Camels, sunsets, and a fire show that left me speechless.
We met our tour guide near Jamaa El Fna at 6.00pm and boarded our air-conditioned mini bus.
The journey took around 45 minutes in total even though we seemed to be driving across the gravelly desert for what seemed like ages.
There were camels with their young calfs dotted about, looking fairly nonplussed at the convoy of tourists driving past slowly.
On arrival, we could hear music playing from our camp a short distance away from where we were parked.
Our guide led us to tables overlooking the vast expansive desert. The panoramic view was absolutely breathtaking..
We could see for miles.
Our camp was really pretty, with colourful seats and rugs scattered everywhere.
There was a Berber tent for us to shelter in, and we could also eat inside there if we wanted to since it was slightly windy.
After a hot, sweet mint tea, we all took the optional camel ride..
It was rather a scary experience because my camel came untied and got a bit frisky with the one in front.
After he was reattached, we continued a bit further for a short while before turning around and heading back to disembark.
That was also something of a nerve-wracking experience.
I wobbled about on my camels back as he dropped down to the ground in the most undignified manner.
I probably wouldn’t do that part of the trip again, but everyone else seemed to really enjoy it.
Immediately after we got off the camels, our meal was presented to us.
It was a three course meal consisting of vegetable soup with traditional Morroccan bread, a delicious tagine followed by cakes and fruit for dessert.
We ate watching the beautiful golden sun go down. The sky was fiery red.
It was absolutely stunning.
I can honestly say it was one of the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen.
We ate our meal, with traditional musicians playing their instruments around the tables.
It was very entertaining.
As soon as dinner was over, more merriment began..
The dubious tourists were pulled into a circle and were soon snaking around the campfires and attempting to mimic the traditional Berber dancing.
The atmosphere was incredible.
Everyone was out of their seats, clapping and enjoying themselves.
The stars came out, and the campfires roared.
The temperature had cooled down, but we were soon nice and warm again.
After the lively display of Berber dancing had finished, we all sat down to catch our breath once more.
The air was full of laughter, and spirits were high.
Soon, the grand finale was about to begin..
A spectacular light show in the middle of the desert.
It was completely dark by now, and the visual effects were totally hypnotising.
Everyone looked on in awe at the amazing pyrotechnic display.
It was the highlight of the whole evening.
We were completely blown away, watching the flames leaping about against the back drop of the vast dark desert.
I certainly wasn’t expecting anything quite as fantastic as that!
The fire display brought the evening in Agafay desert to a close.
It had been a wonderful evening.
We had tasty food, the entertainment was a lot of fun, the fire display was incredible, and the camel ride was rather… interesting!
Everyone was able to participate in what turned out to be a very enjoyable time.
We were taken back to our meeting point near Jamaa El Fna.
The cost of the excursion was well worth the money, and I would highly recommend it.
I booked my trip through Get Your Guide.
I believe there are a few different desert camps.
Some have better facilities than others, and some include a different itinerary. The cost varies, so do check what activities you are getting before you book.
Hotels and riads can also organise the trip for you, if you prefer, although you may pay slightly more.
It is also possible to book an overnight stay at Agafay luxury camp.
There is a swimming pool and other amenities with a more luxurious touch.
Check Booking.com or look for reputable online sites for details about staying there.
There are a few things to consider if you plan to visit Agafay desert camp..
Take a warm sweater or blanket, the evenings drop cooler, and you may find the wind is a little bit blustery in some camps.
There are plenty of toilet facilities but take some tissue with you in case there isn’t any. You may also want to take some hand sanitiser.
There are vegetarian options available. I had vegetable tagine, and the other people in my group had chicken.
The guides are excellent at their job.
I have been several times and they always find us at the end of the evening. No one gets left behind.
Some tours visit an Argan Cooperative on the way to the desert.
I really enjoyed this and purchased some argan oil for my skin. It was a decent quality oil and lasted me ages.
The tour usually finishes around 9.30-10.00.
I went in March and September and enjoyed it both times.
Despite it being Ramadan in March, I was impressed how well I was looked after.
I think I may take a journey to the Sahara desert next.
Now that I’ve had a taste of desert life..
Sounds Of The Souks 