Unmissable desert experiences in Morocco

Dining in the Moroccan desert is an affair to remember, presenting the chance for a bucket list-worthy moment spent indulging in an exquisite feast under a canopy of stars, with the soft sounds of traditional music playing in the background as the seemingly endless expanses of sand dunes unfurl around you.

While you'll have a variety of options to choose from during your time in Morocco, luxury desert dining experiences often feature multi-course meals prepared by skilled chefs who specialise in blending local flavours with international culinary techniques in the perfect marriage of authenticity and local character with high-end cuisine.

A prime example is the dinner experience in the Agafay Desert, just a stone’s throw from Marrakech. Delight in a gourmet meal among the dunes, with dishes ranging from succulent lamb tagine to delicate pastries, all while seated at colourfully decorated tables illuminated by twinkling lanterns. You'll also be treated to an exciting display of music and dancing, all contributing towards a rousing experience that stays with you long after the desert scenery fades in the rearview mirror.

Though not technically in the desert, Kasbah Tamadot offers an equally unique experience. With expansive views of the Atlas Mountains, a beautifully boutique feel, and a wide range of activities that make the most of this spectacular setting, it is one of our top recommendations for luxury places to stay in Morocco.

Our Head of Customer Experience, Claire Baker, enjoyed a stunning meal at the exclusive hotel. Here's what she had to say about it: 

“If you fancy getting out of the city, and seeing the beautiful Atlas Mountains while you’re at it, head to Kasbah Tamadot. The ‘Kasbah’, meaning ‘fort’, is about an hour’s drive from the city and has been beautifully restored into a sumptuous hotel with great dining options. We tried some delicious local Berber dishes and enjoyed them beneath the stars overlooking the mountain range. One of my favourite experiences in Marrakech.”

For those seeking to immerse themselves in the desert’s tranquillity without sacrificing comfort while also experiencing some of the region's captivating Berber culture, luxury desert camps offer the perfect retreat from the stresses of modern life. One such sanctuary, located in a remote area around 60km from the nearest town of M’Hamid, is Erg Chigaga Luxury Desert Camp.

If it's a thrill you're after, then buckle up and get out on the dunes - 'bashing' them with a buggy for a high-octane afternoon out. For the uninitiated, essentially it involves driving powerful 4x4 vehicles at high speeds over the rolling sand dunes, creating an adrenaline-pumping adventure (and more than a few stomach flips) along the way. The Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga lend themselves perfectly to this particular activity, offering some of the most exciting terrain and striking scenery.

You'll be in safe hands as experienced drivers navigate the shifting sands, taking you on a roller-coaster ride across some of the highest dunes in Morocco. Let that heart rate settle as your driver summits one of the area's highest points (which, of course, changes constantly given the fluid nature of the dunes themselves) and take in the panoramic views of the endless desert with the sun setting on the horizon. If that isn't one for the 'Travel Hall of Fame', we don't know what is.

While the Moroccan desert may seem barren at first glance, it is in fact teeming with unique wildlife adapted to the harsh conditions. A guided wildlife tour brings you up close and personal with creatures such as the fennec fox (you'll know them by their distinctive large ears) or the famously gracefully Dorcas gazelle.

The array of bird species will have even the most reluctant ornithologists among you reaching for their binoculars to catch a glimpse of the desert's flightiest residents, including the rare and elusive houbara bustard.

The Sahara’s singular ecosystem is a testament to nature’s resilience, while also highlighting the imperative need for its protection. Look around you and allow a wealth of nature-based experiences to educate, inspire, and remind us of our place in the world.

Far from being a largely uninhabited expanse of land (well, it is that, but much more aside), the Moroccan area of the Sahara is home to some beguiling sights that are simply unmissable if you are staying one of Morocco's luxury hotels or one of the luxury Bedouin camps.

Here are just three of our favourites.

The Erg Chebbi Dunes

The Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga are some of the highest in Morocco, reaching heights of up to a staggering 150 metres. These stunning golden swathes of finely ground sand are best experienced at sunrise or sunset, when the softer rays reflect the amber hues of the landscapes themselves while casting dramatic shadows. The temperatures at this time are cooler too, making it more comfortable to sit down on the sand and enjoy a mint tea or something cool and refreshing. If dune bashing doesn't sound like your thing, camel treks are a popular way to explore the area while providing an authentic Saharan experience.

The Draa Valley

The Draa Valley, with its lush palm groves and ancient kasbahs, offers a striking contrast to the vast and seemingly empty desert. This valley, stretching from the Atlas Mountains to the edge of the Sahara, is rich in history and culture. Exploring the traditional Berber villages and historic sites, such as the Kasbah of Tamnougalt, provides insight into the region’s past and its enduring traditions. It's the perfect complement to your wild Moroccan desert experience.

The Oasis of Fint

Near the ancient city of Ouarzazate, the Oasis of Fint is a hidden gem surrounded by dramatic rock formations. This verdant oasis is a peaceful retreat, with small farms and palm groves nourished by natural springs. Meet some of the people who call this spectacular land home, taking the chance to see some traditional mud-brick homes, while basking in the serene beauty of the desert’s life-giving pockets.

Whether you are dining under the stars, staying in an atmospheric Bedouin camp, or seeking thrills on a dune-bashing excursion, the Moroccan desert promises an adventure that's both enriching and entirely unforgettable. It's an unmissable destination for travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path luxury and unique cultural immersion.

Take a look at our top picks for luxury experiences in Tanzania, South Africa, and Morocco