally visit Taourirt Kasbah or the local market, depending on the time. As we pass back through the High Atlas Mountains, the changing colors of the cliffs and villages will keep your eyes glued to the window. Expect to reach Marrakech by the late afternoon or early evening, marking the end of your unforgettable 2-day Zagora desert tour from Marrakech.
This short but rich desert experience gives you a taste of Moroccan culture, architecture, and the raw beauty of the Sahara — making it one of the best short desert tours in Morocco.
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