From Marrakech: Zagora 2-Day Desert Safari With Food & Camp

Embark on an unforgettable two-day journey from Marrakech to the captivating Zagora Desert. This immersive safari promises breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and delectable Moroccan cuisine. Traverse the awe-inspiring High Atlas Mountains, discover the UNESCO-protected Ait Ben Haddou, and indulge in a mesmerizing camel ride as the sun dips below the Draa Valley. The true highlight, however, awaits as you settle into a comfortable Sahara Desert camp, where the night sky unveils its celestial wonders. What secrets might this enchanting desert hold?

Key Points

• A 2-day desert safari from Marrakech to the Zagora region, featuring a scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains and a visit to the UNESCO site of Ait Ben Haddou.
• Camel rides at the Draa Valley and Sahara Desert camp provide opportunities to experience the beauty and tranquility of the desert landscape.
• Accommodation in Berber-style tents with amenities, traditional Moroccan meals, and culture activities are included in the safari experience.
• An optional sunrise camel ride offers a serene start to the day before the return journey to Marrakech.
• The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and a highly rated guide, making it a comprehensive and well-reviewed desert adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Scenic Drive Through Atlas Mountains

The safari begins with a scenic drive across the High Atlas Mountains, showcasing the stunning natural landscapes of Morocco.

Travelers will be captivated by the dramatic peaks, deep valleys, and winding roads that lead them through this mountainous region.

Along the way, they’ll have the chance to stop and admire the views, take photos, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

The drive offers a glimpse into the rugged terrain that defines much of the country’s interior, setting the stage for the desert adventures to come.

This initial leg of the journey sets the tone for an immersive cultural and natural experience in the heart of Morocco.

UNESCO World Heritage Site Visit

One of the highlights of the first day is a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, a breathtaking fortified city that has served as a backdrop for numerous film productions. Participants will have the opportunity to explore this well-preserved example of traditional Moroccan architecture, marveling at its intricate mud-brick buildings, narrow alleyways, and ancient defensive walls. The visit to Ait Ben Haddou provides a unique cultural experience, allowing travelers to enjoy the history and way of life of the Berber people.

Feature	Description
Architectural Style	Traditional Moroccan mud-brick buildings
Cultural Significance	Provides insight into Berber way of life
Film Backdrop	Has appeared in numerous movie productions
UNESCO Status	Designated as a World Heritage Site
Preservation	Well-preserved example of traditional architecture

Lunch Break in Ait Ben Haddou

After exploring the UNESCO-protected Ait Ben Haddou, travelers enjoy a 1.5-hour lunch break in the nearby town or Ouarzazate during the winter months, allowing them to recharge and sample local Moroccan cuisine.

This midday stop provides a chance to try traditional dishes like tagine, couscous, and mint tea.

Travelers can wander the vibrant markets, interact with friendly locals, and soak up the lively atmosphere before continuing their desert adventure.

The lunch break is an opportunity to refuel and take in the rich culinary and cultural heritage of the region before the next leg of the Zagora 2-Day Desert Safari.

Camel Ride at Draa Valley

Following the scenic drive across the High Atlas Mountains and the visit to Ait Ben Haddou, travelers continue their journey towards the Draa Valley, where they’ll embark on a camel ride at sunset.

This camel trek offers a unique opportunity to experience the tranquility and beauty of the desert landscape. As the sun dips below the horizon, guests will ride atop the gentle giants across the rolling sand dunes, taking in the breathtaking views and atmospheric ambiance.

This captivating activity provides a true taste of Berber culture and a memorable highlight of the 2-day desert safari experience from Marrakech.

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Sahara Desert Camp Experience

As the sun dips behind the rolling dunes, travelers arrive at the Sahara Desert camp, where they’ll enjoy the traditional Berber lifestyle for the evening.

The camp features standard accommodation in Berber-style tents, complete with hot showers and toilets, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Guests can look forward to a delicious dinner prepared by the local staff, followed by lively entertainment around the campfire, including traditional Moroccan music.

The camp’s remote location provides the perfect setting for stargazing and embracing the tranquility of the desert.

This culture allows travelers to gain a deeper understanding of the Berber people and their centuries-old way of life.

Sunrise Camel Ride Opportunity

In ‘From Marrakech: Zagora 2-Day Desert Safari With Food & Camp’, guests have the opportunity to witness the sun’s first rays over the desert dunes during an optional sunrise camel ride.

This serene experience allows visitors to:

• Observe the captivating transformation of the desert landscape as the sun rises

• Feel a sense of tranquility and connection with the natural world

• Capture stunning photographs to commemorate the magical morning moment

The sunrise camel trek is a highlight for many, providing a peaceful start to the day before returning to the camp for breakfast.

This optional activity offers a chance to take in the beauty and solitude of the Sahara Desert at its most enchanting hour.

Minibus Return to Marrakech

After the camel trek and breakfast, guests then board a minibus for the return journey to Marrakech, arriving around 6 PM. The air-conditioned minibus provides a comfortable ride, allowing travelers to rest and reflect on their desert adventure. Along the way, the guide may point out additional sites of interest, offering insights into the local culture and geography.

Included in Return Transfer
Hotel drop-off in Marrakech
Air-conditioned minibus
Scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains
Opportunity to ask guide additional questions

The return trip marks the end of the 2-day Zagora Desert Safari, leaving participants with lasting memories of their Moroccan desert experience.

Tour Inclusions and Important Information

The safari includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Marrakech, transportation in an air-conditioned minibus, and a camel trek at sunset and sunrise. Meals, such as dinner, breakfast, and lunch, as well as bottled water, are also provided. While local guides are available, it’s recommended to tip them approximately €2 per person.

Some important information to note:

• The safari isn’t suitable for pregnant women.

• If the Atlas Mountains road is blocked in winter, a route via Taroudant is available for a €10 supplement per person.

• Based on 874 reviews, the safari has an overall rating of 4.4/5, with high praise for guide quality (4.7/5) and transportation (4.5/5).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Book Just the One-Day Safari?

No, based on the information provided, there does not appear to be an option to book just a one-day safari. The tour is specifically described as a 2-day desert safari from Marrakech.

Can I Choose My Own Tent or Camp Location?

The tour typically assigns tents and camp locations, though guests can request specific preferences. Requests may be accommodated if possible, but the tour operator makes the final decisions to ensure an organized and comfortable experience for all participants.

Are Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Available?

The safari tour offers vegetarian and vegan meal options. Guests can request these dietary requirements when booking, and the tour providers will accommodate them during the included meals at the desert camp.

Can I Bring My Own Pillows and Sleeping Bag?

Guests can bring their own pillows and sleeping bags for the overnight desert camp. The tour provider recommends this to ensure maximum comfort during the Sahara Desert experience.

Is There an Age Limit for the Camel Ride Activity?

The Zagora 2-Day Desert Safari from Marrakech does not appear to have an age limit for the camel ride activity. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with the exception of pregnant women. Participants must be able to safely mount and ride the camels.

The Sum Up

This 2-day desert safari from Marrakech offers a captivating blend of Moroccan culture and breathtaking natural scenery.

Travelers will witness the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, embark on a camel ride through the Draa Valley, and spend a night under the stars in a Sahara Desert camp.

It’s an unforgettable experience that showcases the diverse landscapes and rich heritage of this remarkable region.

You can check if your dates are available here: