Sun-Seeker's One Week Morocco Itinerary: Marrakech + Sahara + Taghazout
- Malika
- May 15, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: May 30
Want a taste of Morocco's souks, surf and the Sahara? This one-week Morocco itinerary from Marrakech to Taghazout explores the best the sun-drenched south has to offer!
If you only have a week to spare and want to cover A LOT of ground, then this 7-day Morocco itinerary from Marrakech to Taghazout is for you! Just be aware that it involves a lot of driving and is go, go, go, with only a single night in most destinations before a couple of days on the coast to wind down at the end.
But if you want to see as much of southern Morocco as possible and don’t mind the busy pace, it ticks all the right boxes. Over the course of a week, you'll get to experience the incredible diversity of this fascinating North African country and soak up plenty of sunshine along the way.
ONE-WEEK MOROCCO ITINERARY OVERVIEW
From the bustling medina of Marrakech, travel over the Tizi n’Tichka Pass to the UNESCO-listed ksar of Ait Benhaddou and the “Hollywood of Africa”, Ouarzazate. Then continue east to the Sahara Desert for a night of unforgettable stargazing before heading towards the coastline via the storied city of Taroudant. Hit the Atlantic Ocean at Taghazout - Morocco’s undisputed surf mecca and the perfect spot to end your journey.
Hiring a car in Marrakech gives you the freedom and flexibility to complete this one week Morocco itinerary at your own pace. For the best rates, return your rental car to your pickup location before flying home.
I recommend you rent a car in Morocco through Discover Cars, which offers free cancellation and 24/7 support. They have everything from compact automatics to manual vans, ensuring there’s something for all travel groups and driving styles.
For more information about self-driving in Morocco, check out my guide here.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Highlights:
• Get lost in the labyrinthine souks of Marrakech and discover its architectural gems
• Experience the thrill of navigating the spectacular Tizi n'Tichka Pass
• Wander through the UNESCO-listed ksar of Ait Benhaddou where countless films have been shot
• Camel trek into the Sahara from the sleepy desert outpost of M’Hamid, spending a night under the infinite stars
• Watch traditional artisans at work in the ancient walled city of Taroudant
• Surf some of Morocco’s best waves during a stay in the coastal village of Taghazout
One week Morocco itinerary
Day 1: Marrakech
Start your journey in the vibrant city of Marrakech, which receives international flight connections from Europe and beyond. Architecture lovers will appreciate the city's historic palaces and museums (don’t miss the Bahia Palace and Ben Youssef Madrasa) while the souks here offer some of the best shopping in Morocco.
To really explore the Marrakech and everything it has to offer, I recommend arriving a day or two early. This will give you time to visit the enchanting Jardin Majorelle, take a Morocco cooking class or embark on a street food tour of Marrakech.
For more recommendations of things to see and do in Marrakech, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Marrakech.
When booking accommodation in Marrakech, I strongly suggest staying in a riad - they are an experience in themselves! With many boasting courtyard plunge pools and rooftop terraces, these authentic guesthouses are truly a treat. To make your choice easier, I've put together a list of the top riads in Marrakech and even researched some eco-friendly hotels for those who are conscious about sustainability.
Best places to stay in Marrakech
Luxury places to stay in Marrakech
Mid-range places to stay in Marrakech
Budget places to stay in Marrakech
One week Morocco itinerary from Marrakech
Day 2: Marrakech to Ouarzazate
From Marrakech, make the spectacular journey over the Tizi n’Tichka Pass to Ouarzazate, an enchanting desert city on the banks of the Asif Tidili River. It has a storied history as a trading hub, with people from the Atlas, Drâa and Dades Valleys gathering at the ancient Taourirt Kasbah to exchange goods.
Ouarzazate’s stunning desert scenery attracted numerous Hollywood productions from the mid-20th century, leading to the birth of "Ouallywood" studios. Today, Ouarzazate boasts museums showcasing Amazigh culture and film studios honouring its prominent role in movie-making history.
En route to Ouarzazate, make an optional stop in Ait Benhaddou, a maze of mud-brick homes clustered tightly within the imposing fortified walls of an old ksar. Stroll along the twisting pathways of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and former Saharan trade centre.
The ochre tones of the structures become even more striking as the sun sets, creating a picturesque setting for photographers.
For more recommendations of things to see and do in Ouarzazate, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Ouarzazate.
Best places to stay in Ouarzazate
Luxury places to stay in Ouarzazate
Mid-range places to stay in Ouarzazate
Budget places to stay in Ouarzazate
One week Morocco itinerary from Marrakech
Day 3: Ouarzazate to M’Hamid
This morning, make the four-hour drive to M’Hamid, a small Saharan outpost on the edge of the desert that serves as a gateway for camel treks and 4x4 excursions. In the past, M’Hamid was a significant rest stop along historic caravan routes. Countless camels would gather here to quench their thirst before embarking on their challenging voyages to the legendary Timbuktu.
Today, M’Hamid is a starting point for unforgettable Sahara Desert adventures in the less-frequented Erg Chigaga dunes. It's a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the region's nomadic culture and witness the awe-inspiring beauty of stargazing with almost zero light pollution.
Want to visit the Sahara Desert on a guided tour from Marrakech? I recommend this Three-day Marrakech to Merzouga Sahara Desert adventure.
Best places to stay in M’Hamid
Luxury places to stay in M’Hamid
Mid-range places to stay in M’Hamid
Budget places to stay in M’Hamid
7 day Sahara itinerary from Marrakech
Day 4: M’Hamid to Taroudant
After spending the night in a traditional Saharan tent, wake early to watch the sunrise over the desert, transforming the dunes from a deep red into a subdued orange. The scenery is truly remarkable, with endless sand as far as the eye can see!
Return to M’Hamid before lunch, then begin the long drive to Taroudant. It has been nicknamed the "Grandmother of Marrakech" due to its similarity to the “Red City”, with centuries-old ramparts ringing its historic core. Back in the 16th century, this charming town briefly served as the capital of the Saadi Sultanate before the seat of power was relocated to Marrakech.
Beyond its historic ramparts, a lively market atmosphere permeates Taroudant. Skilled local craftspeople continue age-old traditions producing stunning silver jewellery, hand-woven carpets and traditional Moroccan pottery. If you don’t have time to souvenir shop in Marrakech, Taroudant offers a great alternative!
For more recommendations of things to see and do in Taroudant, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Taroudant.
Best places to stay in Taroudant
Luxury places to stay in Taroudant
Mid-range places to stay in Taroudant
Budget places to stay in Taroudant
7 day Morocco itinerary from Marrakech to Taghazout
Day 5: Taroudant to Taghazout
As you travel westward from Taroudant, you'll reach the lively resort city of Agadir on Morocco's Atlantic Coast. While you can stop to soak up the Moroccan beach culture here, I'd recommend heading north to Taghazout, a charming Amazigh village famous for its incredible surf.
The village centre is clustered with colourful surf shops, cafes and pizzerias, creating a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. If you prefer a more tranquil setting, consider staying in the nearby village of Tamraght.
Best places to stay in Taghazout
Luxury places to stay in Taghazout
Mid-range places to stay in Taghazout
Budget places to stay in Taghazout
One week Morocco itinerary from Marrakech to Taghazout
Day 6: Taghazout
Enjoy a well-earned day of rest and relaxation in Taghazout, where you can bask in the sun, ride the waves and feel the sand between your toes. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, there are waves that cater to all levels of surfing, such as Kro Kro and Panorama. For those seeking a challenge, Anchor Point and Killer Point are legendary spots to conquer.
When you're not catching waves, you can feast on health-conscious foods at the laid-back cafes and swap stories of your Moroccan adventures with like-minded travellers. If you're looking for a change of scenery, venture to Paradise Valley, a stunning oasis with palm-lined gorges, serene pools and cascading waterfalls.
Day 7: Taghazout to Marrakech or Agadir
From Taghazout, you can return to Marrakech for your final night (before flying out from Marrakech Menara Airport) or make the short hop down to Agadir to experience its lively beachfront boulevard. Just be aware that Agadir Al-Massira International Airport has fewer flight connections than Marrakech.
If you’re more into the Taghazout vibes, spend another night there and go directly to Agadir Al-Massira International Airport in the morning (it’s just an hour’s drive).
For more recommendations of things to see and do in Agadir, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Agadir.
Best places to stay in Agadir
Luxury places to stay in Agadir
Mid-range places to stay in Agadir
Budget places to stay in Agadir
For more Agadir accommodation information, head here.
One week Morocco itinerary from Marrakech to Sahara
Optional add-on:
If you have an extra day or two up your sleeve, consider heading down the coast from Agadir to explore the spectacular beaches around Mirleft and Sidi Ifni. These tend to be quieter than the beaches around Agadir and Taghazout, plus there are some lesser-known surf breaks too.
I recommend you rent a car in Morocco through Discover Cars, which offers free cancellation and 24/7 support. They have everything from compact automatics to manual vans, ensuring there’s something for all travel groups and driving styles.
