Top 5 Excursions from Marrakech You Can't Miss
Planning a weekend getaway to Marrakech is always an exciting option, but what if you had more time to explore the wonders surrounding this vibrant city? In this article, we will guide you through the best excursions from Marrakech, tailored to your interests and adventure level. Whether you're seeking a multi-day adventure or a quick day trip, there's something for everyone.
From breathtaking desert landscapes to picturesque coastal towns, the excursions from Marrakech offer a diverse range of experiences. You can easily embark on these adventures by renting a car, but if you're not comfortable driving or prefer the convenience of guided tours, we have recommendations for affordable organized tours to help you enjoy your journey hassle-free.
Are you ready to discover the top excursions from Marrakech?
1. A Memorable Desert Adventure (3 Days)
For a truly immersive experience, you should dedicate at least three days to a trip to the Sahara Desert. Ideally, if you want to explore at a leisurely pace, consider extending your stay to four or five days, allowing you to savor every moment on the way to Merzouga.
This journey is filled with enchanting stops, including the fairy-tale village of Ait Ben Haddou, where you'll marvel at ancient kasbahs, winding roads, and valleys adorned with roses. You'll also have the chance to experience the stunning Dades Gorge and the Todra Gorge.
The highlight of this adventure is undoubtedly spending a night under the stars amidst the dunes. Picture yourself surrounded by the serene beauty of the Sahara, with only the twinkling stars and the warm glow of a campfire to illuminate the night. This is truly a unique experience and ranks among the best things to do in Morocco.
In Morocco, there are two main areas of vast dunes with camps where you can spend the night: Erg Chebbi (Merzouga) and Erg Chigaga (Zagora and Mhamid), both part of the grand Sahara Desert. For more details on which desert to visit, check out our guide on which desert to choose in Morocco.
This journey, with both city days in Marrakech and a night in the desert, offers a comprehensive overview of Morocco's beauty.
⭐ Recommended tours: 3-day desert tour to Merzouga and 4-day desert tour to Merzouga.
2. Alternative: Night in Agafay Desert
If your time in Marrakech is limited, a fantastic alternative for those who only have one day to experience the desert is the nearby Agafay Desert.
While it’s true that the vastness and beauty of the Sahara are unparalleled, spending a night in a tent under the stars in Agafay is a wonderful option if you can't make it to Merzouga or Mhamid. The stone desert is located about 40 km southwest of Marrakech. While you won’t find grand sand dunes, the unique landscapes and activities offered in tours make for an exciting day.
⭐ Recommended tour: Night in the Agafay Desert from Marrakech.
3. Essaouira: The Jewel of the Coast
One of our favorite discoveries during our travels was the coastal town of Essaouira. This charming port city feels like stepping back in time, with its ancient walls, bastions, bustling souks, and colorful fish markets. There’s ample opportunity for shopping, enjoying the beautiful beaches, and wandering through the enchanting streets of the Medina.
For us, Essaouira stands out as one of the most charming spots in all of Morocco. If you have the chance, it’s definitely one of the best day excursions from Marrakech.
⭐ While there are comfortable 1-day excursions available, we recommend spending at least one night to truly soak in the atmosphere. The best part? Witnessing a breathtaking sunset along the coast, a moment that is bound to be unforgettable. Plus, you can enjoy early morning walks through the city before the tourist crowds arrive 😉.
4. Ouzoud Waterfalls: A Natural Paradise
When you think of Morocco, you might not immediately associate it with stunning waterfalls. However, just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Marrakech are the magnificent Ouzoud Waterfalls, which hold the title of the highest waterfalls in North Africa at 110 meters.
As with any natural wonder, the water flow varies with the seasons, but the shift from the dry, arid climate of Marrakech to the lush surroundings of the waterfalls is refreshing. Here, you can hike around, take a boat ride, or even enjoy a swim in the river – all while being surrounded by playful monkeys!
⭐ The excursion to Ouzoud is not only affordable but also guarantees a fulfilling day away from the city. Check out more info and prices for the tour here.
5. Ourika Valley: A Tranquil Retreat
Heading towards the Atlas Mountains, you'll discover the Ourika Valley, a serene area filled with traditional Berber villages, artisan shops, and lush orchards. This beautiful valley carved by the Ourika River is only about an hour from Marrakech, making it an ideal getaway.
The valley also surprises visitors with the Ourika Waterfalls, which, although not massive, are set in a tranquil and natural environment perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
⭐ If you're embarking on a road trip throughout Morocco, this valley can be seamlessly integrated into your itinerary, whether you're heading to Ouarzazate or the coast towards Agadir. However, if you're short on time, you might prefer to join a day tour from Marrakech that stops at the most interesting sites, such as this one-day tour.
6. Unique Experience: Hot Air Balloon Ride
Taking a hot air balloon ride is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. While destinations like Cappadocia in Turkey or Luxor in Egypt might be more famed for this, witnessing a city or landscape from above is always a breathtaking experience.
In Marrakech, you can join balloon rides that offer stunning views of the Atlas Mountains from the sky. For more information, check out this link.
We hope this guide inspires you to explore the many wonders surrounding Marrakech. For a deeper dive into this vibrant city, check out our article on 25 must-see attractions in Marrakech. Have you discovered other excursions from Marrakech that are worth mentioning?
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