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Sleeping in the Agafay desert: the best camps near Marrakech
Less than an hour from Marrakech, the Agafay desert is a landscape of stony hills and canyons, with the Atlas on the horizon. It is not a dune desert like the Sahara, but it lets you spend a night under the stars without a long drive. Here are the camps from our guide, from the most comfortable to the most off-grid.
Agafay, the desert on Marrakech’s doorstep
The Agafay camps are about 45 minutes to an hour’s drive from Marrakech. People come for one or two nights: sunset over the hills, dinner under the stars, a camel or quad ride. Most camps have a pool, very welcome during the day, and arrange transport from the city.
Good to know: nights can be cool, especially in winter, even after a hot day. Bring a jacket.
The camps in our selection
Inara Camp
On 21 hectares facing the canyons and the Atlas, Inara Camp has 18 tents of 25 to 36 m², with a king-size bed, a lounge and a private bathroom. Electricity in every tent, a pool heated all year round, and activities such as stargazing and pottery workshops. From 2,600 MAD a night.
La Bohème Agafay
La Bohème Agafay has 8 rooms among stone wigwams, glass tents and suites with a panoramic terrace. Fire shows, live music and DJs: the most festive address in this selection. From 3,000 MAD a night.
Agafay Luxury Camp
Spread over 600 acres of canyons, Agafay Luxury Camp keeps the comfort of a hotel: tents with a private outdoor bathtub, air conditioning, and one-bedroom villas with a private pool. Two shared pools, a large jacuzzi and a 24/7 concierge. From 3,700 MAD a night.
La Pause
Around an oasis and an olive grove, La Pause takes the opposite approach: no electricity and no air conditioning, lighting by candle and fire. Lodges with a bathroom and heating, or bivouac tents, and two pools for guests only. From 4,200 MAD a night.
BE Agafay
About an hour from Marrakech, BE Agafay offers large tents with big windows and a bathroom, an unusually shaped pool and a jacuzzi. You can also come for the day with a pool pass and lunch. Access is by a dirt track: a 4x4 is recommended. From 5,000 MAD a night.
Which camp should you choose?
- For hotel-style comfort: Agafay Luxury Camp, with air conditioning and villas with private pools.
- To truly disconnect: La Pause, with no electricity.
- For atmosphere and a party: La Bohème Agafay.
- For a good balance of comfort and price: Inara Camp, the lowest starting price in the selection.
- For a day only: the BE Agafay pool pass.
Practical tips
- One night is enough for the sunset and the starry sky; two to really rest.
- Ask the camp whether it arranges the transfer from Marrakech: it is often easier than driving on the tracks.
- Activities (camel, quad, buggy) usually cost extra: check when you book.
Prices are indicative starting rates. Check availability and what is included directly with each camp.