Drâa Valley, Morocco

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For more than 100 km (62 miles) the Drâa Valley (Vallée du Drâa) oasis turns the brown desert a lush green. An important transit point on the trans-Saharan caravan route and from the late 8th century an important center for Jewish civilization, the valley is noted for its splendid kasbahs. The Wadi Drâa, once the longest river in Morocco, no longer flows to Agadir on the Atlantic but runs dry near M’hamid.

Getting there

Marrakech is the best place to start a road trip to Drâa Valley which runs from Agdz to Tamegroute, just beyond Zagora. Royal Air Maroc offers daily flights to/from Casablanca and Ouarzazate. There is no train service in this part of the country.

Royal Air Maroc
Triotours

Getting around

Travel in the south will be by car or by bus and if you are taking a trip to the desert by camel or jeep.

Triotours
by car
by bus
traveling to the desert

When to travel

The best time to visit the Drâa Valley or embark on a desert adventure is in April, May and October. In summer, the daytime high can exceed 40°C (104°F) and, in winter, the nighttime low can fall below 0°C (32°F).

Weather Underground

Travel health & child safety

Drink bottled or sterilized water only and protect your skin from the sun.

MD Travel Health

Things to keep in mind

While most hotels claim to have heating, in winter, the rooms aren't always warm and the hot water is not always hot. Of note, hustlers, mainly selling their service as guides, are more aggressive in this part of the country.