2-day Essaouira to Agafay desert tour

2-day Essaouira to Agafay desert tour – Essaouira desert trip – 2 days Essaouira Marrakech desert tour – 2-day Morocco desert excursion – Night desert camp Agafay – Essaouira desert tour – 2 days Morocco tour from Essaouira

Escape the ordinary with a 2-day Essaouira to Agafay desert tour. Travel from the Atlantic coast to the golden hills of the Agafay desert, just outside Marrakech.

Between lively souks, panoramic roads, and a magical night under the stars, this Morocco desert excursion is perfect for travelers seeking authenticity and adventure—without the long journey to the Sahara.

Day 1 – Essaouira to Agafay desert tour : Marrakech city tour & desert camp overnight

At 8:30 AM, your driver-guide will pick you up directly from your hotel or riad in Essaouira. The drive to Marrakech (about 3 hours) takes you through varied landscapes: argan forests, olive groves, and charming Berber villages.

Guided city tour of Marrakech

Late morning, you’ll arrive in the legendary red city. Marrakech offers a striking contrast to the laid-back atmosphere of Essaouira. Wander through the vibrant souks, admire the stunning Bahia Palace, and experience the lively Jemaa el-Fna Square, listed by UNESCO. Snake charmers, storytellers, and musicians bring this square to life, making it the beating heart of the city.
This Marrakech city tour is a highlight of your 2 days Essaouira desert tour.

From Marrakech to the Agafay desert

In the afternoon, this Essaouira desert trip continues southwest to the Agafay desert, located just 30 km from Marrakech. Unlike the Sahara’s sand dunes, Agafay is a rocky desert with rolling golden hills that shift colors as the day unfolds. It is an otherworldly landscape ideal for a quick desert escape.

Agafay desert camp night stay

Upon arrival, settle into your private tent. Depending on your package, you can enjoy a camel tour, quad biking, a buggy tour, or simply walk into the Marrakech desert to admire the sunset.
Dinner is a traditional Moroccan meal: tajine, fresh salads, desserts, and tea. Around a campfire, Gnawa musicians perform with their hypnotic rhythms, songs, and dances. As night falls, gaze at the endless stars before retreating to your tent for an unforgettable overnight stay in the Agafay desert.

Day 2 – Sunrise in Agafay & return to Essaouira

Sunrise & breakfast in the Marrakech desert

Wake up to a breathtaking desert sunrise. Enjoy a Moroccan breakfast outdoors with fresh pancakes, local honey, homemade jams, juice, and hot coffee as the morning light illuminates the hills.

Essaouira to Agafay desert tour : the journey to Essaouira

After some free time or a short walk in the desert, begin the journey back to Essaouira. Along the way, you may stop at a women’s argan oil cooperative to discover traditional extraction techniques and learn how this craft supports local communities.
Arrival in Essaouira is scheduled around 4 PM, with drop-off at your hotel or riad.

If you wish to explore the Sahara desert, you can choose longer Morocco desert tour from Essaouira like a 5-day tour to Erg Chigaga or a 5-day Essaouira desert trip to Merzouga.