When the sun dips behind the stone hills, the Agafay desert changes colour. The landscape turns ochre, the air cools and, at the oasis, tables are set under the tents. An Agafay desert dinner is one of the loveliest ways to end a day in Marrakech. Here is what to expect, step by step.
An evening outing, 45 minutes from Marrakech
It all starts in town: our dinner experiences include a return minivan transfer from central Marrakech. In about 45 minutes, the city walls give way to the moon-like landscapes of the Agafay desert and to our palm-filled oasis. Departures are in the afternoon and follow the sunset: in November, Morocco runs on GMT and the sun sets around 5:30 pm in Marrakech. Exact times are confirmed after booking.
First, the sunset: camel, quad or buggy
Before dinner, you make the most of the golden late-afternoon light. Three ways to enjoy it:
- Sunset camel ride with dinner under tents: about 1.5 hours on camelback through the oasis, wadis, palm trees and the neighbouring village, up to the Agafay hills. One camel per person (ages 10 and up), welcome tea and a turban scarf for photos.
- Sunset in the Agafay desert by quad with authentic dinner: desert trails and hills with the Atlas in the background. Full safety gear provided; under-16s ride as passengers.
- Sunset in the Agafay desert by buggy with authentic dinner: 1.5 hours on the trails, two people per buggy; under-18s ride as passengers.
Can’t choose? Our dinner combos pair two rides: the sunset quad & camel combo with authentic dinner and the sunset buggy & camel combo with authentic dinner.
Then, dinner under a tent in our oasis
Back at the oasis, it’s time to relax. A traditional Moroccan dinner is served under a Bedouin tent, or in our pergola depending on the experience. On the menu: a slow-cooked tagine, Moroccan salads, tea and local pastries. The tagine takes its name from the conical-lidded clay pot it simmers in, and it is one of the icons of Moroccan cuisine.
Vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free? Options are available: just let us know when you book, as well as any allergy or intolerance. Drinks are not included in the camel experience; check the details on each page.
For families, couples and friends
These evenings suit every age: children under 10 are accompanied by an adult, and each page lists the minimum age to ride a camel or drive. A perfect family outing during the holidays, a quiet evening for two, or dinner with friends far from the bustle of the medina: the oasis is made for it.
Our tips for a great evening
- Bring a warm layer: in November, Marrakech averages 22°C during the day but around 10°C at night. A windbreaker in winter, closed shoes for quad and buggy.
- What to wear: loose, comfortable clothing; out of respect for local customs, we advise against shorts and skirts.
- Documents: bring ID (passport, national ID card or driving licence).
- Look up: far from the city lights, the Agafay sky fills with stars after dinner.
Ready for an evening in the desert? Find all our experiences on our activity pages, or message us on WhatsApp at +212 661 539 639. With the holidays coming up, book early.
