Scarabeo Camp is one of the most photogenic camps in the Agafay Desert. With its white tents lined up facing the Atlas, its proudly nomadic atmosphere and its commitment to disconnection, it attracts travellers from around the world seeking an authentic Moroccan experience. Here is everything you need to know: concept, accommodation, prices, atmosphere and how to organise your stay.
The Concept: The Nomadic Spirit
Scarabeo Camp draws direct inspiration from the nomadic camps of the Moroccan desert. The camp is intentionally minimalist: no heavy permanent structures, little technology, a sleek design that gives full stage to the landscape. The founders wanted to recreate the experience of travelling through the desert — the real thing — while offering enough comfort for everyone to enjoy.
The result is a camp of about twenty tents scattered across a rocky plateau with 360-degree views of the Agafay Desert and the Atlas Mountains. The absence of wifi (or near absence) and television is not an oversight: it is the very concept of the place. Here, you disconnect.
The Tents: Comfort and Authenticity
Scarabeo Camp offers two types of tents:
Standard tents: spacious (about 25 sqm), with a double bed, artisan wooden furniture, Berber rugs and a full private bathroom (hot shower, basin, toilet). Lighting is provided by lanterns and candles in the evening — creating an incredible atmosphere. Prices: between 120 EUR and 180 EUR per night on half-board.
Superior tents: slightly larger, better positioned (front row facing the Atlas), with extra decorative details and a furnished private terrace. Prices: between 180 EUR and 250 EUR per night on half-board.
All tents have quality bedding (thick mattresses, cotton sheets, warm blankets for cool nights). The bathrooms are clean and well-maintained — an essential point for a camp in the middle of the desert.
Dining
Scarabeo Camp cuisine is served under a large communal tent that also serves as a lounge and social space. Dinner is the highlight: a multi-course Moroccan meal served by candlelight:
- Starters: harira (traditional soup), varied salad, cheese briouates
- Main course: tagine (the speciality — often chicken with preserved lemons or lamb with prunes), couscous some evenings
- Dessert: fruit basket, homemade pastries, mint tea
Breakfast is generous: msemen, wholemeal bread, pancakes, homemade jams, honey, olive oil, eggs, fresh fruit and freshly squeezed orange juice. Plenty of fuel before a day of activities in the Agafay Desert.
Activities and Experiences
Scarabeo Camp offers or facilitates several activities:
- Camel ride: included in some packages, this is the signature activity. One hour at camel pace through the desert at sunset. Also see our dedicated camel ride guide.
- Quad biking: the camp can arrange quad tours in the surroundings. For the best price, book our 2-hour quad tour at 45 EUR directly.
- Hiking: trails leave from the camp towards the surrounding hills.
- Yoga: outdoor sessions facing the mountains, morning or late afternoon.
- Live music: some evenings, Gnaoua musicians play around the campfire.
The main activity, however, remains doing nothing: sitting on your tent terrace, watching the desert, reading a book, gazing at the stars. That is the ultimate luxury.
How to Get There
Scarabeo Camp is located in the Agafay Desert, about 40 km south-west of Marrakech. The drive takes about 45 minutes by car. Several options:
- Camp-organised transfer: the simplest solution. Scarabeo can send a driver to pick you up from your hotel or riad in Marrakech. Expect about 25-35 EUR per trip.
- Private taxi: negotiate the price before setting off. Expect 250-350 MAD (25-35 EUR) one way.
- Rental car: possible but the last stretch is a track. An SUV is recommended.
Note: GPS can be unreliable in the desert. Ask the camp for exact coordinates and follow their directions.
Our Verdict on Scarabeo Camp
We recommend Scarabeo Camp for: couples seeking romance, solo travellers looking for disconnection, photographers (the camp is incredibly photogenic), and anyone wanting an authentic experience without sacrificing essential comfort.
Less suited for: families with young children (few specific activities for them), those who cannot do without wifi, or those seeking top-end luxury (opt for Inara Camp instead — see our luxury camps guide).
For a complete experience, we recommend combining a night at Scarabeo Camp with our quad + camel combo at 59 EUR in the morning. The adrenaline of quad biking followed by the serenity of the camp: the best of the Agafay Desert in a single stay. Book your adventure now!