Nestled in the enchanting Draa Valley region of southeastern Morocco, the ancient desert town of Zagora boasts a rich and captivating history. While originally established in the 20th century under the French colonial rule, this area has served as an Almoravid fortress, a Saadian military stronghold, and a vital hub along the historic North African caravan route. Today, Zagora stands as the final major town before the sprawling Erg Chigaga, one of Morocco’s largest dune expanses. Whether you seek Sahara adventures or a journey through the vibrant oases and date plantations of the Draa Valley, Zagora is your gateway to an unforgettable Moroccan desert tour, steeped in the essence of southern Berber culture and its captivating yearly festivals.
Trip Planning Essentials
Weather:
Expect extremely hot summers with temperatures exceeding 112°F/44°C in July, while winters offer relief with highs of about 68°F/20°C in January, sometimes dipping close to freezing at night.
Ideal Time to Visit:
While Zagora welcomes visitors all year round, the most agreeable weather conditions can be found during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). These seasons coincide with the harvests of watermelons and dates, and also align with the town’s vibrant cultural festivals. Check below for festival timings if you wish to experience the local cultural fervor.
Languages:
Arabic and Berber are the dominant languages, but many guides and hotel staff are proficient in English and French.
Transportation:
Zagora is a compact town easily traversed on foot, but if you prefer, you can hail a petit taxi for convenience.
Travel Tip:
Consider planning your visit for a Wednesday or a Sunday to catch the biweekly regional souk, a vibrant marketplace buzzing with local produce, livestock, and traditional crafts.
Must-Do Experiences
Most tourists come to Zagora as part of a desert expedition to Erg Chigaga. You can also organize day trips into the desert by 4×4 or camel, exploring the breathtaking panoramas and traditional Berber villages. The lush Draa Valley, nourished by Morocco’s longest river, the Draa, beckons with its verdant date plantations and historic kasbahs.
Here are some recommended Zagora attractions and activities:
Zagora Souk:
Explore the bustling market on Wednesdays and Sundays, where vendors from across the region gather to sell local goods, ranging from fresh produce and traditional clothing to intricate jewelry and crafts.
Timbuktu Sign:
Witness the famous hand-painted mural on the town’s western edge, proudly displaying the phrase “Tombouctou 52 Jours,” marking the historic 52-day journey camel caravans once undertook to reach the legendary city of Timbuktu in Mali.
Musée des Arts and Traditions de la Valleé de Draa:
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Draa Valley through this fascinating museum housed in the mud-brick Ksar Tissergate. Explore three floors of exhibits showcasing traditional life, including intricately displayed jewelry, weaponry, and wedding attire, all thoughtfully explained in French and English.
Festivals and Events
For those seeking an authentic cultural immersion, planning your visit around one of Zagora’s vibrant annual festivals can be a rewarding experience.
Moussem of Sufi Moulay Abdelkader Jilali:
Join the festivities of this religious gathering honoring Sufi saint Abdelkader Jilali, drawing pilgrims from the Draa Valley for music, dance, and celebration. The date varies annually, aligned with the Islamic calendar’s Mawlid Nabawi (Prophet Muhammad’s birthday).
Festival of Nomads:
Engage in the celebration of the nomadic lifestyle of Draa Valley’s Berber tribes at the lively Festival of Nomads in the nearby village of M’Hamid El Ghizlane. Enjoy music performances, poetry readings, craft workshops, storytelling sessions, camel races, and authentic local cuisine. The festival typically spans three days and occurs in March or April.
Culinary Delights
Zagora offers an array of dining options featuring authentic Moroccan and Mediterranean cuisine. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor mouthwatering pastillas, couscous, and grilled meats, alongside delectable specialties like tagine kefta (a flavorful meatball stew) and salade morocaine (a refreshing mix of fresh tomatoes, onions, and peppers). Indulge in the culinary delights at renowned spots such as Restaurant Marwa, known for its generous portions, reasonable prices, and warm hospitality. Alternatively, experience a sophisticated dining affair amidst the lush garden and swimming pool setting at Villa Zagora, nestled in a riad on the town’s outskirts.
As alcohol is not widely available due to local customs, complement your meals with fragrant mint tea or freshly squeezed orange juice.
Accommodation Choices in Zagora
Choose from a diverse range of accommodation options in and around Zagora, with some of the most scenic and upscale choices situated in the neighboring palm grove hamlet, Amezrou. Delight in the amenities of full-service hotels such as the elegant Riad Lamane, boasting Moorish-style architecture, a refreshing swimming pool, a terrace restaurant, and rejuvenating spa facilities. Immerse yourself in the local ambiance by opting for a stay at atmospheric hotels like La Fibule de Draa, where you can unwind amidst lush gardens and a tranquil plunge pool. Another excellent option is Riad dar Sofian, showcasing intricate Moroccan architecture with ornate carvings and enchanting Arabic mosaics.
For an unforgettable experience, consider camping at recommended sites like Camping outside Zagora in the middle of the desert at Tizi Luxury camp. Many accommodations offer exciting excursion packages, ranging from stargazing bivouac experiences to invigorating hiking tours and enchanting camel rides.
How to get to Zagora
Zagora boasts its own airport, Zagora Airport (OZG), facilitating direct flights via Royal Air Maroc from the international airport in Casablanca, with an approximate travel time of one hour and 50 minutes. If you are traveling from Marrakesh, note that direct flights are not available. Instead, consider flying to Ouarzazate and continuing your journey to Zagora by road, a scenic 2.5-hour drive. Alternatively, opt for a road trip directly from Marrakesh or Ouarzazate via the national highways N9 and N12. You can rent a car for self-driven exploration or opt for long-distance buses from major Moroccan cities. CTM, the national bus company, offers an eight-hour journey from Marrakesh at a cost of 140 dirham, while the trip from Ouarzazate takes just over three hours and costs 55 dirham.
You can also join desert excursions offered by Marrakech Desert Trips, providing an all-encompassing experience from Marrakesh to Zagora Desert. These tours often include stops at renowned attractions like Kasbah Aït Benhaddou, offering an opportunity to spend the night in an authentic Berber camp, with camel-back travel adding to the immersive desert adventure.
Zagora Cultural Etiquette
In line with Morocco’s Islamic customs, it is essential to respect local traditions to ensure a harmonious and pleasant visit.
Dressing:
Both men and women should dress conservatively, keeping shoulders covered at all times. Women are advised to wear long skirts or pants that cover the knees.
Dining Etiquette:
It is customary to eat with your hands in Morocco, but remember that the left hand is considered unclean. Avoid using it to bring food to your mouth, especially when sharing meals with Muslim hosts or guides.
Ramadan Considerations:
If you are visiting the Sahara Desert during Ramadan, be aware that practicing Muslims fast from dawn to dusk, and many local restaurants remain closed during daylight hours. Check for adjusted opening hours at tourist attractions as well.
Toilets:
Public toilets often feature squat-style facilities without toilet paper, utilizing hose pipes for cleansing. Familiarize yourself with the etiquette for using squat toilets, and remember to carry wet wipes for convenience.
Money-Saving Tips in Zagora
For budget-friendly meals, opt for street food, known for its affordability and fresh flavors. Remember that the busiest food stalls usually offer the best quality.
Embrace the art of negotiation, as prices in Moroccan markets, especially in the souks, are typically flexible. Sharpen your haggling skills and be ready to walk away if the price doesn’t suit your budget, all while employing a few local phrases to aid your bargaining.
When it comes to taxi fares, haggling is customary. Since taxis are generally not metered, agree upon the fare before getting into the vehicle to avoid overpaying.
While selecting a Zagora desert tour, ensure you understand the inclusions before opting for the lowest price. Sometimes, a slightly more expensive tour offering meals and transportation might prove more cost-effective in the long run.
Prepare for an Unforgettable Zagora Journey Enriched with a vibrant history and a tapestry of cultural experiences, Zagora invites you to delve into the heart of Morocco’s diverse and enchanting landscape. From the alluring desert adventures to the warm hospitality of its people, Zagora promises a journey filled with cherished memories and a deeper understanding of the region’s rich heritage. Plan your trip wisely and prepare to be captivated by the allure of this Moroccan gem.
