Marrakech has a backdrop of stunning landscapes, gigantic mountains, and rough coastlines that are filled with waterfalls that roar and beautiful Berber villages, and even ski resorts. Don’t miss your chance to discover these areas with excursions Marrakech.
Marrakech is an excellent destination to visit. If the bustle of the city becomes excessive, it’s the perfect time to get out and explore the countryside surrounding. There are the Atlas Mountains just an hour away from Marrakech The coast just two hours away, and the Desert’s edge within five hours from Marrakech, the variety of day excursions is vast. This is our top pick of the best.
Ourika Valley
If temperatures in Marrakech becomes too hot, the locals prefer to travel towards in the Ourika Valley, where temperatures are cooler, and lunch by the river is on the menu. Go upwards to reach Setti Fatma waterfalls. Setti Fatma waterfalls to enjoy some of the cool air (young males and females may attempt to help but make sure you’ve got the right path) before choosing a rock to sit on and take in the view and the sound of the waterfalls roaring.
Oukaimeden
It’s not easy for you to imagine but with less than two hours from Marrakech and you could be having an epic snowball battle. The resort for skiing in Oukaimeden located 43 km (27mi) south of Ourika and receives snow between December and April, and regular snowfall between January and March. The resort itself is simple however, the equipment and ski passes are a steal and you’ll be able to have the slopes almost exclusively reserved for you. In the rest of the year this area is the perfect playground for rock climbers.
Imlil
In Toubkal National Park, this is the point of departure for trekkers who are trying to climb Mount Toubkal. Although there’s not anything to do or see in the town in the village itself, with the exception of a few cafes along the road and tourist shops Imlil is an excellent location to begin a quick hike into one village. If you’ve heard of the massacre of two foreign females by religious extremists, rest at ease knowing there is a reason for this. The Moroccan government has stepped up security measures in this tiny family-friendly village, which was stunned by the violence. All hikers now have to register with the village and hire with a guide to hike up Toubkal. Local guides are an excellent option for those who want to explore the area on shorter hikes, and also learn more about Berber customs. When you’re done and satisfied, enjoy the local food and espresso-strength green tea by sugar (ask for “atay bla skar” to avoid the teeth.)
Ouirgane Valley
The beautiful valley seems a little off the tourist track with its soft rolling hills, dotted with olive trees as well as the close Atlas Mountains towering in the background. The pace is slower here and there are Berber villages dotted across the slopes. On Saturdays, you can visit the market every week in Asni while traveling the locals gather from villages around to buy everything from fruits and vegetables, to meats, clothing, household goods and much more.
Tin Mal Mosque
A further 40 kilometers (25mi) to the south of Ouirgane is the Tin Mal Mosque. It was built in 1153 and was restored partially in the 1990s . It is among the two mosques within Morocco accessible to non-Muslims other than Fridays, which is when it is used for prayers. It is set against the breathtaking backdrop in the valley below, this mosque provides an excellent opportunity to appreciate the architectural style and architecture of the Almohad empire that began in these mountains before advancing to be the ruler of Morocco and a large portion of Spain.
Essaouira
The whitewashed, laidback town along the Atlantic Coast is a perfect getaway when the hustle and bustle of Marrakech becomes too fast. If you’re looking for a challenge and want to get there early, hop on a bus (it’s around two-and-a-half hours) and give surfing or kitesurfing while browsing the souks in search of Moroccan goods, but without the hustle and bustle that you would in Marrakech medina. Take a break and enjoy a coffee at the famous Place Moulay Hassan or the well-known Patisserie Driss. Walk along the beach as the sun sets and savor fresh seafood that is sold in the bustling market for fish when the many fishing boats return to the shore. If you don’t want to leave it to someone else to do the job for you, and book tours.
Ouzoud Waterfalls
Set in The High Atlas Mountains, Ouzoud Waterfalls always impresses visitors. Begin your trek from the top of the waterfall and look at the edge and observe the numerous sources that form the stunning waterfalls. Continue down to enjoy views of the mighty water until you arrive at the bottom of the pool, which is beautiful and refreshing. Take a closer look at these waterfalls with a boat ride through the water.
Ait Benhaddou
It is situated on the edge situated on the edge of Sahara Desert, Ait Benhaddou is a fortified kasbah that became famous for its setting for blockbuster films like Gladiator (2000), Lawrence of Arabia (1962), and many others. Take a stroll along the river through the town in which the locals are gradually returning to their mud-brick houses. Be sure to stop to admire the magnificent view of the lush palm trees and Sandcastle-like kasbahs while you climb up to the highest point. If you’re in the mood to spare, you can go on to Ouarzazate for additional movie-related sites such as The Museum of Cinema and the amazing, yet decrepit, film sets in the Atlas Corporation Studios (featuring a replica of an Egyptian temple) and CLA Studios, which both provide tours.
Agafay Desert
It is known geologically as a desert made of stone, it is the Agafay Desert, just 40 minutes away from Marrakech is an absolute must-see. It is a desert that has nothing more than stones for miles it changes to include oases and valleys as well as palm trees with an impressive view of the High Atlas Mountains in the background. A day trip to this area is a great alternative for those who don’t have the time to visit Sahara Desert. Sahara Desert.
