Zagora is situated at the edge of the Sahara Desert, it gained importance as a trading post, with traders carrying goods such as barley, goatskins,salt and dates to places such as Timbuctou, then returning with gold, slaves, ivory and ostrich feathers. However, the coastal trading of the 19th century saw a decline in the trans - Saharan trading routes.
it has recently re -established itself as a tourist spot, with hotels and shops accommodating travellers wishing to experience of the desert life, with camel treks and overnight stays in Bedouin camps.