Want to head outside the Red City’s pretty walls? These day trips from Marrakech are a great place to start.
Whether you fancy the laid-back charm of coastal Essaouira, dream of unwinding in a stunning country farmhouse, or want to explore the impressive Ourika Valley, stepping outside of Marrakech’s beautiful walls is always a good idea.
If you’re craving an unforgettable trip to Morocco, these day trips are the perfect way to dive deeper into the country’s diverse landscapes and rich culture. Here are some of our favourites.
Best Day Trips from Marrakech
Best Day Trips from Marrakech
Ouarzazate + Aït Ben Haddou
If you only have space in your itinerary for a one day trip, make it to Ouarzazate and Aït Ben Haddou. This was one of our favourite days on our recent trip to Morocco – not only were our tour guides brilliant, but the entire day was awe-inspiring.
You’ll get to visit the likes of Ouarzazate, the traditional town of Aït Ben Haddou, and the Atlas Film studios, where the likes of Gladiator and The Mummy were filmed. It’s a long day with plenty packed in, but filled with so many impressive sites, and numerous rest stops between the long drives. This is the tour we booked.
TRAVEL TIP ✈️
Before booking, be sure to check the details of what is included in your tour. Some tours offer lunch or snacks, while others may only include transport and the guide. It’s also important to clarify whether food, drinks, and entrance fees are included in the price.
Ouzoud Waterfalls
Another day trip from Marrakech we highly recommend is to the Ouzoud Waterfalls. While the falls can get crowded, the experience is incredible. Tours begin with a short hike to the top, offering panoramic views of the falls, followed by a descent down the cliffs where you can spot wild monkeys.
Along the way, there’s a stop at an argan oil cooperative to learn about local women’s craft and sample Moroccan Nutella. Which, FYI, is as tasty as it sounds. At the bottom, a boat ride takes you closer to the falls (check if it’s included in the tour price) before you head for a traditional lunch.
Agafay Desert
Just a couple of hours outside of Marrakech, the Agafay Desert offers a picturesque escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. While it lacks the famous dunes of the Sahara, it compensates with rugged landscapes and stunning sunsets.
The most popular tour is the evening dinner excursion, which begins around mid afternoon and includes activities like quad biking and camel riding (we say skip the latter, though.) You’ll then enjoy a breathtaking sunset before heading to a Berber camp for a traditional dinner featuring chicken tagine, fresh bread, and mint tea.
Read Next: A Guide to Morocco’s Agafay Desert: Best Tours + Our Experience
Ourika Valley
With its lush greenery and charming Berber villages, a day trip to the Ourika Valley is a must. The journey itself is a scenic treat – wind your way through terraced fields, past vibrant markets, and up to the foothills of the Atlas, where the landscape turns into a postcard-worthy mountain paradise.
Enjoy wandering through the villages, where you’ll see traditional adobe houses and get a feel for local life. Tours will take you close to the Setti Fatma waterfalls – it’s a gentle hike, and the payoff is more than worth it: a stunning cascade of water nestled in the mountains, surrounded by orchards.
Casablanca
Fair warning: you’ll need to wake up early to truly experience a day trip to Casablanca from Marrakech. But, if you can’t spare a couple of days in the north, we promise it’s worth it to enjoy this glamorous coastal city. You can opt for a direct train or a guided tour.
If going solo, don’t miss the impressive Hassan II Mosque, perched dramatically against the Atlantic Ocean. Likewise, the Royal Palace is equally stunning. Other spots to explore include the Corniche, a seaside promenade lined with cafés and restaurants, plus the old medina and Habous Quarter.
Essaouria
Essaouira feels like stepping into a different world. The city is a refreshing blend of relaxed charm and rich history. Start your visit in the medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where narrow streets wind through whitewashed buildings adorned with blue shutters.
It’s easy to get lost here, and that’s part of the magic. Pause at the Skala de la Ville, a 16th-century fortress overlooking the ocean and a reminder of Essaouira’s role as a military stronghold. Spend some time down by the lively port, where fishermen unload their catch and vibrant blue boats bob in the water.
Farasha Farmhouse
Farasha Farmhouse is truly a slice of heaven on the fringes of the city. Set amidst beautiful, expansive gardens – complete with olive groves – and rolling countryside, this is an indulgent day trip from Marrakech.
The resort regularly offers events and workshops, though you can equally spend the day lounging by the stellar pool. Grab a day pass (delish lunch included) to see what all the fuss is about.
Palmeraie
If it’s tranquility you’re after, spend a day at the Palmeraie – a vast palm oasis located just outside of the city centre. Sprawling across 13,000 hectares, the palm grove was originally planted in the 12th century by the Almohad dynasty.
Today it’s a perfect escape for those looking to relax and soak in nature. From quad biking to camel rides, there’s plenty to do. There’s even a museum for when you need to take cover from the scorching afternoon sun.
Read Next: A Guide to The Best Tours in Morocco
Mount Toubkal Trek
You’ll need (at least) two days to complete The Mount Toubkal Trek, but don’t let that stop you. It’s one of the most iconic and rewarding adventures in Africa, drawing trekkers from around the world.
At 4,167 meters (13,671 feet), Mount Toubkal is no easy feat. The trek is often a multi-day adventure, with the journey starting from Imlil, a small village nestled in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains.
Marrakech Day Trip Locations: Map
Best Time to Visit Morocco
Wondering when to visit Morocco? We recommend spring and autumn. The country gets extremely hot during the summer, so keep this in mind when planning all day, outdoor tours. If climbing in the mountains is a priority, factor in that there will likely be snow in the winter months.
Where to Stay in Marrakech
For the majority of these day trips, you will start and end in Marrakech. We recommend opting for accommodation inside the medina, as that’s where most restaurants and tourist attractions are. Read our guide to the best riads in Marrakech for our personal recommendations in the city.
Best Marrakech Day Trips: What to Know Before You Go
Make sure you’re prepared for your day trip. Many, especially those in the mountains or around natural sites like the Ouzoud Waterfalls, require lots of walking. Take it from us – comfortable shoes are essential.
We found that credit cards were accepted in some places, but many of the smaller villages or remote areas only took cash. Make sure you bring Moroccan dirhams for tips and purchases. Plus, even though many tours will provide water, it’s always a good idea to bring your own bottle, especially for more remote excursions like the desert or hiking trips.
