Set deep in southern Morocco at the edge of the Sahara, Zagora is the perfect base for a desert adventure. From camel treks and golden dunes to ancient kasbahs and palm-fringed oases, here are the very best things to do in Zagora and the surrounding desert near M’hamid.
Where Is Zagora?
Zagora sits in the heart of the Drâa Valley in southern Morocco, a palm-lined oasis town that has long been a gateway to the Sahara. It is famous for its weathered “Tombouctou 52 Jours” sign — a reminder of the old caravan route to Timbuktu — and for being the launch point for journeys to M’hamid el Ghizlane and the great dunes of Erg Chigaga.
Top Things to Do in Zagora & the Sahara
1. Take a Camel Trek into the Sahara
No visit to Zagora is complete without riding a camel into the desert. Whether it is a sunset ride or an overnight trek, this is the timeless way to experience the Sahara. Read our full guide to the Erg Chigaga camel trek for everything you need to know.
2. Explore the Dunes of Erg Chigaga
The vast, remote dunes of Erg Chigaga — reached via M’hamid — are the most spectacular sands in the region, far quieter than the busier dunes further north. Camp overnight beneath a sky thick with stars.
3. Visit M’hamid, Gateway to the Desert
M’hamid el Ghizlane, about 90–100 km south of Zagora, is the last village before the open Sahara. Discover more in our guide to M’hamid, gateway to the Sahara.
4. Wander the Drâa Valley Palm Groves
The Drâa Valley is a ribbon of green threading through the desert, dotted with palm groves, mud-brick villages and old kasbahs. A Drâa Valley road trip from Ouarzazate to Zagora is one of Morocco’s most scenic drives.
5. Discover Tamegroute
Just south of Zagora, the village of Tamegroute is famous for its distinctive green pottery and its ancient Quranic library, home to centuries-old manuscripts — a fascinating glimpse into Saharan history.
6. See the “Tombouctou 52 Jours” Sign
This iconic painted sign on the edge of Zagora marks the legendary camel-caravan route — 52 days by camel to Timbuktu. It is one of the most photographed spots in the Moroccan Sahara.
7. Try a Therapeutic Sand Bath
A traditional desert sand bath is a unique local experience said to soothe aching joints. Ask us about this and our other Sahara desert experiences near Zagora.
8. Stargaze in the Desert
Far from city lights, the night skies over Zagora and M’hamid are breathtaking. On a clear night you can see the Milky Way stretch from horizon to horizon.
9. Experience the Taragalte Festival
If you visit in late autumn, do not miss the Taragalte Festival in M’hamid — a magical celebration of Saharan music and nomadic culture.
Where to Stay in Zagora
Taragalte Park Camp in Tahtah, Zagora, is an ideal desert base, with comfortable rooms, adobe bungalows and around fifty camping pitches plus a Moroccan restaurant serving organic dishes from our garden. Book your stay early in the busy seasons.
Best Time to Visit Zagora
The best time to visit Zagora is from October to April, when temperatures are pleasant for desert activities. Summers are very hot, while winter nights can be cold — pack warm layers whatever the season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zagora known for?
Zagora is known as a gateway to the Sahara, famous for camel treks, the Drâa Valley palm groves, the “Tombouctou 52 Jours” sign and easy access to the dunes near M’hamid.
How many days do you need in Zagora?
Two to three days is ideal — enough for a camel trek and overnight desert camp, plus time to explore the Drâa Valley, Tamegroute and M’hamid.
How far is Zagora from M’hamid?
M’hamid el Ghizlane is about 90–100 km south of Zagora, roughly a 1.5 to 2 hour drive through the lower Drâa Valley.
Is Zagora worth visiting?
Yes. Zagora offers an authentic taste of the Moroccan Sahara, with dramatic desert scenery, rich culture and far fewer crowds than the better-known dunes further north.
Ready to explore the desert? Book your stay at Taragalte Park Camp in Zagora and let us help you plan the perfect Sahara adventure near M’hamid.