2-Day Ouarzazate and Zagora Desert Tour
2-Day Ouarzazate and Zagora Desert Tour:
This tour takes you through the famous “Hollywood of Africa,” Ouarzazate, visiting the Atlas Film Studios and the Taourirt Kasbah. Continue to Zagora for an evening camel ride and desert camping experience. It’s a great option for those wanting a taste of the desert without venturing all the way to Merzouga.
2-Day Ouarzazate and Zagora Desert Tour from Marrakech: An Unforgettable Journey into Morocco’s Desert Heart
Embark on a 2-day Ouarzazate and Zagora Desert Tour from Marrakech, where you’ll explore the dramatic landscapes of Morocco’s southern desert, cross the High Atlas Mountains, and discover the ancient kasbahs and dunes of Zagora. This adventure offers the perfect balance of cultural discovery and desert exploration, taking you to one of the most famous desert regions of Morocco in a short but immersive experience.
Tour Overview
This 2-day tour from Marrakech to Ouarzazate and Zagora will take you through scenic landscapes, Berber villages, and ancient kasbahs. Along the way, you’ll witness Morocco’s most stunning desert vistas, ride camels into the Zagora desert dunes, and sleep under the stars at a traditional desert camp. Perfect for travelers with limited time, this tour provides a taste of the Sahara’s magic and Morocco’s rich cultural heritage.
- Day 1: Marrakech to Zagora via Ouarzazate – Drive through the Atlas Mountains, explore Ouarzazate, and journey to Zagora for an overnight camel trek.
- Day 2: Zagora to Marrakech – Enjoy a camel ride through the desert, visit local villages, and return to Marrakech via scenic landscapes.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Marrakech to Zagora via Ouarzazate
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Morning:
- Depart from Marrakech early in the morning and begin your journey through the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi n’Tichka pass with scenic views of the mountain peaks.
- Enjoy a stop at Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its fortified kasbahs. Explore the ksar and learn about its history, often used as a backdrop for movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
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Afternoon:
- Continue your journey to Ouarzazate, the “Gateway to the Desert.” Here, you can visit the Taourirt Kasbah, a well-preserved fortress that showcases traditional Moroccan architecture.
- After lunch, head south, traveling through the stunning Draa Valley, famous for its palm groves and ancient kasbahs.
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Evening:
- Arrive in Zagora, a desert town known as the “gateway to the Sahara.” From here, take a camel ride into the desert, reaching a traditional desert camp where you will spend the night.
- Enjoy a delicious dinner around the campfire and traditional Berber music as you sleep under the stars.
Day 2: Zagora to Marrakech
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Morning:
- Wake up early to watch the magical sunrise over the Zagora dunes. After breakfast, take a short camel ride through the desert and visit nearby Berber villages, where you can learn about the local lifestyle and traditions.
- Start your return journey, traveling through the Draa Valley back towards Ouarzazate.
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Afternoon:
- Visit Ouarzazate again for lunch, followed by a scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains, stopping for photos and breaks along the way.
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Evening:
- Arrive in Marrakech in the evening, completing your 2-day adventure through the Zagora Desert.
What’s Included
- Transportation: Air-conditioned 4×4 vehicle or minibus for the duration of the trip.
- Camel Ride: Camel trek into the Zagora desert, with a night in a traditional desert camp.
- Accommodation: 1 night in a desert camp (in Zagora) with a Berber tent and basic facilities.
- Meals: Breakfast and dinner included; lunch on the road (usually not included but can be added on request).
- Guided Tours: English-speaking driver/guide throughout the journey.
- Entrance Fees: Entrance to Ait Ben Haddou and Taourirt Kasbah.
What’s Not Included
- Lunch: Not included, unless specified in the package.
- Drinks and Personal Expenses: All beverages, snacks, and personal purchases are at your own expense.
- Travel Insurance: Optional but recommended for the duration of the trip.
- Tips: Tips for the guides, camel drivers, and camp staff are not included.
Why Choose This 2-Day Ouarzazate and Zagora Desert Tour?
- Perfect for Time-Constrained Travelers: This 2-day tour is ideal for those who want to experience the magic of Morocco’s desert without taking extended time off.
- Scenic and Cultural Exploration: The tour covers a range of landscapes, from the Atlas Mountains to the Draa Valley, and introduces you to Morocco’s rich history and culture, with visits to iconic kasbahs and Berber villages.
- Authentic Desert Experience: Enjoy a real desert adventure, including a camel ride and a night in a traditional desert camp, offering an unforgettable opportunity to experience the Sahara at its most magical.
This 2-day Ouarzazate and Zagora Desert Tour is a compact yet unforgettable journey that combines the best of Morocco’s desert landscapes, culture, and history. Whether you’re looking to explore the famous kasbahs, ride camels into the desert, or experience Berber hospitality, this tour will provide a truly unique experience in just two days.