7 Best Day Trips from Marrakesh
The best day trips from Marrakesh by private car: Atlas villages, Ourika Valley, Agafay Desert, Ouzoud Waterfalls, Essaouira, Aït Benhaddou and Lalla Takerkoust, with driving times.
Marrakesh is a wonderful base, and within a few hours' drive you'll find mountains, waterfalls, desert and the ocean. These are the day trips my guests love most, with honest driving times so you can choose the right one.
Driving times are approximate, one way from Marrakesh, without stops.
1. Imlil and the High Atlas: about 1.5 hours
A mountain village at the foot of Jebel Toubkal, North Africa's highest peak. Walk through walnut groves and terraced fields, have lunch with a view, and in winter see snow on the summits. Best for: walkers and anyone who wants fresh mountain air.
2. Ourika Valley: about 1 hour
A green river valley lined with small cafés and villages. Walk up to the Setti Fatma cascades or simply relax by the river. Best for: an easy half day close to the city.
3. Agafay Desert: about 45 minutes
A rocky, rolling stone desert where you can ride a camel or a quad bike, watch the sunset and have dinner at a desert camp, without the long drive to the Sahara. Best for: sunset lovers and short stays.
4. Ouzoud Waterfalls: about 2.5 to 3 hours
Some of Morocco's most impressive waterfalls, tumbling into a lush gorge. Follow the path down past olive trees, take a small boat close to the spray, and look out for Barbary macaques. Best for: nature and photography.
5. Essaouira: about 2.5 to 3 hours
A breezy Atlantic port town with a UNESCO-listed medina, blue fishing boats and fresh seafood by the harbour. Watch for the argan trees, sometimes with goats in them, along the road. Best for: a relaxed coastal day, or stay the night.
6. Aït Benhaddou and Ouarzazate: about 3.5 to 4 hours
A long but unforgettable day over the Tizi n'Tichka pass to the famous earthen ksar of Aït Benhaddou. Best for: travellers who want a taste of the south but have only one day.
7. Lalla Takerkoust Lake: about 45 minutes
A reservoir lake with the Atlas as a backdrop, popular for a long lunch by the water. It combines nicely with an Agafay sunset. Best for: a slow, scenic afternoon.
Why a private driver for day trips? You leave when you want, stop where you like and never wait for a group. Families can travel at their own pace, and the car is yours for the whole day.
