Zagora, Draa Valley

 
Zagora is more than a dusty village at the end of a stunning valley. This long inhabited Moroccan oasis offers access to a unique environment, the Sahara Desert. Hike the hill known as Jebel Zagora and enjoy spectacular views. Photograph an infamous sign, “Tombouctou 52 Jours”. Tour age-old kasbahs. Marvel at rock art at Tisguinine. And, of course, explore the Sahara.
Zagora, Morocco

Zagora, Morocco

Valentina Marconi

Tombouctou 52 Jours

Tombouctou 52 Jours

Dominique Ganteille courtesy A lovely world

Man & Donkey

Man & Donkey

Valentina Marconi

Sahara Desert, Morocco

Sahara Desert, Morocco

Valentina Marconi

 
Getting There
 
Zagora is located in southern Morocco and is situated 367 km (228 miles) from Marrakech and 163 km (101 miles) from Ouarzazate. Marrakech and Ouarzazate are the best places to start a road trip to the Draa Valley and Zagora. Taxis and tours can be booked from both. Both Easy Jet and RyanAir service Marrakech. Royal Air Maroc offers daily flights between Casablanca and Ouarzazate. There is no train service in this part of the country.
Map It!
Google Maps
Zagora-Draa.com
Cheap Flights
Kayak.com
When to Travel
 
The best times of year to visit Zagora are early spring (February - March) and late fall (November - December). The daytime high often exceeds 40°C (104°F) in summer and, in winter, the nighttime low can fall below 0°C (32°F).
Weather Forecast & Climate History
Weather Underground
Travel Health & Child Safety
 
Heat exhaustion, dehydration and sunburn are the most common ailments afflicting travelers to the Sahara Desert. Dysentery is the most common ailment afflicting travelers to Morocco. Pack high factor sunscreen and apply it to all exposed areas, including your child's nose, ears, and toes, before you set out and repeat applications throughout the day. Encourage the children to drink regularly but take care about what they swallow. Drink bottled or sterilized water only.
Travel Health in Morocco
MD Travel Health
Heat Related Illnesses
Children's Hospital Boston
Things to Keep in Mind
 
Zagora may be one of the hottest places in Morocco but it also one of the coldest. Winter nights in Zagora are more than chilly; they are often freezing. Take care when arranging camel treks and jeep tours in this tout-ridden town.
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TRAVEL TRIVIA
Empanadas are:
meat filled pastries
sea mammals
eaten by children in Asia
a cold drink