Escape the vibrant streets of Marrakech and venture into the ancient Draa Valley on our 2-day Zagora desert tour. This short yet unforgettable journey takes you across the dramatic High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, through the UNESCO-listed Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, and deep into the stunning Zagora desert where you’ll ride camels at sunset and sleep under a blanket of stars in a traditional desert camp. Perfect for travelers short on time who still want an authentic Sahara experience.
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive south from Marrakech over the High Atlas Mountains. The road climbs through Berber villages and dramatic switchbacks to the Tizi n’Tichka pass at 2,260 meters — one of Morocco’s most spectacular mountain roads. Enjoy a brief stop for photos and mint tea at a panoramic viewpoint.
Next, descend to the fortified village of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and filming location for movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Explore the ancient kasbah’s mud-brick towers and alleyways with your guide.
After lunch in a local restaurant near Ouarzazate, continue along the stunning Draa Valley, lined with thousands of date palms and traditional ksour (fortified villages). Arrive at the edge of the Zagora desert in the late afternoon.
Meet your camels and embark on a 1-hour sunset camel ride into the dunes. Watch the sun paint the sky in shades of gold and pink as you reach your desert camp.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional Berber dinner under the stars, followed by drumming, music, and storytelling around the campfire.
Accommodation: Traditional Berber Desert Camp
Morning: Wake before dawn to watch the sunrise over the desert — an unforgettable moment. After breakfast at the camp, ride your camels back to the starting point.
Begin the scenic return journey toward Marrakech, stopping in Ouarzazate — the “Hollywood of Africa” — for a photo stop at the Taourirt Kasbah. Optionally visit the famous Atlas Studios (entrance fee not included).
Continue north over the Tizi n’Tichka pass, with stops at Argan oil cooperatives run by local Berber women, where you can learn about the traditional extraction process and purchase authentic Argan products.
Arrival: Back at your Marrakech hotel/riad by approximately 7:00 PM.
Route: Marrakech → Tizi n’Tichka → Ait Ben Haddou → Ouarzazate → Draa Valley → Zagora → (return same route) → Marrakech
Total distance: 700 km round trip
