Zagora Desert: 2-Day 1 Night Desert Expedition to Remember

Embarking on a 2-day, 1-night expedition through the enchanting Zagora Desert promises an unforgettable experience. Travelers will journey through the mesmerizing Atlas Mountains, culminating in a captivating camel trek at sunset. Once settled in a traditional Berber tent, they’ll indulge in authentic Moroccan cuisine and revel in the beauty of a pristine night sky. With a breathtaking sunrise awaiting before the return to Ouarzazate, this desert oasis offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich Berber culture and stunning landscapes. The stage is set for an adventure that will create lasting memories.

This experience made our list of the 7 Best 2 Day Tours In Zagora.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 2-day, 1-night desert experience from Marrakech, including transportation, camel trek, and overnight stay in a Berber camp.
• Explore UNESCO-listed Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, traverse the Atlas and Anti-Atlas mountains, and witness a breathtaking desert sunset camel ride.
• Enjoy half-board accommodation, with traditional Moroccan cuisine and the opportunity to immerse in Berber culture and stargazing.
• Flexible booking with ‘pay later’ option and free cancellation, making it a convenient choice for travelers.
• Highly rated by previous customers for exceptional experience, comfortable transportation, and knowledgeable guides, offering a memorable desert adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Zagora Desert Expedition typically offers a 2-day, 1-night desert experience, with prices starting from $74.72 per person, representing a savings of up to 10% off the regular rate.

Travelers can opt for the ‘pay later’ option and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The expedition includes transportation in an air-conditioned minivan/minibus, a professional driver/guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off, a camel trek, and an overnight stay in a Berber tent with half-board accommodation (dinner and breakfast).

Additional costs include lunches, drinks, a local guide at Ait Ben Haddou, and optional items like a camel guide and scarf.

With a comprehensive itinerary and well-organized logistics, the Zagora Desert Expedition offers an immersive desert adventure.

Itinerary Highlights

Zagora Desert: 2-Day 1 Night Desert Expedition to Remember

Itinerary Highlights

This 2-day, 1-night Zagora Desert Expedition kicks off with an early morning departure from Marrakech, traversing the picturesque Atlas Mountains en route.

Travelers then visit the UNESCO-listed Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, followed by a lunch stop at a nearby restaurant.

The journey continues through Ouarzazate and the Anti-Atlas mountains, culminating in a camel ride at sunset in the captivating Zagora Desert.

Overnight, guests enjoy a stay in a Berber tent, complete with a delightful dinner.

Day two begins with a scenic sunrise and breakfast in the desert, followed by a return camel trek to Zagora and a drive back to Ouarzazate with an optional stop at the Kasbah of Taourirt or cinema museum.

Inclusions and Additional Costs

This desert expedition includes an air-conditioned minivan or minibus, a professional driver/guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off, a camel trek, and an overnight stay in a Berber camp with half-board accommodation (dinner and breakfast). However, additional costs may apply for lunches, drinks, a local guide at Ait Ben Haddou, a camel guide, and an optional scarf.

Inclusions	Additional Costs
Air-conditioned vehicle	Lunches (€10)
Professional driver/guide	Drinks (€2)
Hotel pick-up/drop-off	Local guide at Ait Ben Haddou (€2)
Camel trek and Berber camp stay	Camel guide (optional)

Keep in mind that these extra expenses can add up, so it’s wise to budget accordingly and consider bringing your own snacks and water to save money.

Important Information and Recommendations

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes and a camera to fully enjoy this desert expedition.

Long travel times of approximately 6 hours per day may occur, so it’s recommended to pack snacks and water to stay hydrated.

Tourists should also be aware of potential tourist traps, particularly when purchasing items like scarves, and consider bringing their own to avoid overpaying.

Meals during the tour may lean towards the touristy side, so it’s a good idea to bring extra snacks if you have specific dietary preferences.

While the overall experience and transport comfort are praised, travelers should keep in mind that the extended drive times and slower restaurant service may require patience and flexibility.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

With an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 40 reviews, customers have overwhelmingly praised this desert expedition for its exceptional experience, comfortable transportation, and stunning scenery.

Reviewers highlighted the knowledgeable and accommodating driver, as well as the clean and engaging Berber camp facilities.

While some noted the long travel times and slow restaurant service, they recommended bringing along water and snacks to offset these minor inconveniences.

Travelers were captivated by the breathtaking landscapes of the Zagora Desert and the memorable camel ride at sunset.

The combination of excellent service, comfortable amenities, and unforgettable activities has made this two-day desert adventure a must-do for those seeking an authentic Moroccan experience.

Exploring the Atlas Mountains

The two-day desert expedition begins with an early morning departure from Marrakech, as travelers embark on a journey through the majestic Atlas Mountains. This legendary mountain range, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers breathtaking vistas and a glimpse into the traditional Berber culture. Along the way, the tour stops at the iconic Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, a well-preserved example of southern Moroccan architecture. Lunch is served at a nearby restaurant, allowing visitors to enjoy the local culinary delights. As the journey continues, the group explores the charming town of Ouarzazate and the surrounding Anti-Atlas mountains, setting the stage for the highlight of the expedition – the camel ride into the Zagora Desert.

Highlights	Duration
Atlas Mountains Crossing	2-3 hours
Visit to Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou	1-2 hours
Lunch in Local Restaurant	1 hour
Exploration of Ouarzazate	1-2 hours

Camel Ride and Berber Camp

As the sun begins to set, participants embark on a captivating camel trek into the heart of the Zagora Desert. They ascend the dunes, taking in the breathtaking landscape as the sky transforms into a canvas of warm hues.

Arriving at the Berber camp, they’re welcomed by the friendly hosts and settle into their traditional tents for the night. The Berber experience is a highlight, offering:

• An authentic taste of nomadic desert life, with traditional Berber music and storytelling around the campfire.

• A delicious dinner of Moroccan tagine and couscous, prepared by the camp’s skilled chefs.

• The opportunity to stargaze in the crystal-clear night sky, far from the distractions of the modern world.

Return to Ouarzazate

Participants rise early the next morning to witness the captivating desert sunrise before embarking on the return camel trek to Zagora.

After this, they board the vehicle and drive back to Ouarzazate, making a stop along the way for lunch.

During the journey, travelers have the opportunity to explore the region’s diverse landscapes, including the Anti-Atlas mountains.

Upon arrival in Ouarzazate, they may opt to visit the Kasbah of Taourirt or the local cinema museum, offering a chance to delve deeper into the area’s rich cultural heritage.

The return to Ouarzazate marks the end of the memorable desert expedition, leaving participants with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and tranquility of the Zagora Desert.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Though the tour includes some meals, you’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks. This can help ensure you have snacks and beverages you prefer during the long travel times and potentially slow restaurant service.

Is There Wi-Fi Available in the Berber Camp?

Unfortunately, there is no Wi-Fi available at the Berber camp in the Zagora Desert. The remote location means guests must disconnect and fully enjoy the desert experience during their overnight stay.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

While the standard itinerary is set, you can often customize the tour to suit your preferences. The tour operator may be able to adjust the schedule or activities based on your interests, though some changes may incur additional costs.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The average group size for this 2-day desert expedition is typically around 6-10 people. Group sizes can vary, but the tour operator aims to keep them small to provide a more intimate and personalized experience for travelers.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Camel Ride?

The tour does not have any age restrictions for the camel ride. Participants of all ages can enjoy the camel trek in the Zagora Desert. The activity is suitable for both children and adults as part of the 2-day desert expedition.

The Sum Up

The Zagora Desert expedition offers an unforgettable experience, immersing visitors in the breathtaking landscapes and rich Berber culture of Morocco.

From the scenic journey through the Atlas Mountains to the mesmerizing camel trek and overnight stay in a traditional Berber tent, this 2-day, 1-night adventure creates lasting memories in a magical desert oasis.

With authentic Moroccan cuisine, stargazing, and a captivating sunrise, it’s an expedition that truly showcases the enchantment of the Zagora Desert.

You can check if your dates are available here: