Top 10 Road Trips from Marrakech

Marrakech sits at the heart of Morocco's most dramatic landscapes — and with a rental car, the entire country opens up.

1. Agafay Desert

Just 30km from Marrakech, the Agafay offers a taste of the Sahara without the long drive. Rocky plateaus, Berber villages and panoramic Atlas views. Best combined with lunch at a desert lodge.

2. Ourika Valley & Toubkal

An easy 65km drive south into the High Atlas. The valley becomes lush in spring, with waterfalls and Berber villages. Ideal for a half-day trip in any car.

3. Tizi n'Tichka Pass to Ouarzazate

The iconic N9 highway climbs to 2,260m through the High Atlas before descending to the Draa Valley. The Dacia Duster 4WD handles the mountain bends with ease.

4. Essaouira Coastal Run

A 175km drive west through argan orchards to the blue-and-white Atlantic city. The straight motorway makes it easy in any car. Windy, wild, wonderful.

5. Ait Benhaddou

Head south on the N9 to this UNESCO World Heritage ksar — featured in Game of Thrones and Gladiator. 210km each way; a full day trip or overnight.

6. Draa Valley & Zagora

Continue south of Ouarzazate along the N9 into the Draa Valley's palm groves and kasbahs. Zagora marks the gateway to the Sahara.

7. Todgha Gorge

The towering canyon walls of Todgha are 4 hours from Marrakech. A spectacular natural sight, best driven in the Duster for the final km of rough piste.

8. Merzouga & Erg Chebbi Dunes

The iconic orange dunes of Erg Chebbi are a full day's drive (5–6 hours). A two-day trip is ideal — camp at the dunes and return at dawn.

9. Dades Valley & Roses

The Valley of Roses near Kelaat M'Gouna blooms in April. A spectacular drive through painted rock formations and rose gardens.

10. Tizi n'Test Pass

Less travelled than the Tichka, this southern Atlas crossing is steeper and more dramatic. Take the Duster for the mountain sections and you'll have the road almost to yourself.