The city, beach, and desert all in 7 days make for the BEST 1-week Itinerary for Morocco.
If you are wanting to have the time of your life in Morocco and stay within a budget, this guide is perfect for you.
Just saying “Morocco”, I can nearly smell the mint tea and hear the snake-charming music erupt from Marrakesh’s main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa. Morocco is one of the most magical places I have explored.
Planning your trip.
My trip to Morocco is one of my most memorable. However, to make this trip as epic as it was, it took quite a bit of research. If you could take any bit of information from this post, it is these 3 words right here:
MOROCCO IS BIG.
The most common mistake I hear is people get stuck riding in between destinations nearly their entire trip because they didn’t study the distance between them.
Even if you really narrow your trip down, you will likely be riding in a car for a while. This trimmed-down itinerary will have you in the car for about 23 hours total throughout your one-week Morocco trip.
Morocco is safe to travel
I hope hearing this can put your mind at ease. My best friend and I traveled to Morocco together, without a man, and we were both twenty-one. I have felt more unsafe in hostels in London than in the streets of Morocco.
Tips on safe travel in Morocco:
Here are some extra precautions I take while not just traveling in Morocco, but really anywhere.
Carry your bag in front of you, and/or secure locks on your bags. Little children are the ones you have to especially look out for in Morocco. They are smart, quick, and incredibly adorable!
Men WILL come up and catcall you. Most of the time they are harmless, just annoying.
Set yourself a curfew. We actually didn’t do this, some of our Riads enforced an 11 pm curfew.
Stay where people can see you. This is my #1 rule when traveling. There are lots of private tours offered in Morocco for cheap prices but perhaps opt for the group tours where you will be surrounded by a few other travelers.
Taxi travel. Establish a set price BEFORE you get into the taxi. All of our taxis were pre-booked before our trip. Meaning our Airbnb Riad’s had their own taxi arrangements set up for us, with a reasonable fare we agreed upon beforehand. Additionally, avoid putting your luggage in the trunk as you may not ever get it back.
Now let’s get to the fun part, building the best 1-week Itinerary for Morocco!
Day 1 – Arrive in Marrakesh
Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
Where to stay in Marrakesh
Marrakesh is filled with some of the most beautiful accommodations. A Riad is a traditional Moroccan home or palace with an interior courtyard/garden and is most likely what you’ll be staying at during your trip.
Many Riads are very very nice and affordable. A fantastic Riad I stayed at is available on Airbnb here.
When searching for accommodations, I recommend you find one near Jemaa el-Fnaa Square (the main square) and read reviews very thoroughly to be sure you are getting the best value.
the lobby of my Riad in Marrakesh.
Contact your Riad before your arrival, and ask if they can arrange to pick up from the airport.
This is probably the best value in terms of convenience. Most Riads will offer this service to you before arrival. It is up to you to communicate with them in terms of time and airline tickets (they track the arrival).
In my opinion, it was totally worth paying $25 in advance to have a taxi waiting for us. We knew we weren’t getting scammed and that the driver knew exactly where our Riad was.
After you get settled, take time to explore Marrakesh!
Be sure to pin your accommodation on your phone/map, or make sure it comes up on Google Maps. You WILL get lost in the Medina, and you’ll have to find your way back.
Day 2 – Marrakesh
Marrakesh is just one of those places you have to see.
It is both chaotic and beautiful. While I loved my time in Marrakesh, it isn’t somewhere I would want to spend more than a day or two. The main things to do are shop at the markets, get lost in the Medina, and eat some awesome food. Which can all be achieved in 24-48 hours.
I am actually cringing in this pic because the man literally threw the monkey on me! Marrakesh, Morocco
I am always starving after a full day of exploring! Our favorite restaurant in Marrakesh was Nomad. We went during the offseason, so I would recommend making reservations on their website if you can, it was very popular.
Nomad was amazing. The atmosphere was relaxing, especially in comparison to the loud streets of Marrakesh.
For dinner, I had the Vegetarian plate, which consisted of chickpea salad, tzatziki, avocado, and barley with celery and sesame seeds. For dessert, I had the Ultra-rich chocolate cake.
Day 3 – Depart on your Sahara Desert Tour
This was the moment we had been waiting for … to ride camels and camp in the Sahara!
Talk about a checkmark off the bucket list!
This tour alone packs in A LOT and deserves its own blog post. If you are considering taking a Sahara tour on your trip, click below to read an extensive breakdown of the tour.
The first day of your Desert tour will be a lot of driving, mixed in with stops along the way at the Atlas Mountains, Kasbah Ait Ben Hadou, and Dades Valley.
Atlas MountainsAït Benhaddou
Day 4 – Sahara Desert Tour
This will be the second day of your Sahara Desert tour, which will mainly include Dades Valley, Tinghr, and camping in the Sahara. Spending the night in the Sahara Desert was one of the most magical experiences. Dancing to the beat of the drums, stargazing with my best friend, and sledding down the dunes at midnight were just a few of the highlights.
Berber Home – Sahara Desert TourSahara Desert Tour
Day 5 – Back on the road to Marrakesh
Sadly, this is the last day of the Sahara Desert Tour.
You will be completely exhausted and get back into Marrakesh around 7 pm. At this point, you could get a taxi from Marrakesh and head to the next destination on this itinerary, Essaouira.
Alternatively, you could spend one more night in Marrakesh. Neither option is right or wrong, however, if traffic is bad or something happens to where you don’t make your scheduled taxi to Essaouira that evening, you may be in a bind.
If you could get a taxi for 9 or 10 pm to allow a bit of wiggle room, that may be ideal. We chose to spend one more night in Marrakesh just to be safe, however, we were so exhausted we ordered pizza and stayed in!
Day 6 – Essaouira
This beautiful beach town of Essaouira was something we nearly overlooked, as we read from many other travelers that it was best as a day trip, or not really worth seeing.
We found this to not be true, we LOVED Essaouira. It’s a charming little fishing town, and that was exactly what we needed to relax after the hustle of Marrakesh and the exhaustion of trekking through the desert. The trip to Essaouira is only 2 hours from Marrakesh, and absolutely worth the journey.
The Med Taxi transport service was a complete weight lifted off our shoulders. Med Taxi took us to Essaouira and back to Marrakesh airport on our last day.
Med Taxi price is 50 euros each way, in total.
If you choose to not go with Med Taxi and use a different transport service, as always, be sure to confirm the price before getting into the taxi. Also, clarify that it is total and not per person.
Day 7 – Essaouira
Finish your trip by relaxing on the beach or exploring Essaouira’s historic port. Don’t forget to snap a pic of the beautiful blue boats!
Essaouira, Morocco
Essaouira is such a lovely town that requires it’s own in-depth guides. If you are lucky enough to fit this gem into your Morocco itinerary, you can check out my Essaouira Travel Guide and/or my Essaouira Pocket Guide. WiFi is spotty so I really do recommend downloading the free Pocket Guide to keep on your phone!
Essaouira, Morocco
That concludes the Best 1-Week Itinerary for Morocco! If you are having any doubts about making the leap to this incredible country, I must urge you to go!
Essaouira is a fishing town located in the Western region of Morocco. Don’t overlook this charming port village during your time in Morocco, it is truly a gem!
Essaouira does have an airport. Alternatively, you can find transport services from major cities such as Marrakesh. MED Taxi, which was 50 euros each way, is my preferred taxi service.
Med Taxi even lets you stop along the road when you see something totally insane, like this…
goats in a tree
Where to stay
I booked “Dar Skala Essaouira” Airbnb, which was fantastic. Our host, Jorge, greeted us warmly upon arrival and gave us a map along with tips for the best experience during our time here.
Here are more amazing options on where to stay in Essaouira:
Gusto Italia is not traditional Moroccan food, but offers some delicious Italian, which you may be craving after eating traditional Moroccan dishes all week!
Triskala is another fantastic option. This restaurant is beautifully decorated and offers tasty traditional Moroccan food.
Gusto Italia – Shrimp Fettuccine
Triskala – Falafel Platter
What to do in Essaouira
We visited during December, and there were hardly any tourists. I assume during peak tourism, it’s quite busy during the day with all the day trip tours from Marrakech.
This is why I recommend spending 2 days here, so you get to explore it when it’s quieter in the evenings. Overall, it should be MUCH more low-key than Marrakech.
1. Explore the Port.
Essaouira, Morocco
Exploring the port is one of the main things you’ll want to during your time in Essaouira. I would even suggest visiting during twice, both during the morning and late evening so you can get a glimpse of the morning craziness and the quiet nighttime.
2. Shop in the Medina.
The Medina of Essaouira is much more manageable than Marrakesh’s gigantic maze. It has a lot of similar things that you’ll find in the Marrakesh markets, only they will be cheaper!
The historical Essaouira Medina is listed as a UNESCO site.
Shopping tip – buy a Moroccan scarf! They are a cheap souvenir that you can pack easily in your luggage.
3. Watch the sunset on the beach.
Morocco truly has the most stunning sunsets. Laying on the beach watching the sun go down is the perfect way to end your trip.
Book yourself a massage and traditional hammam to end your busy trip feeling relaxed. A traditional hammam is a classic cleansing technique of Middle Eastern culture.
Azur Spa was so beautiful! You’ll be greeted with delicious mint tea while you gaze at rose petals and fountains decorated throughout the lobby.
That concludes a perfect trip to the beautiful port town of Essaouira!
Essaouira was a stop that was nearly looked over when planning our itinerary. It’s really quite a gem of a town that is entirely different than the rest of Morocco. If you are looking for an experience that is both cultural and relaxing, this is the place for you.
Published on May 18, 2023 | Last updated May 22, 2023 | Asia Travel, Blog
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Morocco offers the bliss of the Sahara, the bustle of the city, and the calmness of the sea. If you need convincing on why you need to take a trip to Morocco, look no further. Here are some photos to inspire you to book a trip to this beautiful country.
My Morocco Essentials
1. Marrakesh
Sunset in the very center of Marrakesh/ Marrakech, Jemaa el-Fna square. The square offers a taste of the very essence of Moroccan culture. You can expect to enjoy fresh smoothies while you walk to the beat of drums as charmed snakes dance around you. Jemaa el-Fna square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Marrakech
2. The Sahara Desert
One of the most stunning natural sights in the world.
Sahara Desert
3. Essaouira
Essaouira is a sleepy fishing town that lies in the Western region of Morocco. Consider taking a short two-hour taxi ride from Marrakech. I recommend spending two days here, this charming town deserves more than a day trip.
Essaouira
4. Tinghir
Learning about traditional Berber carpentry.
Berber Home – Sahara Desert Tour
5. Aït Benhaddou
Take a walk through the ancient city of Aït Benhaddou. Another UNESCO site to add to your list!
Aït Benhaddou
6. Kisses for the camel!
I just had to say my thanks to my camel that I rode in the Sahara.
The Sahara Desert
7. Your tuk-tuk awaits.
Marrakesh
8. Captain, Oh Captain!
Essaouira
9. Explore Dades Valley
Dades Valley is comprised of rugged gorges carved out by the Dadès River in Morocco. The river originates in the High Atlas range of the Atlas mountains.
Dades Valley
10. Camel Squad!
Camel Squad in the Sahara
11. When visiting Morocco, a dramatic desert selfie is a must!
12. Learn about the beautiful Berber carpets.
Berber people are indigenous communities that live across Northern Africa. Berber’s have their own language and are made up of different races and nationalities.
Berber Home – Sahara Desert Tour
13. View ancient city landscapes
How can you not feel like Indiana Jones when you come across landscapes like this?!
Aït Benhaddou
14. Adventure to the top of Aït Benhaddou
Aït Benhaddou
15. Capture the blue boats of Essaouira
Essaouira
If this inspired you to book that dream vacay to Morocco, check out my blog post over the 3 Day Sahara Desert Tour – this is a must-do in Morocco!
Published on May 18, 2023 | Last updated May 22, 2023 | Asia Travel, Blog
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This Sahara Desert Tour was one of the coolest experiences ever! If you can only pick one thing to do during your time in Morocco, I would urge you to take this tour!
We spent hours researching the best Sahara desert tour to take on our trip to Morocco. There were so many factors to take into consideration when picking our tour company. My top priorities were safety, comfort, and value.
Our tour specifically was: Marrakech – Merzouga, 3 Days Shared Sahara Desert Tour with Marrakech Desert Trips.
My Sahara Desert Essentials
What type of traveler(s) is this suited for?
Anyone would love this tour; Couples, solo travelers, friends, etc.
A moderately active skill level is required as there’s some light hiking and camel riding involved. However, they do offer motor transport options for those not able to ride camels.
Budget
For the 3 days Shared Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour it is €89 which is approximately $97 USD. This includes nice accommodations, transportation, and most of your meals. It’s such a great value, and totally worth it.
Here is a day by day breakdown of this Sahara Desert Tour:
Sahara Desert Tour
Day 1 – MARRAKECH – ATLAS MOUNTAINS – KASBAH AIT BEN HADOU – DADES VALLEY (6 hours driving + stops)
Start your day bright and early, departing from Marrakech.
Your tour guides will communicate the meeting point on WhatsApp beforehand.
Something you should know – you will be spending a whole lot of time with your driver. Our driver was AMAZING.
First stop, Atlas Mountains!
The Atlas Mountains Sahara Desert Tour
Stop #2 –Aït Benhaddou
Aït Benhaddou is your second stop on your 3 day Sahara tour.
This is a popular filming location as it’s been seen in Gladiator and Game of Thrones. You will have a tour guide and stop for lunch (which will be on your own dime). You will be expected to tip the tour guide as well.
I do remember this guide was not particularly very friendly here, however, the tour company has no control over the guides at tourist destinations like this. Enjoy your time and get some pics in the sandy city!
Stop #3 – Dades Valley
The Dades Valley is made up of rugged gorges carved out by the Dades River in Morocco. This will be your last stop of the day! The roads to get to your hotel are a bit crazy, so if you get car sick easily, bring some medicine to calm your stomach.
Day 2 – DADES VALLEY – TINGHIR – MERZOUGA – SAHARA DESERT (4 hours driving + stops)
You’ll likely wake up early and get to enjoy breakfast before departing. Shortly after you depart, your driver will stop to allow you some time to explore the stunning valley.
Dades Valley – Sahara Desert Tour
Dades Valley – Sahara Desert Tour
Next stop – Tinghir
This was one of my favorite stops on our tour.
You get a glance at what a traditional Berber home looks like, along with the skill and time it takes to craft traditional Berber carpets. While they give you an extensive guide to Berber carpentry, you’ll be treated to hot Moroccan tea.
Berber Home – Sahara Desert Tour
Berber Home – Sahara Desert Tour
Next, Merzouga!
At this point, you are SO close to the Sahara Desert, you can nearly see it. Riding along the highway straight into the sand dunes was one of the most jaw-dropping moments.
Once you arrive at the tour base, you will have the opportunity to quickly use the restrooms and pack a small overnight bag. There is no way that you will be able to pack all of your luggage onto your camel, nor will you want to.
They will securely lock up the rest of your luggage for you. They will do a quick Berber turban demonstration if you’d like to ride your camel like a true Berber! Also, it really does help keep the sand out of your eyes, along with some sunglasses.
What you need before getting on the camel: thick pants, a headscarf, sunglasses, sunscreen, a small overnight bag.
Finally, The Sahara Desert.
A massive check off the bucket list! Camping overnight in the Sahara was the most exciting and beautiful experience I’ve had thus far in my life. The endless golden dunes are pure serenity and bliss.
The Sahara Desert
Traveling to camp, via Camel.
It’s not every day that you can say you rode a camel to your accommodation! Your trek to your overnight camp is LONG. Like, nearly two hours long. Our inner thighs were sore for days. This is why it is especially important that you wear very thick pants.
Squad!
Don’t worry, there will be plenty of chances to get your photos!
Camping in the Sahara Desert.
After you’ve finally arrived at the camp, you’ll quickly get settled in your tent and prepare for a delicious dinner. All of the meals on this trip were really impressive, and this one did not disappoint! Most of the dishes we ate during our tour were mainly Vegetarian based.
Following dinner, you will be treated to a beautiful night under the stars. There will be music, dancing, stargazing, and our guides even took us on a sand dune hike! Sledding down the dunes at midnight is a moment I will cherish forever.
Take this time to really engage and get to know your tour guides. They are all young, most of them in their 20s, but are very intelligent and can teach you a lot about their culture if you listen. I enjoyed my conversations with them getting to know more about their real way of life away from all of the tourism.
Camping in the Sahara Desert consists of large private tents (for an upgrade) with beds & blankets and restrooms. It’s really more like Glamping! Be sure to bring layers of close to sleep in, nighttime is freezing
Prepare to wake up very early the next morning to begin your camel trek back to the tour base in Merzouga, where an elaborate breakfast awaits. There will be 1-2 more stops for photo ops on the way back, but not near as many as the day before, so be sure to take advantage of your final moments in the beautiful Sahara Desert.
Don’t forget to thank your transport 😉
Back on the road again!
The route from the Sahara back to Marrakech is pretty straight (figuratively). Meaning there won’t be as many tourist stops as you had on the way to the desert.
Ouarzazate will be your main stop on the way back to Marrakech, where you’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch & quick look at Atlas Studios.
The world’s largest film studio
Atlas Studios is the world’s largest film studio. Iconic film and television shows such as Indiana Jones, Game of Thrones, Aladdin (2019), Mummy, Gladiator, and more have used this lot to film on. Unfortunately, you don’t really get a tour of the grounds, it’s really just a quick stop to stretch your legs and walk around outside the gates.
Back on the road to Marrakesh.
You should arrive in Marrakesh/ Marrakech at around 7 pm (19h00). Your driver should drop you off at, or within walking distance to your accommodation.
This tour was so spectacular, and completely exceeded our expectations. For such a low price, you really get your money’s worth and an experience of a lifetime.
That concludes a full 3 Day Tour from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert!
Sahara hoorahs!
*my fab travel bestie, Annika Berntsen, contributed some of these photos.
Welcome
Hi, I’m Natalie. I eat dessert every day and I like to travel.
