Agafay from Marrakech: Dinner, Camel Ride, and Camps

Less than 40 minutes from the medina of Marrakech, the Agafay desert offers an immediate change of scenery: a stone plateau stretching as far as the eye can see, facing the snow-capped peaks of the High Atlas. Unlike the Sahara — Merzouga or Zagora — which requires several hours on the road, Agafay can be visited on a day trip or an overnight stay, without sacrificing the essential desert experience. Note: it's a stone desert, not sand dunes — worth keeping in mind if you were picturing a true Sahara landscape.

How to get there

Agafay isn't a town but a desert area southwest of Marrakech, usually reached via an organized excursion (transfer included) rather than a rental car — the tracks there aren't all suitable for driving without a guide. Most experiences offer a direct transfer from a central point in Marrakech, in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset.

What to do in Agafay

Dinner show evening — the most popular option for a single evening out: live music, tagine and sunset over the plateau. Two options are available: the classic Agafay desert evening or the version with quad biking and camel ride for some extra adventure before dinner.
Camel ride at sunset — for a more intimate experience, focused on the ride and the sunset moment rather than the show: magical dinner and camel ride.
Staying overnight in a luxury camp — to extend the experience beyond a single evening.

The luxury camp experience in Agafay

Spending a night in an Agafay camp is the natural extension of an evening in the desert: instead of heading back after dinner, you sleep under the stars and wake up to sunrise over the Atlas the next morning.

Scarabeo Camp

One of the best-known camps: ten Berber cotton tents with private bathroom, individual terrace and king-size bed. The open-air restaurant serves gourmet Moroccan cuisine paired with Moroccan wines.

Agafay Desert Camp

A more accessible camp, perfect for a discovery night. Air-conditioned tents, infinity pool facing the Atlas, evening entertainment (live music, campfire, guided stargazing).

Desert Luxury Camp

For a five-star standard: canopy bed, private jacuzzi, concierge service. Breakfast on the terrace at sunrise facing the Atlas is worth the stay on its own.