Marrakech is an amazing base for exploring southern Morocco. Within a few hours’ drive you can reach snowy Atlas peaks, waterfalls, the Atlantic coast and film-set kasbahs. Here are the seven best day trips from Marrakech, chosen by our local drivers and guides.
1. Ourika Valley
Distance: about 1 hour (65 km)
The closest escape from the city heat. The road follows the Ourika river through Berber villages, clay houses and terraces. In Setti Fatma you can hike to a series of small waterfalls and have lunch by the river. On the way, visit an argan oil cooperative run by women and a traditional Berber house.
Best for: families, nature lovers, a relaxed half or full day. See our Ourika Valley day trip.
2. Ouzoud Waterfalls
Distance: about 2.5–3 hours (150 km)
At 110 metres, Ouzoud is the highest waterfall in North Africa. Paths lead down to the bottom of the falls, where small boats take you close to the water. Look for the Barbary macaques living in the olive trees, and enjoy a tagine on a terrace overlooking the falls.
Best for: photography, spring when the water is powerful. See our Ouzoud private day trip.
3. Essaouira
Distance: about 2.5–3 hours (190 km)
A relaxed, windy fishing town on the Atlantic with a UNESCO-listed medina, blue boats and white walls. Walk on the ramparts (Skala) used in Game of Thrones, buy thuya wood crafts, and eat freshly grilled fish at the port. On the way you may see the famous “goats in argan trees”.
Best for: sea air, art galleries, seafood. See our Essaouira private day trip.
4. Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou
Distance: about 3.5–4 hours (190 km) over the Tizi n’Tichka pass
A longer but spectacular day: cross the High Atlas at 2,260 m, visit the UNESCO ksar of Ait Benhaddou (seen in Gladiator and Game of Thrones) and the film studios of Ouarzazate. Read our full Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate guide.
Best for: film fans, history, mountain landscapes. See our Ouarzazate private day trip.
5. Imlil and Toubkal National Park
Distance: about 1.5 hours (65 km)
Imlil is the starting point for Mount Toubkal (4,167 m), the highest peak in North Africa. A day hike to Berber villages like Aroumd, with lunch in a local house, is a wonderful introduction to the High Atlas.
6. Agafay Desert
Distance: about 45 minutes (40 km)
A rocky desert of stone hills with views of the Atlas. It is not the sand Sahara, but it is perfect for a sunset camel ride, quad biking and dinner in a camp when you don’t have time for Merzouga or Zagora.
7. Lalla Takerkoust lake
Distance: about 45 minutes (40 km)
A reservoir with mountain views, kayaking and lakeside restaurants – ideal combined with Agafay.
Private or group day trip?
Group tours are cheaper, but a private day trip lets you leave when you want, stop for photos and choose your lunch place. Our private trips include pick-up from your riad or hotel in Marrakech, a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and a local driver who speaks English, French or Spanish.
Want more than a day?
If you have 2 or 3 days, go to the Sahara: 2 days to the Zagora desert or 3 days to Merzouga. Compare them in Merzouga vs Zagora. Book on WhatsApp: +212 606-957514.