2-Day Zagora Desert Tour from Marrakech: Camel Trek & Kasbahs

Summary

Morocco Desert Adventure: Camel Ride, Dunes & Film Studios

You’ll cross mountain passes, wander ancient kasbahs, ride camels into real desert dunes, and sleep under more stars than you thought possible—all in just two days from Marrakech.

What’s the experience like?

We left Marrakech just as the city was waking up—there’s something about that early morning air, a bit cool even in summer, that makes you want to see what’s out there. Our driver met us right at the riad door, and we were off toward the High Atlas. The Tizi-n'Tichka Pass is no joke—hairpin turns, mountain villages clinging to the slopes, and every so often a roadside vendor selling sweet mint tea or oranges. At 2260 meters up, the view stretches forever. I remember the wind picking up as we stopped for photos; it carried this dry scent of wild thyme.

Ait Benhaddou came next—a place that looks straight out of a movie (and actually is). Our guide explained how families still live inside those mudbrick walls. You can spot laundry lines strung between ancient towers and hear kids laughing somewhere behind heavy wooden doors. After wandering through the kasbah’s narrow alleys, we kept going into the Draa Valley. Palm trees everywhere—honestly, millions—and old kasbahs peeking out from behind them like they’re hiding secrets.

Zagora felt different right away: quieter, dustier, with camels waiting at the edge of town. Climbing onto a dromedary isn’t exactly graceful—I nearly lost my sandal—but once you’re swaying along at sunset with nothing but dunes ahead, you forget about looking silly. The camp was simple but comfortable; dinner was cooked over coals while someone played music on a drum by the fire. I lay back later and tried to count stars—impossible here.

The next morning started before dawn. There’s this hush in the desert when everyone else is asleep except maybe one guide making tea over embers. Watching sunrise paint the sand pink and gold felt unreal—like time paused for a minute just for us. After breakfast (flatbread still warm), we headed back toward Ouarzazate for a quick stop at Atlas Film Studios—lots of old movie sets scattered around in the sun—and then finally rolled into Marrakech late afternoon, dusty but happy.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Marrakech to Zagora Desert

• Pass Tichka Pass (2260m)
• Visit Ait Benhaddou Kasbah
• Explore Draa Valley palm groves
• Camel caravan to Zagora camp
• Dinner by campfire with music
• Overnight in desert tent

Day 2 — Zagora to Marrakech via Ouarzazate

• Sunrise in desert dunes
• Short break
• Visit Ouarzazate movie studios
• Breakfast

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for families with young children?

Yes! Infants and small children can join—the vehicles are stroller-friendly and infant seats are available if needed.

Are meals included during the trip?

Dinner and breakfast are included at camp; lunches aren’t covered so bring some cash for local cafés along the way.

Do I need to bring my own sleeping bag?

No need—your tented bivouac provides bedding so you can travel light.

Can service animals come along?

Absolutely—service animals are welcome on this tour.

Are entrance fees to monuments or studios included?

No—the entry fees to sites like Ait Benhaddou or Atlas Studios aren’t included in the price.

What’s included

Your private transport (with AC), camel trek at sunset, dinner by the campfire under desert stars, overnight stay in a tented bivouac, and breakfast are all part of your adventure. Just pack your sense of curiosity—and maybe a scarf for that mountain breeze!