Agafay Desert and Atlas Mountains Day Tour
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Set out from Marrakesh into the Atlas Mountains, passing hamlets, villages, and farmers' fields. Visit and share a meal with a Berber family, admire Takerkoust Lake, and relax in the tranquility of the Agafay Desert as the sun sets.
Available options
Sharing Tour
Duration: 7 hours: Discover the stunning landscapes of the High Atlas Mountains and 4 valleys on a day trip <br/>Lunch in Berber familly House<br/>van<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pick up and drop off
Local guide
Camel Ride
Air-conditioned vehicle
Coffee and/or Tea
Detailed itinerary
1
Fall in love with the varied and unique beauty of Morocco’s valleys, mountains, countryside, and desert on this full-day guided excursion from Marrakech. After pickup at around 9:00 AM, head to the Atlas Mountains, passing through a small village where you can visit both an argan oil co-operative and a traditional Berber souk (market).
Arrive in Imlil and take a trek by foot or by camel to Armed, the highest and largest village in Imlil Valley. Your journey will take you past waterfalls and the hamlets of Ait Mizan, Targa, and Imoula. Stop off in Tamatert to take in views of ancient irrigated fields of barley, corn, and vegetables, surrounded by cherry and walnut trees. Your guide will point out interesting sites and tell you about Berber culture and heritage along the way.
2
Come back down through the village of Ait Souka, where you’ll meet a Berber family and enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal as a guest in their home. Head next to Kik Plateau, at 1,800 meters altitude, offering spectacular 360-degree views, and in spring, a marvelous spread of alpine flowers.
Arrive at the edge of Lalla Takerkoust Lake, whose dam supplies Marrakesh with all its energy. Take a tea break and admire the views out over the lake, or, if you’d prefer an adrenaline rush, quad biking or jet skiing can be arranged locally.
Finally, drive to Agafay Desert and enjoy the tranquility of the countryside. Pass through stone desert, barren light brown plateaus, Bedouin villages, oases, and high hills with panoramic views to High Atlas. If the timing is right, enjoy views of the sunset from up high before returning to Marrakech.
What's not included
Bottled water
Lunch (approximately 5€ paid locally in cash to a Berber family)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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2 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Marrakech
Marrakech is a vibrant city known for its rich history, bustling souks, and stunning architecture. It offers a blend of traditional Moroccan culture and modern amenities, making it a captivating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Jemaa El-Fnaa
Jemaa El-Fnaa is the heart of Marrakech, a bustling square filled with food stalls, entertainers, and souvenir vendors. It's a must-visit for its vibrant atmosphere and cultural experiences.
Cultural
2-3 hours
Free (food and souvenirs cost extra)
Koutoubia Mosque
The Koutoubia Mosque is one of the most iconic landmarks in Marrakech. Its minaret is a symbol of the city and can be seen from many parts of the medina.
Historical
1 hour
Free (non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque)
Bahia Palace
The Bahia Palace is a stunning example of Moroccan architecture, featuring intricate tile work, lush gardens, and beautiful courtyards. It offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the past.
Historical
1-2 hours
70 MAD
Majorelle Garden
The Majorelle Garden is a beautiful botanical garden designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle. It features a variety of plants, a striking blue villa, and a museum dedicated to Yves Saint Laurent.
Nature
2-3 hours
70 MAD
Saadian Tombs
The Saadian Tombs are a collection of mausoleums dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. They were discovered in 1917 and offer a fascinating look into the history of Marrakech.
Historical
1 hour
70 MAD
Must-Try Local Dishes
Tagine
A slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, named after the earthenware pot it's cooked in.
Main course
Vegetarian options available
Couscous
A dish made with steamed semolina grains, often served with vegetables and meat.
Main course
Vegetarian options available
Pastilla
A savory-sweet pie made with layers of filo pastry, filled with spiced pigeon or chicken, almonds, and powdered sugar.
Main course
Contains nuts
Mint Tea
A traditional Moroccan tea made with green tea and fresh mint leaves, sweetened with sugar.
Drink
Contains caffeine
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Atlas Mountains
Surfing in Essaouira
Quad biking in the desert
Spa treatments
Yoga retreats
Relaxing in a hammam
Exploring the medina
Visiting museums
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)
The best time to visit Marrakech is during spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the city. The temperatures are mild, and the crowds are manageable.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: French, Berber languages
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
Time Zone
GMT+0
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Marrakech is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
- • Use reputable taxi services and agree on the fare before starting your journey.
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas.
Getting there
By air
- Menara International Airport • 4 km from city center
By train
Marrakech Railway Station
By bus
Marrakech Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Marrakech. They are affordable and cover most areas of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Careem, Heetch
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Medina
Gueliz
Hivernage
Day trips
Atlas Mountains
60 km from Marrakech • Full day
The Atlas Mountains offer stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and traditional Berber villages. It's a great escape from the city for nature lovers.
Ourika Valley
30 km from Marrakech • Half day to full day
The Ourika Valley is known for its beautiful landscapes, traditional Berber houses, and waterfalls. It's a popular destination for day trips from Marrakech.
Essaouira
180 km from Marrakech • Full day to overnight
Essaouira is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic medina, and vibrant arts scene. It's a popular destination for surfing, windsurfing, and relaxation.
Festivals
Marrakech Popular Arts Festival • Every July
Marrakech International Film Festival • Every November/December
Ramadan • Dates vary (Islamic calendar)
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for a more immersive and informative experience.
- Learn a few basic phrases in Arabic or French to enhance your interactions with locals.
- Visit the medina early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Bargain politely when shopping in the souks, as prices are often negotiable.
- Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience, but choose stalls with high turnover.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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