Marrakech, beach and desert: 7 days to discover the best of Morocco
- Duration: 7 days
- From: Marrakech
- Arrival: Marrakech
Can you picture a tour that blends Marrakech, the beach, and the desert all in one journey? That’s exactly what this incredible itinerary offers a perfect mix of highlights from other routes, beginning and ending in Marrakech. If you have a week to explore and want to experience the very best of Morocco, this all-in-one travel package is the ideal choice.
Services included
- Pick-up in Marrakech, at your hotel or at the agreed location
- 4x4 route, with a Spanish-speaking driver/guide
- Assistance and accompaniment throughout the excursion
- Camel ride to the tent camp
- Dinner at the tent camp
- Accommodation in a Berber tent
- Assistance at destination
Services not included
- Arrival and return flights
- Lunches
- Drinks
- Tickets to monuments
- Tips
- Schedule
Day 1
Our adventure begins with excitement right from the first day. Our driver/guide will meet you at Marrakech airport or any prearranged location, such as your hotel, and we’ll set off toward the Moroccan desert. To reach it, we’ll cross the majestic High Atlas Mountains, a stunning backdrop for panoramic photos of the region. The journey takes us through the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass, sitting at around 2,200 meters above sea level, where we’ll pass Berber villages and, from autumn to spring, snow-capped peaks.
As we descend the mountains, the landscape transforms into a desert panorama dotted with vibrant patches of greenery fertile valleys that make up the renowned Route of the Thousand Kasbahs, including the Valley of the Roses and the Dades Valley. This region is home to countless Berber fortresses made of adobe. One of the most famous, Ait Ben Haddou, will be a highlight of the day. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has also served as the backdrop for major productions like Game of Thrones.
Our road trip continues into the afternoon until we arrive at a village nestled in the heart of the Dades Valley. There, you’ll be welcomed into a charming riad where dinner will be served and you’ll spend the night.
Summary of the day
- Pick-up in Marrakech and departure in a private vehicle with a Spanish-speaking driver.
- High Atlas Pass
- Visit to Ait Ben Haddou
- Route of the Thousand Kasbahs: Valley of the Roses and Dades
- Dinner and overnight stay in a charming riad in the heart of the Dades Valley
Day 2
Our second day begins with a hearty breakfast at the riad before setting off toward a truly remarkable natural wonder: the Todra Gorges. This stunning collection of canyons and towering rock walls some exceeding 200 meters in height offers breathtaking views that will stay with you long after the journey ends. We’ll explore the area both by vehicle and on foot, taking time to capture the experience in photos.
From there, the route continues through Erfoud as we make our way to Merzouga. This town marks the gateway to one of the most enchanting parts of Morocco’s Sahara Desert: the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. To reach them, we’ll follow in the footsteps of Berber nomads and ride camels each traveler on their own as we cross the sandy expanse.
The camel trek will lead us to a desert camp, where we’ll enjoy dinner and spend the night. But before that, the desert will gift us with a mesmerizing sunset, followed by a sky full of stars an unforgettable way to end the day.
Summary of the day
- Breakfast in a riad in the Dades Valley
- Tour of the Todra Gorges
- Arrival at the Merzouga desert: camel ride to reach the tent camp, located on the dunes.
- Sunset, dinner and overnight stay at camp
Day 3
On the third day of our journey, we’ll rise early but the reward is more than worth it: watching the sunrise over the desert, casting a golden glow across the dunes, is pure magic. After this unforgettable moment, we’ll return by camel to Merzouga. There will also be time to enjoy a refreshing shower, either at the camp or a hotel, depending on your selected package.
Though Marrakech and the coast still lie several hundred kilometers away around 560 km and 700 km respectively the route is rich in sights and experiences. Over the next four days, we’ll take our time exploring them. Today, we’ll begin by heading west, continuing along a different stretch of the Route of the Thousand Kasbahs. Our first stop is Rissani, home to one of the most charming and historically significant medinas in southern Morocco.
As we continue, the landscape shifts to reveal lush palm groves nestled among rugged hills, small farming villages, and adobe fortresses that once served ancient trade caravans. Towns like Alnif, Tazarine, and Nkob will dot our route, each offering a glimpse into traditional desert life.
Eventually, we’ll arrive in the Draa Valley and continue on to Ouarzazate, the main city of the region. There, a welcoming dinner and overnight stay await.
Summary of the day
- Sunrise over the dunes of Erg Chebbi
- Camel ride to Merzouga
- Breakfast and shower (at the camp or in a hotel, depending on the package purchased)
- Visit to Rissani
- Road route: Alnif, Tazarine, Nkob, Draa Valley
- Dinner and overnight in Ouarzazate
Day 4
Our fourth day begins with a satisfying breakfast at the riad. We’ll then visit the Taourirt Kasbah, a historic fortress located right in Ouarzazate, known for being one of the best-preserved kasbahs in the region.
Following our visit, we’ll begin our journey across the High Atlas Mountains once again, heading toward Marrakech. However, this time, we’ll pass through the city without stopping because our next destination is the Atlantic coast. We’ll continue onward to Essaouira, where we’ll arrive by late afternoon. In this charming seaside city, a welcoming riad will be your accommodation for the night.
Summary of the day
- Breakfast at a riad in Ouarzazate
- Visit of the Kasbah of Taourirt
- Road route to Essaouira, crossing the High Atlas
- Riad accommodation in Essaouira
Day 5
After a peaceful night at the riad and a generous breakfast, it’s time to discover the charm of Essaouira. This coastal city offers a unique mix of Moroccan culture and Portuguese heritage. The traditional medina and vibrant fishing port reflect its Moroccan roots, while the seafront fortress stands as a lasting reminder of its past as Mogador, a Portuguese colony. You can explore the city on your own or opt for a guided tour (available upon request) to gain deeper insight into its history and learn why it, like Ait Ben Haddou, was chosen as a filming location for Game of Thrones.
Until our scheduled meeting time around 4:00 p.m., you’re free to make the most of Essaouira: stroll through the medina, savor local dishes, relax on the beach, or try your hand at water sports. In the late afternoon, we’ll return to Marrakech, where you’ll check in to a cozy riad for a well-deserved rest just in time to recharge for the final day of the tour.
Summary of the day
- Breakfast in riad
- Free day in Essaouira
- Meet your driver around 4:00 p.m. and travel to Marrakech.
- Night in a riad in Marrakech
Day 6
The day begins with a hearty breakfast at your riad, getting you ready for a full day in Marrakech. Unlike the day before, this morning includes a guided tour of the city. Accompanied by an official guide, you’ll visit some of Marrakech’s most iconic landmarks, including the Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, the surroundings of the Koutoubia Mosque, and the lively Jemaa el-Fna Square, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace whether that means shopping in the souks or visiting additional cultural sites like the Majorelle Gardens or the Marrakech Museum. You’ll spend another night in your charming riad, located right in the heart of the city.
Summary of the day
- Breakfast in riad
- Guided tour in the morning
- Free afternoon
- Night in a riad
Day 7
The final day begins with breakfast at the riad and check-out. Depending on your flight schedule, you may still have time in the morning for some last-minute shopping or a quick visit to a favorite spot. At the designated time, our driver will meet you and provide your transfer to the airport. With that, our services for this unforgettable tour come to an end leaving you with lasting memories of Marrakech, the beach, and the Moroccan desert, and hopefully, a special place for them in your heart.
Summary of the day
- Breakfast at the riad and check-out
- Free time (flight time permitting)
- Airport transfer with private vehicle and driver
- Photos
- Map
- FAQ
Morocco Turism offers an extensive selection of tours, from explorations of the imperial cities to thrilling journeys through the Sahara Desert. For more information, check out our tours page.
Tour durations vary, ranging from quick weekend escapes to extended trips of over a week. You can select the option that best fits your schedule and interests.
The cities you’ll visit depend on the tour you select, but options often include Marrakech, Fez, Casablanca, Chefchaouen, and more. Each tour features a detailed itinerary available on our website.
Definitely. Your safety is our highest priority. We partner with professional guides and skilled drivers to provide you with a secure and unforgettable travel experience.
Our tours feature a variety of accommodations, including boutique hotels and traditional riads. Each option is thoughtfully chosen to provide both comfort and an authentic Moroccan experience.
Yes, at Morocco Turism, we recognize that every traveler is different. Reach out to us to tailor your tour according to your preferences and specific interests.
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