Ouarzazate: Tinfou Dunes, Camp & Camel Ride Day Trip - 1 Day

Ouarzazate, the "Hollywood of Africa," is a captivating destination that offers travelers a unique opportunity to experience the enchanting Tinfou Dunes. This full-day excursion promises an immersive journey through the stunning Draa Valley, where visitors can explore historic sites, indulge in a camel ride across the dunes, and explore the rich cultural heritage of the region. With an experienced Berber driver-guide leading the way, this adventure provides a glimpse into the timeless allure of Morocco’s landscapes and the captivating traditions of its people. Whether you’re seeking adventure or culture, this day trip is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Contents hide

1 Trip Overview and Pricing

2 Itinerary Highlights

3 Transportation and Pickup

4 Included Amenities

5 Cultural Experience

6 Camel Ride and Sandboarding

7 Pottery Co-operatives in Tamgroute

8 Lunch in a Nomad Tent

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

A full-day excursion from Ouarzazate to the Tinfou Dunes, featuring a camel ride and optional sandboarding, with visits to a Berber village and a pottery co-operative.
Includes transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, a hearty lunch in a nomad tent, and guided exploration of the Draa Valley and Kasbah Tamnougalte.
Offers a deep culture, with insights into Berber and nomadic traditions, and the opportunity to witness the production of traditional Moroccan pottery.
Allows for free time for exploration, walking, and photography, with stunning panoramic views along the ancient caravan route from Timbuktu to Marrakech.
Provides a flexible and hassle-free experience, with complimentary cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and no upfront payment required for reservations.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

Offering a full day excursion, this Ouarzazate tour to the Tinfou Dunes is priced from $211.23 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The trip duration is 1 day, and travelers can reserve their spot now without paying anything today.

Highlights include exploring the Draa Valley, Kasbah Tamnougalte, and an ancient Quranic Library, as well as a camel ride in the Tinfou Dunes with optional sandboarding.

Transportation is provided via air-conditioned vehicle, and an experienced local Berber/Nomad driver-guide will accompany the group.

Entrance fees, bottled water, tea/coffee, and a Moroccan lunch are all included in the price.

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Itinerary Highlights

The tour explores the captivating Draa Valley, home to the historic Kasbah Tamnougalte and an ancient Quranic Library, before venturing to the mesmerizing Tinfou Dunes for a camel ride and optional sandboarding experience.

Next, you’ll visit pottery co-operatives in Tamgroute to witness the traditional craftsmanship. Enjoy a delightful lunch in a nomad tent, savoring authentic Moroccan tea and biscuits.

The journey continues over the breathtaking Anti-Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi’n-Tinififft pass for stunning panoramic views along the ancient caravan route from Timbuktu to Marrakech.

Throughout the day, you’ll discover Berber villages and glimpse the captivating nomadic way of life in the Sahara Desert.

Transportation and Pickup

This tour includes transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which can be either a 4×4 Toyota Prado TX or a deluxe van.

Pickup from your hotel in Ouarzazate is provided, ensuring a hassle-free start to your day trip adventure.

You’ll be accompanied by an experienced local Berber or Nomad driver-guide who’ll share insights about the region’s history and culture throughout your journey.

The air-conditioned transportation ensures a comfortable ride as you travel over the Anti-Atlas Mountains and the Tizi’n-Tinififft pass, taking in the stunning panoramic views along the ancient caravan route from Timbuktu to Marrakech.

Included Amenities

Included in the day trip are the entrance fees and a local guide for the Kasbah Tamnougalte, ensuring visitors gain an in-depth understanding of this historical site.

Throughout the desert portion of the tour, travelers enjoy bottled water, traditional Moroccan tea, and biscuits.

A hearty lunch with vegetarian and vegan options is provided, allowing guests to savor the flavors of local cuisine in a nomad tent setting.

The tour also allots free time for exploration, walking, photography, and breaks, enabling participants to fully enjoy the cultural experience.

These amenities enhance the overall value and enjoyment of the Ouarzazate: Tinfou Dunes, Camp & Camel Ride Day Trip.

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Cultural Experience

Alongside the included amenities, the tour also offers a deep cultural experience, allowing guests to discover Berber villages and gain a glimpse into the nomadic life of the Sahara Desert.

Travelers will visit pottery co-operatives in Tamgroute, where they can observe traditional craftsmanship and learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The highlight of the cultural experience is the opportunity to enjoy lunch in a nomad tent, where visitors can savor authentic Moroccan cuisine and engage with the local Berber people.

Throughout the journey, the experienced driver-guide will provide insightful commentary, sharing stories and anecdotes about the ancient caravan route and the communities along the way.

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Camel Ride and Sandboarding

At the heart of the Tinfou Dunes day trip lies the captivating camel ride, offering visitors a chance to experience the timeless allure of the Sahara Desert. Guests have the option to embark on an exhilarating camel ride, gliding across the rolling sand dunes with the wind in their hair.

For the more adventurous, the tour also includes the opportunity to try sandboarding, allowing them to surf down the slopes of the Tinfou Dunes. The camel ride and sandboarding experience are truly unforgettable highlights of the day, providing a unique glimpse into the traditional Berber way of life.

Climb atop a friendly camel and gently sway to its rhythmic gait as you explore the sweeping dunes.
Glide down the sand slopes on a sandboard, carving graceful turns and feeling the rush of adrenaline.
Capture breathtaking panoramic views of the vast Tinfou Dunes from the vantage point of your camel or while soaring down the dunes.

Pottery Co-operatives in Tamgroute

The tour also includes a visit to the pottery co-operatives in Tamgroute, where visitors can witness the intricate process of crafting traditional Moroccan ceramics. Here, skilled artisans demonstrate the techniques used to create the iconic green-glazed pottery that Tamgroute is renowned for. Guests can browse the colorful displays of tagines, vases, and decorative pieces, learning about the history and cultural significance of this vibrant art form. The visit provides a unique opportunity to interact with the local community, browse the co-operative’s wares, and perhaps even try your hand at the potter’s wheel. It’s a captivating glimpse into the rich artisanal heritage of this Moroccan oasis.

Pottery Co-operatives in Tamgroute
Iconic Green-Glazed Pottery
Skilled Artisan Demonstrations
Tagines, Vases, Decorative Pieces
Cultural Significance & Heritage
Hands-On Pottery Experience

Lunch in a Nomad Tent

What better way to take in the traditional Saharan lifestyle than by enjoying a delectable lunch in a genuine nomad tent?

During this captivating experience, visitors are welcomed into the intimate setting of a nomadic encampment, where they’re treated to a sumptuous spread of authentic Moroccan cuisine.

The lunch menu typically includes:

Steaming tagines of tender meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices
Fragrant couscous served with a selection of fiery harissa and cooling yogurt
Sweet mint tea, the quintessential Moroccan beverage, brewed over an open fire

This authentic dining experience offers a rare glimpse into the hospitable customs and time-honored culinary traditions of the Saharan nomads.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Camel Ride Suitable for People With Limited Mobility?

The camel ride may not be suitable for people with limited mobility, as it involves climbing onto and dismounting from the camel. However, the trip offers other activities, like exploring the Draa Valley, that may be more accessible.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Trip?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the trip. The tour includes bottled water, tea/coffee, and Moroccan biscuits, but guests are welcome to pack additional snacks or meals to enjoy during the day.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Activities?

For the activities, travelers should bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. Sandboarding gear is available for rent onsite. No other special equipment is required, as the necessary equipment is provided for the camel ride and other activities.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Stop on the Itinerary?

The itinerary allocates approximately 1-2 hours for each stop, providing ample time to explore the Draa Valley, Kasbah Tamnougalte, Tamgroute pottery co-ops, and nomad tent lunch. Visitors can also enjoy the camel ride and optional sandboarding at the Tinfou Dunes.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements to Participate in the Activities?

This day trip has no strict age or fitness requirements. Participants must be able to board and ride a camel, though the difficulty level is generally moderate. Children are welcome with parental supervision.