If you’re staying in Marrakesh, chances are you’re immersing yourself in its fabled medina. However, spending too many days in this vibrant area can become overwhelming, especially during high season. Fortunately, a plethora of escapes are within easy reach of the Red City, offering fresh air and a new perspective on Moroccan life.
From scenic mountain trails to tranquil desert camps and charming beach getaways, as well as art-filled gardens and organic cooking experiences, exploring further afield provides an intimate connection with the country’s beauty. Here are five favored day trips from Marrakesh.
1. Spend a Day in the Agafay Desert
Travel time: 45 minutes
If time doesn’t allow for a trip to the Sahara, a visit to the Agafay Desert, just 30km (19 miles) south of Marrakesh, may be exactly what you need. Characterized by undulating rocky terrain, it showcases solid dunes framing semi-arid plains, stark valleys, occasional oases, and scattered Berber villages, inviting exploration and adventure.
From horseback riding and camel caravans to buggy tours, gentle hikes, and serene picnics, there are numerous ways to enjoy the rugged beauty here. Moreover, several camps dot the desert for those wanting to catch a sunset or spend the night, offering experiences like campfire dining and stargazing.
Getting to Agafay from Marrakesh: If you book a tour or an overnight stay, transportation from your accommodation is often provided starting around 500 MAD. For a self-guided trip, consider taking a grand taxi, which departs from Bab Doukkala in Marrakesh, starting at 250 MAD one way. Don’t forget to arrange your return transportation.
2. Lose Yourself in the Wonder of Anima Gardens
Travel time: 45 minutes
André Heller’s whimsical, art-filled Anima Gardens provide an enchanting experience for all ages. Spanning several acres, the lushly planted gardens feature mirrored glades, giant beaded heads, gleaming nazars inset into bougainvillea, and towering flowering shrubs and trees. It’s a peaceful escape from the energetic medina.
After your exploration, enjoy a meal at the onsite café, featuring a menu that highlights ingredients from local farms in the Ourika Valley, paired with stunning views of Toubkal, North Africa’s highest mountain.
Getting to Anima Gardens from Marrakesh: A free shuttle bus departs daily from the Koutoubia car park at 9:30 am and 2:30 pm, returning from Anima Gardens at 1:00 pm and 5:30 pm.
3. Hike the Foothills of the High Atlas
Travel time: 1 to 1.5 hours
With rugged, rouge-hued landscapes and silvery rivers, the foothills of the Atlas Mountains offer a stunning backdrop for outdoor exploration. Trails weave through valleys, leading to cascading waterfalls, emerald hillsides, and traditional villages, providing perfect spots for indulging in mint tea and Berber tagines.
Particularly spectacular in spring, when wildflowers bloom, this area is ideal for a refreshing day outdoors year-round.
Getting to Ourika or Ourigane from Marrakesh: Regular CTM buses service Ourika and the journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, with tickets costing about 45 MAD. If you prefer a grand taxi, the costs start around 250 MAD for a journey to Ourika.
4. Take a Beach Day in Essaouira
Travel time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Essaouira captivates visitors with its seaside charm, transitioning from a fortified Portuguese port to a vibrant hub of artistic expression. Known for its expansive sandy beaches and UNESCO-recognized medina, the town showcases a network of narrow alleys lined with whitewashed buildings embellished in blue.
Explore the bustling harbor, sample freshly shucked oysters, shop artisanal crafts, and savor a range of exceptional foods at local restaurants. If you have the time, consider staying overnight to fully enjoy this charming destination.
Getting to Essaouira from Marrakesh: Supratours buses operate multiple daily trips, taking about three hours and costing from 100 MAD each way. A grand taxi averages 1200 MAD for a one-way trip for the entire car.
5. Cook Over Fire at an Atlas Farm
Travel time: 45 minutes
The key to exceptional food lies in high-quality seasonal ingredients, and at the Ourika Organic Kitchen, you’ll gather these from their beautiful gardens. With the breathtaking Atlas Mountains as a backdrop, delve into Amazigh culinary traditions within an open-air kitchen.
Expect to create delicious dishes such as zaalouk de souss and locally marinated chicken, culminating in an outdoor lunch featuring your hard work. Prices start at 2800 MAD for two people, including transport to and from Marrakesh.
Getting to Ourika Organic Kitchen from Marrakesh: Located in the Ourigane Valley, a grand taxi will cost you around 420 MAD one way for the whole car, or 70 MAD per seat.
This article was first published on December 10, 2020, and updated on December 9, 2023.
