2 Weeks in Morocco: A Perfect Road Trip Itinerary
A Morocco road trip on your own with a rental car is one of the most rewarding ways to truly experience this fascinating country. Did you know that Morocco welcomes more than 17 million visitors each year, making it one of the most popular travel destinations in Africa? Along the way, you can expect breathtaking desert landscapes, dramatic gorges, spectacular mountain scenery, ancient kasbahs, vibrant souks, historic imperial cities and incredibly warm and welcoming people. A self drive itinerary through Morocco allows you to explore all of these highlights while also discovering hidden places that many travelers never get to see. To reassure you from the start, traveling through Morocco by car is absolutely doable and highly recommended. The country is considered relatively safe for travelers, and the road network is well developed and ideal for a two week road trip route.
This travel guide is a comprehensive Morocco trip report designed to help you plan your journey with ease. You will find a carefully planned Morocco itinerary to organize on your own, the most beautiful sights and attractions, as well as practical tips on driving in Morocco, recommended accommodations and unforgettable highlights for your individual road trip adventure.
Good to know!
Morocco is perfectly suited for a road trip with a rental car. It is advisable to book your car well in advance, and we had very good experiences using booking.com for comparing options.
Traffic in larger cities can be quite chaotic. Often, it is much more relaxing to park your car at a secure parking area on the outskirts and explore the medina comfortably on foot.
Bring enough cash with you at all times. Many cafés, gas stations and family run riads prefer payment in the local currency, Moroccan dirhams, rather than credit cards.
Guided tours, desert excursions and city tours in Marrakesh and Fez are also widely available online and make an excellent addition to a self drive road trip through Morocco.
Driving Through Morocco: Route, Experiences, and Tips
A road trip through Morocco takes you to countless breathtaking places that make this country so unique and diverse. Many of the top attractions are located along classic routes and can be easily explored by rental car. To help you plan your journey and keep track of all the highlights, we have put together the most beautiful sights and experiences of a Morocco road trip, including valuable insider tips and personal recommendations for an unforgettable self drive adventure.
✓ Stop 1 – Marrakesh
Even during the landing approach to the Red City, we were already fascinated and could hardly wait to explore this incredibly vibrant and colorful destination. For our first two nights, we had booked a lovely yet affordable riad in the Medina, the historic old town of Marrakesh. We were welcomed with delicious Moroccan mint tea, and from the very first minute we felt completely at ease in the city. We had two full days to explore the most beautiful things to do in Marrakesh, including the famous oriental marketplace Djemaa el Fna with its snake charmers, the historic Medersa Ben Youssef Quran school, the colorful souks and many other highlights.
Tip: If you have the chance, you should definitely stay in a traditional riad in Marrakesh. Here are a few highly recommended options:
- Riad Dar Fangui: A beautiful and budget friendly riad located in the Medina
- Riad Irene: A dreamy riad with an excellent breakfast and wonderful hosts
- Riad El Youssoufi: A true highlight and an exceptional place to stay
✓ Stop 2 – Driving Through the High Atlas Mountains
The drive by rental car across the High Atlas Mountains toward Ait Ben Haddou was one of the most memorable experiences of our Morocco road trip. Just outside Marrakesh, the scenery quickly became more and more dramatic, with mountain villages that looked as if they were clinging to the rocky slopes. Passing breathtaking alpine landscapes and sleepy, picturesque villages, the route climbs to an altitude of 2,260 meters at the Tizi n Tichka Pass. This mountain road offers several spectacular viewpoints and photo stops, including the beautiful Mirador Pueblo Amazigh, which is a true highlight along the way. Be sure to allow plenty of time for this drive so you can fully enjoy the journey. While the road surface is mostly in good condition, driving defensively and staying alert makes the experience much more relaxed. From the pass, the road descends southward, and after about 185 kilometers we reached Ait Ben Haddou, where we spent the night.
Tip: Make sure to plan enough time for this stage, not only because of the winding roads but also because you will constantly want to stop for photos. Starting early in the morning also helps you avoid the traffic from tour buses.
✓ Stop 3 – The Clay City of Ait Ben Haddou
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou is one of the most spectacular attractions in Morocco and an absolute must on any Morocco road trip. From the moment we arrived in this traditional clay city, it felt like stepping back in time. Walking through the narrow alleys, we made our way up to the historic granary fortress from the 17th century, where we were rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views over the valley and the surrounding oasis landscape. Ait Ben Haddou is especially magical at sunset, when the walls glow in warm golden tones and the day trippers have already left. Another fascinating fact is that the clay city has served as a filming location for numerous international movies and series, which makes the visit even more special. We stayed overnight at Chez Brahim, offering one of the best views of Ait Ben Haddou.
Tip: Visit Ait Ben Haddou early in the morning or around sunset. At these times, there are no tour buses, and the atmosphere is wonderfully peaceful.
Accommodation tips:
- Chez Brahim: A budget friendly riad with an unbeatable view of Ait Ben Haddou
- Kasbah Titrit and Spa: A beautiful kasbah with a great view and a relaxing pool
✓ Stop 4 – The Road of a Thousand Kasbahs to the Rose Valley El Kelaa M’Gouna
The famous Road of a Thousand Kasbahs is without a doubt one of the highlights of any Morocco road trip and begins in the region around Ouarzazate. This incredibly scenic route is lined with countless ancient clay fortresses known as kasbahs, as well as lush green oasis gardens. The reddish mountain ranges in the background create a striking contrast and make the landscape truly unforgettable. Some of these historic kasbahs are still very well preserved and can be visited. A stop at Kasbah Taourirt and Kasbah Amridil is especially worthwhile, offering fantastic photo opportunities and the chance to fully soak in the atmosphere at a relaxed pace.
In the late afternoon, after around 125 kilometers of driving, we finally arrived in El Kelaa M’Gouna, the town where the famous Rose Valley begins. While driving through the valley to our accommodation, we made a short stop at the viewpoint overlooking Kasbah Itran, which is highly recommended for its beautiful views.
Tip: A true hidden gem for your Morocco itinerary is Hotel Dar Timitar, beautifully located high above the Rose Valley. The panoramic view alone makes this place an absolute highlight of the entire road trip.
✓ Stop 5 – Dades Valley and Dades Gorge
The following day, we continued our journey by rental car for about 115 kilometers toward the Dades Gorge. This route led us through a stunning valley that was one of the absolute scenic highlights of our self drive trip through Morocco. Along the way, traditional kasbahs, ocher colored clay houses and lush green oasis gardens appeared again and again, set against dramatic rock formations. Shortly after entering the gorge, you will find the famous Monkey Fingers, a unique rock formation that looks almost sculpted and makes for an excellent photo stop. Higher up, the impressive zigzag road winds spectacularly up the mountainside, revealing the raw and powerful beauty of the Dades Gorge.
Be sure to allow plenty of time for photo stops, as the viewpoints along the route are numerous and well worth it. Those who continue driving up to the upper hairpin bends are rewarded with the most stunning views of the legendary zigzag road. Stopping at one of the small cafés with terrace seating along the way also offers perfect scenic breaks.
Tip: The small Berber riad Maison D’Hôtes Chez L’Habitant Amazigh truly impressed us with its warm hospitality. A lovely terrace, excellent breakfast and an authentic Berber evening make this place a wonderful choice.
✓ Stop 6 – Todra Gorge near Tinghir
Tinghir is an oasis town with around 44,000 inhabitants and is considered one of the most beautiful oases in Morocco, making it a must stop on any road trip itinerary. On the drive to Todra Gorge, located about 70 kilometers away, you are treated to spectacular views of lush green oasis gardens, fertile fields and endless palm groves. It is impossible to put the camera away here, as the contrast with the barren rocky landscape surrounding the valley is simply fascinating. At the end of the road, towering red rock walls rising up to 100 meters high form one of the most impressive canyons in the country. A river flows between the steep cliffs, and especially in the early morning hours, when the light is soft, the scenery feels almost magical.
Accommodation tip: We stayed at Kasbah Restaurant Amazir, a cozy and clean hotel with a lovely pool, located right next to the oasis and perfect for a relaxing overnight stay.
✓ Stop 7 – Merzouga and a Sahara Desert Tour
The 270 kilometer drive by rental car toward Merzouga is quite long, but the scenery becomes more and more beautiful the closer you get to the desert. Once we arrived in Merzouga, we were warmly welcomed by our guides from Desert Berber Fire Camp, and after a short lunch our desert adventure began. Riding on the back of a camel, we slowly made our way through a breathtaking desert landscape toward the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi. After a short but steep climb to the top, we were rewarded with magnificent views across the vast Sahara and an unforgettable sunset over the dunes. In our experience, an overnight stay in the Sahara Desert is an absolute must on any Morocco road trip.
Accommodation tip: The Berber Camp for desert tours and Hotel Kasbah Azalay for a relaxing day with a beautiful pool and comfortable rooms are both highly recommended.
✓ Stop 8 – Driving from Merzouga to Fez
The 470 kilometer drive from Merzouga to Fez is likely the longest stage of this Morocco self drive itinerary. The route takes you across vast plains, past traditional Berber villages, over high plateaus, and finally into the greener regions of the Middle Atlas Mountains. To make the journey more relaxed, we spent one night in Zeida, which was convenient but not absolutely necessary. One of the highlights along the way was a stop at the Monkey Forest in Azrou, where you can get up close to the friendly Barbary macaques and even feed them. Snacks are available for purchase on site. Another great option is to take a break—or even stay overnight—in the charming mountain town of Ifrane, whose elegant chalets and well maintained streets are reminiscent of a small European alpine village.
✓ Stop 9 – The Imperial City of Fez
Fez in Morocco is a city that you either love or hate, but one thing is certain: it is like no other! We allowed plenty of time to explore the city, as the Fez Medina is enormous and you can wander through its winding alleys for hours without ever getting bored. The bustling souks, the scents, the colors, the handicrafts, and the constant mix of voices make visiting Fez an unforgettable experience. A true must see is the famous Chouara Tannery, where leather goods have been crafted in the traditional way for centuries. The sight of the vibrant dyeing vats is absolutely fascinating, though the strong smell can be a bit overwhelming for some visitors.
Tip: If you are driving in Morocco and visiting Fez, it is best to park your car outside the Medina to avoid the chaotic streets and narrow lanes.
✓ Stop 10 – Rabat
After the bustling streets of Fez, the calm capital city of Rabat felt almost relaxing. Even with just half a day, the city offers several highlights that can easily be combined into a memorable visit. One of the most impressive sights is the Kasbah of the Udayas, with its charming blue and white streets, small courtyards, and breathtaking views over the Atlantic from the harbor. Not far away is the Hassan Tower with the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, one of the most important architectural landmarks in Morocco and a perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere of the capital. Afterwards, the small Rabat Medina is ideal for a short stroll before ending the day relaxing along the coast or enjoying a coffee on a terrace.
✓ Stop 11 – Casablanca
No Morocco road trip would be complete without a stop in Casablanca, home to the impressive Hassan II Mosque. Situated right on the Atlantic coast, it is one of the largest mosques in the world and captivates visitors with its 210-meter-high minaret, intricate mosaics, and spectacular location on a platform above the ocean. A stroll along the promenade offers beautiful views and showcases the city’s more relaxed side. If you have extra time, be sure to explore Casablanca’s coastline as well. We especially loved the many trendy beach bars, as well as the scenic stretches of sandy beaches and beach clubs, which make for a perfect sightseeing break.
✓ Stop 12 – Driving Along Morocco’s Atlantic Coast
The 400 kilometer drive along Morocco’s Atlantic coast, with its wild beaches, high waves, and dramatic cliffs, was truly impressive. Be sure to plan a stop in El Jadida, a coastal town very popular with locals. Its historic Portuguese city center was even designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004. For those who want to swim in the Atlantic, spending a night in Oualidia is highly recommended. The town offers a beautiful beach for swimming, freshly grilled fish sold by local vendors, and a stunning lagoon where bird watchers can enjoy a peaceful boat tour.
✓ Stop 13 – Essaouira
The white-washed port city of Essaouira, with its blue doors and wind-swept walls, is a true gem on Morocco’s Atlantic coast. Its relaxed atmosphere, wide sandy beach, opular with kite surfers and windsurfers, and the many cozy cafés and restaurants in the old town make it the perfect place to end your journey on a calm note. We spent our time wandering through the charming Essaouira Medina, taking long walks along the beach, exploring the surrounding area, and, of course, shopping for souvenirs in the bustling markets where you’re sure to find something special. One of our favorite experiences was visiting the harbor early in the morning, when fishing boats return, seagulls circle overhead, and the fish market comes to life, a truly authentic glimpse into local life.
Essaouira is ideal for one to three relaxing days. Arriving early at the harbor is worthwhile, as is a walk along the city walls at sunset. In summer, the wind can be quite cool, so be sure to bring a light jacket.
Accommodation tip: We stayed at Riad Chbanate in the old Medina, featuring a beautiful terrace for relaxing and comfortable rooms.
✓ Stop 14 – Morocco’s Tree Climbing Goats
On the drive back to Marrakesh (about 200 km), be sure to keep your eyes open. The route passes through a peaceful landscape, and with a bit of luck, you may spot Morocco’s famous tree-climbing goats skillfully making their way through the branches of argan trees in search of food. It’s a truly unusual and amusing sight, perfect for an impromptu photo stop and a unique way to round off your journey back to Marrakesh.
Planning your Morocco Road Trip
Remember, make sure you planning enough time for your Morocco itinerary! We always do that and that’s so important if you want to have a great time. For Morocco the wisdom is: “The way is the goal” – and it’s so true – the best photo spots we found have just been next to the road. 2 weeks in Morocco or even more are the perfect amount of time to explore the country.
- Flights to Marrakech arrive at Menara Airport and we can recommend to book your ticket at Skyscanner.
- No, two weeks in Morocco are not too long! You will be surprised about the many amazing things to see and to do in Morocco. Better you plan road trip around Morocco a bit longer…
- For being well prepared, make sure you are checking out this ultimate road trip packing list!
- If you don`t have enough time to do a 2 weeks Morocco itinerary by your own, than you still have the possibility to book some exciting guided Morocco Tours and Activities.
If you have more time than two weeks, you can also visit Chefchaouen (the blue city), Tafroute, Ouzoud waterfall, the Legzira Beach, Taghazout and Taroudante.
Driving in Morocco
If you are planning a road trip in Morocco and you would like to do lots of sightseeing we recommend to explore the country by car. Driving in Morocco can be lots of fun but also a bit challenging. Anyhow, with your own car you are going to be much more flexible then traveling with a tours bus. At least 2 weeks or better more should be planned for visiting all the wonderful places and sights. Definitely, you should rent your car in advanced and compare the prices! Don`t forget to book a car insurance.
Thanks for reading our Morocco itinerary!
Read more about traveling in Morocco:
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15 Best Things to do in Morocco – Ultimate Travel Guide
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Ait-Ben-Haddou: Guide for Morocco’s famous Ksar
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Marrakech in 3 days: Itinerary and Tips for Marrakech
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Best Things to do in Essaouira | Morocco
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Dades Gorge and the winding road in Morocco
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Tinghir Oasis and the spectacular Todra Gorge
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Best things to do in Fez
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Sahara Desert Morocco: Camel trekking, Tours and Camping
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
1 Comment
Hi Juma,
Where did you stay in Ait Ben Haddou?? You had a perfect view of the town!!
Fantastic blog and article – I am planning my own 14 day trip by motorcycle for June and could not be more excited after reading about your amazing journey!
Cheers from Canada