Just a stone’s throw from the bustling streets of Marrakech lies an otherworldly place – the Agafay Desert.
This rocky oasis may not have the sweeping dunes of the Sahara, but it more than makes up for it with its rugged charm and impressive sunsets. From thrilling quad bike rides to tranquil dinners under a star-studded sky, the Agafay Desert promises an escape unlike any other.
Want to visit Agafay but not sure where to start? Read on for our experience, the best tours, and handy tips to make the most of your trip.
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Visiting the Agafay Desert, Morocco
There are a few options for Agafay Desert tours (more on those in a mo) but the most popular is the evening dinner excursion. We opted for a group tour and left Marrakech at around 3pm.
The city’s chaotic charm quickly gave way to a calming vastness. When we arrived a couple of hours later, we were met with a landscape that felt plucked straight out of a sci-fi movie.
TRAVEL TIP ✈️
Most Morocco tours will stop off at an argan oil cooperative where you can try “Moroccan Nutella” and sample beauty products made by local women. While impressive, don’t feel pressured to spend money there (though it’s great to support the locals if you can!)
Agafay Desert Quad Biking
The first pit stop on our tour was for quad biking and camel riding. We decided against the latter and wandered over to the “farm” area to snap some photos and watch the camels instead.
The guides were very relaxed, allowing us to explore and meet them back at the bus at a certain time. We managed to catch a little bit of the sunset while we were waiting to get back on the bus and it was magnificent – rocky dunes rolling as far as the eye could see, bathed in a golden glow.
Here’s the thing about group tours: there’s quite a bit of waiting around. While the desert itself is undeniably stunning, those long pauses can feel less than ideal. If, like us, you prefer a more action-packed itinerary, we’d recommend booking quad biking or splurging on a private tour.
Read Next: The Best Day Trips from Marrakech
Dinner in the Desert
When we arrived at the bustling Berber camp around 7pm, the dinner service was already underway. And it was delicious – aromatic chicken tagine, fresh bread, and hearty veggies with plenty of mint tea to wash it all down. We were also given bottled water at dinner, but it’s worth bringing an extra bottle with you.
After eating, we were treated to a traditional fire show and dancing. It was pretty crowded, but it was still great fun. Afterwards, we headed back to the thrum of Marrakech in the dark.
How to Get to the Agafay Desert
While it’s possible to drive to the Agafay Desert, we recommend joining a guided tour from Marrakech. These range from half-day trips to the Agafay Desert, ideal for those short on time, to multi-day excursions.
Guided tours often include transportation, meals, and activities like camel rides, sandboarding, or even a night in a traditional Berber camp under the stars. While significantly more expensive, you can also choose to book your experience through a luxury accommodation in the desert, rather than a third-party tour guide.
TRAVEL TIP ✈️
Double-check that transport from Marrakech is included in your excursion, particularly if you have booked directly with an Agafay Desert camp.
Best Agafay Desert Tours
Which tour is right for you? Well, consider how much time and money you want to spend in Agafay. If you’re after an immersive experience, overnight stays (like this wonderful option) are the way to go. Most overnight packages come with a traditional Moroccan dinner, a mesmerising fire show, and sometimes even live music.
If your schedule is tighter, dinner-only tours are a fantastic option. These tours whisk you out of Marrakech for an evening of delicious tagines, Berber hospitality, and an unforgettable atmosphere under the stars.
And, for thrill-seekers, quad biking is an absolute must. There’s nothing quite as exhilarating as roaring across the rugged terrain and carving your path through the rocky dunes. We recommend this quad biking and dinner tour.
TRAVEL TIP ✈️
Many Agafay Desert tours combine different activities, so you might find yourself waiting for other groups to finish while you’re itching to hit the quads. It’s not a dealbreaker, but if seamless experiences are your thing, consider a private tour.
Where to Stay Near the Agafay Desert
Not sure where to bed down near Agafay? You have two main options: stay in Marrakech and opt for a day trip, or sleep overnight in the desert at a traditional Berber camp. Read our guide to the best riads in Marrakech for our top recommendations in the city.
If you fancy something more luxe, book directly with an Agafay Desert camp. There are plenty to choose from, but our favourites are Caravan by Habitas and Inara Camp. Both offer a truly special experience complete with comfortable camping options, beautiful pool areas, and first-class service.
Read Next: Discover the Best Agafay Desert Camps for Luxury and Adventure
Agafay Desert: What to Know Before You Go
There are a couple of things to know before you head into the desert. First of all, be ready for a dramatic shift in temperature. While the daytime can be warm and sunny, desert nights have a chilly edge that might catch you off guard.
If you’re staying overnight, pack layers – a cosy jumper or jacket is a must to keep you comfortable under the stars. Trust us, you’ll be grateful for it as the campfire dies down. Plus, remember to wear sensible shoes and bring extra water and snacks if you’re spending a longer time in the desert.
