The best time to be in the Agafay desert is the last hour before sunset. Sunset near Marrakech happens around 18:30 in December and around 20:40 in late June and early July, so most sunset trips leave the city about three hours earlier. You can watch it from a camel, from a quad on a hilltop, or with a glass of mint tea before dinner in a desert camp.
Agafay is only 40 km from Marrakech, so the sunset times are almost the same as in the city. These are approximate local times; check the exact time for your date before you go.
| Month | Approximate sunset | Typical pickup in Marrakech |
|---|---|---|
| December – January | 18:30 – 18:50 | About 15:30 |
| February – March | 19:05 – 19:40 | About 16:15 |
| April – May | 19:50 – 20:20 | About 17:00 |
| June – July | 20:30 – 20:40 | About 17:40 |
| August – September | 19:40 – 20:30 | About 17:15 |
| October – November | 18:30 – 19:20 | About 15:45 |
Morocco sometimes changes the clock during the month of Ramadan, so times can shift by one hour during that period. Your driver will confirm the pickup time the day before.
The slow pace of a camel ride matches the light. The caravan leaves about an hour before sunset and walks across the stony hills while the sky turns orange and pink. At the end, mint tea and pastries are served. It is calm, suitable for all ages and very photogenic. Book on our Agafay sunset camel ride page.
The sunset quad ride is timed so that you stop on a high point just as the sun goes down. You get the adrenaline of the ride and a quiet moment at the top. Bring a scarf: the light is beautiful, but the dust is real. See the sunset option on our quad biking page.
The most complete evening: a sunset camel ride, then dinner, live music and a fire show under the stars. It is the option we recommend for couples and families. Details on our Agafay dinner show page.
Agafay is not a sand desert, and that is part of its beauty at sunset. The pale stone and earth hills catch the low light and turn gold, then orange, then pink. To the south, the High Atlas range lines the horizon; from November to April its peaks are often white with snow, which makes a striking contrast. After the sun disappears, the "blue hour" lasts about twenty minutes and is the best moment for photos of lanterns and tents.
Even in summer, the desert cools quickly once the sun is down. Bring a light jacket from May to October and a warm one from November to April. Closed shoes, sunglasses and a scarf are useful for any activity. Read our full guide on what to wear in the Moroccan desert.
A sunset over the high dunes of Merzouga is unforgettable, but it requires a 3-day trip from Marrakech. Agafay gives you a beautiful desert sunset in an afternoon. If you are undecided, our Agafay vs Sahara comparison will help. You can also check precise sunset times for Marrakech on timeanddate.com.
