THE ULTIMATE 10-DAY ROAD TRIP IN MOROCCO
Dreaming of a Moroccan road trip? I get it - there’s something magical about Morocco. I wanted to capture that magic in this 10-day road trip. It goes beyond the postcard views (though there are plenty of those!) and into colorful medinas, quiet corners that surprise you when you least expect it, and mountain towns where time seems to slow down. From sweeping desert dunes to vibrant city streets, this route blends the must-sees with some of my personal favorites - those hidden gems that make Morocco feel so alive. Ready to hit the road?
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WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MOROCCO?
The best time for a road trip in Morocco is during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). The weather’s just right - warm enough to explore cities, hike in the mountains, or spend a night under the stars in the Sahara without melting or freezing. Summer (June to August) can be brutally hot, especially inland, and while winter (December to February) is generally mild, nights in the mountains can get pretty chilly.
HOW TO GET AROUND MOROCCO
For this road trip, I’d recommend arriving in Casablanca, renting a car, and dropping it off in Marrakech. Driving gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, stop at scenic viewpoints, and reach places you’d otherwise miss. One of the best parts of road-tripping through Morocco is how quickly the scenery changes - from mountains to desert to lush valleys - and having your own car lets you fully experience it all. Most rental cars are manual, so if you need an automatic, be sure to book it in advance.
I’d also recommend getting an eSIM before your trip. Having data on the road is a game changer for navigation, finding nearby stops, and staying connected - especially in remote areas where Wi-Fi can be unreliable.
DRIVING IN MOROCCO: WHAT TO KNOW
Before you hit the road, here are a few things to keep in mind that’ll make your road trip a whole lot easier:
Road conditions – Highways are smooth and well-marked, but mountain and rural roads can be narrow and winding. Take it slow, especially on routes like the Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
Driving in the city – Traffic in Marrakech and Casablanca can be chaotic. It’s easier to park on the outskirts and explore by foot or taxi.
Speed limits and police checks – Speed limits are enforced, and police checkpoints are common. Stick to the limits to avoid fines.
Fuel – Gas stations are common on main roads but scarce in remote areas, so fill up when you can.
Parking – Most hotels and riads offer secure parking. Near medinas, you’ll find paid lots - just expect local attendants asking for a small tip.
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN CASABLANCA
How to get there: For your first day, land at Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport (CMN), pick up your car, and head to the city center - it’s about a 45-minute drive. I’d recommend not using the car while in Casablanca, taxis are easier for getting around. Save the drive for when you head to your next stop: Rabat.
Highlights:
Hassan II Mosque – Perched over the Atlantic, this architectural marvel is one of Morocco’s must-see landmarks. Want to learn more? Consider joining this guided tour.
Corniche – Perfect for a sunset walk or grabbing fresh seafood with sea views.
Rick’s Café – Yes, it’s touristy, but the nostalgic charm makes it worth a visit.
Habous Quarter – Quieter than the main medina, great for picking up local crafts and sipping tea in peaceful courtyards.
El Hank Lighthouse – Great views over the city and coastline. Nearby, Le Cabestan offers upscale seafood with ocean views, and Umayya serves tasty Middle Eastern dishes.
I haven’t included Moroccan restaurant suggestions here, as I recommend experiencing the authentic Moroccan flavors in the smaller cities.
Where to stay:
Barceló Casablanca – I stayed here and loved how central it was - perfect for getting around the city.
Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca – Great choice if you’re after a luxurious stay with beautiful beach views.
ONOMO Hotel Casablanca City Center – A solid mid-range option with a convenient location.
DAY 2: CASABLANCA → RABAT → CHEFCHAOUEN
How to get there:
Casablanca to Rabat: 1-hour drive.
Rabat to Chefchaouen: Approx. 4-hour drive through scenic hills.
Rabat Highlights:
Hassan Tower & Mausoleum of Mohammed V – Beautiful architecture and a peaceful place to explore.
Kasbah of the Udayas – Wander blue-and-white alleyways and enjoy mint tea with river views.
Chellah – Atmospheric ruins surrounded by stork nests and gardens.
Rabat Medina – Smaller and more relaxed than others, ideal for shopping and dining.
Then, head to Chefchaouen:
Book a riad in the medina for cozy vibes and easy access to everything. I recommend Lina Ryad & Spa - it’s central, has beautiful views, and the staff are genuinely wonderful, making you feel right at home.
DAY 3: CHEFCHAOUEN
How to get around: No driving needed - Chefchaouen is easily explored on foot.
Highlights:
Blue Medina – Getting lost here is part of the charm, every corner is picture-perfect.
Plaza Uta el-Hammam – Perfect for lunch, tea, freshly squeezed orange juice, and people-watching.
Ras El Maa Waterfall – A peaceful spot where locals cool off.
Spanish Mosque – Hike up for panoramic sunset views - don’t forget a snack and a sweater!
Akchour Waterfalls – A short drive away, perfect for a half-day hike. Want an easier way to explore? Check out this day trip.
DAY 4: CHEFCHAOUEN → VOLUBILIS → MOULAY IDRISS ZERHOUN → FES
How to get there:
Chefchaouen to Volubilis: 3-hour scenic drive.
Volubilis to Moulay Idriss Zerhoun: 10 minutes.
Moulay Idriss Zerhoun to Fes: 1.5-hour drive.
Highlights:
Volubilis – Wander among ancient Roman ruins with intricate mosaics. The morning light makes the stones glow - definitely worth an early start.
Moulay Idriss Zerhoun – Morocco’s holiest town with sweeping views and charming narrow streets.
Arrive in Fes:
Settle into your riad, then take a walk to experience the medina’s atmosphere.
Where to stay:
Riad Layla – I love how cozy and welcoming this place feels, plus the rooftop views of the medina are fantastic.
Riad Fes – Relais & Châteaux – Go for this one if you’re in the mood for something more luxurious - it’s stunning and the views are hard to beat.
DAY 5: FES
How to get there: Park your car and explore on foot. The medina’s a bit of a maze, so you might want to check out this guided tour to make things easier.
Highlights:
Al Quaraouiyine University – Peek into the world’s oldest university and admire its stunning tilework.
Chouara Tannery – A sensory experience! Accept the offered mint sprig to handle the smell.
Bou Inania Madrasa – Beautiful wood carvings and a peaceful courtyard.
Seffarine Square – Watch artisans craft copper goods using age-old techniques.
Royal Palace (Dar el-Makhzen) – You can’t go inside, but the massive brass doors and intricate tilework make for a great photo stop.
Dar Batha Museum – Home to traditional Moroccan arts and crafts.
Bab Boujloud (Blue Gate) – Snap a photo at this iconic entrance and wander into the heart of the medina.
Medina Markets – Explore endless stalls selling leather goods, spices, and handcrafted ceramics.
Tip: Grab dinner at The Ruined Garden - a hidden gem in the medina with a cozy atmosphere and tasty Moroccan dishes.
DAY 6: FES → MERZOUGA
How to get there: Approx. 7-8 hours by car (470 km). Start early for plenty of scenic stops.
Highlights along the way:
Ifrane – Morocco’s “Little Switzerland” with alpine-style buildings and clean streets.
Azrou Cedar Forest – Spot playful Barbary macaques (but skip feeding them).
Midelt – A scenic lunch stop with mountain views.
Ziz Valley – Gorgeous palm-filled gorges with plenty of viewpoints.
Arrive in Merzouga:
If you have time, ride a camel into the dunes for a magical sunset experience.
Where to stay: Stay in a desert camp for traditional music, hearty meals, and a night under the stars you won’t forget. Sahara Majestic Luxury Camp is a fantastic choice - I loved how cozy the tents were and waking up to the sunrise over the dunes was pure magic.
DAY 7: MERZOUGA → TODGHA GORGE → DADES VALLEY
How to get there:
Merzouga to Todgha Gorge: 3-hour drive.
Todgha Gorge to Dades Valley: Approx. 1.5-2 hours
Highlights:
Sunrise in the Sahara – Drag yourself out of bed, it’s one of those moments that sticks with you!
Todgha Gorge – Walk along the canyon floor flanked by towering cliffs. Don’t skip the fresh-squeezed juice stands! If you’re into climbing, this spot is a favorite for climbers of all levels.
Dades Valley – Famous for winding roads and the unique “Monkey Fingers” rock formations. Driving through the hairpin bends is an experience in itself, with plenty of viewpoints worth pulling over for - each one somehow more stunning than the last.
Where to stay: Guesthouses in the valley offer warm hospitality and stunning sunset views. Hotel Riad Bahammou is a hidden gem nestled in the mountains, offering a warm atmosphere and breathtaking views from the terrace.
Tip: Early morning or late afternoon is the best time for exploring - the light is beautiful, and it’s much cooler. Comfortable shoes are a must for the gorges!
DAY 8: DADES VALLEY → AIT BENHADDOU → MARRAKECH
How to get there:
Dades Valley to Aït Benhaddou: 3-hour drive.
Aït Benhaddou to Marrakech: 4 hours via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. The views are incredible - just take it slow through the twists and turns.
Highlights:
Aït Benhaddou – Explore this ancient ksar, featured in Game of Thrones and Gladiator. Climb to the top for sweeping desert views.
High Atlas Mountains – Stop at roadside cafés for mint tea with a view.
Arrive in Marrakech: Settle into your riad and explore the medina’s vibrant evening scene.
Where to stay: Riads near Jemaa el-Fnaa are super convenient, but after a long day of driving, it’s nice to stay somewhere a little quieter. Riad Dar La Rose is a lovely spot - peaceful and welcoming, and just a 20-minute walk to Jemaa el-Fnaa.
DAY 9: MARRAKECH
How to get there: Explore on foot or use petit taxis for quicker trips.
Highlights:
Jemaa el-Fnaa – Quiet in the morning, lively at night with food stalls and performers.
Bahia Palace – Wander through intricate rooms and colorful courtyards.
Majorelle Garden – Arrive early to beat the crowds, the cobalt blue buildings are stunning.
Yves Saint Laurent Museum – Just next to Majorelle Garden, this museum showcases YSL’s iconic designs and his connection to Marrakech.
Koutoubia Mosque – Admire from the nearby gardens - it’s especially beautiful at sunset.
Saadian Tombs – Step back in time and explore these beautifully restored royal tombs.
Le Jardin Secret – A peaceful escape with beautifully landscaped gardens and traditional Moroccan architecture.
Souks of Marrakech – Get lost in the maze of market stalls selling everything from spices to handmade crafts.
El Badi Palace – Wander the ruins and climb to the top for sweeping views of the medina.
Ben Youssef Madrasa – Marvel at the detailed tilework and peaceful courtyard in this historic Islamic school.
Tip: If you want to explore with a local guide, I did this tour and loved it! It covers Ben Youssef Madrasa, Le Jardin Secret, and the souks. It was such a great way to learn more about the city’s history and hidden spots.
DAY 10: DEPART FROM MARRAKECH
How to get there: Drive to Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) - it’s about 20 minutes away, but I’d recommend going early to return the car and avoid any delays. The airport can get surprisingly busy, so giving yourself extra time is definitely a good idea.
If you have extra time: Anything you didn’t get around to the day before can easily fit in today.
And just like that, your 10-day road trip comes to an end. You’ve seen so many different landscapes, experienced the heart of Morocco, and made memories that’ll stick with you long after the journey’s over! Hope you'll enjoy it!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Is Morocco good for a road trip?
Absolutely! Morocco is made for road trips. The scenery changes dramatically as you drive - from coastal roads and mountain passes to desert landscapes and bustling cities. Having your own car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, stop at scenic viewpoints, and visit places you wouldn’t reach on public transport. Plus, the roads between major cities are generally in good condition, making the journey both comfortable and exciting.
Can you drive in Morocco as a tourist?
Yes, you can! Tourists can drive in Morocco with a valid driver’s license from their home country. However, it’s a good idea to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP), especially if your license isn’t in French or Arabic. Just keep in mind that most rental cars are manual, so book an automatic in advance if you need one. Also, be prepared for different driving styles - traffic can be hectic in cities, but the open roads are a joy to drive.
How many days do I need to see Morocco?
It depends on what you want to see, but 10 to 14 days is ideal for covering the country’s highlights without feeling rushed. This 10-day road trip takes you through a mix of cities, mountains, and desert landscapes, giving you a well-rounded experience. If you have more time, you can add places like the Sahara’s deeper regions, the coastal city of Essaouira, or extend your stay in the Atlas Mountains.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Morocco?
Rental prices vary depending on the car type, rental duration, and time of year. On average, you can expect to pay around €23–€37 per day for a basic car. If you need an automatic or a larger vehicle, prices can go up to €46–€74 per day. It’s a good idea to book in advance for better rates, especially during peak travel seasons. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of fuel, toll roads, and insurance when planning your budget.