Marrakech: Agafay Desert Camel & Quad Sunset Tour with Dinner

Summary

Sunset camel ride and quad adventure from Marrakech to Agafay desert with Berber dinner

You’ll ride camels across Agafay’s rocky desert as sunset colors shift over the Atlas Mountains, then jump on a quad bike to chase views before settling under a Berber tent for dinner. Expect laughter over mint tea, gentle guidance from locals, and moments of real calm beneath wide Moroccan skies.

What’s the experience like?

I was already halfway into a glass of sweet mint tea when our guide, Youssef, grinned and handed me a blue robe — “for the real desert look,” he said. The camp in Agafay was quieter than I’d pictured; just a few camels shifting their feet in the dust, some laughter from another group getting their headscarves tied. I fumbled with mine (Youssef had to fix it), but honestly, wearing that robe made me feel like I’d stepped into someone else’s story for a while.

The camel ride itself was slower than I expected — almost meditative. All you could hear was the soft crunch of hooves and this low wind brushing over the plateau. Atlas Mountains way off in the distance, still capped with snow even though my hands were warm on the reins. My camel kept turning its head back at me like it was checking if I’d fall off (I didn’t). We stopped at one point just as the sun started dipping — everything turned orange-pink and for a second it felt like time paused. That view is stuck in my head now.

After clambering down (awkwardly), we switched over to quad bikes. I’m not usually into engines but there’s something about chasing your own dust trail across empty hills that makes you forget any worries you brought from Marrakech. Youssef led us up to a spot where you could see the whole desert stretch out — not endless sand like Sahara, more rocky and pale gold. Then we headed back for dinner under this big Berber tent with lanterns swinging gently overhead. The food came out steaming — tagine, fresh bread — and by then it was dark enough that all you could see were stars poking through the canvas gaps. Someone played music somewhere nearby but mostly it was just quiet conversation and that smoky smell from the fire.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert camel ride and dinner experience

• Pick up from Marrakech hotel
• Drive to Agafay desert base camp
• Welcome tea with local herbs
• Take photos with camels
• Wear traditional nomad clothes
• Start one-hour camel ride
• Enjoy sunset on high plateau
• Drive to Berber camp for dinner
• Dine under stars in Berber tent
• Return to Marrakech hotel

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Agafay Desert tour?

Yes, pickup from your accommodation in Marrakech is included.

How long is the camel ride during the sunset tour?

The camel ride lasts about 60 minutes through the Agafay Desert.

Do I need experience to drive the quad bike?

No prior experience is needed; guides provide instructions before starting.

Is dinner provided on this tour?

Yes, a traditional Moroccan meal is served under a Berber tent after activities.

What time does the tour start from Marrakech?

The tour begins around 15:00 (3pm) with pickup from your hotel or riad.

Are traditional clothes provided for the camel ride?

Yes, blue robes and Sahara headscarves are given so guests can dress like nomads.

Can infants join this sunset camel & quad tour?

Yes, specialized infant seats are available and it’s suitable for all fitness levels.

How far is Agafay Desert from Marrakech?

The drive from Marrakech to Agafay Desert takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes pickup from your Marrakech hotel or riad, an hour-long camel ride dressed in traditional nomad clothing, about an hour of quad biking across Agafay’s plateaus, all entry fees and taxes covered, plus a full Moroccan dinner served under a Berber tent before returning to town in comfort.