+212 719 111 080 contact@moroccoodysseytours.com

Save To Wish List

2 Days Desert Trip

Tour Details

2 Days Desert Trip from Marrakech to Zagora is the perfect short escape for travellers who want to experience the magic of the Sahara but have limited time. This compact journey takes you across the High Atlas Mountains, through the UNESCO-listed Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, and along the lush Draa Valley to the edge of the Sahara.

You’ll ride a camel at sunset across the golden dunes, sleep under a canopy of stars in a traditional Berber camp, and wake to a breathtaking desert sunrise—all in just two days. While the dunes of Zagora are more accessible than the famous Erg Chebbi near Merzouga, this tour offers an authentic taste of the Sahara without the long drive to the far east of Morocco. I

t’s the ideal choice for travellers with limited time who still want to experience camel trekking, desert hospitality, and the stunning landscapes of southern Morocco.

Gallery

2 Days Desert Trip from Marrakech to Zagora

What to Expect

High Atlas mountain crossing – Traverse the legendary Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m), the highest road pass in North Africa, with spectacular views of Berber villages clinging to the mountainsides.
UNESCO World Heritage site – Explore the ancient Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, a fortified clay village featured in Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and Lawrence of Arabia.
The “Gateway to the Sahara” – Pass through Ouarzazate, Morocco’s “Hollywood of Africa,” and visit the Taourirt Kasbah.
Draa Valley palm oasis – Drive through Morocco’s largest palm oasis, with its ancient kasbahs and date plantations stretching along the river.
Sunset camel trek – Ride a camel across the Zagora dunes as the sun paints the desert in shades of gold and amber.
Desert camp experience – Spend a night in a traditional Berber tent with dinner, drumming music, and stargazing under one of the world’s darkest skies.
Sunrise over the dunes – Wake early to witness the first light of day transform the desert into a breathtaking display of colour.

Itinerary

2 Days Desert Trip from Marrakech to Zagora

Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas – Ait Benhaddou – Ouarzazate – Zagora Desert Camp

Your desert adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel or riad in Marrakech, typically between 7:00 AM and 7:30 AM. Leaving the Red City behind, you’ll head south toward the High Atlas Mountains.

The road climbs through the winding Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 metres), the highest road pass in North Africa. The drive is genuinely spectacular—Berber villages cling to hillsides, terraced almond groves cascade down valleys, and the views are breathtaking. You’ll have photo stops along the way to capture the dramatic mountain scenery.

The first major stop is the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou—a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Morocco’s most celebrated historic fortifications. Built from clay and straw, this ancient ksar has appeared in countless international productions. You’ll have time to walk through the earthen buildings and climb to the top for spectacular views.

Continue through Ouarzazate—Morocco’s “Hollywood of Africa”—where you can stop for lunch. The journey then takes you through the stunning Draa Valley, Morocco’s longest river valley, with its vast palm groves, ancient kasbahs, and fortified villages. You’ll pass through the historic town of Agdez before arriving in Zagora in the late afternoon.

In Zagora, you’ll meet your camel caravan and embark on a sunset camel trek across the golden dunes. The ride takes about 40 minutes to an hour, with a stop to watch the sunset paint the desert in shades of amber and gold. You’ll arrive at a traditional Berber desert camp, where you’ll be welcomed with mint tea. After a delicious Moroccan dinner served under the stars, gather around the campfire for Berber drumming and music under a star-filled desert sky. You’ll spend the night in a private tent, surrounded by the serene silence of the Sahara.

Driving time: Approximately 6–7 hours (including stops)
Meals: Dinner included
Overnight: Berber desert camp in Zagora

Day 2: Zagora – Sunrise – Camel Ride Back – Draa Valley – Ouarzazate – Marrakech

Wake up early for one of the most magical moments of the trip: sunrise over the Sahara dunes. Watch as the first light of day transforms the golden sands into a breathtaking display of colour. After breakfast at the camp, you’ll ride the camels back to the main road—a 40-minute camel ride through the desert—or return by 4×4 if you prefer.

The return journey takes you back through the spectacular Draa Valley, with its date palms and fortified kasbahs. You’ll stop in Ouarzazate to visit the Taourirt Kasbah, one of the largest and best-preserved kasbahs in Morocco. From there, you’ll cross the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass, with photo stops along the way.

You’ll arrive back in Marrakech in the late afternoon or early evening, typically between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM, where the tour concludes with drop-off at your accommodation.

Driving time: Approximately 6–7 hours (including stops)
Meals: Breakfast included
Overnight: Not included (arrival in Marrakech)

Price Includes

2 Days Desert Trip from Marrakech to Zagora

What included

What is not included

Hotel or riad pickup in Marrakech and drop-off in Marrakech
Air-conditioned transportation (minibus or minivan) with English/French/Spanish-speaking driver/guide
1 night in a Sahara desert camp (private tent; standard or luxury options available)
Sunset and sunrise camel rides in the Zagora Desert
1 breakfast and 1 dinner
Berber drumming and campfire music entertainment
Access to toilets and showers at the camp
Secure luggage storage (main luggage stays in the vehicle during the camel trek)
Onboard Wi-Fi (on most vehicles)

Lunches and drinks
Tips and gratuities
Personal expenses and souvenirs

Map

2 Days Desert Trip from Marrakech to Zagora

“

Note: Itineraries and inclusions may vary slightly depending on the tour operator. Standard desert camps have shared bathroom facilities nearby, while luxury camps offer private in-tent bathrooms with showers. Be sure to confirm details when booking. This 4-day tour is ideal for travellers seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path Sahara experience without the crowds of Merzouga.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

2 Days Desert Trip from Marrakech to Zagora

1. How is the Zagora tour different from the Merzouga (Erg Chebbi) tour?

Zagora is the “gateway to the Sahara” and is located closer to Marrakech, making it accessible in just two days. The dunes here are smaller than the towering Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga, but the experience is still magical—camel trekking at sunset and sunrise, sleeping in a desert camp, and stargazing under pristine skies. Merzouga offers the highest dunes in Morocco (up to 150 metres) but requires at least three days from Marrakech. The Zagora tour is the perfect choice for travellers with limited time.

How should I pack for this tour?

Pack layers! The weather varies dramatically across the four days. Essentials include: warm layers (fleece or jacket) for chilly desert nights, comfortable trousers for the camel ride (avoid shorts), sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a scarf for sand protection, a headlamp or phone flashlight, and comfortable walking shoes. The drive includes off-road sections, so be prepared for a bumpy but exciting ride. Bring cash for lunches, drinks, and tips.

What happens to my luggage during the camel trek?

Your main luggage (suitcases or large backpacks) remains securely stored in the vehicle. You only need to bring a small overnight bag with essentials for the night in the desert camp.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travellers?

Yes, but with considerations. The camel trek is gentle and lasts about an hour. However, it can be uncomfortable for very young children or those with back or knee issues. Most tour operators offer alternative 4×4 transfers directly to the desert camp upon request. The off-road sections can be bumpy—if you have back problems, please inform your operator in advance.

Our Clients Experiences

2 Days Desert Trip from Marrakech to Zagora

    
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Alesandere E 
 
 
 
 Verified Best experience ever
Best experience ever Youssef is so so nice, and a very good guide and a very good person ,I recomended him to everyone. Thanks Youssef
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Rafael C 
 
 
 
 Verified Out of this world
Words can’t even describe how this whole trip has been. From the very start Youssif was on time, matter of fact he was waiting for us and he welcomed us with open arms. We stayed with him for about two and half weeks and did everything from sleeping in the middle of the desert, riding camels, atvs, out of this world views and amazing places to eat everything single time. I think god for Youssif being our tour guide because we come here every two years and will use him every single time. If anyone is looking for a tour guide that is professional, on time, matters, knowledgeable and most importantly funny.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Laura C 
 
 
 
 Verified Gracias a Moha por una semana inolvidable
Hemos vivido una experiencia maravillosa durante una semana con Moha que ha acompañado al grupo de 7 mujeres de forma única, cuidando todos los detalles y siempre pendiente de todas. Ha hecho que nuestra experiencia sea aún mejor y nunca podremos olvidarla. Gracias Moha y equipo por un trato excelente y profesional.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Maïven S 
 
 
 
 Verified Un accueil incroyable
Quels voyages … ! Et oui, ce n’est pas la première fois que Youssef accompagne mes séjours au Maroc, tout simplement car il est GÉNIAL ! 😎 Lors de chaque visite il s’est adapté aux envies que nous lui avons partagé : découverte du désert, de la côte, de l’atlas … Et ce qui n’a jamais changé sont : ses sourires, sa générosité et son partage de la culture marocaine. 🌞 Je vous recommande Youssef pour découvrir le Maroc en toute sécurité et, surtout, avec tellement d’authenticité. SHUKRAN BEZEEEEEEF SOSO, « allah mawlana » (ce qui veut dire que je reviendrai le voir, c’est sûr !) 🫶
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Sam tch 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing trip and youssef is the man 🤙🏽
Just booked with Youssef from Best Travel to Morocco and no cap, the whole trip was fire 🔥. Everything was smooth, well planned, and zero stress. My guy Youssef really knows how to hook things up properly. Always responsive, super chill, and made sure everything was running like clockwork. The schedule was on point, nothing felt rushed, and the whole experience was straight vibes. You can tell he actually cares about making your trip lit, not just doing the bare minimum. If you’re tryna explore Morocco the right way, Youssef is the real deal. Highly recommend 💯
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Trip37154272494 
 
 
 
 Verified Isreal's Magical 50th Birthday Celebration in Morocco
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ BesttraveltoMorocco delivered an amazing experience! We visited Marrakech, Casablanca, Fez, the Atlas Mountains, and the Merzouga Sahara Desert, and everything was perfectly organized. The guides were knowledgeable and professional, transportation was smooth, and the accommodations were excellent. The Sahara Desert experience celebrating my 50th birthday was unforgettable. Highly recommend BesttraveltoMorocco for an authentic and stress-free Morocco trip!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Mohmed O 
 
 
 
 Verified Tour to morocco🇲🇦
I had an incredible experience traveling to Morocco with Best Travel to Morocco. Everything was perfectly organized from start to finish. The team was professional, friendly, and always available to help with anything we needed. Our itinerary was well planned and allowed us to experience the real beauty of Morocco—from the vibrant cities to the stunning desert and beautiful landscapes. The guides were very knowledgeable and made the trip even more special by sharing local culture, history, and traditions. The accommodations, transportation, and overall service exceeded my expectations. I felt safe, comfortable, and truly welcomed throughout the journey. This trip created unforgettable memories, and I highly recommend Best Travel to Morocco to anyone looking for an authentic and well-organized Moroccan experience. Thank you for an amazing journey! 🇲🇦✨
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Odyssey29318042941 
 
 
 
 Verified Absolutely amazed⭐️
I had an exceptional experience. Høssïne is a very attentive person, generous and passionate about his work and his country. He shares a lot of explanations and makes the experience truly authentic. I leave with stars in my eyes and only one desire: to come back. Thank you for everything!⭐️
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Sophie A 
 
 
 
 Verified Excellente promenade dans le désert!
Nous avons fait une superbe excursion dans le désert avec Youssef: excellente organisation et agréable soirée. Nous recommandons vivement!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Melina Z 
 
 
 
 Verified Volveré
Hermosa experiencia! Súper recomendable. Cerca de Marrakech, pero en el desierto.muy amable el personal. Seguramente volveré!

2 Days Desert Trip from Marrakech to Zagora

Adding item to wishlist requires an account

Already A Member?

Don't have an account? Create one.

Tour Details

What to Expect

Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas – Ait Benhaddou – Ouarzazate – Zagora Desert Camp

Day 2: Zagora – Sunrise – Camel Ride Back – Draa Valley – Ouarzazate – Marrakech

Price Includes

Map

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How is the Zagora tour different from the Merzouga (Erg Chebbi) tour?

How should I pack for this tour?

What happens to my luggage during the camel trek?

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travellers?

Our Clients Experiences

Related Tours

4 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert

3 Days Morocco tour from Tangier