Agafay Desert Tour Review: Quad, Camel & Dinner Highlights
So, you’re thinking of checking out the Agafay Desert and maybe you are weighing your options when it comes to experiences there? Perhaps, it is an excursion involving a quad bike ride, a camel trek, and dinner? Well, I am here to walk you through my own experience and to, you know, offer a few insights which hopefully you find very useful if, at the end of the day, you feel it’s an excursion for you.
Setting Off for Adventure
As a matter of fact, the adventure started bright and pretty early with a pickup straight from my hotel in Marrakech. Obviously, this was rather convenient. Basically, the drive out was a sight to behold, I guess. The way the terrain changed little by little from the red city scenes to really fairly bare, rocky landscapes was something to write home about. Once we pulled up at the tour’s starting location, there was, you know, a tangible buzz of excitement. And it’s almost that, I felt like I was about to have an out-of-body experience, lol.
Quad Biking through the Desert
Right, after a quick safety briefing – and it felt too quick, if you want to be honest – I found myself astride a quad bike, which I hadn’t done before, if I am honest. But, right then, there were no second thoughts about that first experience and a feeling of pure adventure was kicking in. Arguably, weaving through the rocky plains, zooming past small hills, and, you know, getting the quad properly dirty seemed like freedom! The vistas were gorgeous! You could see almost endless, stark terrain all around you. We stopped pretty regularly to allow those with slightly less powerful bikes to catch up, so you get chances to catch your breath and drink it all in. A bit of friendly advice, in case you are concerned about the weather. Schedule it for a cooler part of the day because there is very little shelter from the sun. You should basically protect yourself well and wear closed in shoes rather than sandals. As I was saying, for all those that love excitement, then this bit of the Agafay tour might be for you.
The Camel Ride Experience
Okay, then. It was time to, you know, trade the quad for something altogether more laid-back, maybe? It’s that time, yeah, you know, to meet the camels. The guides matched us up with these gentle giants. A little bit, they gave us a brief intro on how to clamber aboard and stay secure as the camel gently, you know, lifted you upwards to the skies, more or less. Right, from there, it was a very leisurely amble across the terrain which did make a rather nice counterpoint to the zingy quad bike session beforehand. This part allowed us to simply savor the peace and quiet of the desert landscape. The camels went at their pace, giving everyone plenty of photo opportunities, naturally, with, you know, the scenery providing this outstanding backdrop. So, it’s worth pointing out, and for anyone a bit wobbly on these rides, there is absolutely no pressure and it is a, you know, fairly gentle way to soak in the landscape from a fairly unique perspective. Also, a bit of friendly advice, hold on very tight when your camel decides it’s time to kneel back down!
Dinner Under the Stars
Clearly, as dusk rolled in, we got this signal it was, in a way, time for the dinner portion. To be honest, they set up a spot where rugs were strewn and low tables put in place in a charming part of the desert. Also, this made it the place from where, I guess, you could see a pretty striking sunset. Also, the food on display was very tasty and typically Moroccan with a mix of tagines, couscous, and grilled stuff – obviously something to suit everyone. The food was so lovely under the pretty twinkling stars. A few local musicians created this atmospheric backdrop with this set of fairly traditional pieces, it might be a once in a lifetime experience.
Right, but the evening wouldn’t just be about a grub, but it’s rather the total immersion of being out in the Agafay Desert when darkness comes down. Far away from urban lights, you get to observe all the night stars. I guess, in many ways, that night in the Agafay desert created such lovely memories that I am still talking about. Arguably, so that dinner has something about it that’s rather hard to put down, tbh.
What to Bring With You
Before, you decide to enjoy the sunset, some essential items you might want to bring for a safer and better experience:
- Sunscreen: That is important. Shield yourself. It protects you from, you know, those harmful UV rays.
- Sunglasses: Prevent squinting and protect your eyes, literally.
- A Hat: Shield your face from the sun or protect your head if you are a bald man, more or less.
- Comfortable Shoes: A closed toe would be wise for any desert exploration (for the quad bikes) and, just a little, maybe even for getting around the camp and/or bivouac!
- Water: Avoid dehydration. Bring plenty, even. Especially because the Sahara can be so dehydrating, naturally.
- Camera: A moment of joy is worth eternalizing. Maybe it is even more delightful to reminisce with the images!
- Snacks: Extra energy that should help sustain those moments on the saddle of a dromedary!
Is the ‘Agafay Desert Highlights’ Experience Worth It?
Is the ‘Agafay Desert Highlights’ experience worth the time and money invested? My sincere opinion after experiencing it is yes! Especially as this package manages to squeeze an immense mix of thrilling adventure together with quiet downtime and a deep encounter with the area. Okay, you should see this as very advantageous in case your time happens to be limited, or if seeing a more barren landscape still matters. The quality seems excellent in contrast with a real trek into the Sahara. I’d, so too, heartily recommend this to those visiting Marrakech that want a desert escape and the need for the proper kit. Also, I could claim that they provide excellent and decent cooking, and, yeah, decent entertainment on the side!