10 Best Day Trips from Marrakech for Adventurous Travellers
Looking for the best day trips from Marrakech? Explore this curated collection of highly rated tours, excursions and experiences departing from Morocco’s “Red City”.
With its colour and chaos, Marrakech is undeniably intoxicating. There’s a good reason why it’s Morocco’s most popular tourist destination. But it can be an assault on the senses.
If you’re staying a few days, you may find yourself craving a break. That’s where this list of the best Marrakech day trips comes in.
Beyond the city limits lie some of the country’s most enchanting landscapes, including kasbah-dotted valleys and the rugged mountains of the High Atlas. The “Red City” makes an ideal base to experience Morocco’s many wonders. And the good news is, you don’t have to venture far to find them.
In this article, discover 10 of the best day trips from Marrakech, all of which offer plenty of adventure when the crowded medina starts to overwhelm you.
For more Marrakech travel inspiration, check out my Essential Travel Guide to Marrakech, which details things to do, transport logistics and the best time to visit.
If you’re travelling solo in Morocco, discover my top recommendations for small-group tours and day trips from Marrakech.
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BEST DAY TRIPS FROM MARRAKECH
Don’t have time to read the whole article? These are my top recommendations for the best day trips from Marrakech:
Drive the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass to Ait Benhaddou
Best day trip from Marrakech to Ait Benhaddou
5 Valleys and Atlas Mountains trip
Best day trip to Atlas Mountains from Marrakech
Hot-air balloon flight over the Atlas Mountains
Best Marrakech day trip for Atlas Mountains views
Hot-air balloon flight over the Atlas Mountains
Best Marrakech day trip for Atlas Mountains views
What better way to experience the incredible scenery of the Atlas Mountains than on a sunrise hot air balloon ride from Marrakech. This unforgettable adventure begins before dawn as you ride a 4×4 to the launch site. Then gently ascend as the first light paints the desert valleys and hillsides in hues of gold, orange and pink.
After drifting peacefully above this spectacular landscape, you’ll land safely back on the ground. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan breakfast before a memorable camel ride through the desert.
This highly rated Marrakech day trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off from your riad or hotel. All you have to do is set the alarm…early!!
“Absolutely phenomenal experience” – Walter (read more reviews here)
Camel trekking desert tour to Merzouga
Best 3-day Sahara tour from Marrakech
For many visitors to Morocco, travelling to the Sahara Desert is high on their list of things to do. During this three-day desert adventure from Marrakech, you’ll travel to the Erg Chebbi dunes, taking in a lot of incredible scenery along the way.
Marvel at the High Atlas Mountains as you cross the spectacular Tizi N’Tichka pass, then explore the ancient ksar of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be awestruck by the towering cliffs of Todra Gorge and the tranquil Tinghir Oasis before arriving in the desert gateway town of Merzouga.
Experience a magical sunset camel ride through the Erg Chebbi dunes before spending the night under the star-studded sky in a traditional Amazigh tent. At sunrise, watch as the dunes change colour from fiery red to molten gold. Alternatively, you can get your adrenaline pumping while sandboarding down the massive dunes.
Not only does this three-day desert tour from Marrakech explore the highlights of Morocco’s south but it offers a fascinating insight into the country’s Amazigh culture.
“If you only have a limited time in Marrakesh this is definitely the only option to make the most of your time here in Morocco.” – A (read more reviews here)
Quad biking and camel riding in Agafay Desert
Best day trip from Marrakech to Agafay Desert
Don’t have time to make the long trip out east to the Sahara? This action-packed day trip from Marrakech offers a unique chance to experience the Agafay Desert’s natural beauty and Amazigh culture.
After a hotel pickup, you’ll don traditional nomadic attire before embarking on a picturesque camel ride across the arid terrain. Soak in the stunning desert scenery as your camel ambles along. Then hop on a quad bike and zoom to a prime sunset spot to watch the sky ignite in brilliant hues.
Then, it’s time to experience the renowned hospitality of Morocco’s Amazigh people during a traditional meal and campfire session. Spend some time stargazing amidst the desert beauty before your return to Marrakech.
With its mix of activities and cultural immersion, this Marrakech excursion provides an unforgettable taste of Morocco in a short space of time.
Want to learn about the difference between Agafay and the Sahara Desert? Check out my detailed comparison here.
“From thrilling quad biking to a picturesque camel ride, topped off with a magical dinner, every moment was fantastic. A must-try experience!” – Tina (read more reviews here)
Drive the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass to Ait Benhaddou
Best day trip from Marrakech to Ait Benhaddou
The road between Marrakech and Ouarzazate is one of Morocco’s most exhilarating, winding through the High Atlas Mountains and offering incredible views. As you travel 120 kilometres from Marrakech, the scenery transforms from fertile orchards to rocky cliffs and snow-capped peaks.
The highlight (for me anyway) is the legendary Tizi-n-Tichka Pass. It sits at an elevation of 2,260 metres and offers spectacular panoramas at every turn.
During this Marrakech day trip to Ait Benhaddou, you’ll travel over the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass before stopping at a Glaoui-era kasbah in Telouet. Here, you’ll have time to marvel at centuries of Moroccan craftsmanship before continuing to the ksar of Ait Benhaddou itself.
This stunning fortified village (and UNESCO World Heritage Site) is a “must-see” and one of Morocco’s most photogenic destinations. Wander through the winding alleys lined with rammed-earth buildings, which glow golden in the sunlight, and discover its role as a setting for some of Hollywood’s biggest films.
“This tour was what travelling is all about…Travelling through the mountains was unexpectedly beautiful and the historical sites were beyond our expectations.” (read more reviews here)
Two-day hiking trip to Jebel Toubkal
Best tour from Marrakech to Mount Toubkal
Rising above the landscape like a snow-capped sentinel, Jebel Toubkal stands as the highest peak in North Africa at 4,167 metres. This formidable mountain lies at the heart of Toubkal National Park, drawing adventurers and nature lovers from around the world.
Despite being just 70 kilometres from the “Red City”, Toubkal National Park offers a stark change of scenery and can easily be visited as a day trip from Marrakech. But if you want to ascend Jebel Toubkal, you’ll need at least two days, making this guided tour to Toubkal National Park ideal.
The tiny village of Imlil serves as basecamp, with the hike taking you through traditional Amazigh villages with jaw-dropping views. The winding trail leads through green valleys and along cliff edges, with the ever-present summit of Toubkal your ultimate goal.
“This trip was one of the best experiences I’ve had in Morocco, actually in the world!” – TripAdvisor reviewer (read more reviews here)
Ouzoud Waterfalls
Best waterfall tour from Marrakech
Located about 150 kilometres north of Marrakech within Oued el-Abid Canyon are these impressive cascades. They plunge 110 metres over three tiers of rock into a blue pool below.
The Ouzoud Waterfalls provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the Marrakech medina. I love the thundering sound of the cascading water echoing off the canyon walls!
Numerous lookout points allow you to fully take in the majestic sight as you follow the footpath down into the canyon. Keep your eyes peeled for playful Barbary apes along the way!
After being guided to the base of the falls by a local guide, you’ll have time to explore at your leisure or take an optional boat tour.
The falls are most powerful between March and June after the winter snowmelt. So this is the best time to book a Marrakech day trip to Ouzoud.
“The waterfalls are beautiful and are worth the 3-hour trip from Marrakech! The wildlife and views are astonishing.” – Rita (read more reviews here)
5 Valleys and Atlas Mountains trip
Best day trip to Atlas Mountains from Marrakech
The valleys and gorges that lie just beyond Marrakech are simply enchanting and visiting them is like stepping into another world. On this full-day tour from Marrakech to the Atlas Mountains, you’ll explore five different valleys and travel into the heart of the Amazigh countryside.
Pass through traditional villages that seemingly cling to the slopes and hike along rocky trails that reveal breathtaking views at every turn. Chat with the locals, see how they live and work, and learn about Amazigh customs passed down through generations.
Including lunch, hotel pickup and drop-off, this highly-rated Atlas Mountains tour receives rave reviews. It is one of the best day trips from Marrakech for those who want spectacular scenery and authentic culture all rolled into one.
“The highlight of our trip in Morocco was this day trip! Beautiful, picturesque, authentic and a peaceful juxtaposition from the chaotic medina.” – Brittany (read more reviews here)
Full-day trip to Ouarzazate
Best tour to Ouarzazate from Marrakech
Whether you knew there was a “Hollywood of Morocco” or you’re discovering it just now, it can easily be visited on a day trip from Marrakech.
Nestled in the foothills of the High Atlas mountains, Ouarzazate serves as a gateway to the Sahara Desert. But it’s also a worthy destination in its own right. It’s dotted with enchanting kasbahs, such as the 19th-century palace of Taourirt, which offers an insight into life decades ago.
After leaving Marrakech, you’ll travel over the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass and through the Atlas Mountains, eventually arriving in Ait Benhaddou. This fortified ksar has provided a setting for countless films, including Gladiator and Babel.
As you explore the oases and desert plains surrounding Ouarzazate, you can appreciate Hollywood’s love affair with this magnificent part of the world. This is definitely one of the best day trips from Marrakech for film buffs!
“Ouarzazate is a must-see. Amazing film studios, a Berber mud village and amazing Atlas Mountains landscapes” – Leonor (read more reviews here)
Discover the mountain villages of Ourika Valley
Best day trip to Ourika from Marrakech
One of the best places to escape the hustle and bustle of Marrakech is the Ourika Valley. It lies around 75 kilometres from the “Red City” and can be reached in just over an hour.
Tucked amongst orchards and fields, its mountain villages provide a glimpse into traditional rural life. Plus, the valley provides a welcome respite from the heat of the city.
At the end of the valley sits the village of Setti Fatma, home to the valley’s star attraction, a series of waterfalls. During this day trip from Marrakech, you can enjoy a short hike to the falls or simply wander around the village.
Lining Ourika’s streams are plenty of open-air restaurants where you can dine, accompanied by the serene sound of running water. In fact, you can even soak your feet while you eat. This is the perfect way to end your day trip from Marrakech!
“Lovely scenery and settings! Therapeutic stream sounds! A great relaxing day trip!” – Mutahir (read more reviews here)
Full-day trip to Essaouira
Best Essaouira day trip from Marrakech
Located on Morocco’s Atlantic coastline, Essaouira offers a seaside escape, just a few hours from the heat and hustle of Marrakech. Aside from its medieval walled medina (which is far more relaxing than Marrakech’s), it boasts an atmospheric port that’s renowned for its fish market.
During a day trip to Essaouira from Marrakech, you can stroll atop the ancient ramparts and soak in panoramic views of the harbour dotted with colourful fishing boats. Beyond the medina’s labyrinth of narrow streets, you’ll find a long sweep of sand that attracts beachgoers and kite surfers.
Not only is this guided tour from Marrakech to Essaouira a wonderful day trip. It can also be used as a private transfer for those who want to spend a few days on Morocco’s coast.
“A rejuvenating escape from Marrakech.” – Fikeresalam (read more reviews here)
Just looking for a transfer? This private transfer from Marrakech to Essaouira offers door-to-door service for a hassle-free experience.
Essaouira is one of my favourite places in Morocco! To learn more about what makes it so special, check out my Essential Travel Guide to Essaouira. Alternatively, you can plan your own adventures by following this recommended one-day itinerary in Essaouira.
Tips for finding the best day trips from Marrakech
When searching for the best day trips from Marrakech, there are several things to keep in mind. There are soooo many day trips from Marrakech to choose from. But you probably only limited days in your Morocco travel itinerary. As such, you have to think carefully about what you really want to see and do.
Consider whether you’re drawn to natural wonders, historic sites, cultural experiences or adventure activities. Or perhaps you want a mixture of all these things! Many of the Marrakech day trips listed in this article offer a blend of cultural immersion and adventure, all with magnificent Moroccan landscapes as your backdrop.
Top tip:
Before booking any tours or day trips from Marrakech, I suggest reading reviews and gathering insights from fellow travellers. These will help you to gauge which excursions align with your expectations and make an informed decision.
Both Viator and GetYourGuide are great resources for finding Marrakech tours and day trips, complete with reviews from previous travellers.
Additionally, evaluate factors like the mode of transportation and travel times involved. How long will you spend driving to your destination and back? Also consider the physical demands of each trip. Some tours require a reasonable level of fitness – ask questions of the provider if you’re not sure.
While some of the Marrakech day trips highlighted in this article can be reached by public transport, many stop at multiple destinations that couldn’t be accessed in a sindle day if you tried to go it alone. I also think there are myriad advantages of booking with reputable local tour operators. They can provide expert guidance, handle logistics and offer insider knowledge to enhance your experience.
Finally, be open to embracing the unexpected. Sometimes things don’t always go exactly as planned and that is just part of travel. No matter what happens, use the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture, breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality that the Marrakech region has to offer.
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About Me
I’m Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I’ve developed an intense love for Morocco, its incredible landscapes, storied cities and the exceptionally generous hospitality of its people.
Malika in Morocco is a place to share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. As a resource for travellers visiting Morocco, I want to encourage others to experience this captivating destination the way they desire, whether that’s independently or under the expert guidance of local tour operators.
I believe strongly in supporting responsible and sustainable tourism initiatives while inspiring travel experiences that are life-impacting and mutually beneficial for both travellers and locals.
