Local’s Epic Guide to 17 Best Day Trips from Marrakech

I love Marrakech and visit every chance I get for a whole lot of reasons. One of those reasons is that the city’s epic location makes it easy to enjoy some of the best day trips from Marrakech. 

No really, the sky’s the limit since some of the best day tours from Marrakech will take you to a beach town to go surfing, a desert to ride camels, the mountains to go trekking, or an ancient village that has become a premier Hollywood filming location. 

So, regardless of what you’re into, there really is a day trip from Marrakech for you. But, the best part? Many of these top day trips from Marrakech are located less than 3 hours away from the city (max). 

Therefore, you won’t have to spend the entire day sitting on a bus just to get out for two hours and then go right back home. 

Trust me, I have done most of these Marrakech day trips since i live here and think they are a great way to see Morocco in a limited amount of time. 

I mean, if you only have a couple of days in Marrakech, then get out of the city and enjoy a taste of what other regions have to offer by signing up for some of the best day tours in Marrakech, Morocco. 

But, enough chitty chat. Let’s have a look at some of the best places to visit near Marrakech right now!

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1. Go on a Hot Air Balloon Ride

⭐️ Rating: 4.9/5.0 (341 Reviews) Price: $200.00 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍Meeting Point: Pick up included Operator: Marrakech Dream Ballooning Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

If you’re not sure how many days to spend in Marrakech then plan enough time for an incredible hot air balloon ride above the city. 

It’s a truly one-of-a-kind way to enjoy sweeping views of Marrakech during an awesome, 45-minute flight above the city. 

It’s also way more affordable than the balloon ride I did over Cappadocia which also got canceled every other day due to high winds. 

So, after getting picked up from your riad in Marrakech, you’ll travel just 20 km to the Marrakech hot air ballooning sight. 

You’ll stand in awe as they blow up the balloons right before your eyes (I loved watching the process and thought it was super cool) and enjoy some pastries, tea, and coffee before a quick safety briefing. 

“The whole experience was amazing, from the food to the staff and the balloon flight. Initially we were skeptical about the value for money, but honestly after being there and watching the set up and experiencing the morning I couldn’t recommend it more highly. Our pilot was so friendly and full of information on the area and the flight itself. The flight was very calm, so peaceful and relaxing. A once in a lifetime experience!!“

Susan (read more reviews now)

Then, before you know it, you’ll be soaring through the sky and admiring sweeping views of the city and the surrounding mountains.  

You’ll then land and dig into a traditional Berber breakfast inside a Caidal tent. Just don’t leave before getting your flight certificate since it makes for a cool Marrakech souvenir. 

2. Oukaimeden

⭐️ Rating: 4.9/5.0 (1960 Reviews) Price: $74.92 per person Duration: 8 hours 📍Meeting Point: Hotel pick up available Operator: Attractive Tours Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Want to visit the highest ski resort in Africa and enjoy stunning views of the Atlas Mountains topped with snow? 

If so then check out this epic Marrakech day tour since Qukaimeden is only about an 1.5 hours away from Marrakech. 

First though, you’ll get picked up from your centrally located hotel and drive around 1 hour to Ourika Valley. 

You’ll take stunning photos, sip on local tea, and meet a local Berber woman extracting Argan oil before continuing on to Oukaimeden. 

As you drive along quaint mountain roads and see traditional Berber villages made of adobe, learn about Berber culture and stop for an authentic Berber lunch with views of Sidi Fares valley.

“Such a fun day and a great group of people! It was a long one, but packed lots in with the women’s co-op, different locations, delicious lunch and kind local Berber / Amazigh people. Marwan (our guide and driver) was super knowledgeable and a great storyteller, stopped often for photos and took great care of us. The Atlas Mountains are stunning – honestly a must do when in Marrakech! Definitely bring layers, it’s much cooler in the mountains.”

Mariel (read more reviews now)

Afterward, stop by Asni valley and see the amazing apple, walnut, almond ,and peach trees the region is known for as you gaze out at the Atlas Mountains. 

You’ll then slowly make your way back to Marrakech as you pass Tahanaout valley on the ride home. 

It’s a great way to see a lot of Morocco in a short amount of time. Definitely a long but fun day. 

3. Ait Benhaddou

⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5.0 (282 Reviews) Price: $86.86 per person Duration: 1 day 📍Meeting Point: Hotel pick up available Operator: Tours from Marrakech Details: Read more on Get Your Guide now! 

I’m not gonna lie to you, Ait Benhaddou is a bit far away from Marrakech. Like, 3 hours of driving far from Marrakech. 

But, this place is beyond epic and a spot you’ll definitely see if you decide to do a 3-day desert tour from Marrakech (I did this and it was 100% worth it). 

See, Ait Benhaddou is a historic ighrem or ksar that sits along an old caravan route that was used by traders going from Marrakech and the Sahara. 

It is such an exquisite example of Moroccan clay architecture that it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

But, the awesomeness doesn’t end there since this is one of the best places near Marrakech that has been featured in Hollywood films like Gladiator, Babbel, Kingdom of Heaven, Lawrence of Arabia, and more. 

So, sign up for this Ait Banhaddou and Atlas Mountains day trip and you’ll take winding roads through the Atlas Mountains to the ancient town of Ait Benhaddou. 

Known for its iconic Kasbah you’ll learn all about the history of the area, and its people, before discovering the center of the film industry in Morocco. 

Climb to the top of the hill for sweeping views of the valley and marvel at traditional clay architecture that is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. 

“This is a lovely day tour! We have stopped on many beautiful places. Almost everywhere our tour guide Youssef had a little story. We had a really good lunch by a local family guesthouse. At Ait Ben Haddou we got an other tour guide who we needed to pay a little extra. We could ask any questions we had so we learned a lot. I think this day tour really is a recommendation, 10 out of 10!”

Lisanne (read more reviews now)

You’ll spend two hours here admiring views of the Kasbah, and digging into an epic meal on a terrace before continuing to Telouet and the Ounila Valley. 

From here, it’s homeward after spending the day in one of the most beautiful places in Morocco.

4. Ouarzazate

⭐️ Rating: 4.4/5.0 (3306 Reviews) Price: $38.24 per person Duration: 13/14 hours 📍Meeting Point: Pick up included Operator: Click Excursions Details: Read more on Get Your Guide 

Located right near Ait Benhaddou and Todra Gorge, Quarzazate is known as the gateway to the Sahara. 

It’s home to the Taourirt Kasbah, which features a gorgeous, 19th-century palace and incredible views of the surrounding area.  

You can also drive southeast through the Draa Valley’s lush palm groves as you make your way to the desert. 

To visit, try this day trip to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou. You’ll get picked up from your hotel and whisked away on a glorious Marrakech day trip into the Atlas Mountains. Just be sure to have breakfast in Marrakech first since it’s a long day.

You’ll drive for an hour and stop at the quaint village of Ait Ben Barka to enjoy the views and explore Toufliht.

Afterward, continue through Tizi n’Tichka pass and stop to take stunning photos as you stand 7,415 feet (2,260 meters) above sea level. 

Get back in the spacious, air conditioned van and drive another 80 minutes to Ouarzazate and Atlas Film Studios. 

It is the largest film studio on the planet and was even featured in Game of Thrones. 

You’ll enjoy an 80 minute guided tour through the studio/area before grabbing lunch while admiring the awesome views around you. 

“I really liked the tour. Badr was an excellent guide who kindly explained us the history of Morocco and responded to our curiosities. Youssef was an excellent driver and always available. Ait Ben Haddour was wonderful. just One little tip: in Ouarzazate there should be a little more time to explore studios or other activities.”

Anonymous (read more reviews now)

You’ll then continue another 20 minutes to Ksar Aït Benhaddou, the final stop of the day. 

During your two hour visit you’ll visit the area and learn about why this is such an important UNESCO World Heritage Site before going back to Marrakech. 

Be prepared for a VERY long day and just know that you will have to pay for everything a la carte (lunch/admission fees) throughout the day. 

5. Imlil and Toubkal National Park

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (320 Reviews) Price: $38.00 per person Duration: 6 hours 📍Meeting Point: Hotel pick up available Operator: Marrakech Day Trips – Tours Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

What I love about this day trip from Marrakech is that it’s  only about an hour and a half away from the city. 

Yet, you’ll be transported to an entirely new world when you arrive at Imlil during this High Atlas Mountains day tour. 

So, get ready to hike through Toubkal National Park and marvel at Mount Toubkal, which stands at 4,167 meters tall and is the tallest mountain in North Africa. 

Just be aware that this hike is intense, although not technically challenging. 

But, if you think you can manage it then you’ll enjoy stunning views from the top. However, you’ll need more than a day if you want to hike to the top of Mount Toubkal. 

Otherwise, you can always just go for a leisurely stroll through the village and learn a bit about Berber culture. 

Personally, I’d go with this Atlas Mountains and Toubkal Museum Day Tour. 

First, get picked up from your Marrakech hotel and enjoy a picturesque drive through Moulay Brahim Gorges and Tagom towards Tahanaout. 

Stop at a Argan Cooperative to see argan oil production and learn about local Berber argan production before continuing through the scenic valley of Asni. 

It’s a place celebrated for its lush fruit orchards and for majestic views of Toubkal Mountain. 

Arrive at Toubkal National Park and visit the ecomuseum to learn about the unique biodiversity of the Atlas Mountains and engage with interactive displays. 

“We had Hassan as our driver and Ghafour as our guide. I am a Captain in a major international airline used to using these services. In 46 years flying, I have never seen a more helpful driver, safe, with good English, always on time with good WhatsApp comms the day before.

The guide had a great standard of English. He made sure he understood what we wanted and then delivered. He was cheerful and took excellent photos throughout, and sent us others he took. Again great comms on whatsapp. Both went the extra distance to make a memorable day. I would recommend these 2 guys to anyone making a booking. We have already passed their Getyourguide details to our friends. Well done for a special day.”

Anonymous (read more reviews now)

Next, proceed to Imlil Mezik where you’ll  commence your hike as you walk through walnut groves and past a striking Imlil waterfall.

Take in views of  the river from 1,900 meters above sea level before enjoying delicious Moroccan cuisine (tagine, couscous, soup, mint tea) from the terrace of a local restaurant.  

You’ll then finish  your hike through Imlil and make your way back to Marrakech. However, you do have the option to extend your tour with a visit to Takerkoust Lake and the Kik Plateau.

6. The Atlas Mountains

⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5.0 (3675 Reviews) Price: $47.96 per person Duration: 1 day 📍Meeting Point: Pick up included Operator: Tours From Marrakech Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Stretching out for 2,500 km across northwestern Africa and into Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia, this incredible mountain range separates the ocean from the Sahara. 

It is a paradise for hikers who want to explore unique terrain, walk through vast canyons, see incredible wildlife, and marvel at local Berber villages. 

As previously mentioned, the range’s highest peak is Mountain Toubkal in Toubkal National Park. 

So, if you would like to enjoy all that the park has to offer, sign up for this incredible Atlas Mountains full day hiking trip. 

After an early morning departure from Marrakech, you’ll begin your journey towards Moulay Brahim Gorges. 

Once there, you’ll hop on a camel and enjoy the ride of a lifetime since breathtaking views surround you. 

Continue by vehicle as you pass by quiet Berber villages on your way to Imlil Valley. 

Upon reaching Imlil, a local will greet you with warm mint tea before you begin a 2 to 3 hour hike to Armed. 

“Really enjoyed our day in the High Atlas Mountains. Excellent value for money, excellent guide and great food too! Views were incredible, learnt a lot and we had perfect weather for the walk (in March). Visiting Agafay Desert for a quick camel ride, second breakfast at the co-operative and the waterfall were all a bonus. You even get to drive back via the road used in Mission Impossible. Highly recommend guide Mustafa and driver Abdul.”

Harriet (read more reviews now)

It’s a village that is the highest and most expensive within the Imlil Valley. During your trek, you’ll pass Ait Mizan, Targa, and Imoula en route to the Berber community of Ait Souka. 

Along the way, you’ll stop at Tamatert to marvel at the expansive views from ancient irrigation terraces that feed local vegetable crops.

Eventually, you’ll arrive at a local Berber home in Ait Souka, where you can dig into a well-earned traditional lunch with mint tea. 

Conclude your adventure by descending through the opposite side of the valley. Pass Taourirt and arrive back at the van that will take you to Marrakech after a glorious day of hiking. 

7. Visit The Agafay Desert

⭐️ Rating: 4.7/5.0 (358 Reviews) Price: $43.55 per person Duration: 5 hours 📍Meeting Point: Pick up included Operator: The Concept Tour Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

The Agafay Desert is a rocky/sandy oasis (don’t expect to see the vast sand dunes of the Sahara) that sits a mere 40 or 45 minutes outside of Marrakech. 

It’s a great place to go if you want to escape the chaos of the city and enjoy stunning views of the Atlas Mountains. 

You can visit during the day or at night. However, I think a visit in the evening is one of the top things to do in Marrakech at night. 

I mean, you get to go stargazing, you can watch the sunset, and don’t have to deal with the heat/sunburn during one of the best tours of the Agafay Desert.

Sure, you can hire a private driver to take you here. But, I like to make my life easier by booking a Agafay Desert Sunset Camel Ride and Dinner. 

You just show up at the designated time and your local guide will whisk you away on an epic adventure where you can learn all about Berber culture.

You’ll even get to visit an argan oil cooperative on the way to the desert, before getting some epic Moroccan tea upon arrival. 

You’ll then go on a camel ride through the desert and enjoy a beautiful sunset as the stars twinkle to life in the sky above you. 

“Unforgettable experience with a magnificent setting to do with family, as a couple it’s cute or even with children without problem. Pick-up from your hotel, a beautiful camel ride of around twenty minutes but it is more than enough to contemplate the magnificent desert with its sunset.

Then we had dinner with a good soup, a good tagine with a good quantity and fruit. I really wasn’t expecting a meal like that. The perfect beautiful campfire. Put your shoes closed or sandals closed and a small fleece for the nightfall.”

Paul (read more reviews now)

At the end of your ride, you’ll be welcomed into a local desert camp where you can enjoy an authentic Moroccan dinner and some delicious traditional desserts. 

During your meal, listen to live Berber music and relax around a campfire before arriving back at your hotel at 11:00 pm. 

Local Tip: If you have time, you could spend the night in the desert at one of the best camps in the Agafay Desert or at a luxury Agafay Desert camp for a truly luxurious experience.

You could even try a quad-biking tour in Marrakech while you’re here.

8. Casablanca

⭐️ Rating: 4.4/5.0 (376 Reviews) Price: $39.46 per person Duration: 10 – 12 hours 📍Meeting Point: Pick up included Operator: Click Excursions Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Believe it or not, Casablanca is just a 3-hour drive from Marrakech. So, you could easily do a day trip from Marrakech to Casablanca, aka the economic capital of Morocco.

Generally, I suggest at least spending the night in a city to really get a feel for it. 

However, I am not a huge fan of Casablanca and feel like this Casablanca day tour gives you the chance to see the main attractions without getting jaded by the size, grit, crime, and lack of transportation that make Casablanca a tough city to visit (just my personal opinion). 

There’s no way around it, this will be a long Marrakech day trip and you WILL be spending a lot of time in the car. 

But, you’ll get to spend five hours in one of the most iconic cities in Morocco, so I feel like it’s worth it. 

Now, your pickup is early. Like, 7:00 am early. But, you’ll leave right from your hotel and head directly towards Casablanca. 

After an almost 3-hour drive, arrive in Casablanca and walk along broad boulevards as you marvel at incredible, contemporary architecture. 

“We had an amazing time with our guide Abdul and the driver Boja! Everything was well organised and we were able to catch the vibe of Casablanca. Best thing was to visit the beach at the end of the trip. If you’re in Marrakesh do this tour to see the vibrant city of Casablanca!!”

Anonymous (read more reviews now)

Wander through the harbor area, famous for its plazas and covered walkways. Enjoy beautiful modern designs before exploring the maze-like streets of the Medina. 

Continue to United Nations Square and Mohammed V Square, before visiting the central market and the royal palace next door. 

Experience all that the vibrant Harbors district has to offer before seeing local landmarks like  the Lourdes Notre-Dame Cathedral and the illustrious Hassan II Mosque. 

You’ll end the day in the upscale Anfa district, where you can shop for souvenirs at a seaside mall before going back to your hotel. 

So while you deffo won’t be able to experience ALL of the city’s highlights, you’ll get a feel for all of the most iconic spots. 

9. Palmeraie

⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5.0 (3054 Reviews) Price: $28.88 per person Duration: 3 hours 📍Meeting Point: Pick up included Operator: MENARA QUAD MARRAKECH Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Just 30 minutes outside the city center you’ll find Palmeraie. It’s this super cool palm tree oasis on the northern end of the city that consists of thousands upon thousands of trees. 

This oasis is so big that it is 5 miles long and covers 54 square miles. So, the best way to enjoy one of the most unique places in Marrakech is to ride a camel or quad bike through it. 

Personally, I would love to try this Quad Bike Tour to a Palm Oasis and the Jbilat Desert. Not only is the experience well-reviewed but it looks hella fun. 

Essentially, you’ll get pick up from your hotel, drive around 25 minutes to the oasis, and then get a 10-minute safety briefing before setting on your quad with a helmet and safety googles. 

Ride through this desert oasis for an incredible two hours and enjoy stunning views, with circuits available for both new and advanced riders. 

“The activity was quite nice, the only downside is that the equipment (helmet and quad) is a little (a lot) worn. On the other hand, the walk is pleasant, the guide is rather attentive and special mention for the superb photo session worthy of a photographer ^^ Tea break is appreciated ☺️.”

Jodie (read more reviews now)

During the trip, you’ll get two small breaks where you can sip on mint tea, eat bread with honey, and take lots of photos before returning to Marrakech. 

10. Agadir

⭐️ Rating: 4.4/5.0 (354 Reviews) Price: $24.97 per person Duration: 12 – 14 hours 📍Meeting Point: Pick up included Operator: Click Excursions Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Agadir is another major city in Morocco that is just a 3-hour drive from Marrakech (do you sense a theme here with everything being 3 hours away?). 

Honestly, most people skip Agadir during their trip to Morocco. However, I think that’s a shame since I have been to Agadir and think it has a lot to offer. 

Not only can you relax on a 10 kilometer beach (touristy but nice), but you can take a walk on the beachfront promenade before marveling at the historic grandeur of the Kasbah. 

It’s a fortress from the 16th-century that is home to stunning views. 

It’s an excellent place to stop before visiting the Agadir Memorial Museum. During your visit, learn all  about the 1960 earthquake that basically destroyed the city. 

Afterward, explore the markets at Souk El Had d’Agadir so that you can shop for cool things like spices, clothes, ceramics, jewelry, and more. 

For the best experience, and to see as much of the city as quickly as possible, book this full day trip to Agadir. 

You’ll get picked up from your hotel at 7:30 am and stop for a quick breakfast before arriving in Agadir. You’ll begin your day at Crocoparc and marvel at 325 Nile crocodiles. 

Afterward, visit Agadir Ufla archaeological site and enjoy some stunning views before heading to the Kasbah of Ufla.

Next, visit gorgeous Agadir beach, walk along the promenade, and grab lunch before doing a guided tour of the Souk (market). 

“We were collected from the hotel by Imad the driver and guide. We had two stops before Agadir. 1st stop was a coffee shop and 2nd to visit the crocodile park. The journey was pleasant with lot to see. IMAD the driver was well spoken in different languages, explained about all the sites we visited. I will definitely recommend.”

Karina (read more reviews now)

You’ll end the day at the Marina and can explore a commercial port filled with cool restaurants and bars before continuing back to Marrakech. 

It’s a pretty fast paced tour but you’ll definitely experience most of the top attractions in the city. It’s also worth noting that the entrance fee to Crocoparc is not included in the price of the tour. 

11. Asni

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (23 Reviews) Price: $51.21 per person Duration: 8 – 10 hours 📍Meeting Point: Pick up included Operator: Click Excursions Details: Read more on Viator Now!

Just an hour away from Marrakech by car, Asni is a quaint little town that is home to some breathtaking mountains. 

For anyone who loves hiking, Asni is one of the best day trips from Marrakech since it is the ideal place from which to set off into the Atlas Mountains. 

You’ll also love that a diverse network of trails are available, including everything from leisurely strolls to arduous climbs. 

Feel free to enlist the help of a local guide or venture out on your own during one of the best day tours from Marrakech.

Also be sure to explore the surrounding Berber villages, where you can immerse yourself in indigenous culture and local traditions.

 While some villages are reachable by car, others require a hike, like the 2-hour hike you can do during this day trip to Asni and Imlil from Marrakech.

It’s an incredible hike near Imlil that will take you all along the base of Mount Toubkal. 

“We had a great day with Hassan our great tour guide who took us for a walk through the mountains, waterfalls and villages of Imlil area. We made a tea break in a beautiful Kasba watching the landscape from above. At the and there was a tasty lunch😀”

Anat (read more reviews now)

Plus, if you do this tour on a Saturday, you’ll get to explore a traditional local market in Asni too. 

12. Ouzoud Waterfalls

⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5.0 (8551 Reviews) Price: $24.97 per person Duration: 10 hours 📍Meeting Point: Pick up included Operator: Ando Travel Ltd Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Want to visit the tallest waterfalls in North Africa? If so then sign up for this epic group tour now. 

They stand at an astounding 110 meters (360 feet) tall and are only about a 2.5 hour drive from Marrakech. 

I did a day trip here and thought it was fun hiking down to the waterfall and doing a fun local boat ride to the base of the falls. 

I also loved that I got picked up directly from my hotel and that it was a small group of around 10 people. 

We also got to see and photograph some local monkeys before started to climb down towards the waterfall. 

“The driver picked us up at 8:30 to start our journey to Ouzoud waterfalls so we could meet our guide there! We had a great day! We saw the waterfalls, wild monkeys which we gave them peanuts, visited a cooperative where they make Amlou, Honey etc…. and finished with a delicious lunch at a restaurant located on the mountain with the view on the waterfalls.

Defo recommend this trip, just be ready to walk a lot, and hike. Wear good shoes and comfortable clothing, take water, snacks and anything to entertain yourself for the road as it takes 3h to reach the waterfalls.”

Leila (read more reviews now)

Yes, it was a bit touristy, but the traditional boat ride offered stellar views of the falls. I also actually really enjoyed the food I had at the local restaurant.

The service was great, the decor was charming, and you got a bunch of courses included with your meal. I had the Berber Omelet and it was really tasty. 

The views of the falls are also great, but do remember that lunch is not included on the price of the tour. 

After lunch, you start to climb out of the falls and get to enjoy panoramas at the top before heading back. 

It was a lovely day trip from Marrakech and I would 100% do it again. 

13. Ourika Valley

⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5.0 (3442 Reviews) Price: $17.47 per person Duration: 8 -10 hours 📍Meeting Point: Pick up included Operator: Click Excursions Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Escape the chaos of the city and enjoy the natural beauty of Ourika Valley. 

After all, this magical place is located just 45 minutes away from Marrakech and allows you to explore local Berber Villages, gorgeous waterfalls, and more. 

To visit, try this Ourika Valley & Atlas Mountains Day Tour. You’ll venture deep into the Atlas Mountains during this incredible day tour from Marrakech. 

After getting a quick and easy hotel pick up, soak up the breathtaking scenery of lush meadows interspersed with traditional Berber villages from the 16th and 17th centuries. 

Opting for a Monday/Thursday tour affords you the unique opportunity to explore a roadside souk and shop for lots of cool souvenirs. 

“We had a great day out, beautiful scenery. Travelling to and from Ourika valley was comfortable and our driver was helpful and courteous. Anouar our guide was great and as it was a bit steep in places he helped my wife to navigate the climb. He was also good at taking some excellent photos of us along the way. The restaurant we stopped at was ok by the side of the river bank.”

Michael (read more reviews now)

See orchards brimming with fruit, terraced vegetable plots, and villages precariously perched on the slopes of steep hills. 

Admire the incredible effort of the Berbers, who transported building materials up steep mountains to construct small, cliffside dwellings and cultivate the land. 

Travel through a palm-filled valley as you follow the Ourika River and see Setti Fatma waterfall before heading back to Marrakech. 

14. Essaouira

⭐️ Rating: 4.3/5.0 (78 Reviews) Price: $20.57 per person Duration: 10 hours 📍Meeting Point: Pick up included Operator: Atlas Desert Expeditions Trips Details; Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

I listed Essaouira first as one of the best day trips from Marrakech for a couple of reasons. Firstly, I live here and ADORE this super windy, super quiet beachside town. 

It’s super chill and Essaouira is different from Marrakech since it’s very cool (temperature-wise) and you can relax on the beach, go for a swim, or try surfing/kite surfing. 

Otherwise, just go for a walk on the extensive beachfront promenade here before hitting up the Medina to go shopping in Essaouira. It’s small, super navigable, and a lot less congested than the one in Marrakech. 

So, go for a wander and check out local landmarks like the Old Scala, the Scala du Port, and even a cool Jewish Museum too. 

Now, you may be wondering, should I book a day tour to Essaouira from Marrakech? 

Personally, I don’t think it’s necessary. You definitely don’t need a guide to explore the city and can easily hop on a Supratours bus that will drop you off right near the Medina. 

Plus, Supratours runs like five buses a day to Essaouira, so you’ll have no problem getting there and back. As a result, you could also visit Marrakech as a day trip from Essaouira.

Tickets are also very affordable at around 100/120 Dirham each way ($10.00-$12.00) and the trip will generally take 3/3.5 hours each way. 

It also gives you the freedom to take the first bus out and the last bus back so that you can stay in the town a little longer. 

But, if you want to make your life easier you can sign up for this tour here. They’ll pick you up/drop you off at your hotel and will take you directly to Essaouira. 

“The trip was great and well organized! Good communication on beforehand and during the trip. Ibrahim messaged us before, confirming the pick up location and after to check in how the day trip went. Faissal was an excellent driver! He got us there and back safely.

We made a few stops along the way: a restaurant, an argan oil factory/shop and on the way back the same restaurant. Essaouira is such a lovely beach town. We enjoyed its beach and scenery. I definitely recommend this trip. It was good value for money.”

Hannan (read more reviews now)

The price also works out to be about the same (or cheaper) than taking the bus from Marrakech to Essaouira.

But, you can get delayed by late travelers and will have to sit in the van while you pick everyone up at their Marrakech hotels. 

Plus, if you do the group tour, you’ll probably get to stop along the way and take photos of the cute goats sitting in Argan trees. 

If you like the town, you could even spend the night at one of the best hostels in Essaouira so that you can try quad biking through Essaouira.

15. Todras Gorge and Dades Gorge

If you’re drawn to natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes then consider adding Dades Gorge and Todra Gorge to your list of the best day trips from Marrakech. 

The drive to these destinations requires a lengthy trip across the Atlas Mountains. Sometimes 6 hours so this may be a bit too far for some. 

But, the extended journey will be worth it due to the stunning panoramic views and spectacular terrain you’ll see along the way. 

Upon reaching Dades Gorge, visitors can wander through the dramatic rock formations and enjoy the picturesque scenery. 

After all, this gorge is famed for its towering rock walls which extend upwards nearly 300 meters in some spots.

A river meanders through the valley and adds a picturesque charm to this amazing place. 

Afterwards, visit Todras Gorge with its slender canyon and towering 160 meter tall walls.

Hiking through Todra Gorge alongside a river that curves through the valley and enjoy the awesome beauty of this natural forces at work. 

16. Imouzzer

Located near Paradise Valley (just outside of Agadir), Immouzer is home to incredible cascading waterfalls that are unlike anything you’ve ever seen. 

To visit, you’ll need to endure a 3-hour car ride. But, upon arrival, visit the Cascades d’Imouzzer by hiking through lush forests to the base of the waterfalls.

Feel free to do so either on your own or with an expert guide. 

Other fun activities to enjoy include rock climbing, rappelling, and so much more since Paradise Valley is an oasis of tranquility that you will never want to leave. 

Afterward, relax by the pools of Asif Tamraght Gorge and stand in awe of Tinkert Wadi waterfalls, which are only visible during the winter. 

17. Lalla Takerkoust Lake

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (4 Reviews) Price: $97.00 per person Duration: 1 day 📍Meeting Point: Pick up included Operator: Caravane Du Grand Erg Details: Read more on Viator Now!

If you drive just an hour away from Marrakech, you’ll find this beautiful lake with sweeping views of the surrounding Atlas Mountains. 

Visit during this private day trip to Lake Takerkoust,Asni and Ourika Valley from Marrakech and you’ll start the day with a 9:00 am pick up from your hotel. 

You’ll travel through the Ourika valley, where you’ll see stunning waterfalls and charming Berber villages before stopping at a traditional Berber home. 

Your host Malika will teach you how to prepare traditional Moroccan tea and bread before introducing you to the nuances of the Berber culture. 

If you want, set out on a quick camel ride before meeting a local guide for a hike through Ourika Valley. 

“This tour was amazing! We got an early pick up by a knowledge and friends guide. Before arriving at the foot of the Atlas mountain we stop at two Berber shops were the people gave us an education on how the rugs and Argan oil were made. The waterfalls and hike was spectacular and breathtaking.”

Javier (read more reviews now)

You’ll see Setti Fatma waterfall before digging into lunch at a lovely, riverside restaurant. 

Afterward, travel through the valley of Asni-Tahanaout and take in lovely mountain views from 1400 meters in the area before visiting the Kik plateau.

You’ll then make your way back to Marrakech and pass the dam at Lala-Takerkoust after one of the best day tours from Marrakech. 

Map Of The Best Day Trips From Marrakech

Click here to see the full map.

Best Day Trips from Marrakech FAQs

Where Should I Travel to from Marrakech?

Some of the best places to travel to from Marrakech include Essaouira, the Ourika Valley, the Atlas Mountains, the Ouzoud Waterfalls, Casablanca, Ait-Ben-Haddou, the Agafay Desert, and Oukaïmeden. 

I would do a day trip if you are planning at least a 3-day Marrakech itinerary.

Can you Do a Day Trip from Marrakech?

You can do a ton of different day trips from Marrakech as outlined in the post above. 

You can get away from the tourist and explore the real Morocco during trips to Essaouira, the Atlas Mountains, Ouarzazate, Ait Ben Haddou, and Essaouira.

How Many Days is Enough for Marrakech?

Try to spend two or three days in Marrakech. This will give you enough time to see the city’s major highlights and to do a cool day trip from Marrakech. If you spend at least 4 days in Marrakech then you’ll definitely be able to do a day trip.

Can You Do a Day Trip from Marrakech to Casablanca?

Yes, you can do a day trip from Marrakech to Casablanca. Casablanca isn’t my favorite city so I think it’s a great way to quickly see the city’s highlights without actually having to stay there. 

Map with location of best day trips

That wraps up this post on the best day trips from Marrakech. Did your picks for the best day tours from Marrakech make the list? If not then let me know. 

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