10 Day Morocco Itinerary: A Tested Road Trip Guide
An Unrushed Morocco 10 Day Itinerary For The Perfect Family Adventure
Morocco’s ancient cities, vibrant souks, dramatic landscapes, and warm hospitality, make it an excellent destination for a family road trip. While a 10-day itinerary in Morocco will not cover everything, it will certainly allow you to see some of the country’s best highlights.
Our 10-day road trip took us from ancient kasbahs, bustling medinas and scenic gorges to the towering sand dunes of the Sahara desert. Here’s our itinerary and top tips for an unforgettable Moroccan road trip adventure with kids!
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Morocco Itinerary: 10 Days Overview
Morocco is a safe, family-friendly country with good roads, perfect for road-tripping! Whether you have seven days or more than two weeks, we have plenty of sugestions for places to stay and things to do.
While there are many travel options, road-tripping offers the flexibility to get off the beaten track and have adventures on your own terms.
A road trip is also the ideal way to make the most of the top family activities, such as Camping in the Sahara Desert or exploring the High Atlas Mountains. Add a few more Moroccan highlights, and you’ll have the perfect route.
Here is our suggested itinerary for an unrushed, first-time visit to Morocco with kids:
10 Day Morocco Itinerary
Day 1: Ouarzazate to Ait Ben Haddou
Day 2: Ait Ben Haddou to Dades Gorge
Day 3: Dades Gorge to Todra Gorge
Day 4: Hike Todra Gorge
Day 5: Todra Gorge To Merzouga
Day 6: Sahara Desert Adventure
Day 7: Merzouga To Errachidia Via Rissani
Day 8: Errachidia To Marrakesh
Day 9: Day Trip From Marrakesh
Day 10: Leave Morocco
We flew from London directly to Ouarzazate, the gateway to the Sahara desert in Morocco. Not only was this the cheapest airport to fly into, but it also saved us over 600km on the road. If you do wish to start in Marrakesh, this itinerary can be adapted by shortening your stay in Todra Gorge or Merzouga.
Morocco Itinerary Day One: Ouarzazate to Ait Ben Haddou
It’s with good reason that Ouarzazate is known as the gateway to the Sahara Desert. From here, you can travel to the popular and easy-to-reach Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga or the less accesible but equally beautiful Erg Chigaga dunes near Zagora.
Morning
We had prepared well in advance for our Moroccan adventure and opted to carry everything in our hand luggage. This paid of almost straight away when on arrival at Ouarzazate Airport, late in the morning, we quickly navigated the small but highly efficient arrivals terminal. It’s worth remebering that Morocco has a strict no-drone policy; we witnessed a fellow traveller having his confiscated at security.
Our pre-booked one-way rental car from Ouarzazate to Errachidia was ready upon arrival. Although the roads are well maintained and easy to navigate, you can opt for a driver if you wish.
➡️Check Rental Car Prices here
Afternoon
Feeling the heat of the desert sun on your face is the perfect welcome to Morocco! Ouarzazate is one of the country’s most historic cities and is home to the closest airport to the Sahara Desert. Popular for its Atlas Film Studios, film sets including Gladiator, Aladin and Game of Thrones are showcased and can be toured for a small fee. After wandering, eating lunch and locating a shop for refreshments and a SIM card, we were ready to hit the road.
The roads to Ait Ben Haddou were quiet, with plenty of viewpoints of the surrounding landscapes and small Berber villages selling their traditional, hand-made wares. Arriving at Ait Ben Haddou, we parked in front of our guesthouse and were given a traditional Berber welcome with Mint Tea and snacks. Our table on the balcony overlooked the ancient Kasbah and was the perfect place to take in the view while the sun slowly set.
Evening
The ancient Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou is free to visit and open 24 hours a day. Interacting with the local Berber is the best way to get a deeper understanding of their way of life and the amazing history of the mud structure.
A designated UNESCO site, Ben Haddou was once a key trading post for Nomad caravans. It was an important defensive structure and its position allowed a view of anyone approaching, long before they might pose a threat to the inhabitants.
It is worth visiting before sunset as daylight will allow you to fully appreciate the true beauty of the Kasbah. Take a walk before dinner, crossing the river by bridge or, if you are feeling adventurous, use the stepping stones before climbing the narrow alleyways to the top of the Ksar.
The summit is home to a grain store, and although now in ruin, it is a great vantage point over the Ounila Valley. If you time your arrival right, you can watch the sunset over the new Ait Ben Haddou.
📍Where to Stay in Ait Ben Haddou
The Auberge Ksar guesthouse has great views of the Kasbah from its lare terrace and offers families a friendly, comfortable stay. Relax in the pool and take advantage of its central location with easy walking to the shops, restaurants and attractions; perfect for families with kids.
The hosts will happily advise what to do in the area and serve tasty homemade Moroccan cuisine throughout the day.
➡️Check availability and prices for a family room in Ait Ben Haddou
Morocco Itinerary Day Two: Dades Gorge
Today, you will travel approximately 160 km, totalling 3 hours on the road. As you travel along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, break up the journey when you see something interesting to explore.
Morning
Catch sunrise casting its glow on the mud Ksars of Ait Ben Haddou. This morning, take more time to explore the alleyways, chat with locals, or spot iconic Hollywood movie scenes within the kasbah.
Start your drive to Ouarzazate before midday. The Atlas Film Studios are worth stopping with kids who love movies. Carrefour Market in Ouarzazate is the last big shop on the way to the Sahara desert to load up on road trip snacks.
Afternoon
Continue your journey by rental car into Dades Valley. Hopefully, you have stopped and burned off energy exploring on route. Have your kids look for interesting rock formations as the road twists and turns up the gorge.
Evening
Stop at Monkey Finger viewpoint to see the mountains you can climb on day three. Plan to arrive at your accommodation before dark; if you have time, watch as the sun sets, giving the mountain a warming orange glow.
📍Where to Stay in Dades Gorge
There are many traditional guesthouses along Dades Gorge. We stayed at the budget-friendly Maison Isabel, which has fantastic views of Monkey Finger Gorge.
Our comfortable bedrooms were traditionally decorated, and they had a terrace overlooking Monkey Finger Mountain. The friendly hosts cooked Moroccan meals for breakfast and dinner.
➡️Check prices and availability at Maison Isabel
Morocco Itinerary Day Three: Dades Gorge To Todra Gorge
Today’s journey is approximately 166 km, totalling 3.5 hours on the road. It includes unique and iconic Moroccan views that make the trip worthwhile.
Morning
After a Moroccan breakfast kit in sturdy walking boots, you can self-navigate or hire a guide to explore the slot canyon at the base of Monkey Finger Mountain.
The route is not signposted, so download an all-trails circular route before setting off. The trek is 8km long and took us around four hours to complete. It is worth exploring in fine weather, but take plenty of drinks and snacks.
➡️Book a guide for Monkey Finger Canyon family hike
Afternoon
Drive further north along Dades and stop for lunch when you can. Then, continue to the famous zig-zag mountain pass road, where you’ll have great gorge views.
Slightly further along the road, kids will love seeing Kefroun, also known as Turtle’s Back. Once forming the seabed, this naturally weathered rock formation resembles a massive turtle’s shell.
Stop at any interesting formations for a short hike and a closer look at the Atlas Mountains. Keep an eye on the time so you get to tonight’s accommodation before dark.
Evening
At the end of day three’s road trip, enjoy a hearty Moroccan tagine or cous cous and relax with a game of cards.
📍Where to Stay in Todra Gorge
We found accommodation closest to Todra Gorge. It was a little rustic but very budget-friendly. Etoile des Gorges was in the perfect location at the gorge’s entrance.
➡️Check prices and availability of accommodation near Todra Gorge
Morocco Itinerary Day Four: Todra Gorge
If you stay two nights at the entrance to Todra Gorge, you do not have any miles to drive. We opted to travel 16 km, 24 minutes by car, to Tinghir to experience staying in a riad.
Morning
Start your day early to avoid tour group crowds. Walk through the coolest part of the canyon to the starting point of today’s hike. Kids may spot early morning rock climbers already scaling the red limestone cliff walls.
A popular hiking route starts once out the other side of the canyon. There is no signage, so download a map before leaving your guesthouse. The Nomad loop takes around four hours, passing nomadic shepherds, a camp and into Tizgui Village before returning to the gorge.
We found ancient fossils on the gorge ridge, and the panoramic sights were worth the hike.
➡️Book a half-day guided hike or rock climb here
Afternoon
After a leisurely lunch, if you have adventurous older kids, give rock climbing a go in the gorge. Stay for a second night at Todra Gorge or head the short distance to explore the beautiful date palm gardens of Tinghir Oasis.
Evening
Arrive and settle into your Moroccan Riad. Enjoy a warming evening meal in the restaurant, swim in the pool or explore Tinghir.
📍Where to Stay in Tinghir
The traditional Kasbah Hotel Tomboctou in Tinghir is a family-friendly accommodation in the oasis town. We loved the traditional Moroccan feel of this comfortable mud-constructed accommodation, which is complete with an outdoor swimming pool to entertain the family.
➡️Click Here To Book Your Room!
Morocco Itinerary Day Five: Tinghir To Sahara Desert Camp, Merzouga
Today’s journey is a long one at almost 200 km, totalling 3 hours on the road. We didn’t plan any stops as we were so keen to get to the desert!
Morning
After breakfast, our car was loaded, and today’s long road trip began. Look for flocks of camels walking in the fields. We made a toilet stop at a meteorite fossil shop, where refreshments were available.
En route to Erfoud, stop and discover the history behind using Moroccan khattara, a groundwater irrigation system.
Afternoon
A leg stretch in Erfoud saw us see marble and fossils in abundance. Today, we were destined for the Sahara and still had 60 km to complete the road trip to the desert. After passing the gate to the Sahara in Merzouga, we had lunch and walked to the dunes.
Evening
Sahara desert camp arrivals are between 1600 and 1700hrs. We were collected by Merzouga Luxury Camp and settled into our tent for two nights in the desert camp.
With a range of family-friendly activities on offer, we headed into the dunes to watch the sunset. Our kids played on the sandboards, and there was an option to ride camels. After a dinner banquet, stars filled the dark sky, ready for an evening of stargazing and listening to Berber music around the campfire.
📍Where to Stay in Merzouga
With many camps and hotels to choose from in Merzouga, there will be an option that fits your budget. We stayed at the 14-tent family-friendly Merzouga Luxury Camp near Erb Chebbi. The comfortable glamping tents have hot showers and ensuites, whereas hotels may also have swimming pools.
➡️Check Prices And Availability For Sahara Desert Camps Here
Morocco Itinerary Day Six: Sahara Desert, Merzouga
Today your itinerary has no miles to drive. Enjoy a relaxing day soaking up the Sahara Desert.
Morning
Take a walk out onto the dunes this morning to watch the sunrise. Take a jacket as it is chilly.
Following breakfast, choose your activities for the day. Options may vary between camps, and they may include visiting a Berber camp, sandboarding, quad biking, dirt bikes, dune buggies, off-road 4×4, camel treks, visiting an oasis, or simply relaxing in your desert camp.
Our kids enjoyed quad biking through the dunes far more than sandboarding.
Afternoon
Have lunch and go souvenir shopping in Merzouga. Choose another family activity or return to camp for a relaxing afternoon with family.
Evening
Make the most of your time in the Sahara by picking a different dune to watch a fantastic sunset. Follow camels back to camp for your evening meal and attend Berber campfire entertainment under the stars.
Morocco Itinerary Day Seven: Merzouga To Errachidia
Today is your final ‘road trip’ journey of approximately 130 km, totalling two hours on the road. Take it slow and soak up the desert calm before heading to the bustling city.
Morning
Catch your final sunrise in the Sahara before leaving camp. Pack your car for your last driving day in Morocco. Explore Erfond if you didn’t on day five. Kids will spot dinosaurs at fossil museums that are worth exploring.
Afternoon
Stop in Rissani and share (they are big) a Berber pizza for lunch. Take a guided tour of the market and souk where locals shop. Smell traditional spices used in Moroccan dishes, see how camel sandals are made and learn the history of rugs through the centuries.
If you are here on a Sunday, there is a busy market that supplies out to the desert.
Evening
The landscape changes slightly as you near the mountains. Oasis lines this area, which can be explored, but ensure you are in Errachidia so you can return your rental car on time.
📍Where to Stay in Errachidia
Accommodation is limited for families in Errachidia. Stay close to the airport for your early morning flight to Marrakesh. We stayed in a comfortable downtown apartment. For a modern hotel with a swimming pool closer to the airport, Kenzi Rissani is an excellent choice.
➡️Click Here To Check Room Availability in Errachidia
Morocco Itinerary Day Eight: Errachidia To Marrakesh
Today’s journey is approximately 500 km, totalling 1 hour by air. If you have two weeks in Morocco, you could continue your road trip across the High Atlas Mountains to Marrakesh, but this is a 10-day itinerary!
Morning
An early morning flight across Morocco into Marrakesh (also commonly spelt Marrakech) swaps the desert for a bustling city. On arrival, take a taxi to your Riad to drop off your bags and check in.
Head out for a late breakfast to one of the many cafes around the city. If you’ve eaten nothing but traditional Moroccan breakfasts for the last seven days, you will find many more options here!
Take a horse-drawn carriage to explore around the city.
➡️Book Your Medina Of Marrakesh Walking Tour Here
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon navigating the alleyways in Marrakesh’s medina. Marvel at colourful Moroccan rugs, lamps, artwork, and woodwork. Kids will love haggling for souvenirs to take home, but be careful of the mopeds that also use the alley.
Visit the Secret Garden, Ben Youssef Madrasa, Technology Park and Koutoubia Mosque for a deeper, more profound city discovery.
Evening
Have dinner on the upper levels of Argana or Zeitoun Cafe rooftop restaurant overlooking Jemaa el-Fnaa square. This is a perfect spot to watch the iconic sunset over Marrakesh. Kids will gain a prime view of street performers, snake charmers, and monkeys in the market below.
After watching from afar, explore Jemaa el-Fnaa Square as a family, which comes to life after dark.
📍Where to Stay in Marrakesh
We recommend staying in the Riad Cologne II, located near Bahia Palace and the central square in Marrakesh. The modern rooms were comfortable and quiet. The dipping pool is perfect for cooling off, and watching the sunrise with hot air balloons from the terrace was an added bonus.
➡️Check Prices And Availability
Morocco Itinerary Day Nine: Day Trip From Marrakesh
After eight days in Morocco, today you have options of where to take a family day trip.
1. explore more of Marrakesh
Spend a second-day sightseeing in the colourful, bustling city of Marrakesh. Bahia Palace and Jardin Majorelle are other museums and gardens worth visiting.
2. Oasiria Water Park, Marrakesh
Oasiria Water Park is a family-friendly day trip just 15 minutes from Marrakesh. The low-key park has swimming pools, waterslides, a wave pool, and a lazy river, it’s great for kids of all ages.
3. Agafay Desert
Less than an hour’s drive from Marrakesh, the Agafay Desert is a perfect day trip for one last adrenaline-filled adventure. Families can enjoy various activities, from hot air balloon rides to camel rides, quad biking, and stargazing in a rocky desert landscape.
4. Ourika Valley
Ourika Valley offers beautiful mountain scenery, waterfalls and Berber villages. Relax at a riverside café or hike to enjoy this day trip from Marrakesh.
5. Ouzoud Waterfall
If you are up for a long travel day, head to Morocco’s tallest waterfall. A short hike leads families to the impressive cascading falls of Ouzoud. Kids can spot wild Barbary macaques.
6. Essaouira
Head to the coast for a day trip to Essaouira. Kids can explore the historic fortress and the medina or take a surf lesson. You could spend your last night in Essaouira, either flying home from here on day 10 or returning to Marrakesh.
7. Hike The Atlas Mountains
Just 90 minutes from Marrakesh, Imlil is the gateway to the High Atlas Mountains. Families can spend the day exploring Berber villages. Your kids might even be tempted to return and hike Mount Toubkal, Morocco’s tallest mountain!
➡️Click here to explore day trips from Marrakesh
Morocco Itinerary Day Ten: Marrakesh
Today marks the last day of your family’s 10-day itinerary in Morocco.
Morning
Have a leisurely morning in your riad. Before the day’s sunrise, head up to the terrace to see hot air balloons floating above the desert.
Enjoy your breakfast before checking out. If you have a morning departure, head to the airport otherwise, spend your last few hours in Morocco soaking up being a tourist.
Getting Around Morocco With Kids
Morocco is an excellent destination for a family road trip. While long travel days limit how much you can see and do on a 10-day itinerary in Morocco, planning fewer destinations will offer a more relaxing adventure.
By Air
Flying in Morocco is relatively inexpensive and can be a convenient way for families to cover long distances, especially if you’re short on time. There are plenty of budget-friendly flights between cities including Marrakesh, Fes, Casablanca, Agadir, and Tangier.
Errachidia is the closest airport to Merzouga for reaching the Sahara Desert.
By Bus
Travelling by bus in Morocco with family is an affordable option for those looking to avoid the stress of self-driving. The extensive bus network offers comfortable, air-conditioned coaches. Long-distance journeys are budget-friendly, with Marrakesh to Fes costing around £15 per person.
By Rental Car
Driving in Morocco is a flexible way for families to explore the country by road. Self-drive road trips offer affordable freedom to travel to remote areas for fun adventures.
Morocco’s roads are generally in good condition and safe for self-driving, but mountain roads require more confidence. Road signs are in Arabic and French, and drivers are expected to obey them and stop at the police checkpoints. We used Google Maps to navigate our Moroccan road trip.
➡️Compare rental car prices here!
Road Trip Morocco FAQs
Family road trips are an efficient way to see a new destination, including Morocco.
Yes, Morocco is reasonably safe to visit and drive around. As with any country, you should stay alert, follow local driving laws and ensure your rental car has insuranc. Alternatively, consider hiring a driver.
Morocco is an excellent place for families with kids of all ages. It offers vibrant markets, diverse landscapes, and family-friendly activities like camel rides and sandy adventures. To make your trip more enjoyable, ensure your Moroccan itinerary includes plenty of child-friendly activities.
Absolutely! Marrakesh is a historical city full of stunning architecture, museums, street entertainers and bustling souks, making it an unforgettable cultural experience.
Final Thoughts | 10 Day Morocco Itinerary
The key to a successful road trip with kids is to break the journey into manageable chunks and include plenty of family-friendly things to see and do en route.
There is no shortage of interesting places to stop in Morocco, and the anticipation of ‘what’s next?’ can make even the longest journey worthwhile.
If the Sahara Desert is too far for your kids, shorten the road trip. Indulge in more Moroccan history and culture, and choose adventures closer to your arrival point.
We loved Morocco and felt that 10 days was just enough time to see some of the main highlights.
