A Thrilling Review: Marrakesh Agafay Desert Quad, Camels & Dinner

The call of the desert, that is, it is so enticing. Recently, like your average traveler wanting something unique from my Marrakesh experience, I chose what looked to be an awesome “Agafay Desert Quad, Camels & Dinner Show” adventure. So, was it a mirage, or did it meet expectations? Here’s the honest lowdown, that is.

Setting off into the Agafay Desert

The Agafay Desert is quite something. To call it a ‘desert’ could be slightly misleading, that is. That’s because it’s more of a rock desert than those rolling sand dunes that you might have pictured. So, it’s close to Marrakesh, that’s for sure, and this makes it rather accessible for an excursion. We found ourselves in a comfortable transfer that picked us up from our riad. From the beginning, things looked promising, it’s almost certain. The trip took about an hour, but that gave us the opportunity to witness the change of the scenery gradually, from the the town’s hustle to the quiet country landscape, I mean it’s lovely, very lovely.

The moment we arrived at the camp, we were greeted with what can only be called, true, genuine Moroccan hospitality. There was mint tea, naturally, that you expect. The staff seemed very nice and got us ready for our quad adventure, too it’s nice, especially when there’s a friendly face around.

Quad Biking: An Adrenaline Rush

Riding a quad bike here, in the Agafay Desert, that’s something you should really attempt. After a safety instruction and a quick how-to, we set off in the desert, or what you might call desert, very ready to get wild. So, that landscape can be really rocky at times, the ride proved both bumpy and exciting, and both combined provide a memorable experience. Zooming all over the plains and dodging rocks became something fun and that provided a really solid adrenaline rush.

I have to say, very honestly, that the views were amazing. With hardly a plant anywhere, I mean there were some, but basically none, you can see far out. That open desert, and its skyline gave us excellent photo chances. Now, about halfway into our ride, our leader brought us to a spot with a perfect overview for what can only be described as a view that will be embedded in your memory forever. A few riders in our group, seemingly new to riding quads, took things a bit easy, while those who were more confident opened them right up. Overall, it’s pretty amazing; I think this segment of the tour struck a very good chord with a large number of people.

Gentle Camel Ride: A Nod to Tradition

Once the dust settled coming from our quad bike tour, it was camel time. This might be more chilling out than hitting the pedal hard, but it was still worthwhile. So, there is just a peaceful feel when you’re perched atop of a camel, swaying along at a relaxed speed, I believe, but anyway. Our camel guide was Berber and happily told us all things camel. It was very clear, as clear as the sky on a clear day that he deeply respects the animals and takes good care to ensure their well-being, that is.

During the ride, we passed through a little settlement, or what some might refer to as a settlement, offering us an idea of regular life for the Berbers living in the area. It’s something to reflect on, very deeply too it’s almost essential when experiencing this. It’s a reminder of how unique this location truly can be.

Dinner and a Show: Moroccan Magic

When twilight rolled around, the camp changed so much. It was all very twinkling lamps and the aromas of proper Moroccan cooking filling the atmosphere, but don’t take my word as solid gold fact. We were served a really tasty meal, which was served tagine, couscous and some tasty local bread. Actually, it was one of my better tagines I have ever had whilst on vacation. It’s fair to say it was made with care and tradition, too it’s just wonderful.

Once we completed eating, the entertainment began, that is. A local group, that appeared enthusiastic, started to play Moroccan songs and perform classic dances. So, sitting under the stars as we enjoyed the beats and saw the artistry seemed incredibly captivating, I think it was, arguably, pretty amazing. Many tourists, just like you and me, joined in at some stage and began to dance and clap – and I saw a couple of dodgy dance moves being pulled out from places they really should remain a secret, still. The experience was like something you see in films or expect on holidays. Actually, this gave a real sense of being together. Overall, the ambiance and cuisine certainly provided a highlight that no one would quickly forget.

Worth it? Considering the Value

Okay, that question – was it great for the price? So, for what is included – transfers, quad biking, the camel experience, food, and showing – it’s kind of worth the money. While the Agafay is definitely not similar to the Sahara’s impressive sand dunes, so it makes up for the convenience in closeness from Marrakesh. A major selling point, I suggest, may be how convenient it really is to reach compared against longer trips out into more distant deserts, seemingly.

So, it’s also important that the business which organizes everything are moral. Our company was concerned about sustainability, I mean there may be others, but ours was good. I found that everything regarding animal welfare, the local community, and cutting down their effects on the area was good, very. Look to ensure you look at firms which display these types of moral standards.

Final thoughts

To sum it all up, “Marrakesh Agafay Desert Quad, Camels & Dinner Show” is worth checking out for people who desire an infusion of thrills, lifestyle and food all bundled into a few hours and aren’t keen or able to commit to longer journeys right into the Sahara. Just be sure to approach it knowing that the desert landscape looks rough instead of massive sandy. So, don’t skip wearing comfortable shoes, bringing cameras, and embrace a chance for a truly special nighttime adventure that can provide enduring memories; it is pretty good at the end of the day, really.