Marrakech has a backdrop of stunning Desert, tall mountains, and rough coastlines that are lined with flowing waterfalls and beautiful Berber villages, and ski resorts. Don’t miss your chance to discover these areas.
Marrakech is an excellent destination to visit. If the bustle and hustle becomes to much for you, it’s the perfect time to get out and explore the countryside surrounding. The Atlas Mountains just an hour away from Marrakech The coast just two hours away, and the border of the desert just five hours from The city itself, the variety of day trips is endless. This is our top pick of the top.
Ourika Valley
If you feel that the heat in Marrakech is too hot, the locals prefer to go towards in the Ourika Valley, where temperatures are cooler, and lunch by the river is on the menu. Take a hike towards Setti Fatma waterfalls. Setti Fatma waterfalls to enjoy some of the cool air (young men and boys might attempt to help but make sure you’ve got the right path) before selecting a rock to rest on and take in the view and the sounds of the waterfalls roaring.
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Oukaimeden
It’s not easy for you to imagine but in less than a two-hour drive away from Marrakech and you could be having a snowball contest. The resort for skiing in Oukaimeden located 43 km (27mi) south of Ourika is a popular destination for snow from December and April, and consistent powder from January to March. The resort itself isn’t that great although the ski passes are a steal and you’ll be able to have the slopes all reserved for you. In the rest of the year it’s the perfect playground for rock climbers.
Imlil
It is located in Toubkal National Park, this is the point of departure for hikers who want to climb Mount Toubkal. Although there’s not anything to do or see within the village within the town – aside from the presence of a few cafes along the road and tourist shops Imlil is a fantastic starting point for a hike into one village. If you’ve heard of the murders of two foreign women carried out by religious extremists in the area, be at ease knowing there is a reason for this. The Moroccan government has stepped up security measures in this tiny family-friendly village, which was shocked by the brutality. All hikers now have to register with the village and hire an expert guide in order to hike up Toubkal. Local guides are recommended should you wish to explore the region on shorter hikes, and also learn more about Berber customs. When you’re done and satisfied, enjoy an espresso-strength local meal, and a local green tea that’s laced in sugar (ask for “atay bla skar” in case you’d prefer to keep the teeth.)
Ouirgane Valley
The charming valley is a bit away from the tourist trail thanks to its rolling hills, dotted with olive trees as well as the close Atlas Mountains towering in the background. The pace is slow with Berber villages scattered across the mountains. On Saturdays, make sure to stop by the market every week in Asni while traveling the locals gather from nearby villages to buy everything from fruit and vegetables, to meats, clothing, household goods and much more.
Tin Mal Mosque
The other 40 km (25mi) to the south of Ouirgane is the Tin Mal Mosque. It was built in 1153 and was partially renovated in the late 1990s. It is one of the only two mosques within Morocco that are open to non-Muslims with the exception of Fridays where it is used to conduct prayers. The stunning setting of the valley. The mosque offers an ideal place to take in the architectural style and architecture of the Almohad empire, which was founded in these mountains before advancing to be the ruler of Morocco and a large portion of Spain.
Essaouira
This laid-back, whitewashed town along the Atlantic Coast is a perfect escape when the hum of Marrakech is excessive. If you’re up for an adventure and want to get there early, hop on a bus (it’s approximately two and a half hours) and give the kitesurf or surf lessons prior to exploring the souks in search of Moroccan products, but with less hustle and bustle that you would in Marrakech medina. Have a cup of coffee at the famous Place Moulay Hassan or the well-known Patisserie Driss. Enjoy a stroll along the beach when the sun sets and savor fresh seafood in the bustling market for fish when the many fishing boats return to the shore. If you don’t want to leave it to someone else to do all the job for you, and book an excursion.
Ouzoud Waterfalls
Set in within the High Atlas Mountains, Ouzoud Waterfalls is always awe-inspiring. Start your journey from the top of the waterfall from where you can look at the edge and observe the various sources that form the stunning waterfalls. Continue down to enjoy views of the mighty water until you arrive at the bottom of the pool, which is stunning and refreshing. You can even get closer to water falls by taking a kayak ride to the edge of the lake.
Ait Benhaddou
The village is located on the edge of situated on the edge of Sahara Desert, Ait Benhaddou is a fortified fortress that is famous for its role as the setting for blockbuster films like Gladiator (2000), Lawrence of Arabia (1962), and many others. The river is crossed to walk through the town and see the residents gradually returning to their homes built of mud. Be sure to stop to admire the magnificent view of the lush palm groves as well as the sandcastle-like kasbahs when you get up to the highest point. If you’re in the mood then you can head back to Ouarzazate to see more film-related attractions such as The Museum of Cinema and the amazing, yet decrepit, film sets in the Atlas Corporation Studios (featuring a replica of an Egyptian temple) and CLA Studios, which both provide tours.
Agafay Desert
Geologically referred to as a stone desert it is the Agafay Desert, just 40 minutes away from Marrakech is a must-see. There are no other things to see other than stones and then the landscape transforms to include oases and valleys with palm trees, and an impressive view of the High Atlas Mountains in the background. A day trip to this area is an ideal alternative for those who do not have the time to visit Sahara Desert. Sahara Desert.