Agafay Desert and Atlas Mountains Day Trip from Marrakech

Marrakech , Morocco

Agafay Desert and Atlas Mountains Day Trip from Marrakech

Active

6h - 7h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

For all those who haven’t got sufficient time in Morocco for a Sahara desert tour, all the way south then the Agafay desert is the best thing to do instead, the Agafay desert is not a Sand desert – but more sandstone and earthen plateau, traditional mud-built villages, dusty riverbeds are interspersed with spectacular sumptuous pasture and vegetation in springtime. There we can sample a tea with the locals or experience trekking by camel. our itinerary takes us up into the Atlas Mountains. Kik Plateau is 1800 meters high and offers spectacular 360 degrees views and, in the spring, a marvellous spread of alpine flowers.

Available options

Agafay Desert and Atlas Mountains Day Trip from Marrakech

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Bottled water

Camel Ride

Lunch

Air-conditioned vehicle

Coffee and/or Tea

Professional mountains Guide

Detailed itinerary

This is a splendid trip during which you will discover the most diverse and spectacular landscapes. Your Day Trip takes you past lush vegetation, olive and orange orchards, and the occasional village. Off the tarmac and onto off-road, the scenery is completely different - barren light brown plateaux, a true stone desert. The locals call it Agafay desert: this might as well be the Sahara as the feeling of solitude. For all those who haven’t got sufficient time in Morocco for a Sahara desert tour, all the way south then the Agafay desert is the best thing to do instead, the Agafay desert is not a Sand desert – but more sandstone and earthen plateau, traditional mud-built villages, dusty riverbeds are interspersed with spectacular sumptuous pasture and vegetation in springtime. There we can sample a tea with the locals or experience trekking by camel.

Stop 2

Our itinerary takes us up into the Atlas Mountains. Kik Plateau is 1800 meters high and offers spectacular 360 degrees views and, in the spring, a marvellous spread of alpine flowers. Scattered Berber hamlets greet the view and it feels like you travelled back in time.

On the other side of the plateau, there is the Asni Valley in the heart of this lush area covered with apple, cherry, and plum orchards sending out their harvest into the city. A nice Berber market is held on every Saturday where producers bring fruit, vegetables, and livestock to sell. If you are interested in seeing a Berber souk, almost every village has one on a specific day of the week.

We will continue to climb upwards until you leave the main road at an altitude of over 2000 meters with views to Mount Toubkal: the highest peak in Northern Africa culminating at 4167 meters, and often snowcapped. Then we will follow an ancient, partly paved Berber track to reach the Imlil valley an authentic area famous for apple trees, here you will have lunch in a Berber house in a village overlooking the Atlas Mountains.

The food will be homemade and organic: tomato salad, chicken tagine, couscous, and fruits. After lunch we will head off back to Marrakech, crossing the Mizan valley small villages with their mud-brick adobe houses, stacked into the hillside or lining the watercourse shaded by the apple grove. The river gives place to the canyons and the local Berber granary towers over the landscape. Past Tahnaoute, the tarmac road follows its course among olive or orange orchards to reach Marrakech by afternoon.

What's not included

Tips (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

AR EN FR ES

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.