Best 5-Day Marrakech Itinerary: Culture, Adventure & Relaxation

Start your journey in the morning from Marrakech and head towards the High Atlas Mountains, passing through stunning landscapes with sharp, towering peaks and traditional Berber villages. The route takes you via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, one of the highest mountain passes in Morocco, offering panoramic views of the rugged terrain below.

Your first stop will be in Talout, a small village where you can experience the peaceful atmosphere and interact with locals. From here, continue to Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its well-preserved kasbahs and traditional earthen architecture.

This historical fortress has appeared in several films, including Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia. Take a guided tour of the kasbah and explore its narrow alleys and mudbrick buildings that tell the story of Morocco’s rich cultural heritage. Stay overnight in a charming hotel or riad near Aït Ben Haddou, enjoying a Moroccan dinner.

After breakfast, depart Aït Ben Haddou and head towards Kasbah Amridil, one of the most famous and beautifully preserved kasbahs in Morocco. Located in the Skoura Oasis, this kasbah is surrounded by palm groves and is a perfect example of the architecture of the region. Explore the traditional mudbrick structure, with its towers and decorative motifs.

Continue your journey towards the Rose Valley, a picturesque region known for its fragrant rose fields, which bloom in spring. Here, you’ll have the chance to visit local rose cooperatives and learn about the traditional methods of rose water production, which the area is famous for.

In the afternoon, continue on to the Dades Valley, also known as the "Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs." This dramatic valley is surrounded by steep cliffs and offers stunning views of the rugged mountains.

The road through the valley winds through traditional villages, palm groves, and terraced fields. You’ll have time to enjoy a short hike or relax at your accommodation, surrounded by the beauty of the Dades Gorges. Overnight stay in a local riad or kasbah.

On the third day, after breakfast, leave the Dades Valley behind and drive towards the Todra Gorges, a series of impressive canyons with towering cliff walls that rise to over 300 meters. This area is a popular spot for rock climbers and trekkers, and you’ll have the chance to take a short walk through the gorge, enjoying the awe-inspiring views and the lush green oasis at the base of the cliffs.

After your visit to Todra Gorges, continue your journey to Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. This is where the true desert experience begins. Upon arrival in Merzouga, embark on a camel trek to the heart of the Sahara Desert.

As you ride through the dunes, enjoy the breathtaking desert landscape and watch the sunset over the golden sands. Spend the night in a luxury desert camp in the dunes, where you’ll experience traditional Berber music, a delicious Moroccan dinner, and a night under the stars.

The Best 5 days Marrakech Itinerary

After a magical desert sunrise, you’ll ride camels back to Merzouga. Enjoy a hearty breakfast before continuing your journey to Anif, a small village known for its palm groves and stunning views of the desert. The road to Anif is picturesque, with the vast desert stretching on both sides.

From Anif, drive towards Zagora, passing through some of Morocco’s most remote and tranquil landscapes. Zagora is a gateway to the deep Sahara, offering a peaceful atmosphere and a chance to explore traditional Berber villages.

Along the way, stop to take in the views of Draa Valley, a lush oasis that stretches for miles, dotted with palm trees and kasbahs. Arrive in Zagora in the late afternoon and spend the night in a local riad or kasbah.

On your final day, depart Zagora and drive towards Ouarzazate, the famous city often referred to as the "Hollywood of Morocco." Ouarzazate has been a filming location for many blockbuster films, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones.

Visit the Taourirt Kasbah, a stunning historical site that was once home to a powerful Berber family, and explore the Atlas Film Studios, where many international movies were filmed.

Continue your journey across the High Atlas Mountains back towards Marrakech, enjoying the scenic drive through the winding mountain roads and passing by traditional villages. Arrive in Marrakech in the evening, marking the end of your incredible journey through Morocco’s desert landscapes and Atlas Mountains.