Marrakech is a sensory overload — from its lively souks and ancient palaces to the mouthwatering street food. But don’t just stay inside the city walls! The best way to experience Morocco is by taking Marrakech excursions to the amazing spots nearby.
Whether you’ve got a few hours, a day, or several days, these trips will show you the natural beauty, culture, and history that make this region so special.
Here’s your go-to guide to the best Marrakech excursions, packed with details and tips to help you get the most out of each adventure.
👉 Just starting your trip? Check out our 3-day Marrakech itinerary for all the city highlights — and don’t miss our tips on what to wear in Marrakech to stay comfy and respectful.
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Before You Go: Tips for Getting Around on Marrakech Excursions
From our experience, the best way to enjoy Marrakech excursions is by booking local tours – and for each activity below, we’ll share the exact tours we took and recommend. We used GetYourGuide for all our trips and loved it — the guides are locals who really know their stuff and make the whole experience more fun and informative.
Plus, driving around Marrakech can be pretty hectic with scooters, horse carts, and a totally different style of traffic. The mountain roads are twisty, and places like the Agafay desert can get quite rough off-road, so having someone else handle the driving felt safer and way less stressful for us.
If you prefer to explore on your own, renting a car is also an option. We’ve rented with DiscoverCars before and found them easy to use and reliable, so we recommend checking them out.
Ouzoud Waterfalls — A Refreshing Day in Nature
Located about 150 km northeast of Marrakech, the Ouzoud Waterfalls are one of Morocco’s most stunning natural sites. It’s roughly a 3-hour drive, but the journey is scenic, passing through olive groves and small Berber villages.
The falls are about 110 meters high, and the water plunges into a series of natural pools — perfect for cooling off on a hot day. You can hike along well-marked trails around the falls, visit local cafes perched with amazing views, or rent a small boat to get closer to the base.
One of the best parts? The wild Barbary macaques who live nearby. They’re playful and curious, so watch your belongings but don’t miss their antics.
Practical tips:
- Wear sturdy shoes for hiking the trails.
- Bring a swimsuit and towel if you want to swim.
- Start early to avoid the crowds and have time to explore fully.
- Local guides are available and can share stories about the area.
Sahara Desert — The Epic 3-Day Experience
This trip is not just about the destination but the whole journey. You’ll visit Berber villages, see how locals live, and maybe even stop at traditional markets.
Once in the desert, get ready for camel rides over the sand dunes — an unforgettable way to watch the sunset. You’ll sleep in a desert camp under a blanket of stars, with campfires, Berber music, and local cuisine.
Important to know:
- The drive is long (8+ hours each way), so prepare for lots of time on the road.
- The desert can be freezing cold at night, so pack warm layers.
- Choose a tour that includes transfers, meals, and accommodation for a smooth trip.
- Bring snacks, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
Agafay Desert — Close & Convenient Desert Vibes
Not everyone has days for the Sahara, and that’s where the Agafay Desert comes in. It’s about 45 minutes from Marrakech and is a rocky, moon-like desert — not sandy, but just as magical.
This is a great half-day or full-day Marrakech excursion if you want a desert experience without spending hours driving. Activities here include camel rides, quad biking, horseback riding, and even relaxing at desert camps with fire shows and traditional music.
The landscape feels very peaceful and open, with endless views of hills and dry plains.
Practical tips:
- Book a desert camp experience to enjoy dinner and music at sunset.
- Quad biking tours are fun but remember to wear closed shoes and sunglasses.
- The temperature can drop fast after sunset, so bring a jacket.
Ait Ben Haddou — History, Culture & Film Magic
About 3 hours from Marrakech, Ait Ben Haddou is a stunning, centuries-old fortified village (a ksar) made from red clay and straw. It’s one of the best-preserved ksars in Morocco and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The village sits on the edge of the High Atlas Mountains and offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional Berber life. Walking through its narrow alleys feels like stepping back in time.
On the way to Ait Ben Haddou, you’ll drive through the breathtaking Tizi n’Tichka Pass, passing small Berber villages and beautiful mountain scenery.
Along this route, you can stop at Atlas Studios — one of the world’s largest film studios — where famous movies like Gladiator, The Mummy, and Cleopatra were filmed.
Practical Tips:
- It’s a long day trip, so leave early and bring snacks and water.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes because the ksar’s paths are uneven.
- Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and culture.
- Don’t forget your camera — the views are incredible.
Ourika Valley — Easy Escape to Mountains & Culture
Just an hour’s drive from Marrakech, the Ourika Valley is a favorite for nature lovers and those wanting to escape the city buzz. The valley lies along the Ourika River, with waterfalls, hiking trails, and pretty Berber villages.
You can hike up to Setti Fatma waterfalls — a series of seven cascades — or visit local markets and try traditional food. The valley is lush and green, especially in spring and early summer.
Practical tips:
- This is perfect for a half-day or full-day Marrakech excursion if you want to stay close but still explore.
- Wear hiking shoes if you plan to visit the waterfalls.
- Bring cash for small purchases at local markets and tips for guides.
- Check the weather — the valley can be cooler than Marrakech.
Essaouira — A Breezy Coastal Break
If you have an extra day or two, Essaouira is a cool coastal town about 2.5-3 hours west of Marrakech. It’s famous for fresh seafood, beautiful beaches, a historic fortress, and a chilled-out vibe.
You can stroll the UNESCO-listed medina, shop for local crafts, or just relax on the beach. It’s also a hotspot for kite surfers and windsurfers.
Practical Tips:
- Book a private transfer or bus for comfort.
- Try the grilled fish from the port’s stalls — some of the freshest you’ll find.
- The town is very walkable, so no need for a car.
- Bring a windbreaker — it gets breezy by the sea.
Final Tips for Your Marrakech Excursions
- Booking: It’s often cheaper and easier to book Marrakech excursions in advance through your riad or GetYourGuide. Always check reviews.
- Time: Pick excursions based on how much time and energy you have. The Sahara and Ait Ben Haddou are full-day to multi-day trips, while Agafay and Ourika are great for half or full days.
- Clothing: Layers are your best friend — it can be hot during the day but cold at night or in the mountains/desert.
- Hydration: Always carry water, especially for hikes and desert trips.
- Cash: Most of the spots don’t take cards, so bring enough Moroccan dirhams.
- Respect: When visiting Berber villages or remote areas, respect local customs and ask before taking photos of people.
Ready to explore beyond the medina? These Marrakech excursions will add unforgettable memories to your trip and show you the incredible diversity just outside the city walls!