La Pause Agafay is the camp that started it all. Before glamping in the Agafay Desert became a trend, La Pause was already welcoming travellers seeking calm and authenticity in this lunar landscape on the doorstep of Marrakech. Today, it remains one of the most reputed addresses in the region. Here is our complete review: atmosphere, accommodation, activities, prices and tips to make the most of it.
What Is La Pause?
La Pause is an eco-lodge and tent camp located in the heart of the Agafay Desert, about 40 minutes from Marrakech. The estate extends over several hectares of desert terrain with panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains. Founded by a Frenchman passionate about Morocco, the place was designed with elegant simplicity in mind: no frills, but real comfort and total immersion in nature.
The concept: disconnect from the urban world. Wifi is limited (or absent in some areas), the tents have no television, and the general atmosphere invites contemplation. That is exactly what many visitors are looking for after the hustle and bustle of the Marrakech medina.
Accommodation: Tents and Suites
La Pause offers several types of accommodation:
Classic Berber tents: spacious, with a comfortable double bed, traditional rugs and a private bathroom (hot shower). Simple but charming. Expect between 130 EUR and 180 EUR per night on half-board.
Lodge suites: larger semi-permanent structures with a private terrace and open desert views. More comfort, more space. Prices: between 200 EUR and 300 EUR per night on half-board.
Private spaces: for groups or events, La Pause can arrange bespoke setups. Quote on request.
All packages include dinner and breakfast. The beds are comfortable (real mattresses, quality sheets), and desert nights are surprisingly quiet — a luxury in itself.
Restaurant and Cuisine
The table at La Pause is one of its strongest points. The cuisine is traditional Moroccan, prepared with local and often organic ingredients. Dinner is served under a large tent or in the open air, depending on the weather:
- Starters: Moroccan salad, zaalouk, briouates
- Main: tagine (chicken, lamb or vegetarian), couscous on Fridays, mechoui for large groups
- Dessert: seasonal fruit, Moroccan pastries, mint tea
All by candlelight, sometimes with a Gnaoua musician in the background. The atmosphere is magical. For lunch, La Pause also welcomes day visitors — no need to stay overnight to enjoy the cuisine and pool.
Activities Offered
La Pause is more than just accommodation. It is a genuine desert activity centre:
- Quad and buggy: 1 to 3-hour excursions in the desert. For quad biking, we recommend our 2-hour quad tour at 45 EUR departing from the heart of the Agafay Desert.
- Camel ride: one-hour walks at sunset. Also see our camel ride guide.
- Mountain biking and hiking: marked trails through hills and Berber villages.
- Yoga and wellness: outdoor yoga classes, massages on request.
- Pool: a natural pool with Atlas views, open to residents and day visitors.
Pros and Cons
What we liked:
- The authenticity of the place — no flashy decor, just the essentials in a stunning natural setting.
- The cuisine, genuinely excellent.
- The absolute calm — you can literally hear the silence.
- The team, warm and attentive.
- The ability to combine accommodation and on-site activities.
What could be improved:
- Almost non-existent wifi (but that is intentional — and frankly, it is liberating).
- The unpaved access road for the last few kilometres (plan for a suitable vehicle or transfer).
- The classic tents lack a touch of refinement compared to newer camps.
- No air conditioning — on hot summer afternoons, tents can get warm.
How to Get There and Book
La Pause is located about 40 km from Marrakech, on the Ourika road then branching off towards Agafay. The drive takes 40-50 minutes from central Marrakech. Most visitors arrange a transfer through the camp or take a private taxi.
Booking can be made directly on La Pause website or via the usual booking platforms. Tip: book at least 2-3 weeks in advance during high season (October-May).
For a complete experience, combine your stay at La Pause with our quad + camel combo at 59 EUR. You will enjoy the adrenaline of quad biking and the serenity of camel riding before returning to camp for a starlit dinner. The perfect recipe for an unforgettable stay in the Agafay Desert!