The Best 7 Day Morocco Itinerary for You

Find your perfect Morocco itinerary with this hand-picked collection of 7 day Morocco itineraries for first time visitors and return travellers alike.

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How to Plan Your 7 Day Morocco Itinerary

From Marrakesh, with its maze of alleys and courtyards, to the awe-inspiring Atlas and the sighing sights and sands of the Sahara, Morocco has an unfair advantage. How can one country ooze with memorable experiences like a ripe fig between your fingers, while other places struggle to scrabble together more than a dusty claim to fame in an old movie no one can remember.

Not only does Morocco have enough to draw you back again and again but it’s almost humble in the way its stories unfold. You won’t find much of the brash and hustle and hee-haw of other popular spots. Somehow, apart from certain squares and souks, a kind of softness and quiet politeness has become the norm.

And what’s even more bewildering is Morocco’s constant contrast between new and old, an almost mythical atmosphere where luxurious resorts coexist with simple Berber tents.

Many Different Morocco Itineraries

Morocco is a country I’ve fallen in love with and visited many times. But I know that it can feel overwhelming, as well as exciting, when you sit down to plot out your own 7 day itinerary through Morocco.

Since the country has so much to offer and it’s impossible to cover everything in one week, I’ve come up with different itineraries to guide you.

The first one is the one that we’re just back from, a week long trip to Morocco with kids, getting off the beaten track and under the skin of the country – at least a little. But each itinerary takes in some of the main attractions of Morocco, so start reading through, choose the one that speaks to you the most, book your ticket and hit the road.

Action begets action, after all.

How to Travel to Morocco

Morocco is well connected to almost every part of the world, with planes, buses, trains, and ferries that arrive and depart from its main cities every day. Depending on where you are travelling from, here are the options available:

• By plane: You can fly to Morocco from several major cities around the world. This is the most comfortable way of travelling, as you can book a direct flight and arrive at the Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca, Marrakesh Menara Airport in Marrakesh, or Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport in Tangier. It’s only 3 hours 40 from the UK, for example, and no jet lag. As ever, I’d recommend comparing flight prices with Skyscanner to find the best deal.
• By ferry: If you are coming from Europe, taking a ferry to Morocco from Spain, France, or even Italy is a possibility. The most popular ferry routes are from Algeciras in Spain to Tangier or Ceuta and from Sète in France to Tangier.
• By bus: Buses travel regularly to Morocco from neighbouring countries in North Africa, like Tunisia, but there are also bus services from Spain.
• By car: If you are planning a road trip through Morocco, you can drive your car through the land border at Ceuta or Melilla or take the ferry from Spain, Italy, or France and continue your trip once you arrive in Morocco. For most travellers, though, it’s best to pick up your car after flying into Morocco. A car is a nuisance in the old part of Marrakesh, so plan to only collect it when you’re ready to leave the city. See our guide to driving in Morocco here.
• By train: There are train services from Europe to Morocco via the ferry from Algeciras to Tangier.

Map of This Morocco Itinerary

7-Day Morocco Itinerary 1: Off the beaten track from Marrakesh

Sweeping up over the Tizi n Tichka pass in the Atlas Mountains, this itinerary takes you from the hustle and bustle of Marrakesh into solitary outposts amid alien rock formations. You’ll see palm-lined retreats, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, underground cities and, of course, those burnt orange desert sands.

It’s a way of combining many of the highlights of Morocco without getting too caught up in the tourist traps along the way.

Day 1: Arrive in Marrakesh

Depending on what time you arrive, you can either leap into action and start exploring the city or simply check in at your hotel, have a nice dinner, and recover from any jet lag (unlikely if you’re coming from the UK, however.)

Hotel Recommendations for Marrakesh:

• Luxury: Royal Mansour Marrakesh
• Mid-range: Riad Chergui
• Budget: Hotel Aday

·       Where to Dine in Marrakesh:

• Luxury: La Grande Table Marocaine
• Mid-range: Nomad
• Budget: Chez Lamine

Day 2: Marrakesh

Marrakesh can be something of a culture shock, especially around the UNESCO World Heritage Site and hubbub of Jemaa el-Fna square. While most people fall in love with the city eventually, it can be a little overwhelming to begin with, particularly if you’re travelling with kids.

The solution? I’d highly recommend easing in to things and a great way to do this is by taking a cooking class with a local guide.

Cooking Class in Marrakesh

Our first morning in Marrakesh involved winding our way through the streets of the old Medina, struggling to keep up with the young woman ahead. Slim, dressed in jeans and with long, flowing hair, she was a student at the local university and our interpreter for the day.

She led us to a traditional, if grand, house in the heart of Marrakesh. One with tiles and balconies, an open courtyard inside and mirrors aplenty.

It was here we met Mama Toto, our chef and instructor for the session.

To her friendly chitter and jolly chatter, we chopped and washed, kneaded and pleaded and sipped green tea until finally our masterpiece was ready: a chicken tagine with olives and preserved lemon.

Somewhat surprisingly, I’ve made this dish at home, now, several times and it always comes out just as good. The secret inside tip? Create a layer of sliced onions at the base of your tagine to stop the chicken scorching or drying out.

Tour Marrakesh

Take the afternoon to explore the city’s main tourist attractions, such as the opulent Bahia Palace with its intricate mosaics, hand-carved ceilings, and superb gardens, or the Saadian Tombs which date back to the 16th century. If time permits, stop by the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, the largest in Marrakesh, before wandering through the narrow alleys of the Medina, the city’s old town.

Again, as part of our itinerary with Sun Trails, we opted to have a city guide to help us save time since we only had one afternoon. He dutifully took us through the top sights, pointing out the similarities between Moroccan architecture and Seville where we used to live.

Marrakesh Medina

But he really came into his own in the souks, with inside knowledge of where to find sparkling lights, eucalyptus cold remedies, and indigo. Plus, no trip to Morocco can be complete without a trip to a friend’s carpet shop, right?

Under his watchful eye, we witnessed the friendliest and most welcoming demonstration of carpets I’ve seen in all my travels along North Africa and the Middle East.

Day 3: Marrakesh to Skoura

5-hour drive. Accommodation in Skoura.

It’s an early start on day three to journey towards Skoura, a gorgeous vally of palm trees with kasbahs and a kind of oasis retreat.

Tizi n Tichka Pass

As you travel south, you’ll traverse the Tizi n Tichka pass, which stands at a height of 2,200 metres and offers a series of magnificent views where pink sand mixes with white snow like a child’s fairytale dessert. Wrap up warm, though. Those exposed peaks are cold.

The Argan Oil Cooperative

Hands up if you’ve heard of argan oil? Produced from the kernels of the argan tree, you can either drizzle it across bread and pasta or soak it into your skin in the form of beauty products.

Since argan trees are only found in Morocco and parts of southwestern Algeria, it’s a hyper local product and you’ll find women’s cooperatives along the road with various different demonstrations.

Near the Tizi n Tichka pass, we found one where you can see how the kernels are roast and ground into paste (and kids are also allowed to stop and take a turn.)

Agdz & Ouarzazate

In Agdz, you can see the Kasbah Tamnougalt, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a stunning example of traditional Moroccan architecture.

In Ouarzazate, check out the Taourirt Kasbah and the Atlas Film Studios, where many movies and TV shows have been filmed.

Finally, head on to Skoura.

Our Hotel Recommendations in Skoura:

• Luxury: Dar Ahlam
• Mid-range: Jardins de Skoura
• Budget: Chez Talout

Where to Dine in Skoura:

• Mid-range: Ksar El Kabbaba or Jardins de Skoura
• Budget: Restaurant Kasbah Tissint

Day 3: Skoura to Erg Chebbi

5-hour drive. Accommodation in Merzouga.

We didn’t get the chance but heard that a guided tour of Skoura’s palm grove and the well-preserved Kasbah Amridil is a great way to spend the morning.

The Dades Gorge

Instead, we drove on to the impressive Dades Gorge, the narrow and winding roads surrounded by towering red cliffs, traditional villages and lush green palm groves.

While the outside was warm and balmy, the short hike through the gorge brought tears to our eyes through the wind and cold. Some wise and enterprising souls make a good living selling scarves and wraps along this section. Either bring your own or bring cash!

Alternative option: visit the Todra Gorge, a narrow canyon with towering cliffs that leads to Tinerir.

Ksar El Khorbat in Tinejdad

Head into an underground city in Ksar El Khorbat, a traditional city made from earthen walls, with a small museum and a vast complex of housing. Around half the rooms here are still inhabited and the best part of the trip, for us, was when the children played together, both local and foreign.

If you have time, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif also comes highly recommended.

Merzouga

Late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Merzouga, where you can explore the sand dunes on camelback. Quadbike or camelride the 150-metre-high Erg Chebbi dunes before heading to your desert camp for a night in the heart of the desert.

Inside Tip: Fossils in the Desert

Just before you reach the popular section of the dunes, there’s a gravel path that veers from the road to a small, rather battered hut. In here lie fossils and treasures aplenty as this section of dry land used to be beneath the sea.

You can chip out fossils yourself from the rock on this wind-whipped plain with no one but the curator around. We would never have found this spot by ourselves, so it’s a good example of when it’s handy to have a local driver.

Accommodation and Dining in the Dunes at Erg Chebbi

One of the biggest surprises about any Morocco itinerary is the range of accommodation available in the desert. Sure, the photos make it look as though you’re alone on the sifting orange sands. But in reality, you’ll cross the dunes flanked by convoys of tourists on camels to the thrum of quadbikers cutting in front of you.

At sunset, you’ll join around one hundred to two hundred people at the top of the largest dune and from there, you all spill off into the semi-permanent desert camps below.

There’s a huge range of styles available. We stayed in a triple comfort tent, a kind of glamping arrangement with fabric walls but a fully plumbed in shower and toilet.

Dinner was served in a tent with around fifty or so other tourists, a traditional Moroccan meal of soup and tagine.

I’ve heard that there are more luxurious and isolated places, like this luxury Morocco desert camp. So I’ll have to plan to go back one day and test it out!

Day 4: Merzouga to Ouled Yahia

5-hour drive. Accommodation in Ouled Yahia

It’s a wild, barren drive from the desert to Ouled Yahia, with fudge coloured rocks rising in a mix of smooth and jagged formations all around. It makes the discovery of the oasis at Ouled Yahia all the more striking.

Berber Pizza

But if Berbers know anything, it’s how to make the most of this landscape. And so, between the Djeble Sahro volcanic ridges, we stopped for a Berber pizza.

Daoud produced a kind of flat bread filled with nuts and ground meat which he had picked up from Rissani. And while it looks and sounds rather unpromising, it was absolutely delicious.

You won’t find many rest stops on this stretch of the drive, so I recommend you pick up your own Berber pizza before you set off.

Hotel Recommendations in Ouled Yahia:

Mid-range: Kasbah Hnini

Where to Dine in Ouled Yahia:

Mid-range: Kasbah Hnini Restaurant

Day 5: Ouled Yahia into Saghro

Depending on the time of year, you can either laze by the pool and take in the view of the countryside in Ouled Yahia or walk around the village.

It’s a quiet place with traditional mud-brick buildings. If the stars align, you can visit the market and join local women as they bake bread. Apparently, you can also learn about traditional handicrafts like pottery, weaving, and embroidery from local artisans in Tamegroute or visit the Koranic library, but on our trip, the weather meant we had to reschedule some activities and couldn’t test this ourself.

The Texas of Morocco

Instead, we drove for a day trip into the “Texas of Morocco,” a land with strange natural stone sculptures and a sense of emptiness in the wild. Come spring, the fields blossom with white almond petals in this Saghro region but in late winter, government officials give out food and blankets to those who struggle instead.

It’s a great place for hiking, for serious hikers and young families alike. And Daoud stopped to make us a Berber barbecue, within sight of an elephant shaped rock.

Day 6: Ouled Yahia – Ait Benhaddou- Marrakesh

5-hour drive. Accommodation in Marrakesh.

It’s time to head back to Marrakesh, but not without one important stop.

Ait Benhaddou UNESCO World Heritage Site

Ait Benhaddou, a walled village constructed entirely of clay in the 17th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This impressive structure has been featured in various films and TV shows, including Game of Thrones, and is a fabulous location for photography enthusiasts.

Then it’s time to cross the Atlas Mountains once again on your journey back to Marrakesh.

Take the last evening in Morocco to wander on the streets of Marrakesh and dine at a traditional restaurant.

Our Hotel Recommendations for Marrakesh:

• Luxury: La Mamounia
• Mid-range: Riad Alma
• Budget: Hotel Gomassine

Where to Dine in Marrakesh:

• Luxury: Dar Moha
• Mid-range: Cafe Clock
• Budget: Chez Yassine

Day 7: Depart Marrakesh

If time allows, take a brief morning walk around the centre of Marrakesh to say goodbye to the beautiful Red City before you head to the airport.

7-Day Morocco Itinerary 2: Imperial Cities & Desert

The second itinerary takes you to the imperial cities in Morocco: Fez, Marrakesh, Meknes, and Rabat. These major cities have earned their imperial title because, at various points in Morocco’s history, they have all served as the country’s capital.

Day 1: Arrive in Casablanca

Accommodation in Casablanca

The best way to start this Morocco itinerary is to catch an early flight and arrive in Casablanca in the morning. This way, you will have plenty of time to discover Morocco’s largest city while sampling a taste of Moroccan culture.

Seeing Casablanca

Once you’ve checked into your accommodation, it’s time to hit the streets and delve into the historic Old Medina. Get lost in the winding streets, bustling markets, and traditional Moroccan architecture that make this place stand out. Just one note, though. It’s not quite as romantic as the film Casablanca would have you believe. It’s worth visiting, for sure. Just have your expectations at the right level.

In the afternoon, head to the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world. Next, explore the Gothic-style Casablanca Cathedral, a remnant of the French colonial era that now serves as a cultural centre. Finally, get lost in the opulence of the Royal Palace of Casablanca, the official residence of the King of Morocco.

As the sun begins to set, take a stroll through the beautiful Parc de la Ligue Arabe. This park in the heart of the city has lush gardens, tranquil fountains, and a serene lake, making it a nice place to unwind after a day full of adventure.

Hotel Recommendations for Casablanca:

• Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca
• Mid-range: Hotel Kenzi Tower
• Budget: Hotel Central

Where to Dine in Casablanca:

• Luxury: La Sqala
• Mid-range: Le Riad Restaurant
• Budget: Le Petit Rocher

Day 2: Casablanca to Fez

5-hour drive. Accommodation in Fez.

Your first stop on today’s itinerary is Rabat, the capital of Morocco. You’ll see its mix of Berber, Arab and European influences in its architecture, cuisine, and way of life. Explore the magnificent Hassan Tower and the Mohammed V Mausoleum, which houses the tombs of the former king and his sons, and marvel at the grandeur of the minaret.

From there, travel to Meknes and visit the 18th-century Bab Mansour gate and the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum, the burial place of the powerful sultan who once ruled Morocco.

As you continue your journey towards the Volubilis Archaeological Site, you’ll be transported back in time to ancient Rome. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features well-preserved ruins of public buildings, houses, and a triumphal arch.

Take a break in the small town of Moulay Idriss, where pilgrims visit the tomb of Moulay Idriss I, the founder of the first Moroccan dynasty. Later, explore traditional Moroccan arts and crafts at the Dar Jamai Museum in Meknes, which features ceramics, textiles, jewellery and woodwork.

Finish the day in Fez.

Our Hotel Recommendations in Fez:

• Luxury: Riad Fes – Relais & Chateaux
• Mid-range: Hotel Sahrai
• Budget: Riad Verus

Where to Dine in Fez:

• Luxury: La Maison Bleue
• Mid-range: Nur
• Budget: The Ruined Garden

Day 3: Fez

In Fez, the magic lies in exploring the streets, which are colourful, unique and full of people.

This is the perfect place to indulge in local street food or savour a cup of mint tea while immersing yourself in its Moroccan atmosphere.

Fez is known for its impressive architecture and is home to the Fes el-Bali, the oldest and largest medina in the world. Additionally, the stunning Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque, recognised by UNESCO and the Guinness World Records as the oldest university in the world, can also be found here.

Make sure to stop by the Bou Inania Madrasa, a medieval Islamic college with incredible traditional Moroccan architecture. The Dar Batha Museum, with its impressive collection of ceramics, textiles and woodwork, is also a highlight of the city.

If you still have time in the afternoon, head to the Chouara Tannery to witness the traditional process of leather-making and perhaps even pick up some leather goods yourself.

Day 4: Fez to Merzouga

9-hour drive. Accommodation in Merzouga.

From Fez to Merzouga is a long drive but the saving grace is the panoramic views of the Middle Atlas Mountains. The landscape is dominated by cedar forests, with small towns and Berber villages along the way.

And for the grand finale, you reach the golden dunes at Erg Chebbi Dunes. Hop on a camel witness the sunset, and take refuge in a traditional Berber camp at the end of the day.

Our Accommodation Recommendations in Merzouga:

• Luxury: Sahara Sky Luxury Camp
• Mid-range: Tiziri Camp
• Budget: Auberge Les Roches

Where to Dine in Merzouga:

• Luxury: Restaurant Kasbah Mohayut
• Mid-range: Restaurant Café Fatima
• Budget: Restaurant Yasmina

Day 5: Merzouga – Ouarzazate

5-hour drive. Accommodation in Ouarzazate.

Ouarzazate makes for a good base for exploring the Atlas film studios and the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou (see the first 7 day Morocco itinerary.)

It’s also close to the Valley of the Roses, which, as you might imagine, has thousands of fragrant rose bushes. Since you will only have half a day to spend in Ouarzazate, the best way to make the most of it is to make a plan in advance.

If it’s your first visit, I’d recommend Ait Ben Haddou. If you really love films, go for the Atlas studios. And if you’re itching for a walk after too long in the car, hike along the Valley of the Roses.

Our Hotel Recommendations in Ouarzazate:

• Luxury: La Perle Du Sud
• Mid-range: Dar Kamar
• Budget: Irocha

Where to Dine in Ouarzazate:

• Luxury: Restaurant Dar Loubna
• Mid-range: La Kasbah des Sables
• Budget: Restaurant Chez Dimitri

Day 6: Ouarzazate – Marrakesh

4-hour drive. Accommodation in Marrakesh.

On your sixth day, cross the Tizi n Tichka Pass, one of the highest mountain passes in North Africa. Stop off at at Argan oil cooperative and then enjoy the afternoon and evening in Marrakesh.

Day 7: Visit Marrakesh and depart.

If you only have a couple of hours before your flight departs, make your way to the bustling Jemaa el-Fna Square. If you have more time, check out the recommendations for Marrakesh higher up in this article.

7-Day Morocco Itinerary 3: Northern Morocco

Our third recommended itinerary takes you on a journey through the northern cities of Morocco.

Day 1: Arrive in Tangier

Accommodation in Tangier

Start your time in Tangier in the historic medina, with its winding streets and lovely cafés. You can spend the whole afternoon strolling around the city, and you will still not have have seen everything.

Visit the Kasbah Museum, where you can learn about the city’s rich history and culture and climb to the top of the tower for views of the city and the sea beyond.

If you arrive in the morning and have more time, don’t miss the Caves of Hercules, a natural wonder that is said to be the resting place of the legendary hero.

Hotel Recommendations in Tangier:

• Luxury: Movenpick Hotel & Casino Malabata Tangier
• Mid-range: Grand Hotel Villa de France
• Budget: Dar Jameel

Where to Dine in Tangier:

• Luxury: El Morocco Club
• Mid-range: La Table du Marché by Le Palais Gourmet
• Budget: Le Saveur du Poisson

Day 2: Tangier – Chefchaouen

2-hour drive. Accommodation in Chefchaouen.

Your next stop is in the city of Chefchaouen, also known as the Blue Pearl of Morocco, in the Rif Mountains. You have a full day to wander through its narrow streets, the blue-painted buildings perfect for an instagram snap.

Check out the impressive 18th-century fortress and Kasbah Museum. For stunning views, head to the Spanish Mosque or hike to the Ras El-Maa Waterfall.

Adventurers can enter into Talassemtane National Park, while foodies can experiment with Moroccan cuisine at Outa El Hammam Square.

Hotel Recommendations in Chefchaouen:

• Luxury: Lina Ryad & Spa
• Mid-range: Dar Echchaouen
• Budget: Hotel Casa Miguel

Where to Dine in Chefchaouen:

• Luxury: Lalla Messaouda
• Mid-range: Pizzeria Mandala
• Budget: Tissemlal

Day 3: Chefchaouen to Fez

4.5-hour drive. Accommodation in Fez.

On the third day, visit the ancient Roman city of Volubilis and the Bab Mansour gate in Meknes, where you can also explore the Dar El Makhzen palace and Great Mosque.

A highlight is the splendid city of Fez, with its labyrinthine medina and the Bou Inania Madrasa. The historic Jewish quarter of Mellah is also a fascinating place to explore with its beautiful synagogues, traditional houses, and lively market.

See where to stay in Fez and where to eat in Fez higher in this article.

Day 4: Fez – Rabat

2.5-hour drive. Accommodation in Rabat.

It’s a short drive from Fez to Rabat, where you can fit the main highlights into your Moroccan itinerary.

First on the list is the magnificent Chellah, a ruined medieval fortified city that dates back to the Roman era, with stunning gardens, ancient tombs, and well-preserved architecture.

While here, take a short walk to the Hassan Tower, an iconic symbol of Rabat.

Next, explore Morocco’s heritage at the Oudayas Museum, an institution that showcases traditional crafts, folk art, and historical artefacts from across the country. And don’t miss the chance to bask in the sun and soak in the refreshing waters of Rabat’s beaches, including the popular Plage de Salé and Plage des Nations.

To top it off, visit the grand Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a majestic tribute to the late King Mohammed V and his two sons, with its outstanding marble and bronze work and stained-glass windows.

Hotel Recommendations in Rabat:

• Luxury: Sofitel Rabat Jardin des Roses
• Mid-range: Riad Kalaa
• Budget: Hotel Majestic

Where to Dine in Rabat:

• Luxury: Le Dhow
• Mid-range: La Bodega
• Budget: Dar Naji

Day 5: Rabat to Marrakesh

4-hour drive. Accommodation in Marrakesh.

Travel to Casablanca, a place with Art Deco architecture and an inescapable link to the famous movie of Michael Curtiz.

Stroll along the Corniche, a long promenade that offers the perfect backdrop for people-watching, and immerse yourself in the energy of the Old Medina, with its bustling markets and narrow streets.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the Hassan II Mosque and Mohammed V Square, a busy place surrounded by colonial-era buildings.

Finally, make your way to Marrakesh, perhaps the most famous city in Morocco.

More Hotel Recommendations in Marrakesh:

• Luxury: La Mamounia Marrakesh
• Mid-range: Riad El Zohar
• Budget: Riad Jonan

Where to Dine in Marrakesh:

• Luxury: Le Jardin
• Mid-range: Café des Épices
• Budget: Al Baraka

Day 6: Day trip or overnight in Essaouira

5-hour round-trip drive. Accommodation in Marrakesh.

Head to the coast and the old town of Essaouira, with its labyrinthine alleys, markets with pyramids of colour and historic, tiled buildings.

Visit the Skala de la Ville, an impressive fortification with unforgettable views of the Atlantic Ocean.

In the afternoon, explore the sandy beaches of Essaouira and breathe in the invigorating sea air. Watch local fishermen unload their catch and visit the fish market for some of the freshest seafood around.

Where to Eat in Essaouira:

• Luxury: Taros
• Mid-range: La Table by Madada
• Budget: La Fromagerie

Day 7: Depart from Marrakesh

On your last day in Morocco, you may not have much time to visit Marrakesh. But if all else fails, make sure to fit in a quick walk around the medina and a cup of mint tea before you leave.

Should You Visit Morocco on Your Own or with a Tour Company?

It’s the age old question. Organise your own road trip or travel with a tour company? Obviously, there are pros and cons to both.

Driving around Morocco on your own

I’ve driven around Morocco solo – and loved it. But it was a challenge, for sure.

Hiring your own car allows you to be flexible with your travel plans, explore remote areas and interact with whoever you meet along the way. However, it’s not for the faint for heart.

Make sure you have travel insurance and enough cash, as some places do not accept credit cards. Stock up on paper maps, make sure your paperwork is in order and make sure you know where you can find fuel.

Travelling via public transport

I’ve done this as well, but it’s time consuming and difficult to connect all the dots. If you have plenty of time in Morocco, then it’s a great way to really experience the everyday way of life. But if you only have seven days and are looking for a bit of R&R amid your exploration, then this probably isn’t the best option to choose. And it’s certainly much harder work if you are travelling in Morocco with kids.

Joining a tour group

You’ll find several group tours operating across Morocco as it’s a safe, stable, tourist friendly place. The advantages of joining a group is, of course, instant friends. The disadvantage is the risk of making instant enemies as well ;-) More typically, the compromise means that you have to follow the group in terms of timings and can’t visit smaller hotels and restaurants.

Hiring a driver

This really is the best option for a 7-day Morocco itinerary. Hiring a driver means that you don’t need to worry about all the logistics but you can still stop if you see anything that catches your eye. Your driver can usually be your interpreter as well, meaning you’ll have a much richer experience through talking to locals.

FAQs about travel in Morocco

When is the best time to visit Morocco?

Morocco has a surprisingly seasonal climate; it’s certainly not hot all the time. The most comfortable times to visit are in the spring or autumn months as the summer can be ferociously hot and the winter can cause the mountain passes to close due to snow.

How many days do you need in Morocco?

It’s possible to enjoy a long weekend in Marrakesh or on the coast but if you want to see anything of the country then you’ll need at least a week. With two weeks, you can obviously see a lot more but it’s possible to see the desert, Marrakesh and some beautiful places with any one of these 7 day Morocco itineraries.

Is Morocco safe with kids?

Yes, Morocco is safe with kids and a great place for a family holiday. But I understand the hesitation. You do need to be careful with drinking water and very rural parts can be very far from a hospital. You’ll also likely need travel vaccinations, which may not be recommended for children under two. As ever, check with a qualified healthcare professional well in advance.

What do women need to wear in Morocco?

Morocco is a reasonably conservative, muslim country so it’s a good idea for both men and women to wear clothes that reach down to cover wrists and ankles. This article on what to wear in Jordan provides helpful advice that applies to Morocco as well.

That said, women don’t need to cover their hair and, particularly in the cities, you’ll find young women wearing skintight fashion with their locks flowing.

However, a headscarf is extremely useful to travel with to protect against the wind and sand and if you do have long hair, it can really help it from thrashing in your face. Check out my video on wearing a headscarf in Morocco here and my full Morocco packing list here.

Where can I find out more about Morocco?

We have articles on driving in Morocco and why the beautiful Ouirgane valley in Morocco deserves your time.

In my opinion, Morocco is one of the best places to visit in Africa so check back regularly to find more articles. Or, join our newsletter to be updated right away.