Zagora Desert Trek

Zagora Desert Trek, an unforgettable desert adventure !

From Marrakech, road to the Tichka pass 2 260 m, the highest road pass in Morocco. After a photo stop, we continue to Ouarzazate where we have a lunch break. Ensuite, we descend the Draa Valley. Stunning landscapes, adobe villages, beautiful palm groves.

After 400 kms of road, we arrive at Ouled Driss, small village located 5 kms from Zagora. Visit of the Ouled Driss ksar built in the 17th century in the heart of an oasis and, mainly famous for its architecture with its adobe houses and wooden doors.

As soon as we arrive at our first camp, friendly atmosphere guaranteed ! Meeting with our camel drivers, first bivouac in the dunes.

The next day, after breakfast, the dismantling of the bivouac and the loading of the camels. Here we are at the heart of the matter, first hike through a large plateau. The horizon is as far as the eye can see. Silence is absolute. Sometimes, an acacia that resists drought !

Camp in the dunes at Lahnaniche. Arriving, we collect tamarisk wood in the surrounding dunes and the camel drivers prepare a fire. At nightfall, they cook the “nick”, desert bread on embers covered with sand. Evening dances and songs under the starry sky of the desert.

The third day, wake, same ritual of nomadic life in the desert. We dismantle the camp, rangeons, load the equipment and go elsewhere. The hike starts in the dunes. It's nice to walk in the sand, to breathe the pure desert air and let go. Lunch break in the shade of palm trees. Then hike to M’Hamid and the large palm groves of Ras Nkal. Night in tent.

Our trek ends on the fourth day, we leave the cook and the camel drivers and take the road to Tamgroute. City located at 20 kms de Zagora. Visit of a library where scientific works are exhibited, literary, religious collections dating from the 11th century. Visit of an artisanal pottery workshop.

Road to Ouarzazate and return to Marrakech via the Tichka pass with lots of memories in mind !