The Agafay Desert is the ideal destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of Marrakech, and it’s just forty kilometers from the vibrant city. Unlike the Sahara, this desert doesn’t have vast sand dunes; it’s called a rocky desert and has a barren, hilly landscape that somewhat resembles the moon. You’ll spend the night in a tented camp where you can fully enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Our Overnight Stay at Emeraude Camp
We chose to spend the night at Emeraude Camp, a small, atmospheric campground with a swimming pool. We slept in a cozy dome tent complete with a comfortable bed, ambient lighting, and a small private terrace. It was first-class glamping; inside, we even had a small heater and a bathroom.
In the evening, all guests gather around low, traditional Moroccan tables in the large communal tent. Delicious dishes are served while traditional Gnawa music is played live. On clear days, the Atlas Mountains can be seen in the background, colored in warm hues by the sunset. It doesn’t get more idyllic than this! Although… When the lights are switched off and everyone goes back to their own tent, you’re left gazing at an amazingly bright night sky!
Activities in the Agafay Desert
Those who prefer a more adventurous experience will also get their money’s worth in the Agafay Desert. There are lots of activities to try. The most popular activities are rides with buggies or quads on the dusty paths. Some venture out on mountain bikes. Big dose of adrenaline, check! Of course, the classic ride on the back of a dromedary also attracts many curious visitors, although we have our doubts about that… We stuck to a walk in the surroundings, and spotted a scorpion along the way! Afterwards, we took a dip in the beautiful swimming pool of our camp.
Where to Stay in the Agafay Desert?
We had a great time at Emeraude Camp, so we’d definitely recommend it. If you’ve got a bigger budget or you’re looking for something more luxurious, you can stay at the
You can also stay the night in a traditional hotel if you’d rather. The
