The Agafay Desert is a semi-arid expanse of stony hills in ochre and beige tones, about forty kilometres southwest of Marrakech at the foot of the High Atlas. It is not a dune desert like the Sahara, but a plateau of stones and ravines. Being so close, it makes a half-day or evening outing: a dromedary ride, a quad or buggy tour, then dinner in a camp facing the sunset. On clear days, the Atlas peaks close the horizon.
Highlights
The landscape at sunset
At the end of the day, the low light brings out the shape of the hills and the Atlas ranges in the distance. Most camps choose this moment to serve tea.
The dromedary ride
Rides usually last from 30 minutes to an hour, at walking pace, along the tracks between the hills. The activity suits families and needs no experience.
Quads, buggies and tracks
The tracks winding between the hills can be explored by quad or buggy, with a guide. Wear glasses and a scarf against the dust.
Infos pratiques
Tips
Prices vary widely depending on the provider and what is included. As a guide, expect 100 to 300 MAD for a dromedary ride, 400 to 700 MAD for two hours of quad biking, and 45 to 130 € per person for an organised outing with transfer from Marrakech (prices checked in October 2026). Check before booking whether transfer, dinner and drinks are included. Evenings are much cooler than in town: bring a jacket, even in spring.
How to get there
About 40 km southwest of Marrakech, or 45 minutes to an hour by road depending on traffic and the camp chosen. Most outings include pick-up at your hotel or riad. Otherwise, a grand taxi or private driver booked for the round trip will take you to your camp. The nearby Lalla Takerkoust lake is often combined with the outing.
Opening hours
Nearby
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