How To Make The Most Of Your Trip To Marrakesh, 5-Day Road Trip to Morocco

Greetings fellow travel enthusiasts! Several years ago, my friend Malkit and I embarked on an unforgettable journey to Morocco, beginning with the bustling city of Marrakesh and venturing onward for a road trip through the majestic Atlas Mountains towards Fez. While our adventure was cut short due to an unexpected heatstroke, our time in Morocco left an indelible mark on us. Join me as I recount our detailed itinerary, highlighting the vibrant markets, stunning landscapes, and cultural encounters that defined our road trip through this enchanting North African destination. Let’s delve into the beauty and excitement of Morocco together!

Introduction

Welcome to Morocco, a land of captivating history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture waiting to be explored! Situated in North Africa, Morocco is a country steeped in rich heritage, with influences from Berber, Arab, and European civilizations woven into its tapestry. From the bustling medinas and souks of cities like Marrakesh and Fez to the dramatic landscapes of the Sahara Desert and the Atlas Mountains, Morocco offers a kaleidoscope of experiences for every traveler. Get ready to wander through ancient kasbahs, sample flavorful tagines and mint tea, and immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the Moroccan people. Whether you’re drawn to the history, the architecture, or the natural beauty, Morocco promises an adventure like no other.

Getting to Marrakesh

Marrakesh is a popular tourist destination in Morocco that can be reached by plane, train or car.

The vast majority of travelers fly into Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK), located just southwest of the city center. Menara Airport offers direct flights from several European cities such as London, Paris, Madrid, Rome and Lisbon. There are also direct flights from Middle Eastern hubs like Dubai. Once you arrive, the best way to get into the city center is by taxi or airport shuttle which takes around 20 minutes.

Taking the train from Casablanca

Another option is taking the train from Casablanca, which is about a 3-hour journey. Trains leave regularly from Casa Voyageurs station directly to Marrakesh Station. High-speed trains can make the journey in just over 2 hours. Inside the station, you can find taxis and local buses to take you to your hotel.

Top attractions in Marrakesh

Marrakesh is a vibrant city with many fascinating sights to see. Here are some of the top attractions you don’t want to miss:

Jemaa el-Fnaa

This large public square is the heart of Marrakesh. It’s filled with street food stalls, performers, snake charmers, and more. At night it comes alive with music, dancing, and storytellers. It’s an energetic place that offers a taste of Moroccan culture. Don’t miss sipping fresh orange juice at one of the juice stalls while people watching.

Koutoubia Mosque

The minaret of this 12th-century mosque dominates the Marrakesh skyline. Non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, but you can admire the stunning architecture from the outside. Climb to the rooftop cafes near the mosque for panoramic views of the city.

Bahia Palace

This 19th-century palace was built for a former slave who rose to power. Wander through the beautiful courtyards and gardens of this well-preserved palace. Marvel at the intricate tilework, carved stucco, and tranquil fountains.

Majorelle Garden

These lush gardens were designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s and 1930s. The electric blue buildings set against greenery and tranquil pools make for great photos. Don’t miss the Berber Museum on site to learn about Moroccan tribes.

Day trips from Marrakesh

Marrakesh makes an excellent base to explore the surrounding areas on day trips. Here are some of the top day trips from Marrakesh:

High Atlas Mountains

The High Atlas Mountains provide a scenic backdrop to Marrakesh. You can take a day trip to hike in the mountains, stopping at scenic viewpoints and Berber villages along the way. The village of Imlil is a popular hiking destination, with trails leading up to the summit of Jebel Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa.

Essaouira

The coastal town of Essaouira has a lovely medina and picturesque port. You can wander along the ramparts, relax on the beach, and browse the many art galleries and woodworking shops. It’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Marrakesh.

Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou

Ouarzazate is known as the “door of the desert” and is a popular base for excursions into the Sahara. The UNESCO-listed kasbah village of Ait Benhaddou is located just outside Ouarzazate and makes for an interesting stop. The drive from Marrakesh takes around 4 hours.

Ourika Valley

The Ourika Valley in the Atlas Mountains is a great option for a short day trip from Marrakesh. You can hike to Setti Fatma waterfalls or relax in a traditional Moroccan garden. The valley is about an hour’s drive from Marrakesh.

Driving from Marrakesh to the Atlas Mountains

The drive from Marrakesh to the Atlas Mountains takes around 3-4 hours depending on your final destination and the route you take. There are a few different options for getting there:

Route via Tizi n’Tichka Pass: This is the most popular and scenic route from Marrakesh to the Atlas Mountains. The Tizi n’Tichka Pass reaches an altitude of 2,260 meters and offers incredible views of the High Atlas peaks and valleys. The road is well-paved but has many sharp twists and turns as it winds its way up the mountains. Total drive time is around 4 hours.

Route via Telouet: This more direct route passes through the village of Telouet and reduces the drive time to around 3 hours. The road conditions are not quite as good, with some unpaved sections. However, you still get great views of the mountains as you approach the Atlas range.

Stopping at scenic viewpoints: No matter which route you take, be sure to stop at some of the scenic overlooks. Great viewpoints along the Tizi n’Tichka Pass include Taddert (view of Imlil valley), Ait Soukane (Asni & Oukaïmeden), and Tizi n’Tichka (highest point). Along the Telouet route, stop at Glaoui Kasbah for panoramic views.

Road conditions: Exercise caution while driving into the mountains, as fog, rain, or snow can affect visibility and cause slick conditions. Road quality also diminishes on some mountain roads. Drive defensively, watch for livestock, and pull over to allow faster drivers to pass on the narrow roads. The route is fully paved from Marrakesh until the High Atlas.

Top things to do in the Atlas Mountains

The Atlas Mountains are a must-visit destination on a Morocco road trip. This stunning mountain range offers breathtaking scenery, unique cultural experiences, and plenty of outdoor adventures. Here are some of the top things to do in the Atlas Mountains:

Hiking

The Atlas Mountains provide endless opportunities for hiking and trekking. Some of the best hikes include:

• Toubkal Summit Hike – Climb to the top of the highest peak in North Africa at 4,167 meters. This challenging 2-3 day hike offers incredible views.
• Azzaden Valley – Trek through this peaceful and lush palm grove with streams and waterfalls.
• Armed Hike – Walk through small Berber villages and experience Amazigh culture on this day hike.
• Oukaïmeden Hike – Enjoy beautiful views of snow-capped peaks and green valleys on this moderate-day hike.

Visiting Berber Villages

The indigenous Berber people of Morocco live in traditional villages throughout the Atlas Mountains. Visiting a Berber village provides a window into local culture. Spend time interacting with villagers, seeing their homes and farms, shopping the local market, and sipping mint tea. Some of the most popular villages to visit include:

• Aït Benhaddou – A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its red clay kasbahs.
• Imlil – A starting point for many Atlas Mountain adventures with a lively weekly souk.
• Asni – A charming town surrounded by scenic valleys and terraced farms.

Relaxing at a Riad

The Atlas Mountains are home to many peaceful and beautifully designed riads, traditional Moroccan courtyard houses. Staying at a riad allows you to relax amidst mountain views and enjoy delicious local meals. Many riads also offer spa treatments like hammam steam baths and argan oil massages.

Experiencing Local Culture

Visiting the Atlas Mountains provides an authentic taste of Moroccan Berber culture. You can experience local culture through:

• Berber music and dance performances
• Visiting museums to learn about Amazigh history and culture
• Exploring the souks and markets full of handmade crafts and goods
• Trying delicious Moroccan dishes like tagine and couscous
• Drinking traditional mint tea with locals

With its stunning landscapes, unique villages, and wealth of cultural experiences, the Atlas Mountains are a highlight of any Morocco road trip.

Driving from the Atlas Mountains to Fez

The drive from the Atlas Mountains to Fez takes around 4-5 hours depending on the route you take and is around 300 km. There are a couple of different route options to consider:

Via Midelt: This route goes through the town of Midelt which is a good stopping point along the way. The roads are well-maintained highways and the scenery is beautiful as you descend from the mountains into lower plains. You’ll pass near the Cedar Forest of Azrou which is worth a quick stop.

Via Ifrane: This route goes through Ifrane, known as the Switzerland of Morocco due to its alpine-style houses and lakes. The roads are also very good along this route. Ifrane makes a nice coffee/lunch stop before continuing on to Fez.

Via Taza: This route goes through Taza but takes a bit longer than the other options. The upside is you get to see the small mountain towns and experience Berber villages along the way. The roads are a mix of highway and smaller regional roads.

No matter which route you take, make sure to stop frequently to take in the scenery of the Middle Atlas region. There are many small cafes and restaurants along the way for breaks. The drive isn’t too difficult but take caution during winter as the roads may be icy in the mountains. Expect the scenery to change dramatically from the rocky Atlas Mountains to rolling green hills as you approach Fez.

Top Attractions in Fez

Fez is an ancient imperial city with stunning historic architecture and sights. The top attractions in Fez include:

The Medina

The Fez medina is the largest contiguous car-free urban area in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This sprawling medieval old city has thousands of alleyways to explore, where you can shop in souks, see historic sites, and experience the unique atmosphere. The labyrinthine streets are filled with donkeys, spice stalls, tanneries, mosques, madrasas, and more. Getting lost in the Fez medina is part of the experience!

The Tanneries

The famous Fez tanneries are one of the city’s most iconic sights. At these medieval leather tanning factories, you can see the time-honored process of turning animal hides into leather using natural dyes like indigo and pomegranate. Be prepared for the stench! Many tanneries also have terraces where you can get aerial views.

Bou Inania Madrasa

This 14th-century madrasa (Islamic school) has exquisite decoration and architecture. The inside is ornately embellished with carved cedar, stucco, and decorative tilework known as zellij. It exemplifies the artistry of Merenid buildings.

Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts

This excellent museum is housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century funduq (inn). It showcases historic and contemporary wooden arts and crafts, including complex carvings, inlaid furniture, and ornate door and window frames.

The Royal Palace

This palace was built in the 17th century by the Alaouite Sultan Moulay Ismail. While only a portion is open to the public, you can see the lavish courtyard and gardens. The rest remains the royal residence of the king when in Fez.

Where to Stay in Fez

Fez has a wide variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay:

Riads

A riad is a traditional Moroccan house or palace with an interior garden or courtyard. Staying in a riad offers a unique experience and many have been converted into boutique hotels. Some recommended riads in Fez include:

• Riad Fes – Luxurious riad and spa located near the ancient medina. Offers beautiful architecture and attentive service.
• Riad Laaroussa – Charming budget riad with a peaceful courtyard and rooftop terrace overlooking the city. Located in the old medina.
• Riad Sheherazade – Affordable riad decorated in traditional Moroccan style. Friendly staff and excellent breakfast included.

Hotels

For a more modern hotel experience, some good options include:

• Hotel Sahrai – Elegant 5-star hotel with a spa and rooftop bar offering fantastic views. Near the new part of Fez.
• Hotel Batha – Historic luxury hotel built in a former palace. Central location within the medina.
• Zalagh Parc Palace – 4-star hotel with large pool and various dining options. Set in a peaceful garden setting.

Guesthouses

For a budget-friendly stay, guesthouses (also called dars) provide simple, affordable accommodation. Some to check out:

• Dar Finn – Family-run guesthouse with a terrace and cozy communal atmosphere. Located in the medina.
• Dar Roumana – Charming guesthouse with traditional decor. Shared lounge and terrace areas.
• Funky Fes – Basic rooms starting at around $20/night. Popular with backpackers.

Location Suggestions

• Medina – Staying inside the old medina offers an immersive experience and proximity to attractions. Can be maze-like to navigate.
• New Town – A more modern area with easier navigation. Close to transport options. Further from top sites.
• Ville Nouvelle – Leafy French colonial district outside Medina. Quieter and more spacious. 10-15 mins from Medina.

Do your research to decide if you prefer a riad, hotel, or guesthouse. The medina is best for first-timers who want to dive right into the atmosphere.

Day trips from Fez

Fez makes an excellent base to explore several nearby destinations for day trips. Here are some of the top options:

Meknes

Meknes is a imperial city just a 1.5 hour drive from Fez. It’s home to impressive sites like the Bab Mansour gate, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the Heri es-Souani – a massive granary with vaulted chambers. Don’t miss the lively markets and maze-like medina streets.

Volubilis Roman Ruins

The ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis date back to the 3rd century BC. Located about an hour from Fez, this UNESCO World Heritage site contains remarkably well-preserved mosaics, arches, and columns. Walking around the ruins offers a glimpse into Roman life in North Africa.

Sefrou

Nestled in the foothills of the Middle Atlas Mountains, Sefrou is known as Morocco’s “Little Switzerland.” It’s just 30 minutes from Fez. Stroll through the peaceful medina and Jewish mellah, admire the historic gateways, and see local artisans at work. The surrounding countryside is great for hiking.

Ifrane

Ifrane is a mountain town with a European alpine-style and a cooler climate. Nicknamed “Morocco’s Switzerland,” it offers scenic trails, lakes, and parks. The drive through cedar forests and valleys takes under an hour from Fez. Ifrane is a nice spot for a relaxing day away from the heat and bustle of Fez.

Getting back to Marrakesh

After exploring Fez and the surrounding areas, you’ll likely want to make your way back to Marrakesh to fly home. Here are some options for getting back:

Driving back

Renting a car and driving back along the route you took to get to Fez is an option. The drive takes around 5-6 hours. Make sure you have enough time to return your rental car in Marrakesh before your flight. Stopping along the way, like in Beni Mellal or Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, can break up the long drive.

Taking the train

Regular trains are running between Fez and Marrakesh each day. The journey takes around 8 hours with a transfer to Casablanca. Book your ticket in advance online or at the station to secure a seat. First-class tickets offer more comfort and legroom. Stow your luggage and settle in to enjoy the changing Moroccan landscapes out the window.

Flying from Fez airport

To save time, you can fly from Fez back to Marrakesh. Royal Air Maroc offers direct flights that take just over an hour. Flights depart a few times a day. The airport is about 15km from Fez. Leave ample time to check in and get through security. Consider booking a taxi or airport shuttle for convenience. Upon arrival in Marrakesh, take a taxi or bus to your final destination.

Conclusion

Embarking on a road trip from Marrakesh to Fez via the Atlas Mountains is an exhilarating adventure that offers a glimpse into the diverse beauty of Morocco. As you wind through the rugged landscapes of the Atlas range, dotted with picturesque villages and lush valleys, you’ll witness the country’s natural splendor unfold before your eyes. From the bustling energy of Marrakesh’s souks and historic landmarks to the tranquil oases of the desert and the ancient medinas of Fez, Morocco encapsulates a world of contrasts and wonder.

Beyond this road trip, Morocco as a whole invites exploration, with its welcoming people, mouthwatering cuisine, and architectural marvels like the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca and the blue-hued streets of Chefchaouen. Whether it’s the Sahara’s vast dunes or the intricate tilework of Moroccan riads, this country promises an unforgettable travel experience filled with culture, history, and natural beauty. So pack your bags and immerse yourself in the magic of Morocco!

---

Don’t forget to check our latest blog post The Art of Slow Travel in 7 easy steps: How to Savor Your Digital Nomad Journey to discover a transformative approach to travel that encourages mindfulness, authenticity, and the cultivation of unforgettable experiences.

Plan your trip with ease by visiting our Accommodation and Transportation pages. Discover unbeatable deals for a seamless and unforgettable adventure!