The 9 Best Day Trips From Marrakech

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Marrakech is an absolutely incredible city, but once you’ve ticked off the must-see sights and wandered through the buzzing souks, it might be time to venture beyond the city walls. If you’ve got a couple of spare days, why not use them to explore more of Morocco’s stunning and diverse landscapes?

Morocco has it all, from roaring waterfalls and rugged mountain ranges to dramatic canyons like Dades Valley and ancient wonders like the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ait Ben Haddou. There’s so much more to discover beyond the hustle and bustle of Marrakech.

Personally, I’ve found it’s these unexpected, slightly random day trips or activities that end up being the most memorable. Whether it’s sipping mint tea in a Berber village or getting completely lost (in the best way) somewhere you weren't planning on visiting – it’s those spontaneous moments that stick with you. Especially when you catch yourself doing something you never imagined you'd try!

So, here are some of the best day trips from Marrakech to help you soak up more of what makes Morocco so special – and turn your trip into something truly unforgettable!

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The Best Day Trips From Marrakech

Catch the Sunrise from a Hot Air Balloon

If you’re up for an early start, this one’s totally worth the bleary eyes. Just before dawn, you’ll be picked up and whisked north of Marrakech to kick off your morning with a hot air balloon ride – yep, it’s just as epic as it sounds!

Before take-off, you’ll tuck into a delicious Moroccan breakfast, then it’s time to take to the skies. For around 40 magical minutes, you’ll float above the landscape, watching the sun rise over the nearby mountains and paint the sky in golden hues. With other hot air balloons drifting nearby, it’s a scene you won’t forget in a hurry!

This is the exact tour I did, and honestly, it was the most unforgettable way to start a day in Marrakech. One for the memory bank, for sure!

Escape to Agafay Desert

If you don’t have time to make the long trek to Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara, don’t worry – Agafay Desert is the perfect alternative, and it’s just a 40-minute drive from Marrakech.

Agafay Desert is the perfect spot to experience some classic desert activities, from hopping on a quad bike and zooming across the rugged landscape to taking a camel ride as the sun sets. Once you’ve soaked up all that excitement, the tour linked below will have you settling in for a delicious Moroccan dinner, and just when you think the day can’t get any better, you’ll be treated to an epic fire show to wrap it all up.

Agafay offers a thrilling escape from the chaos of Marrakech, where you can trade the city’s buzzing atmosphere for an epic desert adventure!

Visit the Towering Atlas Mountains and the Five Valleys

Marrakech is nestled at the foot of the jaw-dropping Atlas Mountains, and with them just a stone’s throw away, it’d be a real shame to miss out on exploring them. This epic mountain range stretches across Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia, offering some of the most stunning views in North Africa.

For centuries, locals have called these mountains home, and you’ll get a real taste of that rich heritage as you travel through the many Berber villages and historic Kasbahs dotted throughout the region. If you’re after a truly authentic experience of the Atlas Mountains and its vibrant culture, a tour with a local guide like the one below is definitely the way to go!

Along the way, you’ll get to see life in the Berber villages first-hand, visit a women-run Argan oil cooperative, and take in the incredible views of Mount Toubkal – the highest peak in the region. You’ll also have the chance to explore the breathtaking valleys of Oukaimeden, Asni, and the Valley before sitting down to a traditional lunch in a Berber house.

Marvel at North Africa’s Tallest Waterfalls

Ouzoud Falls are the tallest waterfalls in North Africa, and they’re just a 3-hour drive east of Marrakech – totally doable for a day trip!

When I was driving around Morocco, visiting Ouzoud Falls was high on my list, but they’re a bit out of the way from most of the other must-see spots. So, if you’re planning to go, I’d definitely recommend booking a tour – it’s by far the easiest and most affordable way to make it happen!

On the one linked below, you’ll visit the stunning waterfalls nestled in lush, green surroundings, with a local guide sharing all sorts of fascinating stories about the area and rural life. Once you reach the falls, hop on a boat to get up close and personal with the mighty 110-metre cascade. Then, sit back and enjoy lunch at a restaurant with an incredible top-down view of the falls – the perfect way to round off an exciting day!

Step Back in Time at Ait Ben Haddou

Ait Ben Haddou is absolutely one of those must-see spots when you're in Morocco. And the best part? It’s only about a 3-hour drive south of Marrakech, making it ideal for a day trip. The journey there is half the adventure – you’ll wind your way through the stunning Atlas Mountains and over the dramatic Tizi-n-Tichka pass.

Ait Ben Haddou is steeped in rich history, and it’s barely changed in centuries. Wandering through its narrow, sandy streets feels like stepping straight back in time – you can almost picture what life was like here all those years ago. Before you go, I’d definitely recommend reading up on what to do in Ait Ben Haddou so you can make the most of your visit.

A lot of the tours to Ait Ben Haddou also include a visit to the nearby city of Ouarzazate to check out Atlas Studios – the filming location for blockbusters like Gladiator and The Mummy.

Visit the Coastal Gem of Essaouira

Morocco’s coastline is seriously having a moment right now – and for good reason. With its chilled-out vibe, buzzing surf scene, rich culture, and even a few Game of Thrones filming spots thrown in, it’s no wonder more and more travellers are heading seaside.

One coastal gem that should definitely be on your list is Essaouira. This breezy little town is known for its major fishing harbour, laid-back energy, and water sports like kitesurfing and windsurfing.

On a visit here – like the tour linked below – you’ll get to see how Argan oil is made, stroll through the traditional port, and explore the old medina with its colourful markets and charming little streets. Then, once you’ve taken it all in, you can kick back on the beach and simply unwind.

Paraglide High Above Morocco’s Breathtaking Landscapes

Fancy adding a bit of adrenaline to your Moroccan adventure? Why not try paragliding over the epic landscapes?! It might sound a bit nerve-wracking, but trust me, it’s actually surprisingly relaxing. I went paragliding in Lima, Peru, years ago and loved every single second of it. Honestly, it’s an unforgettable experience!

For your paragliding adventure, you'll be driven out of Marrakech to the perfect spot for take-off. Once you're there, all you need to do is sit back, relax, and let a pilot guide you high above the stunning scenery. And the best bit? Your experience will be captured on a GoPro, so you can relive it whenever you like!

But that’s not all. The trip also includes a camel ride, a visit to Berber villages, a stop by a waterfall, and a delicious local lunch. And, of course, no Moroccan experience would be complete without a refreshing glass of mint tea to top it all off!

Reach New Heights at Talamrout Summit

Do you love getting out in nature and going on epic hikes? Well, this activity is definitely going to be right up your street!

You’ll be taken to the village of Imlil in the Atlas Mountains, where your hike begins. From there, you’ll climb about 900 metres to the summit of Talamrout. On your way, you’ll navigate the Tamatert Valley to the Tizi n'Tamatert pass, passing through the picturesque Berber villages of Ait Souka and Tamatert.

Next, you’ll venture into the stunning Moroccan pine forest before making your final ascent to the summit of Talamrout, where all that hard work truly pays off! As far as the eye can see, you’ll be treated to absolutely unreal panoramic vistas of Imenane Valley and the Berber villages of Amskere and Ikkiss below.

After all that adventure, you’ll definitely have earned a well-deserved, lazy day at a Hammam Spa in Marrakech – the perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking!

Discover the Glamour of Casablanca

If you've got a day to spare and fancy checking out a different side of Morocco, head to Casablanca – the country’s largest city and a complete contrast to Marrakech. It’s a buzzing place with heaps of history, stunning architecture, and some seriously cool cultural spots.

The best way to see the highlights (especially if you’re short on time) is by hopping on a guided tour like the one below. You’ll hit all the must-sees like the incredible Hassan II Mosque – perched right on the edge of the Atlantic and one of the largest mosques in the world – and wander through the New Medina, packed with shops and local life.

Since Casablanca sits right on the coast, you’ll also have time for a chilled stroll along the scenic promenade, dotted with cute cafés and restaurants. Or if you’re after some downtime, just kick back on the beach and let the sound of the waves do their thing!

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