The door
Known as the gateway to the Sahara desert, Ouarzazate is much more than that and has a wealth of surprises in store.
Zagora, a small town in southern Morocco, is often regarded as the ideal gateway to the desert. Around 160km south of Ouarzazate, it offers privileged access to the vast expanses of the Sahara, including the famous Tinfou and Chegaga dunes, which fascinate travellers in search of adventure and authenticity. It's a must for anyone wishing to discover the magic of the desert and enjoy a unique experience, such as spending a night under the stars in this spellbinding setting.
Discover
Zagora is the perfect starting point for exploring the great sand dunes that stretch as far as the eye can see. A few kilometres from the town, the Tinfou dunes welcome you for your first immersion in the desert. Easily accessible, they offer a taste of the Sahara's grandiose landscapes, with spectacular sunsets tinting the dunes in shades of gold and orange. But for a real adventure, you need to continue on to the Chegaga dunes, around two hours away by track. Less crowded than the Merzouga dunes, they offer a wilder, more authentic experience. Here, you can feel alone in the world, surrounded by infinite landscapes where silence reigns supreme.
Historic start
The town of Zagora itself is a traditional departure point for desert expeditions. Historically, it was the first stop for caravans crossing the Sahara to Timbuktu. Even today, the town's famous "Timbuktu, 52 days" camel sign is a reminder of the ancient caravan route.
One of the highlights of any stay in Zagora is the unforgettable experience of spending a night in the desert. Traditional Berber camps, often set up at the foot of the dunes, offer total immersion in nomadic culture. Sleeping in a Berber tent, surrounded by sand as far as the eye can see, gives you a taste of the tranquillity and serenity of the desert. The night sky, free of light pollution, reveals a myriad of stars, creating a celestial spectacle that few places can match. The next morning, sunrise over the dunes is just as magical, bathing the desert in a soft, golden light.
Destination
Zagora's privileged location makes it the ideal gateway to discover the wonders of the Moroccan desert. Whether it's a day trip on a camel, a hike through the dunes, or a magical night under the starry Sahara sky, this region promises unforgettable memories and a deep connection with nature. For travellers looking for a change of scenery and adventure, Zagora is a destination not to be missed.
