2-Day Desert Excursion to Zagora & Ait Benhaddou

Set out on a captivating 2-day desert excursion from Marrakech to Zagora and Ait Ben Haddou, where you’ll learn about Morocco’s breathtaking landscapes and rich culture. Traverse the scenic Draa Valley, explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, and enjoy unforgettable camel rides at sunset and sunrise in the serene Zagora dunes. With comfortable camping accommodations, delicious meals, and a knowledgeable local guide, this adventure blends natural wonders with cultural insights, creating lasting memories. Discover why this excursion has become a must-do experience for those seeking to uncover the essence of Morocco’s desert allure.

Good To Know

• Immersive 2-day desert experience from Marrakech, exploring UNESCO World Heritage site Ait Ben Haddou and traversing the picturesque Draa Valley.
• Camel rides at sunrise and sunset in the Zagora dunes, offering stunning views and a quintessential Moroccan experience.
• Comfortable overnight camping in the desert, with traditional Moroccan meals and cultural insights from a knowledgeable local guide.
• Journey through the majestic High Atlas Mountains on the return to Marrakech, with scheduled stops to capture breathtaking scenery.
• Convenient and hassle-free arrangements, including hotel pickup, transportation, and all necessary services included in the package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

This 2-day desert excursion takes travelers from Marrakech to the historic kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou and the dunes of Zagora.

Priced from €2,423 per person, the tour includes transportation, an overnight camping stay, all meals, and a local guide.

During the 2-day adventure, visitors will explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou, traverse the Draa Valley, and enjoy camel rides at sunrise and sunset in the Zagora dunes.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this desert getaway offers a convenient and unforgettable experience.

Itinerary Highlights

The 2-day desert excursion kicks off with an early-morning pickup from Marrakech, followed by a scenic journey through Ouarzazate.

First, visitors explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a magnificent fortified city.

Then, they venture into the Draa Valley, known for its palm groves and mud-brick kasbahs.

As the day winds down, travelers embark on a camel ride at sunset in the Zagora dunes, culminating in an overnight camping experience with a traditional Moroccan dinner.

On the second day, guests wake up to a Berber breakfast and a sunrise camel ride, before heading back to Marrakech via the stunning High Atlas Mountains.

Included Services

The 2-day desert excursion includes several key services to enhance the experience.

These include:

• Transportation to and from the desert, including pickup from the Jemaa el-Fnaa Square or direct hotel pickup.
• 1 overnight stay in comfortable tents, providing a genuine camping experience in the Sahara.
• Meals throughout the trip, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks, ensuring travelers are well-nourished during the adventure.

Plus, the package includes entrance fees to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, as well as the services of a knowledgeable local guide to provide insights into the region’s history and culture.

Experience Features

Travelers can discover the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert on this immersive 2-day excursion.

They’ll embark on camel treks at both sunrise and sunset, allowing them to witness the stunning landscapes bathed in golden light.

The journey also takes them to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Along the way, they’ll explore the Atlas Mountains and the town of Ouarzazate, known as the "Hollywood of Africa" for its film studios.

This desert adventure promises a truly unforgettable experience blending natural wonders and cultural encounters.

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Pickup Arrangements

Pickup arrangements for this desert excursion are straightforward:

• Participants meeting at the Cafe de France in Jemaa el-Fnaa Square will be picked up directly from there for those staying in the medina accommodations.

• For hotels located outside the historic center, the driver will pick you up directly from your hotel.

• One day prior to the trip, it’s required to contact the provider to confirm the pickup details and ensure a seamless start to your desert adventure.

These clear pickup guidelines ensure a hassle-free beginning to your 2-day Zagora and Ait Benhaddou desert exploration.

Camel Trekking at Sunset

A highlight of the desert excursion is the camel trek at sunset in the Zagora dunes. Riding the gentle, swaying camels across the golden sands as the sun dips below the horizon is a quintessential Moroccan experience.

Guests will marvel at the breathtaking views and serene atmosphere of the desert. The camel ride typically lasts around an hour, allowing ample time to capture stunning photographs and soak in the tranquility of the Sahara.

This activity offers a unique opportunity to connect with the local culture and appreciate the timeless beauty of the desert landscape.

Exploring Ait Ben Haddou

One of the main highlights of the desert excursion is a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou. This iconic fortified Moroccan village dates back to the 11th century and has been the backdrop for numerous Hollywood blockbusters.

Visitors can:

• Wander through the winding streets and admire the striking earthen architecture.
• Explore the ancient granaries and dwellings that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
• Climb to the top of the kasbah for panoramic views of the surrounding Saharan landscape.

The opportunity to explore this well-preserved example of traditional Moroccan architecture is a truly immersive cultural experience.

Return Journey to Marrakech

The return journey to Marrakech from the desert takes travelers through the majestic High Atlas Mountains.

This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of rugged peaks, winding roads, and traditional Berber villages. Along the way, the group will make stops to stretch their legs and snap photos of the stunning landscapes.

The journey back to Marrakech provides an opportunity to reflect on the incredible experiences of the past two days in the desert.

Travelers can expect to arrive in Marrakech in the early afternoon, with memories of their desert adventure that will last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Age Limit for the Camel Ride?

There’s no age limit for the camel ride. Both children and adults can enjoy the camel treks at sunrise and sunset during the 2-day desert excursion. The experience is suitable for all ages.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

Guests are generally not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The package includes all meals, snacks, and drinks. However, guests can bring their own water bottles to stay hydrated throughout the excursion.

What Type of Accommodation Is Provided for the Overnight Stay?

The overnight stay is in tents. Campers will enjoy a comfortable camping experience with dinner and breakfast provided as part of the included services for this 2-day desert excursion.

Are There Any Medical Facilities Available During the Trip?

There are no dedicated medical facilities provided during the trip. However, the tour guide is trained in first aid and can assist in case of minor emergencies. Participants are advised to bring any necessary personal medications.

Can We Make Stops Along the Way for Photos?

Yes, the tour allows for photo stops along the way. Travelers can capture stunning landscapes, ancient kasbahs, and cultural encounters during the journey through the Atlas Mountains and Sahara Desert regions.

The Sum Up

This captivating 2-day desert excursion from Marrakech to Zagora and Ait Ben Haddou offers an unforgettable blend of natural wonders and cultural insights. Enjoy Morocco’s breathtaking landscapes, explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, and enjoy camel rides at sunset and sunrise. With comfortable camping accommodations and delicious meals, this adventure promises lasting memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: