Setting out on a private 2-day adventure in the Sahara Desert is a captivating experience that promises to leave a lasting impression. Traversing the breathtaking landscapes, from the Tizi-N-Tichka pass to the UNESCO-listed Kasbah Aït-Ben-Haddou, this small group tour offers a seamless blend of comfort and exploration. With a camel ride leading to a tranquil desert camp, where one can savor a starlit dinner, the journey promises a truly unforgettable encounter with the timeless allure of the Sahara. As the sun rises over the dunes, the possibilities for adventure only begin to unfold.
Good To Know
- Private 2-day tour from Marrakech exploring the Sahara Desert, including a camel ride, dinner, and breakfast, starting at $131.25 per person.
- Scenic drive over the Atlas Mountains, visit to the UNESCO-recognized Kasbah Aït-Ben-Haddou, and exploration of the Draa Valley.
- Overnight stay at a desert camp with private tents, stargazing, and opportunity for sandboarding.
- Visit to the "Hollywood of Africa," Ouarzazate, and return journey through the Atlas Mountains.
- Suitable for English, Spanish, French, and Arabic speakers, but not for wheelchair users or those with certain health conditions.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This private 2-day tour offers a small group experience exploring the Sahara Desert from Marrakech.
The tour is priced from $131.25 per person and includes a camel ride, dinner, and breakfast in the desert camp, as well as transportation in an air-conditioned mini-van or minibus.
Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot now and pay later.
The 2-day tour is available in English, Spanish, French, and Arabic, and it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health, or pregnant women beyond 5 months.
You can also read our reviews of more private tours in Marrakech
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with a scenic drive over the Tizi-N-Tichka pass, which reaches an altitude of 2,260 meters. Along the way, travelers visit the iconic Kasbah Aït-Ben-Haddou, a filming location for popular movies. After exploring the Draa Valley’s date groves and henna fields, guests embark on a camel ride to their Sahara Desert camp. There, they enjoy dinner and stargazing. The next day, they witness the desert sunrise, with an optional sandboarding activity. The tour then heads to Ouarzazate for lunch and sightseeing before returning to Marrakech via the picturesque Atlas Mountains.
| Day | Destination | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Marrakech to Zagora | Scenic drive, visit Kasbah Aït-Ben-Haddou, explore Draa Valley, camel ride to desert camp, dinner, stargazing |
| 2 | Zagora to Marrakech | Sunrise in the desert, optional sandboarding, lunch and sightseeing in Ouarzazate, return to Marrakech |
Day 1: Marrakech to Zagora
The tour begins with a scenic drive over the Tizi-N-Tichka pass, which reaches an impressive altitude of 2,260 meters.
Next, the group visits the Kasbah Aït-Ben-Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has been the filming location for numerous movies, including Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, and Prince of Persia.
After exploring the Kasbah, the tour continues through the Draa Valley, known for its date groves and henna fields.
The day culminates with a camel ride to the Sahara Desert camp, where guests can enjoy a delicious dinner and take in the stunning starry night sky.
Camel Ride and Sahara Desert Camp
After the scenic drive through the Draa Valley, travelers embark on a camel ride to the Sahara Desert camp.
This camel trek offers a unique experience, allowing them to enjoy the tranquility of the desert landscape.
At the camp, they’ll enjoy a delicious dinner under the stars and have the opportunity to gaze up at the stunning night sky.
The private tent accommodations provide a comfortable and authentic desert experience.
Guests can relax and unwind, taking in the serene atmosphere before retiring for the night.
More Great Tours NearbyDay 2: Zagora to Marrakech
Waking up early, guests are treated to a stunning desert sunrise before enjoying a hearty breakfast at the camp.
After breakfast, there’s an option to try sandboarding – gliding down the dunes on a specialized board.
The tour then heads to Ouarzazate, known as the "Hollywood of Africa" due to its movie studios and Kasbah Taourirt or the movie museum.
A stop for lunch provides a chance to explore the city further.
The journey back to Marrakech takes guests through the stunning Atlas Mountains, arriving around 6:00 PM.
Throughout the day, the tour provides a well-rounded experience, balancing desert adventure with cultural sightseeing before returning to the bustling city.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Marrakech
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Inclusions and Exclusions
This private desert tour includes a camel ride, dinner, and breakfast in the camp, as well as a local guide for the visit to Aït Ben Haddou.
Plus, transportation in an air-conditioned 4×4 Mini Van or Minibus and WiFi on board in restaurants are provided.
However, the tour excludes lunches, entrance fees for museums and Kasbahs, and personal expenses.
Drinks, gratuities for the driver, and entry/admission fees are also not included in the tour price.
Travelers should come prepared with their passport, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, camera, credit card, sunscreen, and cash for any additional costs.
Meeting Point and Important Information
The meeting point for this private desert tour is the reception area of the participant’s accommodation in Marrakech or in front of Bank Assafa at Jemaa el Fna-Square for those staying in the Medina.
It’s important to note that this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, travelers with spinal injuries, those with poor cardiovascular health, or pregnant travelers beyond 5 months.
Recommended items include a passport, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a camera, a credit card, sunscreen, and cash.
Participants should be prepared for the desert environment and follow the guide’s instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Customer Reviews
Reviewers have rated this private desert tour with an overall score of 5 out of 5 based on 2 reviews.
The feedback has been consistently positive, with customers praising the tour’s organization, the quality of the guide, and the overall camp experience.
Some suggestions for improvement include:
- Offering more restaurant choices for lunch
- Providing clearer information about what’s included and excluded in the tour
- Ensuring the tour is suitable for all traveler types, including those with mobility or health considerations
- Addressing any logistical challenges that may arise during the 2-day journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Safety Precautions for the Desert Camp?
The desert camp provides a private tent for each traveler and ensures guests’ safety with a guide. It’s not recommended for those with certain health conditions, as the remote location may pose challenges for medical emergencies.
How Experienced Are the Camel Guides and Drivers?
The camel guides and drivers are experienced professionals who are knowledgeable about the desert terrain and safety protocols. They’re trained to ensure guests’ comfort and security throughout the camel ride and desert camp experience.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Camp?
The tour does not allow guests to bring their own food and drinks to the camp. All meals and refreshments are provided as part of the package. Guests are expected to consume the food and beverages offered by the tour operator.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration, but travelers can inquire about adding extra days or customizing the itinerary to meet their needs. The 2-day tour is the standard package available.
How Do I Request Special Dietary Requirements for the Meals?
Travelers can request special dietary requirements for the meals by contacting the tour operator prior to the trip. The tour operator will do their best to accommodate any dietary needs or restrictions.
Private 2-Days Tour-Overnight in the Desert Small Group
The Sum Up
This private 2-day tour from Marrakech offers an unforgettable Saharan adventure. You’ll explore the stunning Kasbah Ait-Ben-Haddou, enjoy a camel ride to a desert camp, and watch the sunrise over the dunes. With comfortable transportation, private tent accommodations, and optional activities, this small group tour provides an authentic and hassle-free way to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Sahara Desert.
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