Only have a weekend? This is the shortest desert trip from Marrakech. The dunes in Zagora are smaller than in Merzouga, but you still get a camel ride, a campfire and a sky full of stars.

Day by day

  1. Day 1

    Marrakech to the Zagora desert

    We cross the High Atlas and stop at the Ksar of Aït-Ben-Haddou. After Ouarzazate, the road goes over the Anti-Atlas and down into the Draa Valley, one of the longest palm groves in Morocco. Near Zagora you ride a camel to the camp for dinner and the night.

    About 7 hours on the road, plus a short camel ride
  2. Day 2

    Sunrise and back to Marrakech

    Wake up for the sunrise, have breakfast in the camp, then drive back to Marrakech with stops for photos and lunch.

    About 7 hours on the road
  • Aït-Ben-Haddou at sunset
  • High Atlas mountains
  • Camel at sunset

What's included

Included

  • Air-conditioned vehicle and fuel
  • English-speaking driver
  • Pickup and drop-off in Marrakech
  • 1 night in a desert camp with dinner and breakfast
  • Camel ride to and from the camp

Not included

  • Lunches and drinks
  • Local guides at the sites (optional)
  • Tips
  • Travel insurance

Questions about this trip

Zagora or Merzouga: which is better?

Merzouga has the big orange dunes. Zagora is closer, so the trip takes 2 days instead of 3. If you can, go to Merzouga.

Is 2 days enough?

It is enough to feel the desert. Expect two long days in the car.

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