Marrakech Agafay Desert: Camel Ride, Sunset & Dinner Tour

Summary

Evening desert escape from Marrakech with camel ride dinner and music

You’ll leave Marrakech behind for an evening in Agafay Desert—riding camels at sunset, sharing tea with locals, tasting slow-cooked tagine under starlight, and listening to live music around the fire. With hotel pickup included and a guide who feels more like a friend than a host, you’ll get moments of real Moroccan warmth you might not expect.

What’s the experience like?

We were already halfway out of Marrakech before I realized how quiet it was getting — just the hum of the road and a bit of laughter from our group in the van. Our guide, Youssef, pointed out the Atlas Mountains way off in the haze. I tried to snap a photo but honestly, it didn’t do it justice. We stopped by a women’s cooperative on the way; I didn’t expect to be handed warm bread straight from the oven (I can still smell that mix of flour and woodsmoke). Someone’s little boy waved at us shyly — I waved back, probably too enthusiastically.

The Agafay Desert isn’t what I pictured — no endless sand seas, more like soft stone hills rolling into gold as the sun dips. The camels were waiting when we arrived, looking both patient and unimpressed. Mounting up was clumsy for me (Youssef grinned and said “first time?”), but once we started moving, it was strangely peaceful. The only sounds were hooves crunching gravel and distant voices floating over from camp. Sunset crept up fast — one minute we’re squinting in daylight, next thing everything’s washed orange and pink. I remember thinking: this is slower than city time.

Dinner happened under a sky that just kept getting bigger as night fell. Local cooks served tagine — chicken for me, veggie for my friend — with salad and hot mint tea poured high so it foamed. There was music after; drums and singing that felt less like a show and more like someone’s family party you’ve wandered into by accident. At one point they got us up to dance (my rhythm is questionable but nobody cared). It got chilly later, so someone brought out extra blankets without us even asking.

Driving back to Marrakech after dark felt different — everyone quieter, maybe full or just thoughtful. The city lights looked almost unreal after all that open space. I keep thinking about that silence right before dinner started, when all you could hear was wind and someone tuning a stringed instrument somewhere nearby…

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert trip with sunset and dinner

• Pick up from Marrakech at 16:30
• Optional visit to Takerkoust Dam
• Have tea en route to Agafay Desert
• Arrive at Agafay Desert
• Ride camel around dunes at sunset
• Enjoy typical Moroccan dinner in camp
• Listen to local music and dancing
• Return to Marrakech around 22:30

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Agafay Desert tour?

Yes, pickup from your hotel or meeting point in Marrakech is included.

What kind of food is served for dinner?

Dinner includes Moroccan salad, chicken/lamb/beef tagine (or vegetarian/vegan options), tea, water, and dessert.

How long does the camel ride last?

The camel ride takes place at sunset around small dunes; exact duration may vary but usually lasts about 30-45 minutes.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan meals are available if requested in advance.

What time does the tour return to Marrakech?

You’ll return to Marrakech around 22:30 (10:30 PM).

Are children allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap; specialized infant seats are available.

Is there live music during dinner?

Yes, local musicians play traditional music during dinner at camp.

Do I need any special equipment or clothing?

No special equipment needed; bring warm layers as it can get cool at night.

What’s included

Your evening includes pickup from your hotel or meeting point in Marrakech by air-conditioned vehicle, an optional stop at Takerkoust Dam for tea on the way to Agafay Desert, a guided camel ride at sunset across rocky dunes, dinner prepared by local cooks with options for vegetarians or vegans plus tea and dessert, live traditional music around the campfire—and then transport back to Marrakech after dark.