Plan Your Perfect Morocco Road Trip
Morocco offers an incredible variety of landscapes and experiences, all accessible by car. Here are our top 10 destinations that should be on every road tripper's itinerary.
1. Marrakech - The Red City
No trip to Morocco is complete without experiencing Marrakech. The vibrant souks, stunning palaces, and famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square make it an essential stop.
Must-See:
- Bahia Palace
- Majorelle Garden
- Koutoubia Mosque
- The Medina souks
Driving Tip: Park outside the medina walls and explore on foot. Parking is available near major gates.
2. Essaouira - The Wind City
This laid-back coastal town is a refreshing contrast to busy Marrakech. Known for its Portuguese ramparts, art galleries, and fresh seafood.
Must-See:
- The fortified port
- Skala de la Ville
- Blue boats at the harbor
- Gnaoua music performances
Driving Tip: The 2.5-hour drive from Marrakech passes through beautiful argan tree forests.
3. Chefchaouen - The Blue Pearl
Nestled in the Rif Mountains, this photogenic town is famous for its blue-washed buildings. A haven for photographers and hikers alike.
Must-See:
- The blue medina
- Spanish Mosque viewpoint
- Ras el-Maa waterfall
- Traditional crafts
Driving Tip: Mountain roads can be winding. Take your time and enjoy the scenery.
4. Fes - The Cultural Capital
Morocco's oldest imperial city is a living museum. Fes el-Bali is the world's largest car-free urban area and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Must-See:
- Al-Qarawiyyin University
- Chouara Tannery
- Bou Inania Madrasa
- The medieval medina
Driving Tip: Hire a local guide to navigate the 9,000+ alleyways of the medina.
5. Merzouga - Gateway to the Sahara
Experience the magic of the Sahara Desert with its towering dunes of Erg Chebbi. Camel treks and desert camps offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Must-See:
- Sunrise over the dunes
- Traditional Berber camps
- Desert stargazing
- Gnaoua village
Driving Tip: A 4x4 is recommended for desert excursions, though you can reach Merzouga town in a regular car.
6. Ouarzazate - The Hollywood of Africa
Known as the gateway to the Sahara, this city is famous for its film studios and stunning kasbahs.
Must-See:
- Ait Benhaddou (UNESCO site)
- Atlas Film Studios
- Taourirt Kasbah
- Fint Oasis
Driving Tip: The drive through Tizi n'Tichka pass from Marrakech is spectacular but requires careful driving.
7. Dades Valley - The Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs
Dramatic gorges, rose fields, and ancient fortresses make this valley unforgettable.
Must-See:
- Dades Gorge
- Todra Gorge
- Valley of Roses
- Ancient kasbahs
Driving Tip: The road through the gorges is narrow but paved. Drive slowly and honk at blind corners.
8. Tangier - Where Two Seas Meet
This cosmopolitan city at the tip of Africa has been a crossroads of cultures for centuries.
Must-See:
- Cap Spartel
- Hercules Cave
- The Kasbah
- American Legation Museum
Driving Tip: Ferry connections to Spain make Tangier a great starting or ending point for your road trip.
9. Rabat - The Modern Capital
Morocco's capital city blends modern architecture with historic sites. A more relaxed alternative to Casablanca.
Must-See:
- Hassan Tower
- Kasbah of the Udayas
- Royal Palace
- Chellah necropolis
Driving Tip: Well-organized traffic and parking make Rabat easy to navigate by car.
10. Agadir - Beach Paradise
After all your adventures, relax on the beautiful beaches of Agadir. Modern resort amenities with traditional Moroccan hospitality.
Must-See:
- Agadir Beach promenade
- Agadir Oufella (hilltop kasbah ruins)
- Souk El Had
- Crocoparc
Driving Tip: Great base for day trips to Paradise Valley and Tafraoute.
Planning Your Route
Here's a suggested 14-day itinerary covering most destinations:
| Day | Route | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | Marrakech | - |
| 3 | Marrakech → Essaouira | 175 km |
| 4 | Essaouira → Marrakech | 175 km |
| 5 | Marrakech → Ouarzazate | 200 km |
| 6 | Ouarzazate → Dades Gorge | 110 km |
| 7 | Dades → Merzouga | 200 km |
| 8 | Merzouga (Desert) | - |
| 9 | Merzouga → Fes | 460 km |
| 10-11 | Fes | - |
| 12 | Fes → Chefchaouen | 210 km |
| 13 | Chefchaouen | - |
| 14 | Chefchaouen → Tangier | 115 km |
Ready to Hit the Road?
With Carman, you can easily find the perfect vehicle for your Morocco adventure. Whether you need a compact car for city exploration or a 4x4 for desert adventures, we've got you covered.