Zagora, Draa Valley
Zagora is more than a dusty village at the end of a lush green valley. This long inhabited Moroccan oasis offers families access to a unique environment, the Sahara Desert. Hike Jebel Zagora and enjoy spectacular views. Take a picture of the infamous sign “Tombouctou 52 jours”. Tour age-old kasbahs. And, of course, take a Sahara camel trek or jeep tour and explore the desert.
- Zagora information
- Zagora topics
- Zagora hotels
- Zagora reviews
- Zagora trip planner
- Fun stuff for kids
|
Getting There
Zagora is located 367 km (228 miles) from Marrakech and 163 km (101 miles) from Ouarzazate. Marrakech and Ouarzazate are the best places to begin a family road trip to this part of southern Morocco. Taxis and tours can be booked from both. Royal Air Maroc offers daily flights between Casablanca and Ouarzazate. There is no train service to Zagora.
When to Travel
The best time of year to visit Zagora and embark on a desert adventure is in fall (October and November) or spring (March and April). From June to August the average daytime high exceeds 40°C (104°F) and the sirocco, desert winds, blows continuously. In December and January the nighttime low can fall below 0°C (32°F).
Travel Health & Child Safety
Traveler's diarrhea is the most common aliment afflicting tourists in Morocco. Avoiding tap water is the cornerstones to prevention. Drink bottled water and eat cooked or peeled fruit and vegetables only. Heat exhaustion, dehydration and sunburn are risks in all desert environments. Apply high factor sunscreen 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.
Things to Keep in Mind
Zagora claims to be one of the hottest places in Morocco. It is also one of the coldest. Here, winter nights are more than chilly. They often fall below freezing.
|
