5-Day Morocco Itinerary
Morocco is a country full of vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning landscapes. In five days, you can get a solid overview of some key places without feeling rushed. Here’s a flexible plan to help you explore Morocco at an enjoyable pace.
Day 1: Arrive in Marrakech
Start your trip in Marrakech, a lively city blending old traditions with modern energy. Spend the day wandering around the Medina, one of the largest in Morocco. The narrow streets filled with markets, or “souks”, have everything from spices to handmade leather goods.
Save time for a visit to the Jardin Majorelle, a beautiful garden designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later owned by Yves Saint Laurent. It’s a quiet escape from the hustle of the Medina.
End your day at the Jemaa el-Fna, the city’s main square. In the evening, it comes alive with street food stalls, musicians, and storytellers. Try some fresh squeezed orange juice or sample Morocco’s famous tajine.
Day 2: Explore Marrakech’s History
Before leaving Marrakech, dive deeper into its historical side. Start with the Bahia Palace, a beautiful 19th-century palace filled with ornate rooms and lush gardens. Then head over to the Saadian Tombs, resting place of an ancient royal family that was hidden for centuries.
Close by is the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech. While non-Muslims cannot enter, the stunning architecture and gardens around the mosque are worth a visit. It’s also a great spot to take photos.
Spend the evening taking in more of the Medina or simply relaxing at a local café with a cup of Moroccan mint tea.
Day 3: Travel to the Atlas Mountains
On your third day, it’s time to head out of the city and into nature. The Atlas Mountains are only about a two-hour drive from Marrakech, making them a perfect day trip. If you’re up for hiking, there are plenty of trails with breathtaking views.
Stop by the Ourika Valley, where you’ll find small Berber villages and waterfalls. It’s a peaceful change of pace from Marrakech, and you can grab lunch with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
If you want to go deeper into the mountains, consider staying overnight in a guesthouse, which many trekkers do.
Day 4: Visit Ait Ben Haddou
Day four is an adventure out to one of Morocco’s best-preserved kasbahs, Ait Ben Haddou. This UNESCO World Heritage site is about a three-hour drive from Marrakech, but the scenery along the way makes the trip feel much shorter.
Once you arrive, explore the ancient clay buildings of the kasbah that have been used in movies like “Gladiator” and “Game of Thrones”. You can also walk up to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding desert.
In the evening, head back to Marrakech for dinner or, if you prefer, stay in the nearby town of Ouarzazate, known as the “door of the desert”.
Day 5: Relax in Essaouira
End your trip by visiting the coastal town of Essaouira, about a 2.5-hour drive from Marrakech. Essaouira is known for its relaxed vibe and windswept beaches. Walk through the old town, which is filled with art galleries, small shops, and great seafood restaurants.
If you’re interested in history, check out the Skala de la Ville, a sea wall with cannons overlooking the Atlantic. Spend your last evening watching the sunset from one of the rooftop cafés while enjoying fresh local fish or grilled sardines.
You can return to Marrakech in the evening or stay the night in Essaouira for a slower-paced departure the next day.
Final Thoughts
Morocco offers so much in terms of culture, history, and natural beauty. With five days, you can explore contrasting parts of the country, from the historic cities to the peaceful mountains and coast. This itinerary is flexible, allowing for spontaneous stops as you go. Enjoy every moment of your journey through this amazing country.
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