2-Days Sahara Desert Tour to Zagora & Ait Ben Haddou

The Sahara Desert tour from Marrakech to Zagora and Ait Ben Haddou promises a captivating journey through Morocco’s stunning landscapes. Travelers will traverse the majestic High Atlas Mountains, enjoy the cultural richness of the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, and embark on a camel trek across the mesmerizing Zagora desert. With the opportunity to witness breathtaking sunsets and sunrises, and to spend a night under the stars in a traditional Berber camp, this 2-day adventure offers a truly unforgettable experience. What awaits those who decide to embark on this remarkable tour remains to be discovered.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best 2 Day Tours In Marrakech.

Good To Know

• This 2-day Sahara Desert tour from Marrakech offers a scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains, a visit to the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, and a camel trek in the Zagora desert.
• The camel trek experience in the Zagora desert includes stunning sunset and sunrise views, interaction with local guides, and an overnight stay in a traditional Berber camp.
• The overnight stay in the Berber camp provides an authentic experience with traditional tents, campfire gatherings, and immersion in the Saharan nomadic lifestyle.
• The tour includes a traditional Moroccan breakfast served in the Berber camp, offering a scenic start to the day before returning to Marrakech.
• The tour also includes a visit to the city of Ouarzazate, known as the "door to the desert" and a popular filming location, as well as the stunning Tizi N-Tichka Pass in the High Atlas Mountains.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This 2-day Sahara Desert tour from Marrakech provides an immersive experience, featuring a scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains, a visit to the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, and a camel trek in the Zagora desert to witness the stunning sunset and sunrise.

The tour is limited to small groups of up to 16 participants and offered in multiple languages, including Arabic, French, English, and Spanish.

Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

The itinerary also includes an overnight stay in a Berber camp with dinner and breakfast provided.

Itinerary Highlights

The 2-day Sahara Desert tour begins with a departure from Marrakech, followed by a scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains.

Travelers will visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, known for its appearance in films like Gladiator and Babel.

Next, they’ll embark on a camel trek in the Zagora desert, experiencing the stunning sunset and sunrise. An overnight stay in a Berber camp with dinner is included.

On the second day, guests will enjoy breakfast in Zagora before returning to Marrakech via the Draa Valley.

They’ll stop in Ouarzazate to visit the Kasbah of Taourirt and a cinema studio, with a final drive through the Tizi N-Tichka pass.

Camel Trek in Zagora Desert

Travelers delight in the opportunity to experience a camel trek in the Zagora desert, a quintessential part of the 2-day Sahara Desert tour. This captivating activity allows visitors to enjoy the timeless traditions of the Berber nomads. The camel trek offers enchanting views of the expansive desert landscape, culminating in a memorable sunset over the dunes. Visitors can also witness the serene sunrise from the comfort of their Berber camp. The experience is further enriched by the chance to interact with the local guides, who share insights into their cultural heritage.

Activity	Duration	Difficulty	Highlights
Camel Trek	2-3 hours	Moderate	Sunset, Sunrise, Desert Landscape
Berber Camp Overnight	1 night	Easy	Cultural Immersion, Stargazing
Interaction with Local Guides	Flexible	Easy	Cultural Insights, Traditions

Overnight Stay in Berber Camp

Adventurous souls revel in the captivating experience of an overnight stay in a Berber camp within the Zagora desert.

After a thrilling camel trek, travelers are welcomed into the traditional Berber tents. The camp offers a simple yet authentic setting, allowing guests to enjoy the nomadic lifestyle.

As the sun dips below the horizon, the group gathers around a campfire, sharing stories and enjoying a hearty Berber dinner.

Under a blanket of stars, the tranquility of the desert envelops the camp, providing a peaceful night’s sleep.

This unique overnight adventure offers a genuine glimpse into the Saharan way of life.

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Breakfast in Zagora

As the first light of day begins to filter through the desert canvas, guests within the Berber camp in Zagora awaken to the aroma of a freshly prepared breakfast.

The camp staff serves a traditional Moroccan breakfast, featuring an array of breads, cheeses, olives, and mint tea. Travelers savor the flavors while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding dunes.

This morning meal provides the energy needed for the day’s activities, which may include a camel trek, exploring nearby villages, or simply admiring the serene desert landscape.

With bellies full, guests prepare to depart Zagora and head back towards Marrakech, eager to continue their Saharan adventure.

Visiting Ait Ben Haddou

One of the highlights of the Sahara Desert tour is the visit to the UNESCO-listed site of Ait Ben Haddou.

This iconic kasbah, or fortified city, has been the backdrop for numerous films, including Gladiator and Babel. Visitors can explore its maze of clay buildings, narrow alleys, and impressive defensive walls.

The tour allows guests to:

1. Wander through the ancient structures and imagine the bustling trading hub it once was.
2. Marvel at the stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.
3. Learn about the Berber culture and how the kasbah served as a vital stopover on trans-Saharan trade routes.
4. Appreciate the well-preserved architectural and historical significance of this remarkable site.

Exploring Ouarzazate

The tour also brings travelers to Ouarzazate, a city often referred to as the "door to the desert." Situated on the edge of the High Atlas Mountains, Ouarzazate serves as a prime location for film productions, housing the country’s largest movie studios.

Film Studios	TV Shows	Movies
Atlas Studios	Game of Thrones	Gladiator
CLA Studios	Prison Break	Lawrence of Arabia
Kanzaman Studios	Babel	The Mummy
Aït Benhaddou Studios	The Jewel of the Nile	Kingdom of Heaven
Ouarzazate Studios	Exodus: Gods and Kings	The Living Daylights

Visitors can explore these impressive film sites and learn about the vibrant movie-making industry that has made Ouarzazate a popular destination.

Stunning Views of Tizi N-Tichka Pass

The Tizi N-Tichka Pass, a winding mountain road that traverses the High Atlas range, offers travelers a breathtaking panorama of the region’s rugged grandeur.

As the tour bus climbs higher, passengers are treated to a visual feast of towering peaks, deep ravines, and sprawling valleys.

The journey is punctuated by:

1. Sweeping vistas of snow-capped mountains.
2. Glimpses of traditional Berber villages clinging to the hillsides.
3. Cascading waterfalls that tumble down rocky cliffs.
4. Dramatic changes in the landscape, from lush forests to stark, lunar-like terrain.

This scenic drive is undoubtedly a highlight of the Sahara Desert tour, providing a memorable transition from the desert to the mountainous heart of Morocco.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour is limited to 16 participants in small groups, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience exploring the Sahara desert and Berber nomad lifestyle.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

The tour’s itinerary is set, but customers can’t customize it. However, they can request additional activities or services for an extra fee. The tour operator give you a standardized experience rather than a highly personalized one.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, which allows customers to receive a full refund. This provides flexibility and assurance for those booking the tour.

Are There Any Additional Charges for Optional Activities?

There are additional charges for optional activities like hiring a local guide, which costs 3 EUR per person. The base tour price covers the essentials, but any extra sightseeing or services come with additional fees.

How Experienced Are the Local Guides on This Tour?

The local guides on this tour are experienced in leading visitors through the Sahara desert and exploring the Berber culture. They’re knowledgeable about the region’s history and can provide valuable insights during the sightseeing activities.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Sahara Desert tour offers an enchanting adventure. Travelers will trek through the Zagora Desert on camel, experience an overnight stay in a Berber camp, and explore the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou. The journey also includes stunning views of the High Atlas Mountains and the cinematic city of Ouarzazate. It’s a captivating blend of Moroccan culture, desert landscapes, and cinematic history.

You can check availability for your dates here: