One Week Morocco Itinerary: Marrakech + Sahara + Taghazout

Want a taste of Morocco’s souks, surf and the Sahara? This one week Morocco itinerary from Marrakech to Taghazout explores the best the sun-drenched south has to offer!

If you only have a week to spare and want to cover A LOT of ground, then this 7-day Morocco itinerary from Marrakech to Taghazout is for you! Just be aware that it involves lots of driving and is go, go, go. There’s only a single night in most destinations before a couple of days on the coast to wind down at the end.

But if you want to see as much of southern Morocco as possible and don’t mind the busy pace, it ticks all the right boxes. Over the course of a week, you’ll get to experience the incredible diversity of this fascinating North African country and soak up plenty of sunshine along the way. 

ONE-WEEK MOROCCO ITINERARY OVERVIEW

From the bustling medina of Marrakech, travel over the Tizi n’Tichka Pass to the UNESCO-listed ksar of Ait Benhaddou and the “Hollywood of Africa”, Ouarzazate. Then continue east to the Sahara Desert for a night of unforgettable stargazing before heading towards the coastline via the storied city of Taroudant. Hit the Atlantic Ocean at Taghazout – Morocco’s undisputed surf mecca and the perfect spot to end your journey. 

In my opinion, this one week Morocco itinerary takes in the best of Morocco’s south, including ancient medinas and sun-drenched surf townn. Hiring a car in Marrakech gives you the freedom and flexibility to complete the adventure at your own pace and follow your curiosity.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission when you make a purchase. Affiliate links cost you nothing and ensure my content stays free!

Highlights:

• Get lost in the labyrinthine souks of Marrakech and discover its architectural gems
• Experience the thrill of navigating the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass
• Wander through the UNESCO-listed ksar of Ait Benhaddou where countless films have been shot
• Camel trek into the Sahara from the sleepy desert outpost of M’Hamid, spending a night under the infinite stars
• Watch traditional artisans at work in the ancient walled city of Taroudant
• Surf some of Morocco’s best waves during a stay in the coastal village of Taghazout

For more information about self-driving in Morocco, check out my guide here. 

Day 1: Marrakech 

Start your journey in the vibrant city of Marrakech, which receives international flight connections from Europe and beyond. Architecture lovers will appreciate the city’s historic palaces and museums – don’t miss the Bahia Palace or Ben Youssef Madrasa. Meanwhile, the souks of Marrakech offer some of the best shopping in Morocco.

To really explore Marrakech and everything it has to offer, I recommend arriving a day or two early. This will give you time to visit the enchanting Jardin Majorelle, take a Morocco cooking class or embark on a street food tour of Marrakech. 

For more recommendations of things to see and do in Marrakech, check out my Essential Travel Guide to Marrakech. 

When booking accommodation in Marrakech, I strongly suggest staying in a riad – they are an experience in themselves! With many boasting courtyard plunge pools and rooftop terraces, these authentic guesthouses are such a treat.

To make your choice easier, I’ve put together a list of the top riads in Marrakech and even researched some eco-friendly hotels for those who are conscious about sustainability.

Best places to stay in Marrakech

Luxury places to stay in Marrakech

Royal Mansour

La Sultana

Mid-range places to stay in Marrakech

Riad Farhan

Riad Le Petit Joyau

Budget places to stay in Marrakech

Riad Salman

Riad Spa Sindibad

Day 2: Marrakech to Ouarzazate

From Marrakech, make the spectacular journey over the Tizi n’Tichka Pass to Ouarzazate, a desert city on the banks of the Asif Tidili River. It has a storied history as a trading hub, with people from the Atlas, Drâa and Dades Valleys gathering at the ancient Taourirt Kasbah to exchange goods.

Ouarzazate’s stunning desert scenery attracted numerous Hollywood productions from the mid-20th century, leading to the birth of “Ouallywood” studios. Today, Ouarzazate boasts museums showcasing Amazigh culture and film studios honouring its prominent role in movie-making history.

En route to Ouarzazate, make an optional stop in Ait Benhaddou, a maze of mud-brick homes clustered tightly within the imposing fortified walls of an old ksar. Stroll along the twisting pathways of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and former Saharan trade centre.

The ochre tones of the structures become even more striking as the sun sets, creating a picturesque setting for photographers.

For more recommendations of things to see and do in Ouarzazate, check out my Essential Travel Guide to Ouarzazate. 

Best places to stay in Ouarzazate

Luxury places to stay in Ouarzazate

Villa Eden

Mid-range places to stay in Ouarzazate

Hôtel Riad Dar Daïf

Budget places to stay in Ouarzazate

Gite Amoudou

Day 3: Ouarzazate to M’Hamid

This morning, make the four-hour drive to M’Hamid, a small Saharan outpost on the edge of the desert that serves as a gateway for camel treks and 4×4 excursions. In the past, M’Hamid was a significant rest stop along historic caravan routes. Countless camels would gather here to quench their thirst before embarking on their challenging voyages to the legendary Timbuktu.

Today, M’Hamid is a starting point for unforgettable Sahara Desert adventures in the less-frequented Erg Chigaga dunes. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the region’s nomadic culture and experience amazing stargazing with almost zero light pollution.

Want to visit the Sahara Desert on a guided tour from Marrakech? I recommend this three-day Marrakech to Merzouga Sahara Desert adventure.

Best places to stay in M’Hamid

Luxury places to stay in M’Hamid

Ghazala Camp

Mid-range places to stay in M’Hamid

Le Chant Du Sable Camp

Budget places to stay in M’Hamid

Camp Mbark

Day 4: M’Hamid to Taroudant

After spending the night in a traditional Saharan tent, wake early to watch the sunrise over the desert, transforming the dunes from a deep red into a subdued orange. The scenery is truly remarkable, with endless sand as far as the eye can see!

Return to M’Hamid before lunch, then begin the long drive to Taroudant. It has been nicknamed the “Mini Marrakech” due to its similarity to the “Red City”, with centuries-old ramparts ringing its historic core.

Back in the 16th century, Taroudant briefly served as the capital of the Saadi Sultanate before the seat of power was relocated to Marrakech.

Aside from its historic ramparts, a lively market atmosphere permeates Taroudant. Skilled craftspeople continue age-old traditions producing stunning silver jewellery, hand-woven carpets and traditional Moroccan pottery. If you don’t have time to souvenir shop in Marrakech, Taroudant offers a great alternative!

For more recommendations of things to see and do in Taroudant, check out my Essential Travel Guide to Taroudant. 

Best places to stay in Taroudant

Luxury places to stay in Taroudant

Dar al Hossoun

Mid-range places to stay in Taroudant

Dar Zahia

Budget places to stay in Taroudant

Riad Tania Mozaik

Day 5: Taroudant to Taghazout

As you travel westward from Taroudant, you’ll reach the lively resort city of Agadir on Morocco’s Atlantic Coast. While you can stop to soak up the Moroccan beach culture here, I’d recommend heading north to Taghazout, a charming Amazigh village famous for its incredible surf.

The village centre is clustered with colourful surf shops, cafes and pizzerias, creating a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. If you prefer a more tranquil setting, consider staying in the nearby village of Tamraght.

Best places to stay in Taghazout

Luxury places to stay in Taghazout

Paradis Plage Surf, Yoga & Spa

Riad Dar Sarah

Mid-range places to stay in Taghazout

Munga Guesthouse

Maison Darna Guesthouse

Budget places to stay in Taghazout

Rayane Guest House

Tayought Surf House

Day 6: Taghazout

Enjoy a well-earned day of rest and relaxation in Taghazout, where you can bask in the sun, ride the waves and feel the sand between your toes. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there are waves that cater to all levels of surfing, such as Kro Kro and Panorama.

For those seeking a challenge, Anchor Point and Killer Point are legendary spots to conquer. 

When you’re not catching waves, you can feast on health-conscious foods at the laid-back cafes and swap stories of your Moroccan adventures with like-minded travellers. If you’re looking for a change of scenery, venture to Paradise Valley, a stunning oasis with palm-lined gorges, serene pools and cascading waterfalls.

Day 7: Taghazout to Marrakech or Agadir

From Taghazout, you can return to Marrakech for your final night before flying out from Marrakech Menara Airport. Alternatively, make the short hop down to Agadir to experience its lively beachfront boulevard. Just be aware that Agadir Al-Massira International Airport has fewer flight connections than Marrakech.

If you’re more into the Taghazout vibes, spend another night there and go directly to Agadir Al-Massira International Airport in the morning (it’s just an hour’s drive).

For more recommendations of things to see and do in Agadir, check out my Essential Travel Guide to Agadir. 

Best places to stay in Agadir

Luxury places to stay in Agadir

Le Riad Villa Blanche

Hotel Riu Palace

Mid-range places to stay in Agadir

Petit Palace Suites Hotel

Ocean Atlantic View

Budget places to stay in Agadir

Casa Zouina

Hotel Lynx

For more Agadir accommodation inspiration, head here.

Optional add-on:

If you have an extra day or two up your sleeve, consider heading down the coast from Agadir to explore the spectacular beaches around Mirleft and Sidi Ifni. These tend to be quieter than the beaches around Agadir and Taghazout. Plus, there are some lesser-known surf breaks too.

Renting a car for a one week Morocco itinerary

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.