2 Days Tour From Marrakech To Zagora Desert & Kasbahs

Day 1: Departure from Marrakech to Zagora Desert

Early Morning Departure from Marrakech

Our journey begins with an early morning departure from Marrakech. As we leave the bustling city behind, the landscape gradually changes from urban sprawl to the serene beauty of the Atlas Mountains. The winding roads offer breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, deep valleys, and traditional Berber villages clinging to the mountainsides.

Crossing the High Atlas Mountains

The first significant stop on our route is the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest mountain pass in North Africa. At an altitude of 2,260 meters, this pass offers panoramic views of the High Atlas Mountains. The journey through this pass is a photographer’s dream, with opportunities to capture the dramatic contrasts of the Moroccan landscape.

Visit to Ait Ben Haddou – The Iconic Kasbah

One of the highlights of the day is a visit to the famous Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient Kasbah, with its earthen buildings surrounded by high walls, has been a backdrop for numerous films, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones. As we explore this historical site, you’ll walk through narrow alleys, past old watchtowers, and experience the ancient way of life that still lingers in this desert fortress.

Lunch in Ouarzazate – The Gateway to the Sahara

After exploring Ait Ben Haddou, we continue our journey to Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara.” This city is famous for its film studios and the impressive Taourirt Kasbah. Here, we’ll stop for a traditional Moroccan lunch, giving you a taste of the local cuisine.

Journey to Zagora

Post-lunch, we embark on the final leg of our journey towards Zagora, traversing the Draa Valley, known for its lush palm groves and traditional Berber villages. The Draa River, the longest river in Morocco, nourishes this fertile valley, creating a striking contrast against the arid desert landscape.

Camel Trekking in the Zagora Desert

As we arrive in Zagora, the landscape changes to vast expanses of golden sand dunes. Here, you’ll experience the quintessential desert adventure – a camel trek into the heart of the Zagora Desert. Riding on camelback, you’ll be guided by local Berber guides to your desert camp, where the stunning sunset over the dunes marks the end of your first day.

Overnight in a Desert Camp

The evening is spent in a traditional Berber tent, under a canopy of stars that light up the desert night sky. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, accompanied by Berber music around the campfire. This is a moment to relax, reflect, and absorb the peaceful ambiance of the desert.

Day 2: Zagora Desert to Marrakech

Sunrise Over the Dunes

The day begins early, with the opportunity to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Zagora dunes. The first light of day paints the sands in hues of gold and pink, offering a magical start to your day. After sunrise, a traditional Moroccan breakfast awaits, providing the energy needed for the journey ahead.

Exploration of Draa Valley and Kasbahs

As we depart from Zagora, we retrace our steps through the Draa Valley. This fertile oasis, lined with date palms and fortified villages, is home to numerous ancient Kasbahs. We will visit some of these Kasbahs, exploring their historical significance and architectural beauty.

Lunch in Ouarzazate

We’ll return to Ouarzazate for lunch, giving you another opportunity to savor Moroccan cuisine. This city, also known as the “Hollywood of Morocco,” is a hub for the Moroccan film industry and offers insights into the country’s cinematic history.

Return to Marrakech

The final leg of our journey takes us back through the High Atlas Mountains to Marrakech. As we descend from the mountains, the vibrant city comes into view, signaling the end of our desert adventure.