It only took a few years for Agafay to transform into an essential destination for lovers of a change of scenery. Located just 30 kilometers from Marrakech, this haven of hospitality redefines the very idea of escape.
«Before, people left en masse for Merzouga. Now we see more and more people here. Tourists are looking for an alternative closer to Marrakech, an experience just as exotic, but with simpler logistics.», Tells us Mohamed Hajil, manager of a hotel unit established here for several years.
Its establishment, a luxury camp with elegantly decorated tents, offers a breathtaking view of the arid hills: “This is why we try to offer the same services as in Merzouga: nights under the stars in comfortable tents, quad or buggy excursions to explore the surroundings, traditional dinners with Berber music shows… But here , I find that the atmosphere is different and more intimate.»
A few meters away, we meet Othmane Ghaflouli, a camel breeder. Its herd of camels, around ten animals with coats ranging from light beige to dark brown, peacefully graze on the meager plants, their long silhouettes standing out against the ocher horizon.
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Othmane, dressed in a traditional djellaba, welcomes us with a warm smile. It offers camel rides, a must-do activity to fully immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the Agafay Desert. “Rides with camels, he explains in a calm and calm voice.allow visitors to feel the calm and serenity of the desert.»
He then invites us to approach the animals, explaining their particularities to us with intimate knowledge, showing us their large feet adapted to walking on rocky terrain and their humps, real reserves of energy.
He too affirms that Agafay has become, in just a few years, a serious alternative to Merzouga for tourists looking for a change of scenery: “It is a destination that combines tradition, comfort and adventure.»
