Desert Trips from Marrakech
Three deserts can be reached from Marrakech. Agafay is 45 minutes away, with no sand dunes. Zagora takes 2 days, with small dunes. Merzouga takes 3 days, with the big Erg Chebbi dunes.
| Desert | Distance from Marrakech | Drive | Best trip length | Landscape |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agafay | about 40 km | 45 min to 1 h | half day or 1 night | Stony desert, Atlas views |
| Zagora | about 360 km | about 7 h | 2 days / 1 night | Draa valley, small dunes |
| Merzouga | about 560 km | 9 to 10 h | 3 days / 2 nights | Erg Chebbi, dunes up to 150 m |
Agafay Desert
The closest: perfect for a sunset dinner, a camel or quad ride, or a night in a camp without a long drive.
Sunset Dinner in the Agafay Desert
Quad Excursion in the Agafay Desert
1-Night Excursion to the Agafay Desert from Marrakech
Unique New Year’s Eve Dinner in the Agafay Desert, near Marrakech
Marrakech & Agafay Combined Tour: Marrakech / Agafay Desert
Zagora Desert
The middle ground in 2 days: the Tichka pass, Aït Ben Haddou, a night in a desert camp and back the next day.
2-Day Excursion to the Zagora Desert
Merzouga Desert
The real sand Sahara: 3 days to cross the Atlas and the Dades gorges and sleep at the foot of the big dunes.
3-Day Tour: Fez – Merzouga Desert, Ouarzazate & Marrakech
1-Night Trip to the Merzouga Desert
Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour – 3 Days / 2 Nights
Frequently asked questions
Which desert should I choose from Marrakech?
With half a day, choose Agafay. With 2 days, Zagora. To see big sand dunes, plan 3 days for Merzouga.
Are there dunes in Agafay?
No. Agafay is a desert of stone and hills with views of the Atlas. The big sand dunes are in Merzouga (Erg Chebbi).
Are the trips private?
Yes. You travel with your own driver from your riad or hotel in Marrakech, and the programme follows your dates.
How do I get the price?
The price depends on your dates, group size and type of camp. Request a quote through the form or on WhatsApp at +212 776 715 010: we reply within 24 hours.