Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech at sunset

Private Morocco Tour

2-Day Marrakech to Zagora Desert Tour

2 Days / 1 NightPickup from your hotel, riad or preferred meeting point in Marrakech Drop-off at your hotel, riad or preferred location in Marrakech

Overview

The 2-Day Marrakech to Zagora Desert Tour offers a short but memorable introduction to southern Morocco’s mountain scenery, historic kasbahs and desert landscapes. Travel across the High Atlas Mountains through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, visit the fortified village of Ait Ben Haddou and continue through Ouarzazate and the palm-filled Draa Valley toward Zagora. In the late afternoon, ride a camel across the desert landscape at sunset before spending the night in a traditional camp with dinner and Amazigh music. The following morning, watch the sunrise over the desert before returning to Marrakech through the Draa Valley and the High Atlas Mountains, with stops in Ouarzazate when time allows.

Day by Day

Tour Itinerary

Your journey begins with morning pickup from your hotel, riad or preferred meeting point in Marrakech. Leave the city behind and travel toward the High Atlas Mountains. The road climbs through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, reaching more than 2,200 metres above sea level and offering wide views over mountain valleys, traditional villages and changing landscapes. Several scenic stops can be made along the route before arriving at Ait Ben Haddou. This historic fortified village is known for its traditional earthen architecture and its importance as a former caravan settlement. You will have time to explore the ksar, take photographs and enjoy lunch in the surrounding area. A local guide can be arranged at an additional cost. Continue toward Ouarzazate, often described as the gateway to southern Morocco. Depending on the schedule, there may be time for a panoramic stop near the film studios or the historic kasbahs of the city. The route then follows the Draa Valley, one of Morocco’s most impressive oasis landscapes. Palm groves, traditional villages and earthen kasbahs extend along the valley as the journey continues toward Zagora. In the late afternoon, meet your camel caravan and ride through the desert landscape as the sun begins to set. After arriving at the camp, enjoy mint tea, settle into your tent and have a traditional dinner. The evening usually includes Amazigh music around the fire beneath the desert sky. Approximate distance: 350 kilometres Approximate driving time: 6 to 7 hours, excluding visits and meal stops

Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the desert landscape near Zagora. After breakfast at the camp, return to the meeting point by camel or vehicle, where your driver will be waiting. Begin the return journey through the Draa Valley, passing palm groves, traditional villages and historic kasbahs. Stops can be made at panoramic viewpoints for photographs and short breaks. Continue toward Ouarzazate. Depending on the available time, you may visit Taourirt Kasbah or enjoy lunch in the city before returning to the mountains. The afternoon journey crosses the High Atlas Mountains once again through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Additional stops will be made when possible to enjoy the landscape and rest during the drive. Arrive in Marrakech in the evening and receive drop-off at your hotel, riad or preferred location. Approximate distance: 350 kilometres Approximate driving time: 6 to 7 hours, excluding visits and meal stops

Tour Highlights

Cross the High Atlas Mountains through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass

Admire panoramic views of mountain villages and valleys

Visit the UNESCO-listed fortified village of Ait Ben Haddou

Travel through Ouarzazate, known as the gateway to the desert

Follow the palm-lined landscapes of the Draa Valley

Pass traditional villages, kasbahs and desert scenery

Ride a camel near Zagora at sunset

Spend the night in a traditional desert camp

Enjoy dinner and traditional Amazigh music

Included & Excluded

Included

  • Private air-conditioned vehicle
  • Professional driver or driver-guide
  • Pickup from your accommodation in Marrakech
  • Drop-off at your accommodation in Marrakech
  • One night in a desert camp near Zagora
  • Private or shared tent according to the selected package
  • Breakfast and dinner
  • Camel ride at sunset
  • Camel ride or vehicle transfer back from the camp
  • Traditional Amazigh music at the camp

Not Included

  • Lunches
  • Drinks
  • Entrance fees to monuments and attractions
  • Local guide at Ait Ben Haddou
  • Travel insurance
  • International and domestic flights
  • Optional activities
  • Personal expenses
  • Souvenirs

Tour Gallery

Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech at sunset
Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech at sunset
2-Day Marrakech to Zagora Desert Tour
Panoramic view of Jemaa el-Fnaa Square in Marrakech, Morocco, showing bustling market stalls, crowds of people, rooftop cafés, and a golden sunset over the Medina
camel trek during sunset time in merzouga desert

Frequently Asked Questions

01

Is this a private tour?

Yes. This tour can be organized privately with your own vehicle and professional driver or driver-guide. The itinerary can be adjusted when possible according to your pace and preferences.

02

Where does the tour start and end?

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel, riad or preferred meeting point in Marrakech and ends with drop-off at your accommodation in Marrakech.

03

Is Zagora similar to Merzouga?

Zagora offers a shorter desert experience and is more accessible from Marrakech. Its landscape includes rocky desert areas and smaller dunes, while Merzouga is known for the much larger Erg Chebbi sand dunes.

04

Is the camel ride included?

Yes. A camel ride at sunset is included. Travelers who prefer not to ride a camel can request a vehicle transfer to the camp when available.

05

Where will we sleep?

You will spend one night in a desert camp near Zagora. The type of tent and bathroom facilities depend on the camp category selected during booking.

06

Is there a lot of driving during this tour?

Yes. The journey covers approximately 350 kilometres in each direction. Regular stops are made for visits, meals, photographs and rest, but travelers should be prepared for two long driving days.

Route and Location

Explore other private Morocco journeys with similar desert landscapes, routes and experiences.

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Have questions about our Marrakech tours, day trips or private Morocco journeys? Contact our local team and let us help you plan the perfect experience.

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Follow Our Journey

Discover Marrakech through our lens — from thrilling Sahara Desert adventures in Merzouga to the vibrant souks and hidden gems of the Red City. As a licensed local tour operator, we craft private, tailor-made tours and day trips across Marrakech, Fes, Chefchaouen and the Atlas Mountains, blending authentic Moroccan culture with personalized, hassle-free travel experiences.

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