2 Days Tour From Marrakech to Zagora | Private Desert Experience
Experience the magic of the Sahara with our private 2 days tour from Marrakech to Zagora. Enjoy camel trekking, desert camping, and stunning landscapes with Travel Via Morocco.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Morocco’s diverse landscapes with our private 2 days tour from Marrakech to Zagora. This carefully crafted adventure takes you from the bustling streets of Marrakech across the majestic High Atlas Mountains to the tranquil Zagora desert. Experience the magic of a sunset camel trek, spend a night under the stars in a traditional desert camp, and discover ancient kasbahs along the way. Our private tour ensures personalized attention and flexibility to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Overview of Our 2 Day Desert Trip from Marrakech
Our private 2 day desert trip from Marrakech to Zagora offers an ideal balance of adventure and comfort for travelers with limited time. Unlike shared tours, our private experience allows you to set your own pace and enjoy personalized attention throughout the journey. The route takes you through breathtaking landscapes, from the snow-capped Atlas Mountains to the palm-fringed Draa Valley, before reaching the serene Zagora desert.
This tour is perfect for couples, families, or small groups seeking an authentic Moroccan desert experience without spending too many days away from Marrakech. You’ll enjoy comfortable transportation in a private vehicle, guided exploration of UNESCO World Heritage sites, and the unforgettable experience of riding camels into the desert as the sun sets over the dunes.
Tour Type: Private Tour Benefits
Our Marrakech to Zagora desert tour is offered as a private experience, providing significant advantages over shared group tours:
- Personalized itinerary with flexibility to adjust timing at different stops
- Dedicated vehicle and driver-guide for your party only
- No waiting for other travelers or adhering to rigid group schedules
- Freedom to spend more time at sites that interest you most
- Private conversations with your guide about Moroccan culture and history
- Comfortable travel experience with pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation
A private tour creates a more intimate desert experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of the Zagora desert without distractions. Your guide can tailor explanations and activities to match your specific interests, ensuring a truly personalized adventure.
Essential Info About Marrakech to Zagora Tour
| Tour Detail | Information |
| Distance | Approximately 355 km (220 miles) each way |
| Driving Time | 7-8 hours each day with scenic stops |
| Best Time to Visit | September to May (avoiding summer heat) |
| Group Size | Private tour for your party only (no minimum) |
| Accommodation | Private desert camp with standard or luxury options |
| Tour Start Time | 7:30 AM pickup from your Marrakech accommodation |
| Tour End Time | Approximately 6:00-7:00 PM on day two |
The Zagora desert offers a different experience than the more distant Merzouga dunes. While Zagora features smaller sand dunes in a rocky desert landscape, it provides a more accessible authentic desert experience for travelers with limited time. The journey itself is filled with spectacular scenery and cultural highlights that make this 2-day adventure truly worthwhile.
Highlights of 2 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Zagora
- Cross the spectacular High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass (2,260m)
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou
- Explore Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa”
- Drive through the lush Draa Valley with Morocco’s largest palm grove
- Experience a magical sunset camel trek in the Zagora desert
- Spend the night in a private desert camp under the stars
- Enjoy traditional Berber music around a campfire
- Witness a breathtaking desert sunrise
Each highlight on this 2 days Zagora desert tour offers a unique glimpse into Morocco’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From the winding mountain roads to the peaceful desert night, every moment is designed to create an authentic and memorable experience.
Day-by-Day Itinerary: 2 Days from Marrakech to Zagora
Day 1: Marrakech – Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou – Zagora Desert
Your adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your Marrakech accommodation at 7:30 AM. Traveling in a comfortable private vehicle, you’ll journey through the magnificent High Atlas Mountains, crossing the breathtaking Tizi n’Tichka pass at 2,260 meters. Enjoy spectacular views and photo opportunities along the way.
By late morning, you’ll arrive at the impressive Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Morocco’s most iconic landmarks. This ancient fortified village has served as a backdrop for numerous Hollywood films and TV shows. Your guide will lead you through its narrow streets, explaining the fascinating history and architecture of this well-preserved kasbah.
After lunch at a local restaurant (not included), continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara” and Morocco’s film production hub. You’ll have time to explore the exterior of the Taourirt Kasbah before continuing your journey through the stunning Draa Valley, home to Morocco’s largest palm grove stretching over 100 kilometers.
As the sun begins to set, you’ll arrive at the edge of the Zagora desert where your camel caravan awaits. Experience the magic of a sunset camel trek as you ride through the desert landscape to your private camp. Upon arrival, enjoy a welcome tea ceremony before savoring a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars. The evening continues with Berber music around the campfire before retiring to your private tent for the night.
Day 2: Zagora Desert – Draa Valley – Atlas Mountains – Marrakech
Wake up early to witness the spectacular desert sunrise – a truly magical experience as the changing light transforms the landscape. After breakfast at the camp, enjoy a morning camel ride back to the meeting point where your driver will be waiting.
The return journey to Marrakech follows a similar route, allowing you to see the magnificent landscapes in different lighting conditions. You’ll make a stop in Ouarzazate for lunch (not included) and have time for additional exploration if desired.
Continue through the High Atlas Mountains, with stops for photos and rest breaks, before descending toward Marrakech. You’ll arrive back at your accommodation in the early evening, around 6:00-7:00 PM, with memories of an unforgettable desert adventure.
Inclusions & Exclusions for 2 Days Trip from Marrakech to Zagora
What's Included:
- Private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide throughout the tour
- Pick-up and drop-off at your Marrakech accommodation
- One night accommodation in a private desert camp
- Sunset and sunrise camel treks with experienced guides
- Dinner and breakfast at the desert camp
- Bottled water in the vehicle
- All taxes and service charges
What's Not Included:
- Lunches and beverages during meals
- Entrance fees to monuments and studios (if applicable)
- Local guide fees at Ait Ben Haddou
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Tips and gratuities (at your discretion)
- Travel insurance
Important Notes About Your Zagora Desert Tour
Weather Considerations: Desert temperatures can vary dramatically between day and night, especially in winter months (December-February) when nights can be quite cold. Summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot during the day. We recommend checking seasonal weather forecasts and packing accordingly.
Accommodation Options: We offer two types of desert camp accommodations:
- Standard Camp: Private tents with comfortable beds and shared bathroom facilities
- Luxury Camp: Spacious tents with proper beds, private ensuite bathrooms, and enhanced amenities
Customization: As this is a private tour, we can adjust certain aspects of the itinerary to suit your preferences. Please discuss any special requests at the time of booking.
What to Pack for Your 2 Days Desert Tour Marrakech
- Small backpack or overnight bag for the desert camp
- Comfortable clothing (layers are recommended)
- Sturdy walking shoes or sandals (closed shoes for camel trekking)
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Light jacket or warm clothing for cool desert nights
- Personal toiletries and medications
- Camera with extra batteries
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Cash for personal expenses, lunches, and tips
For your main luggage that won’t be needed during the desert stay, secure storage is available in our vehicle while you enjoy your camel trek and overnight desert experience. We recommend packing light for the desert portion of your journey.
Reviews from Our 2 Days Zagora Desert Tour Travelers
“This 2-day tour exceeded all our expectations! Our guide Mohamed was knowledgeable and attentive, making sure we had the best experience possible. The camel trek at sunset was magical, and sleeping under the stars in the Zagora desert was unforgettable. The private tour format allowed us to take our time at Ait Ben Haddou, which was a highlight. Highly recommend Travel Via Morocco for this perfect desert adventure!”
“As a solo traveler, I was looking for a safe and authentic desert experience. This private tour was perfect – I never felt rushed and my guide Youssef shared fascinating insights about Berber culture. The desert camp was comfortable with delicious food, and the camel ride was more enjoyable than I expected! The journey through the Atlas Mountains and Draa Valley was just as impressive as the desert itself.”
“Our family of four (including two teenagers) had an amazing time on this 2-day tour. Having a private vehicle made the journey comfortable, and our guide was patient with our many photo stops. The kids loved the camel trek and the evening music around the campfire. While Zagora doesn’t have huge sand dunes, the desert experience was still magical and perfect for our short timeframe. A highlight of our Morocco vacation!”
Tips for Your 2 Days Tour from Marrakech to Zagora
What is the best time of year for this desert tour?
The ideal seasons for the Zagora desert tour are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when daytime temperatures are pleasant and nights are not too cold. Winter (December-February) offers beautiful clear skies but can be quite cold at night, while summer (June-August) can be extremely hot during the day.
How physically demanding is the camel trek?
The camel ride is approximately 1 hour each way and is suitable for most fitness levels. Camels can be uncomfortable for some people, so we offer the option to walk alongside the caravan or arrange alternative transport to the camp if preferred. Wearing long pants helps make the camel ride more comfortable.
Is the Zagora desert tour suitable for children?
Yes, this tour is family-friendly and suitable for children of all ages. Younger children can ride on the same camel as a parent during the trek. The private tour format allows for flexibility to accommodate family needs, including meal times and rest stops.
What's the difference between Zagora and Merzouga desert tours?
Zagora offers a rocky desert landscape with smaller sand dunes and is accessible within a 2-day timeframe from Marrakech. Merzouga features the spectacular Erg Chebbi dunes with classic Saharan sand dunes but requires at least 3 days from Marrakech due to the greater distance. Zagora is perfect for travelers with limited time who still want an authentic desert experience.
Tour Route Map: Marrakech to Zagora Desert
This map shows the approximate route of our 2 days tour from Marrakech to Zagora, passing through the High Atlas Mountains, Ait Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate, and the Draa Valley before reaching the Zagora desert.
Our private 2 days tour from Marrakech to Zagora offers the perfect introduction to Morocco’s desert landscapes and Berber culture. From the majestic Atlas Mountains to the tranquil Zagora desert, every moment of this journey is designed to create lasting memories. The private format ensures personalized attention and flexibility, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in this magical experience at your own pace.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural insights, or simply the peace of the desert under a starlit sky, this tour delivers an authentic Moroccan experience in just two days. Contact Travel via Morocco today to book your desert adventure and discover the natural beauty and rich heritage that make Morocco such a captivating destination.
Ready for Your Desert Adventure?
Book your private 2 days tour from Marrakech to Zagora today and experience the magic of the Moroccan desert with personalized service.
Experience the Magic of the Zagora Desert
Limited availability for private tours – secure your preferred dates now!
Ready for an Unforgettable Desert Adventure?
Book your private 2 days tour from Marrakech to Zagora today and experience the magic of Morocco’s landscapes and culture.