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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 07 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Mandy Sinclair

The Agafay Desert, with its gentle rolling hills, the odd palm tree dotting the landscape, and the Atlas Mountains hovering in the background (snow-capped during winter months), is a complete contrast to bustling Marrakech just 45 minutes away. Trekking across the lunar-like landscapes, before dinner beneath the star-scattered desert sky is a memorable and unique experience.

Your evening begins with a 45-minute guided camel trek, transporting guests from the desert outskirts to a luxury camp, where dinner – a selection of Moroccan salads followed by tajine or grilled meats – is served with a view. Dinner is served under the starry sky or inside a traditional Bedouin tent, depending on the season. Evenings often include local musicians who play traditional songs with infectious, vibrant rhythms.

Several luxury camps provide glamping options for travellers looking for an overnight option.

Recommended itineraries by our writers that include this experience

Price from: £180
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 10+
When: All year around
Duration: 4 hours

Getting there & doing it

You’ll need to book private transfers there and back to the Agafay Desert and your host camp. Alternatively, try a camel trek back to meet your driver after dinner depending on the season.

If having dinner at the camp during colder months, bring warm layers, as the temperature will drop considerably after sunset. Long pants are advised for the camel trek.

As the camps are off-grid, ensure your electronic devices charged in advance to capture the moment.

When to do it

Most camps close during the summer months when temperatures climb above +45°C and little shade is offered.

Winter days are ideal for starting with lunch in the desert and enjoying the warmth of the sunshine, and finishing with a sunset camel trek to meet your driver.

Time your visit to be able to see the sunset over the stony desert and rolling hills, particularly stunning during the winter months when the snow-capped Atlas Mountains are visible.

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

Magical Dinner And Agafay Desert & Sunset Camel Ride From Marrakesh

Magical Dinner And Agafay Desert & Sunset Camel Ride From Marrakesh

Marrakech

Discover the agafay desert oasis of Marrakech at the top of the camel rides on agafay Rocky desert, a huge located a few minutes drive from ...

€30 | Rating 4.87 / 5 [8 ratings]

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Amazing Dinner in Agafay Desert with Sunset and Berber Camp

Amazing Dinner in Agafay Desert with Sunset and Berber Camp

Marrakech

Head to the Agafay Desert for a unique dining experience. Enjoy dinner under the stars, as the sun sets over the sand dunes. Sample local fo...

€35 | Rating 4.27 / 5 [11 ratings]

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Camel Exprience and magical dinner in Agafay desert

Camel Exprience and magical dinner in Agafay desert

Marrakech

With family or friends, this gentle hike delights both young and old who enjoy the pleasures of an exotic excursion set among exotic setting...

€60 | Rating 4.7 / 5 [20 ratings]

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Experience Desert Agafay Sunset Dinner and Camel Ride

Experience Desert Agafay Sunset Dinner and Camel Ride

Marrakech

Highlights Spend an unforgettable evening in the Agafay Desert Watch the sunset across the sprawling sandy landscape Enjoy a relaxing camel ...

€60 | Rating 4.85 / 5 [14 ratings]

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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Les Jardins de la Medina

Marrakech, Marrakech-Safi, Morocco[22.3 miles]

A lovely light-filled Medina riad, with superb pool and spa (with hammam) is a tasteful mix of Moroccan style and modern comfort.

Official star rating:

La Mamounia

Marrakech, Marrakech-Safi, Morocco[22.4 miles]

Sumptuous suites, monumental spa and massive pools make this luxurious legend a royal favourite.

Official star rating:

La Villa des Orangers

Marrakech, Marrakech-Safi, Morocco[22.6 miles]

One of Marrakech’s most luxurious riads, in a super convenient location, with a level of refinement and comfort that’s unmatched.

Official star rating:

Royal Mansour

Marrakech, Marrakech-Safi, Morocco[22.7 miles]

A flamboyant, palatial hotel commissioned by the Moroccan king, popular with European royalty and celebrities. The place to stay in Marrakech.

Official star rating:

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

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Hot-air balloon flights over Marrakech

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Float high over dramatic, arid landscapes and look down into traditional Berber villages – a unique and thought-provoking perspective on a spectacular landscape.

Best for ages: 10+ | £150 | 5+ hours

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Jemaa El Fna

Marrakech, Marrakech-Safi, Morocco[23.2 miles]

UNESCO World Heritage-listed central square that hums with snake charmers, musicians, magicians and other exotics.

Best for ages: 6+ | Free

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