Introduction to the 2-Day Zagora Desert Tour from Marrakech

Overview of the best desert tour from Marrakech to Zagora

Experience the magic of the Sahara in just two days with our expertly curated 2 days Marrakech to Zagora Desert Tour. From camel trekking to starlit nights in the dunes, here’s everything you need to know for an unforgettable adventure! A 2 days desert tour from Marrakech to Zagora is perfect for travelers with limited time who still want a taste of the Sahara experience. Unlike the longer Marrakech to Merzouga tour, which requires more travel time, the Zagora desert tour offers a shorter yet immersive journey in Morocco.

Morocco’s desert landscapes are mesmerizing, and while most travelers dream of visiting the Merzouga dunes, the shorter Morocco desert tour 2 days is an excellent alternative. Our Marrakech to Zagora desert trip is one of the best desert tours from Marrakech, and a perfect short getaway to experience the Sahara Desert, camel trekking, and Berber culture. The Marrakech desert excursion includes a scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains, visits to Aït Benhaddou Kasbah and Ouarzazate, an overnight stay in a desert camp, and a magical sunrise camel ride. It’s an ideal option for travelers with limited time who want a taste of the Moroccan desert without venturing too far from Marrakech.

Key highlights of the 2-day Zagora desert tour from Marrakech

day-by-day Marrakech to Zagora desert tour 2 days itinerary Details


Discover the magic of the Moroccan desert with this comprehensive guide to the Sahara desert 2-day tour. This Marrakech to Zagora desert itinerary takes you through the stunning landscapes of the high Atlas Mountains, the ancient Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, and camel trekking ending with an unforgettable overnight desert camping experience in Zagora.

Day 1: Marrakech – Ouarzazate – Agdz – Zagora

Departure from Marrakech: Early morning

  • Your Sahara desert tours from Marrakech begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel or riad in Marrakech.
  • Travel south through the High Atlas Mountains road trip via Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m above sea level); One of Morocco’s highest roads.
  • Photo stops at panoramic viewpoints with amazing mountain landscapes and traditional Berber villages..

Drive through the Draa Valley & arrive in Zagora desert

  • Pass through Agdz and the stunning Draa Valley, home to Morocco’s longest river and thousands of date palm trees. And Kasbahs.
  • Arrive in Zagora Desert in the late afternoon.

Sunset camel trek & overnight desert camp

  • Camel trekking in Zagora desert: Arrive at Zagora in the late afternoon, enjoy a camel ride, and witness a stunning desert sunset.
  • Berber camp experience: Enjoy traditional Berber dinner under the stars with live traditional music of Berber comunities.

Overnight: Stay in a desert camp, either in a standard Berber tent or upgrade to a luxury desert camp with private amenities.

3 days Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour
Magical night in Zagora desert
2 days trip Marrakech to Zagora desert
Berber camp in Zagora
High Atlas Mountains road trip

Day 2: Zagora – Draa Valley – Ouarzazate – Aït Benhaddou– Marrakech

Sunrise over the desert & Breakfast:

  • Early wake-up to witness the stunning Sahara sunrise.
  • Enjoy a delicious Moroccan breakfast at the camp, before returning by camel ride to the starting point, where your driver will be waiting.

Drive back via Draa Valley & Ouarzazate:

Scenic drive back to Marrakech through the Draa Valley.

Stop 1: Ouarzazate – “The Hollywood of Africa”:

  • Short stop in Ouarzazate, home to Atlas Film Studios.
  • Visit the Taourirt Kasbah, one of Morocco’s best-preserved historical sites. (optional)

Stop 2: Visit Aït Benhaddou (UNESCO World Heritage Site):

  • Explore the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a well-preserved ksar known for its role in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
  • Free time to wander through the ancient kasbah and take photos. Most tourist they take Aït Benhaddou tour from Marrakech to maximize their time in this amazing authentic Moroccan destination, in order to enjoy a guided tour of this ancient Berber village and learn about its history.
  • Lunch at a traditional Berber restaurant.
  • Scenic drive retracing your route through the Atlas Mountains back to Marrakech

You will arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon, marking the end of your incredible 2 days Marrakech to Zagora desert tour adventure.

2 days tour from Marrakech to Merzouga
Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah
Day trip to Ait Ben Haddou from Marrakech
Atlas Film Studios Ouarzazate
Palm groves and Kasbahs

Marrakech to Zagora tour inclusions and exclusions


This is best budget desert tour from Marrakech to Zagora 2 days offers a taste of the Sahara experience, and is perfect for those who want an adventure without long hours of travel.

Essential Travel Tips for Your Zagora Desert Tour

Best time for a desert tour in Morocco:

  • The best time to visit the Sahara Desert is during:
    • Spring & Autumn (March-May, September-November) – Pleasant temperatures, best for desert camping.
    • Winter (December-February) – Cold nights, but fewer tourists.
    • Summer (June-August) – Extremely hot, not recommended.

What to pack for a Morocco desert tour 2 days?

  • Comfortable clothing – Light clothes for the day, warm layers for the night.
  • Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen – Essential for desert sun protection.
  • Scarf or turban – Useful for protecting against sand and wind.
  • Hiking shoes or sneakers – For exploring Kasbahs and rocky landscapes.
  • Camera & power bank – Best photography desert tours Morocco to capture stunning landscapes.
  • Small backpack (for personal items during camel trekking).

Is the 2-day Morocco desert tour Suitable for Kids?

Yes, This is one of the best family-friendly desert tours in Morocco but keep in mind the long driving hours. If traveling with kids, bring snacks, entertainment, and extra water.

Is Zagora a Real Desert?

Unlike Merzouga (Erg Chebbi dunes), Zagora has a rocky desert landscape with smaller dunes but offers an authentic Sahara experience.

Alternative Option: 3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga.

If you have extra time, a 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga offers a more immersive experience, including:

  • Erg Chebbi Sand Dunes – The largest dunes in Morocco
  • Luxury Desert Camps – Stay in a high-end glamping site
  • Longer Camel Trekking – Ride deeper into the Sahara

FAQs about the 2 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Zagora


Yes! While Zagora is a rocky desert (not the iconic golden dunes of Merzouga). Zagora has smaller dunes compared to Merzouga. It’s part of the pre-Saharan region, offering an authentic desert experience close to Marrakech with a camel trek and a Berber camp stay. If you prefer bigger sand dunes, the Merzouga tour (3+ days) is better.

What is the best desert tour from Marrakech?

A 2-day desert tour from Marrakech to Zagora is the perfect way to experience the Moroccan desert in a short time. Unlike Merzouga, which requires at least 3 days, Zagora desert is much closer to Marrakech, making it an ideal choice for those with limited time. It is the best desert tour from Marrakech that provides an authentic desert camping experience with camel trekking in Zagora, Berber culture, and stunning desert landscapes.

What’s the difference between Zagora and Merzouga?

Zagora vs Merzouga desert tour details:

FeatureZagoraMerzouga
Distance from MarrakechAbout 7 hours9-10 hours
Type of DesertRocky & dryGolden sand dunes
Sand dunesSmall dunesHigh (Erg Chebbi dunes)
Camel trekking in MoroccoYesYes
Desert camping experienceYesYes
Best forShort tripsDeep desert experience

A one-day desert tour from Marrakech is not recommended as the journey is too long. A 2 days tour from Marrakech to Zagora desert is the shortest option for a true desert experience.

Zagora is approximately 350 km (7 hours) from Marrakech by car. The journey passes through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, Ait Ben Haddou, and the Draa Valley before reaching Zagora desert.

Either you are on a private desert tour Marrakech to Zagora or during a Marrakech to Zagora shared tour most desert camps in Zagora and Merzouga desert offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly meal options. In order to enjoy a best desert camp experience in Morocco.

Unlike Erg Chebbi (Merzouga), Zagora desert has small desert dunes and a more rocky desert landscape. However, it still offers an authentic desert experience.

The 2 days Marrakech to Zagora tour price starting from $80 per person, depending on inclusions:

  • Private or Marrakech to Zagora shared tour.
  • Luxury vs. standard desert camp.
  • Meals & activities included.

To ensure a hassle-free desert experience in Morocco, book your 2-day Zagora desert tour from Marrakech with us using our booking form, or check our “contact us” page, to secure the best deals and ensure availability, especially in peak season!

Final Thoughts: Is the Marrakech to Zagora 2 days desert tour worth it?

If you’re short on time in Marrakech but still want a magical desert experience in Morocco. Our 2 days Marrakech to Zagora tour is an excellent choice. You’ll experience a camel trek, Berber culture, and starry desert nights, all within a weekend trip from Marrakech.

Our 2 days desert tour from Marrakech to Zagora offers a scenic journey through the Atlas Mountains, a visit to Ait Ben Haddou, and a camel trek into the desert, with an overnight stay in a Berber camp. This is the affordable short desert trip from Marrakech, ideal and the best alternative to Merzouga for travelers wanting a quick yet authentic Sahara experience.

Ready for an unforgettable desert adventure? Book your 2 days Marrakech to Zagora desert tour, secure your spot now and experience Morocco’s stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality!

RELATED Morocco desert tour FROM Marrakech


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