PICK Road trips from Marrakech: 7 ideas by car
With a rental car, Marrakech is the perfect starting point to explore the Atlas, the Atlantic coast and the gateway to the desert. Here are seven trip ideas, with approximate distances and driving times.
Ourika valley: about 1 h 15
Around sixty kilometres away, the Ourika valley leads to the village of Setti Fatma at the foot of the mountains. An easy day trip, with restaurants along the river.
Imlil and the High Atlas: about 1 h 30
Imlil is the starting point for hikes towards Toubkal, about 65 km from Marrakech. The road climbs in bends: drive slowly and fill up before you leave.
Agafay desert: about 45 minutes
About forty kilometres away, Agafay offers stony desert landscapes facing the Atlas. Note that many camps are at the end of dirt tracks. The rental contract forbids unpaved tracks, so ask the camp whether access is paved or whether it offers a transfer.
Ouzoud waterfalls: about 2 h 30 to 3 h
About 150 km to the north-east, the Ouzoud waterfalls are among the highest in Morocco. Leave early to enjoy the site before the crowds.
Essaouira: about 3 hours
The walled town on the Atlantic is about 190 km away. A listed Medina, a fishing port and a beach: plan at least one night there.
Ouarzazate and Aït Ben Haddou: about 4 hours
The N9 national road crosses the Atlas via the Tizi n'Tichka pass, at over 2,200 m. The ksar of Aït Ben Haddou is just before Ouarzazate, about 200 km from Marrakech. It is a mountain road, so avoid driving at night.
Agadir and Casablanca by motorway: about 3 hours
The motorway links Marrakech with Agadir (about 250 km) and Casablanca (about 240 km). It is the easiest drive, with regular service areas. Keep some dirhams for the tolls.
Times are approximate and take into account the 90 km/h maximum speed set in the contract. Mileage and conditions are detailed in our terms and conditions.
