One of the highlights of my trip to Morocco was an unforgettable evening spent in the Agafay Desert, a stony expanse just outside Marrakech. Unlike the rolling dunes of the Sahara, Agafay’s rocky terrain and barren beauty offer a unique charm of their own. The people who inhabit this area are known for their warm hospitality and deep connection to the land, maintaining traditions passed down for generations.

Setting Off on the Adventure

After returning to my Riad around 2:30 PM and enjoying a brief respite, I reached the meeting spot for my 4:30 PM pick-up. Arriving on time, I joined a van with four women inside. As we traversed the new city of Marrakech, the red concrete and clay buildings reminded me of modern U.S. or European cities.

Our driver spent nearly two hours picking up other tourists from various hotels, making our way out of Marrakech towards the Atlas Mountains. Despite the heat, I fell asleep—moving vehicles always have a hypnotic effect on me!

Tea and Argan Oil: A Cultural Introduction

Our first stop was a desert outpost where we were welcomed with tea, bread, and a presentation on making Argan oil. Although I had experienced a similar demonstration during my Ourika Valley tour, relaxing in the tent, sipping on mint tea, and enjoying the bread and dipping sauces was a pleasure. I observed the other tourists—mostly couples and small groups—interact and learn about the traditional craft.

Deeper into the Desert

After our tea break, we journeyed further into the desert, passing a small village before arriving at a scenic hilltop adorned with tents and a central fire pit. We were greeted with more tea and instructed to don traditional costumes—a long dress and a headscarf. It was amusing to see everyone, including myself, eagerly taking photos in our new attire.

The Camel Ride

Divided into groups, we took turns riding the camels. The initial moments were nerve-wracking, as I felt I might topple off. However, the ride was longer and more enjoyable than I had anticipated. The highlight was stopping on a hilltop to watch the sunset and take our pictures with the breathtaking backdrop. It was a magical moment that I will cherish forever.

A Feast Under the Stars

Returning to the tent, we shed our costumes and settled for dinner. The meal began with a delicious blended vegetable soup, followed by a flavorful vegetarian tagine, and concluded with fresh fruit for dessert. The dishes were incredibly tasty, surpassing the other tagines I had tried in the Medina.

Post-dinner, we gathered around the fire pit, where local musicians played traditional drums and sang cultural songs. The rhythmic beats and melodies filled the night air as we danced around the fire, creating a joyous and unforgettable atmosphere. This immersive experience was the perfect culmination of our desert adventure.

Around 10 PM, we boarded the van for the return trip. As the driver navigated the city, dropping everyone off at their respective hotels, I fell asleep again. Being the last to be dropped off in Medina, I was surprised to find the streets still bustling with activity past midnight. I felt completely safe walking back to my Riad, a testament to Morocco’s security and vibrant nightlife.

Reflections…

The Agafay Desert tour perfectly blended adventure, culture, and culinary delight. The warmth and hospitality of the desert people, combined with the stunning landscape and rich traditions, made this one of the best trips I’ve ever taken. If you’re ever in Morocco, I highly recommend embarking on this extraordinary journey into the Agafay Desert.