In a Nutshell
Scarabeo Camp is an idyllic luxury tented camp in the Agafay Desert, just an hour’s drive from Marrakech. The views up to the Atlas Mountains are stunning, especially from November to March when they are snow-capped.
At a Glance
- All in all, a superb luxury camp close to Marrakech
- Wonderful en-suite tents with very comfortable hotel-style beds
- Amazing cuisine and service
- Lots of experiences in the desert
The Detail
Scarabeo Camp is all about turning simplicity into luxury. There is such a clever use of natural and local materials. As you walk around the camp, Moroccan lanterns flicker away. In a word, it’s simply magical.
The Agafay Desert is a stone desert, so if you want to experience vast rolling dunes, you will need to head across the Atlas Mountains to Zagora or Merzouga (both 9-10 hours drive away). Nonetheless, you still get a fantastic desert experience at Scarabeo Camp. Equally important, you don’t have to travel for hours to get here.
The interiors are stylish and so welcomingly understated. As a result, expect to find cosy Berber rugs, Moroccan lamps, a writing desk, a heater and a private bathroom. Likewise, step out of the tent onto the terrace, where you can sit back and take in the views. Also, the bathrooms feature simple washing facilities but do have western loos. You will find a Berber style shower with one cold and one hot bucket. However, there are two shower tents with ‘real showers’ in the camp for everyone to use. Another key point is that there are only ten tents here.
At the centre of the camp, you find the dining tent. You eat at the large communal table, coated with candles. They serve both western and international cuisine and use fresh produce.
You can opt for a range of activities from a half-day walk and visit a local village, camel rides and stargazing. They even offer massages.