Perched at the base of the Zagora mountain, this captivating desert town lies along the Drâa River in the Drâa-Tafilalet region of southern Morocco. Its strategic position along a trade route leading into the Sahara Desert has long made it a popular stopping point for travellers making their way between Marrakech and the legendary city of Timbuktu. Today, it’s the last major town before the Erg Chigaga dunes, one of Morocco’s most popular destinations for an overnight desert experience.
While many tourists only pause briefly in Zagora before pushing onward, the town is a fascinating destination in its own right. Largely untouched by the trappings of modern tourism, it offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the rhythms of traditional Moroccan life, surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery. From its bustling souk to its serene palm groves, Zagora boasts several authentic attractions that make it worth spending a night or two.
In this Ultimate Travel Guide to Zagora, discover the top things to see and do in the area, as well as inspiring places to stay and the best time to visit.
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Things to do in Zagora
Explore the Route of 1000 Kasbahs
Zagora is located in a region of Morocco known for its kasbahs, with hundreds of them scattered across the surrounding landscape. These historic fortresses were originally built for wealthy families and have strong ties to Amazigh cultural traditions. It takes at least two days to explore the entire Route of 1000 Kasbahs, but there are plenty of sights to see within just a couple of hours' drive from Zagora.
Not far from Zagora is the village of Tamegroute, which has long been known as a hub of religious education. It was once the focal point of the Nasiriyya, a Sufi group that held great sway in the Islamic community. In addition to its famous pottery, Tamegroute also boasts an underground kasbah, built to provide relief from the intense summer heat.
You can also explore the town of Agdz on a day trip from Zagora, where you'll find the Kasbah of Caid Ali. This 19th-century mud-brick building has a labyrinth of rooms and stunning views from its rooftop terrace. Nearby is Tamnougalt, a former residence of local administrators, with a few old kasbahs to admire. Due to their deteriorating condition, it's best to admire them from a distance.
For more information about exploring the Route of 1000 Kasbahs, including maps and a suggested itinerary, check out my detailed article here.
Things to do in Zagora
Admire the street art
In recent years, the streets of Zagora have been transformed into a colourful canvas, rivalling the northern coastal city of Asilah. A local community association has spearheaded an ambitious initiative to breathe new life into the town’s residential areas, with young artists recruited to create hand-painted murals depicting the region's rich cultural heritage. Landscapes featuring the iconic palm trees and traditional kasbahs that dot the region are immortalised in vivid detail, making Zagora a wonderful place to wander.
Find the Timbuktu mural
If there’s one mural you shouldn’t miss, it’s the painting that indicates how far it is from Zagora to Timbuktu. For centuries, the only way to reach this fabled destination was by caravan, a gruelling 52-day journey across the Sahara Desert. The famous sign at the western edge of Zagora serves as a stark reminder of this arduous trek and the town’s role in connecting Timbuktu with the markets of Marrakech.
Wander through the palmeraie
Zagora is renowned throughout Morocco for producing some of the finest dates you'll ever taste. Over 30 unique varieties flourish in the hot, dry climate, with the intense heat and arid conditions the secret to the dates' exceptional sweetness and flavour.
From September through November, the date harvest is in full swing, with local farmers carefully tending to their precious crops and bringing in the bountiful yields. But even outside of the harvest season, the palmeraie is a fascinating place to wander, with shaded paths leading through rows upon rows of stately, frond-topped trees.
Things to do in Zagora
Shop at the bi-weekly market
Zagora has long been a vital hub along the historic trade routes that traversed the Sahara Desert. Even today, it remains a vibrant junction and meeting place, host to one of the largest markets in Morocco’s south. Twice a week (on Wednesdays and Sundays), shoppers and traders congregate in the town to exchange a wide array of goods and it’s an experience not to be missed.
Aside from an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, there’s an entire section dedicated to Zagora dates, as well as piles of spices and aromatic herbs. You can browse an eclectic mix of hardware and tools, not to mention traditional handicrafts. If you’re visiting in April or May, be sure to taste the freshly harvested watermelons that are famous in the region.
Photograph the dinosaurs
Tucked away just off the main thoroughfare lies Zagora’s Dinosaur Park, which features two prehistoric giants - a mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex and a formidable Triceratops. These impressive statues, crafted by local artist Amer Oubani, serve as a testament to the region's rich palaeontological heritage.
Over the years, several significant dinosaur fossils have been unearthed in Morocco, offering invaluable insights into the ancient creatures that once roamed the earth. By immortalising these iconic dinosaurs in his work, Oubani aims to not only educate visitors but also to celebrate the profound connection between his homeland and the prehistoric past.
Ultimate Travel Guide to Zagora
Drive through the Drâa Valley
Zagora lies within the Drâa Valley, home to some of Morocco’s most enchanting landscapes. One of the most magnificent stretches of road is the 95-kilometre route connecting to Agdz, a historic trade hub at the base of Jebel Kissane. Along the way, there are several opportunities to get off the main road and explore the palm-dotted villages that fringe the banks of the Oued Drâa, with many of these date oases clustered with mud-brick houses. If you drive in the opposite direction from Zagora, you’ll arrive in M’Hamid, the gateway to the Erg Chigaga dunes and the vast Sahara Desert.
How to get to Zagora
By bus
Both CTM and Supratours have regular buses from the centre of Ouarzazate to Zagora. Share taxis are also available and depart once full.
By car
Zagora is located around 160 kilometres from Ouarzazate and can be reached in around 2.5 hours by car. From Marrakech, it’s around 350 kilometres or six hours to Zagora. This journey takes you up and over the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass, which offers spectacular views across the Atlas Mountains.
You can find more information about driving in Morocco in my comprehensive article here. I suggest renting a car in Morocco through Discover Cars, as they provide free cancellation and 24/7 support. They offer a wide range of vehicles, from compact automatics to manual vans, catering to all types of travel groups and driving preferences.
Places to stay in Zagora
This charming riad in Zagora receives rave reviews for its welcoming atmosphere and tasty cuisine, along with its sunny terrace and refreshing pool. Aside from doubles, twins and triples, there are spacious family rooms available.
“What an absolute gem of a place.” - Katharine (read more reviews here)
Situated along the route linking Tamegroute and Zagora, this charming hotel offers elegantly furnished accommodations and a spacious pool set amidst beautiful gardens. Intricately carved wooden doors lead to the rooms and suites, some of which cater to families.
“Wonderful accommodation with resort feeling.” - Henneke (read more reviews here)
Surrounded by Zagora's palm grove, this beautifully adorned riad offers a selection of rooms and suites with views of the lush gardens. Delicious breakfasts are served each morning in the sun-dappled patio and there’s a pool where you can refresh during the heat of the day.
“Beautiful, relaxing hotel with wonderful outside area.” - Tanja (read more reviews here)
Ultimate Travel Guide to Zagora
Best time to visit Zagora
Zagora can be visited year-round, but the best times to go are usually from October to December and March to June. During these months, the weather is ideal and the skies are clear, making it perfect for exploring the town and the Route of 1000 Kasbahs, as well as enjoying the beautiful desert landscapes nearby. It's best to avoid July and August, as summers can be extremely hot, and January and February nights can be quite chilly. If you can, plan your visit to coincide with Zagora’s market days of Wednesday and Sunday.