2-Day Desert Excursion from Marrakech

Imagine yourself passing through overwhelmingly beautiful valleys and past red flat mountains. See yourself going higher and higher into the Atlas Mountains along with a private guide, spending several days getting to know the sights and sounds of this very special place. This two-day tour will bring you from Marrakech through the Draa valley, across to Ouarzazate and back.

On the first day of the tour, you'll depart early in the morning and immediately witness some of the beauty that Morocco has to offer. You'll be stunned by the valleys and hills as you travel 7400 feet up in your air-conditioned vehicle. You'll quickly arrive at the ksar (fortified city) of Ait Ben Haddou, located along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech. You may get the feeling that you've been here before; Ait Ben Haddou has served as the backdrop for films such as “Lawrence of Arabia”, “Time Bandits”, “Kundun”, “The Mummy”, and many more. While many families here now live in modern homes, you’ll get the chance to see why this has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1989. You'll stop for lunch at a local restaurant.

The day continues with a drive to Ouarzazate, home to film studios and famous scenery. You'll pass through the inspiring Anti Atlas Mountains (Tizi N Tnifift), as well as Agdz and the Draa valley, famous for its palm plantations. There are over 11 million palm trees in this area – truly a sight to behold.

The first day comes to a glorious end upon arrival in Zagora, where you'll take a 1.5-hour camel ride to watch the sunset over the desert. You'll sleep like a local in a Berber tent.

On Day 2, you'll wake up with the sunrise and enjoy a view of the the dunes as you ride your camel back to Zagora. The adventure continues as you travel back to Ouarzazate by car, stopping for lunch in Taouirt Kabah. By now you'll understand why Ouarzazate means 'door to the desert'. After lunch, you'll travel back to Marrakech, where the tour concludes.