Embark on a 7-day Southern Morocco road trip itinerary that takes you from the bustling streets of Marrakech to the serene dunes of the Sahara and the refreshing breezes of the Atlantic coast. This journey is designed to immerse you in the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of the region, offering an unforgettable adventure across mountains, deserts, and coastal towns.
Here’s a detailed 7-day Southern Morocco road trip itinerary to help you explore kasbahs, deserts, and Atlantic towns at your own pace.
Day 1: Marrakech to Aït Benhaddou
- Distance: ~180 km
- Drive Time: ~4 hours
- Highlights: Tizi n'Tichka Pass, Aït Benhaddou
Depart from Marrakech and traverse the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n'Tichka Pass. Your destination is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Aït Benhaddou, a historic ksar known for its traditional mudbrick architecture and as a filming location for movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
Suggested Reading: Aït Benhaddou – UNESCO World Heritage Centre
Day 2: Aït Benhaddou to Ouarzazate and Skoura
- Distance: ~50 km
- Drive Time: ~1 hour
- Highlights: Atlas Film Studios, Kasbah Taourirt, Skoura Oasis
Head to Ouarzazate, dubbed the "Hollywood of Africa," to explore the Atlas Film Studios and the historic Kasbah Taourirt. Continue to Skoura, an oasis town renowned for its palm groves and the well-preserved Kasbah Amridil.
Suggested Reading: Kasbah Taourirt – Wikipedia
Day 3: Skoura to Dades and Todra Gorges
- Distance: ~150 km
- Drive Time: ~3 hours
- Highlights: Dades Valley, Todra Gorge
Journey through the picturesque Dades Valley, characterized by its dramatic rock formations and traditional Berber villages. Proceed to the Todra Gorge, a stunning canyon with towering cliffs, ideal for hiking and photography.
Day 4: Todra Gorge to Merzouga (Sahara Desert)
- Distance: ~200 km
- Drive Time: ~4 hours
- Highlights: Erfoud, Erg Chebbi Dunes, Camel Trekking
Travel to Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Experience a camel trek into the Sahara Desert and spend the night in a traditional Berber camp under the stars.
Suggested Reading: El desierto de Merzouga – El País
Day 5: Merzouga to Agdz via Rissani
- Distance: ~350 km
- Drive Time: ~6 hours
- Highlights: Rissani Market, Draa Valley
Visit the bustling market in Rissani before driving through the scenic Draa Valley, dotted with palm groves and ancient kasbahs, en route to the town of Agdz.
Day 6: Agdz to Taroudant
- Distance: ~300 km
- Drive Time: ~5 hours
- Highlights: Anti-Atlas Mountains, Taroudant Medina
Traverse the Anti-Atlas Mountains to reach Taroudant, often referred to as "Little Marrakech." Explore its vibrant medina and historic city walls.
Day 7: Taroudant to Agadir and Essaouira
- Distance: ~250 km
- Drive Time: ~4 hours
- Highlights: Agadir Beach, Essaouira Medina
Conclude your journey with a visit to Agadir's sandy beaches before heading to Essaouira, a coastal city known for its fortified medina, seafood, and artistic vibe.
Suggested Reading: Essaouira – Wikipedia
This 7-day Southern Morocco road trip itinerary offers the perfect blend of adventure, cultural discovery, and breathtaking landscapes that will leave you with lifelong memories.
Embarking on this 7-day road trip through Southern Morocco offers an unforgettable blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and adventure. Whether you're navigating mountain passes, exploring ancient kasbahs, or relaxing by the Atlantic, this journey promises memories that will last a lifetime.
