Atlas Mountains & Agafay Desert Day Trip with Camel Ride

Summary

Berber Villages and Camel Trekking in the Atlas Foothills

You’ll walk through real Berber villages, share mint tea with locals, eat home-cooked food in mountain air, and ride camels in the Agafay Desert—all in one day.

What’s the experience like?

The morning air felt crisp as we left Marrakech behind, winding up into the Atlas Mountains. Our guide, Hassan, chatted about his childhood in Imlil while we passed olive groves and tiny roadside stalls selling oranges. The first stop was a Berber village—kids waved from doorways and you could smell fresh bread baking somewhere close by. We wandered narrow lanes, then followed a rocky path to a waterfall that tumbled over smooth stones. It’s not huge, but the sound of water and birds made it feel peaceful after the city noise.

Lunch was at a Berber guest house—nothing fancy, just homemade tagine with soft bread and olives on the side. Mint tea came in little glasses; our host poured it from high up so it frothed just right. Afterward, we visited a women’s cooperative where they showed us how argan oil is made (it’s all done by hand—takes ages). The afternoon sun got warmer as we reached the edge of the Agafay Desert. Here’s where we climbed onto camels for a slow trek across pale sand and scattered stones. The camels grumbled a bit but settled down once we got moving. There was time for photos before sitting down for more tea under a canvas tent—the kind of quiet you only get far from the city.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Berber Village and Camel Ride

• Walk and visit Berber village, small waterfall, lunch at Berber home
• Photo stop
• Visit women's cooperative and camel ride
• Camel ride and tea

Top questions

Is this trip suitable for kids?

Yes! Kids can join and there are infant seats or strollers available if needed.

What should I wear?

Comfortable shoes for walking are best; bring layers since mornings can be cool in the mountains but it warms up later.

Do I need to book in advance?

Booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot and arrange hotel pickup.

Is lunch included?

Yes, you’ll have lunch at a local Berber guest house—it’s part of the experience.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide (other languages possible), all taxes, camel ride, mint tea or coffee breaks, and lunch at a Berber guest house. Everything’s sorted—you just show up ready to explore.