Morocco 7 Day Itinerary From Marrakech

Morocco 7 Day Itinerary From Marrakech – Route, Highlights & Practical Information

If you are planning a trip to Morocco and have around one week to explore, a loop from Marrakech through the Atlas Mountains and Sahara Desert is a popular and well-established route. Here is a factual breakdown of what a standard morocco 7 day itinerary from marrakech typically includes.

Overview

A one week in Morocco following this itinerary covers approximately 1,600 kilometers. The route is designed as a circular journey starting and ending in Marrakech, taking travelers through the High Atlas Mountains, ancient kasbahs, the Dades Valley, Todra Gorges, and the Sahara Desert near Merzouga.

This morocco itinerary 7 days is suitable for first-time visitors who want to experience both the cultural and natural diversity of the country.

Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech

• Transfer from Menara Airport (RAK) to accommodation

• Evening free to explore Jemaa el-Fnaa square and the Medina souks

• Overnight in a Riad or hotel in Marrakech

Day 2: Marrakech – High Atlas – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley

• Drive over the Tizi n'Tichka pass (2,260 meters altitude)

• Visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah

• Pass through Ouarzazate (known as the "Hollywood of Africa")

• Continue to the Dades Valley for overnight

• Total driving time: Approximately 5-6 hours including stops

Day 3: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga Desert

• Drive to Todra Gorges for a walk through the canyon

• Continue to Merzouga on the edge of the Sahara

• Afternoon camel trek into Erg Chebbi dunes

• Overnight in a desert camp with dinner

• Total driving time: Approximately 4-5 hours

Day 4: Merzouga Desert – Khamlia – 4x4 Desert Tour

• Sunrise over the dunes

• Return to Merzouga village

• 4x4 tour exploring the surrounding desert areas

• Visit Khamlia village for Gnaoua music performances

• See the black volcanic desert and abandoned mines

Day 5: Merzouga – Rissani – Draa Valley – Ouarzazate

• Visit Rissani's traditional souk (market)

• Drive through the Draa Valley with its palm groves and kasbahs

• Return to Ouarzazate for overnight

• Total driving time: Approximately 6-7 hours

Day 6: Ouarzazate – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech

• Visit Taourirt Kasbah in Ouarzazate

• Drive back over the High Atlas Mountains

• Arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon

• Total driving time: Approximately 4 hours

Day 7: Marrakech City Exploration & Airport Transfer

• Time to visit Marrakech sites such as Bahia Palace, Koutoubia Mosque, or Majorelle Garden

• Free time for shopping in the souks

• Transfer to Marrakech Airport for departure

Key Details

What Is Included

• Private transport with air conditioning

• English-speaking driver/guide

• 6 nights accommodation

• Daily breakfast and select dinners

• Camel trek (one per person)

• 4x4 desert excursion

• Sandboarding in the dunes

What Is Not Included

• Flights to/from Marrakech

• Lunches and drinks

• Entrance fees to monuments (approximately €20-30 total)

• Travel insurance

• Tips for guides and drivers

Accommodation Options

Desert camps generally offer two categories:

Standard Camp:

• Shared basic tents with mattresses

• Shared bathroom facilities

• Traditional dinner

Luxury Camp:

• Private tents with plush bedding

• Private en-suite bathroom with hot shower

• Gourmet dinner

• Additional amenities such as rugs and lighting

Packing Suggestions

• Lightweight long clothing for sun protection

• Warm jacket or fleece (desert nights are cold)

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Scarf for sand and sun

• Sunglasses and sunscreen

• Personal medications