The 10 Best Day Trips from Marrakech (2026 Guide)

Marrakech is the perfect base for exploring Morocco. Within a single day you can stand beneath snow-capped Atlas peaks, walk a UNESCO kasbah, swim beneath the country’s highest waterfall or breathe Atlantic air in a blue-and-white coastal medina. After running day trips from Marrakech since 2017, we’ve put together this honest guide to the ten excursions UK travellers love most — with real travel times, current prices and tips on when to go.

1. Ourika Valley & Atlas Mountains

The easiest escape from the city. Just 30 km south-east, the Ourika Valley trades terracotta and noise for green slopes, Berber villages and a clear river running through the High Atlas. A relaxed, family-friendly day and our best-value excursion. See the Ourika Valley & Atlas Mountains day trip.

2. Ait Ben Haddou & Ouarzazate

One of the great drives in Africa, crossing the Tizi-n-Tichka pass to the UNESCO kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou — a Game of Thrones and Gladiator filming location. A long but unforgettable day. See the Ait Ben Haddou & Ouarzazate day trip.

3. Essaouira

Where the Sahara meets the Atlantic. Essaouira’s UNESCO medina, Portuguese ramparts and Gnawa music make it the most atmospheric coastal day trip from Marrakech. See the Essaouira day trip.

4. Ouzoud Waterfalls

Morocco’s highest falls drop 110 metres into a turquoise basin surrounded by olive groves and wild Barbary macaques. An optional boat trip brings you to the foot of the cascades. See the Ouzoud Waterfalls day trip.

5. Agafay Desert

The “stone desert” on Marrakech’s doorstep — perfect if you can’t reach the Sahara. Quad biking, camel rides and sunset dinners under the stars. See our Agafay Desert experiences.

6. Casablanca

Morocco’s coastal metropolis and the spectacular Hassan II Mosque, one of the few open to non-Muslim visitors. See the Casablanca day trip.

7. Agadir

Beaches, the Souk El Had and Atlantic air, crossing the wild Argan forests of the Souss on the way. See the Agadir day trip.

8. Asni & Imlil

The trailhead to Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak. Walnut groves, Berber hospitality and a memorable lunch at Kasbah Toubkal. See the Asni & Imlil excursion.

9. Telouet & Ait Ben Haddou

A quieter alternative pairing the crumbling Glaoui palace of Telouet with the famous kasbah. For travellers who want history without the crowds. See the Telouet & Ait Ben Haddou excursion.

10. Lalla Takerkoust Lake

A calm lake in the Atlas foothills for quad biking and lunch with mountain views — an easy half-day if you’re short on time. See the Lalla Takerkoust quad experience.

How to choose your day trip from Marrakech

If you have one day and want the easiest experience, choose the Ourika Valley. For dramatic scenery and history, Ait Ben Haddou is worth the long drive. For the coast, Essaouira beats Agadir for character; Agadir wins for beaches. Short on time? The Agafay Desert and Lalla Takerkoust are both under an hour away.

Practical tips

• Book at least 48 hours ahead in high season (spring and autumn); last-minute spots are sometimes available via WhatsApp.
• All Click Excursions day trips include hotel pickup and free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.
• Children under 12 get 50% off and under-3s travel free.
• Prices are shown in GBP — you can switch currency at the top of any page.