An unusual getaway to the Agafay desert

Written on : 15 October 2019
By : Clarisse Haurogné

Visiting Marrakech may mean venturing off the beaten track. Sometimes you have to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city to discover hidden gems. The Agafay desert is one of the many treasures that surround Marrakech and that sometimes escape the eyes of travellers. Located about thirty kilometres from the red city, at the level of the High Atlas plateaus, this desert offers lunar landscapes made of superb dunes in whitish and ochre colours.

Take a break from civilization and come and enjoy the incredible calm of the Agafay Desert. A unique getaway that will provide you with well-being and relaxation, and will remain engraved in your memories!

An expansive and fascinating desert

The Agafay Desert, also known as the "Marrakchi Desert", extends over several hundred hectares south of Marrakech. The latter is often related to the Sahara. However, it is not a desert like any other. Indeed, its dunes are not composed of sand but of rocky earth with white and ochre colours. Areas of stone as far as the eye can see, giving the impression of venturing onto the moon. This aspect is reinforced by the fact that the site is spared from mass tourism, which often provides a feeling of being completely alone in the world.

In the middle of this arid desert lies a real jewel: the enchanted oasis. This small haven of peace and tranquility derives its vitality from a nearby wadi. The fauna and flora flourish peacefully in the heart of this desert land. You will find superb eucalyptus trees, vines and olive trees where turtles and frogs take refuge.

Visiting the Agafay desert also means discovering the few Berber villages that continue to live and perpetuate their traditions in the heart of these desert hills despite their austere nature.

Take an excursion to the Agafay Desert

This stone desert has long been ignored by tourist agencies and other tourism stakeholders. However, in recent years, the Agafay Desert has attracted increasing interest. It is therefore easy to go on excursions or to practice sports activities - the possibilities are in abundance! Be tempted by adrenaline and discover this desert area of rare beauty in a 4x4, buggy, quad or take height and opt for a helicopter tour. For a more ecological stroll, choose to go on a horseback, donkey or camel ride.

Many sporting activities are also practised in this desert to enjoy the unique vista. Tempt yourself with a climbing session and set off to conquer these rocky hills or embark on a wild cross-golf game. If you wish to fully enjoy this peaceful environment and recharge your batteries, practice yoga or meditation.

For lovers of nature and wide-open spaces, it is even possible to spend the night in the Agafay desert. A total immersion that will allow you to experience the nomadic life for one or two nights. Several establishments offer to sleep in Berber tents converted into rooms called bivouacs. The idyllic setting to admire splendid sunsets and observe the expanse of hills illuminated by a fabulous starry sky. If you are committed to comfort, you can also opt for suites that have been designed to offer all the necessary comfort and equipment.