7-Day Morocco Road Trip Itinerary Starting in Marrakech

- Lamya MISSIRIA
- PubliéAugust 27, 2025
- Tourism
Morocco is a land of contrasts – from desert dunes to snow-capped mountains, bustling cities to peaceful oases. And there’s no better way to explore it than by car. Starting your journey in Marrakech gives you direct access to some of the most iconic and scenic destinations in the country. Whether you want to explore kasbahs, hike through valleys, or experience Berber culture, this 7-day Morocco road trip itinerary is the perfect starting point.
If you’re ready to hit the road, AKHIYAT DRIVER CARS offers reliable and comfortable car rentals from Marrakech, Agadir, and Casablanca.
Itinerary Overview
Day | Route | Distance | Highlights |
---|---|---|---|
Day 1 | Marrakech → Aït Ben Haddou | 180 km | Tizi n’Tichka Pass, UNESCO Kasbah |
Day 2 | Aït Ben Haddou → Ouarzazate → Skoura | 90 km | Atlas Studios, palm groves |
Day 3 | Skoura → Dades Gorges | 120 km | Rock formations, scenic drives |
Day 4 | Dades → Todra Gorges → Merzouga | 280 km | Cliffs, desert dunes |
Day 5 | Merzouga (Desert activities) | Local | Camel ride, sandboarding |
Day 6 | Merzouga → Agdz | 370 km | Drâa Valley, kasbahs |
Day 7 | Agdz → Marrakech | 270 km | Scenic return via Ouarzazate |
Day 1: From Marrakech to Aït Ben Haddou via Tizi n’Tichka
- Distance: 180 km
- Driving Time: ~4.5 hours
Start your road trip by heading southeast through the Tizi n’Tichka pass, a winding road through the High Atlas Mountains. The views are breathtaking, with panoramic curves and Berber villages along the way.
Your destination is Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar that has appeared in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. It’s an ideal first stop to dive into Morocco’s historic charm.
Day 2: Aït Ben Haddou to Ouarzazate and Skoura
- Distance: 90 km
- Driving Time: ~2 hours
After a morning walk through Aït Ben Haddou, drive to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa.” Visit Atlas Film Studios or the Taourirt Kasbah.
Then, continue to Skoura Oasis, home to lush palm groves and beautiful kasbahs such as Kasbah Amridil. This tranquil stop balances nature and history.
Day 3: Skoura to Dades Gorges
- Distance: 120 km
- Driving Time: ~2.5 hours
This route takes you along the “Route of the 1000 Kasbahs”, a scenic road dotted with fortified villages. Explore the dramatic landscapes of the Dades Gorges, with its winding roads and striking rock formations like the “Monkey Fingers.”
Plan an overnight stay in a guesthouse overlooking the gorge for a true immersion.
Day 4: Dades → Todra Gorges → Merzouga (Sahara Desert)
- Distance: 280 km
- Driving Time: ~5 hours
Start early to enjoy a short hike in Todra Gorges, where 300-meter-high cliffs create a narrow canyon ideal for climbers and photographers.
Continue your drive to Merzouga, gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes in the Sahara Desert. By sunset, take a camel trek into the dunes and enjoy dinner under the stars at a desert camp.
Day 5: Explore Merzouga and the Sahara
Spend the day exploring Merzouga:
- Sunrise camel ride
- Visit Khamlia village (Gnawa music)
- Try sandboarding
- 4×4 excursion around the dunes
- Relax in a riad or desert lodge
This is the adventure part of the trip and a favorite highlight for most travelers.
Day 6: Merzouga to Agdz via Alnif and the Drâa Valley
- Distance: 370 km
- Driving Time: ~6.5 hours
Depart the desert and drive through Alnif and Tazzarine into the lush Drâa Valley, Morocco’s longest river valley lined with palm trees and ancient kasbahs.
Stay in Agdz, a small town ideal for breaking up the journey and discovering more local culture.
Day 7: Agdz to Marrakech
- Distance: 270 km
- Driving Time: ~5 hours
Your final leg takes you back to Marrakech through Ouarzazate, where you can stop again if you missed any sights earlier. Arrive in Marrakech by evening, ready to unwind or extend your journey.
Practical Tips for a Morocco Road Trip
- Best time to go: Spring (March–May) or Fall (September–November)
- Car type: A compact SUV or 4×4 is ideal for flexibility
- Driving tips: Follow speed limits, especially near villages. Use Google Maps or offline apps.
- Essentials: Sunscreen, water, snacks, cash for fuel or small purchases
Why Rent with AKHIYAT DRIVER CARS?
- Locations: Pick up or drop off in Marrakech, Agadir, or Casablanca
- Reliable vehicles for long-distance travel
- 24/7 customer support
- Transparent pricing, no hidden fees
Whether you’re planning a loop or a one-way trip, our agency makes it easy to explore Morocco at your own pace.
Experience Morocco, One Kilometer at a Time
This 7-day itinerary is just a starting point. Morocco has infinite layers to discover—from its historic medinas to silent deserts. Traveling by car gives you the freedom to go off the beaten path, stop at scenic viewpoints, and create your own story.
Ready to start your journey? Book your vehicle now with AKHIYAT DRIVER CARS and hit the road with confidence.
Explore our fleet and offers → www.akhiyat-driver-cars.com