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The Agafay desert by car from Marrakech: the guide
You don't need to drive for hours to the Sahara to enjoy a desert experience: less than an hour from Marrakech, the Agafay desert reveals a moon-like landscape of ochre stony hills with the Atlas peaks in the background. With a rental car, it's the perfect half-day or overnight getaway.
How to get there by car
- Distance: about 40 km south-west of Marrakech
- Drive: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Take the Amizmiz road. On the way you'll pass near Lalla Takerkoust lake, a nice stop for a photo or a lakeside lunch. The last kilometres to the camps are sometimes on a track: drive slowly. An SUV such as the Dacia Duster is more comfortable, but a city car usually manages fine in dry weather.
What to do in Agafay
- Camel ride, ideal in the late afternoon.
- Quad or buggy for thrill-seekers.
- Lunch or dinner in a camp, often with traditional music.
- Sunset over the hills and the Atlas: the most magical moment.
- A night in a tent under the stars, far from the city lights.
Our tips
- Book your camp or activities ahead, especially at weekends and during holidays.
- Leave in the early afternoon to enjoy the sunset.
- Avoid driving tracks late at night: if you stay for dinner, plan to sleep there or return carefully via the main road.
- Bring a jacket: evenings are cool, especially from November to March.
- Keep water and sunscreen in the car.
Agafay or the Sahara?
Agafay is a stone desert, not big sand dunes like Merzouga. But it's very close to Marrakech, doable in half a day, and perfect if you're short on time. For Sahara dunes, plan several days on the road.
Which car to choose?
- For a couple: a city car or a small SUV such as the Nissan Magnite.
- For more comfort on the track: the Dacia Duster or the Hyundai Tucson.
- For a family or friends: a 7-seater such as the Dacia Jogger.
With Branded Rental Cars: no deposit, unlimited mileage and free delivery to your hotel or riad. Choose your car.
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