2-Day Zagora Desert Tour from Marrakech
Short on time? This private 2-day Zagora desert tour from Marrakech brings you to the edge of the Sahara and back. Cross the High Atlas, explore Aït Benhaddou, follow the endless palm groves of the Draa Valley, and ride a camel to your camp near Zagora for dinner and a sky full of stars.
Highlights
- Tizi n’Tichka pass
- Kasbah of Aït Benhaddou
- Draa Valley palm groves
- Camel ride at sunset
- Dinner and night at a desert camp
- Back in Marrakech the next evening
Itinerary
Marrakech – Aït Benhaddou – Zagora
Pick-up at 7:30, the Atlas crossing, a visit to Aït Benhaddou, lunch in Ouarzazate, then down through the Draa Valley. Camel ride to camp for sunset, dinner and the night in the desert.
Zagora – Marrakech
Sunrise and breakfast at camp, camel ride back, then a relaxed drive to Marrakech with stops for photos, arriving late afternoon.
Included
- Private vehicle with A/C and driver-guide
- Pick-up and drop-off in Marrakech, at the closest point to your riad
- 1 night in a desert camp
- Dinner and breakfast
- Camel ride
Not included
- Lunches and drinks
- Local guides at monuments (optional)
- Tips
Driving times
Times below are driving only. Stops for photos, visits and meals come on top.
| Day | Route | Distance | Driving time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Marrakech to Zagora | about 360 km | about 6.5 hours |
| Day 2 | Zagora back to Marrakech | about 360 km | about 6.5 hours |
Best time to go
The best months for this desert tour are March to May and September to November, when days are warm and nights at the camp are cool. In summer (June to August) midday in the Sahara is very hot, so camel rides are planned for sunset and sunrise. In winter (December to February) days are sunny and mild, but desert nights are cold, so bring a warm jacket.
Your 2-day Zagora desert tour route
- Marrakech
- Aït Benhaddou
- Ouarzazate
- Agdz
- Zagora
- Marrakech
2-day Zagora tour FAQ
Is Zagora the real Sahara?
Zagora sits on the edge of the Sahara, with smaller dunes than Merzouga. It is the best choice when you only have two days; for the big golden dunes, choose the 3-day Merzouga tour.
How long is the drive?
About 7 hours each way from Marrakech, broken up by the Atlas pass, Aït Benhaddou and the Draa Valley.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes. On a private tour we stop whenever you need, and children love the camel ride and the night at camp.
What should I pack for the desert?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun cream, a hat or scarf for the sun and wind, a small overnight bag for the camp, and a warm layer for the evening, as desert nights can be cool even after a hot day.
Can we stop for photos along the way?
Yes. It is a private tour, so you can ask your driver to stop whenever you see a view you like, as long as it is safe to park.
