February 28, 2023

Morocco Road Trip: From Marrakesh to Fez and Everything in Between

It’s time to embark on an unforgettable Moroccan road trip! Across this epic and historic journey, you will explore the ancient cities of Morocco including the stunning architecture of Marrakesh, the breathtaking Atlas Mountains, the vibrant markets of Fez, and much more in between. As well as enjoying the rich culture and warm hospitality of Morocco,  your journey will be filled with breathtaking views, vibrant colours, and unforgettable experiences. So, pack your bags, get your Morocco car hire ready and let‘s hit the road!

Arriving in Marrakesh (suggested stay 2-3 days)

Marrakesh has a lot to offer and can be a little overwhelming on first impression. Here, we’ve broken some of the must-see sights and things to do in Marrakesh during your stay. Whether you’re hiring a car at Marrakesh Airport  or elsewhere during your Morocco road trip, check out these sights below.

Bahia Palace

This 19^th century building is made up of rooms presenting some astounding stuccos, paintings and mosaics plus a delightful set of gardens. Translating as ‘brilliance’ it was intended to reveal the basis of the Islamic and Moroccan style. It has been used as a royal residence but now serves as an icon of the regional culture to delight tourists from around the world.

Souk Semmarine

The renowned Souk District is in the very centre of the Medina where little has changed in terms of trade and commerce there over thousands of years. Now it boasts modern and traditional wares in its network of winding alleys. Here you will find pottery, pâtisseries, textiles, spices, carpets, jewellery and much more.

Maison de la Photographie

The Maison de la Photographie de Marrakesh is a creation by Hamid Mergani and Patrick Manac’h, and has been open since 2009. The museum explores the extraordinary diversity of Morocco, as seen by those, anonymous or famous, who visit it from the beginnings of photography to the modern period. But it is more than just a gallery – it aims to be a history of Moroccan ideas by displaying photographs, glass plates, postcards, newspapers, maps and documentaries on the city.

Jardin Majorelle

Spreading over 9,000 square metres, these wonderfully magical gardens are made up of a labyrinth of zigzagging alleyways. The kaleidoscope buildings combine both Art Deco and Moorish traditions.

El Badi Palace

Splendid in its day, the Badi Palace still has the remaining ruins of its former glory.

Musee de Confluences

This museum aims to use science to make sense of life and humanity itself. It asks: What is the origin and future of mankind? It does this with an interdisciplinary approach to present the diversity of cultures and civilisations.

Onto the Mighty Atlas Mountains

A 90-minute drive from Marrakesh, the range is easy to visit and you can opt to explore on foot or in a 4×4 hire car. If you choose to hike, there are a variety of routes you can take, from moderate walks to challenging multi-day treks.

The Berber inhabitants here are extremely friendly and likely you will be invited into a home for some refreshing mint tea or even taught how to bake bread, cook meals or create pottery the Berber way.

Ait Ben Haddou & the Todra Gorge

Here, we explore a pre-Saharan habitat on a trip to the ksar where the earthen buildings are surrounded by high walls and reinforced by corner towers. The ksar is a perfect example of Moroccan architecture going back to the 17^th century. Back in the day, this was a trading post on the way to Marrakesh you can still find a mosque, a public square, grain threshing areas, a caravanserai, two cemeteries (Muslim and Jewish) and the Sanctuary of the Saint Sidi Ali or Amer.

Then a must-see attraction is the Todra Gorge a natural oasis forged from limestone by the River Todra. You can get snap-tastic by photographing the 400 metre high gorge or even take a selfie never to be forgotten.

The Sahara Desert

Of course, an essential part of any Moroccan itinerary has to include the vast and unforgiving Sahara Desert itself. Despite the temperatures of 50 degree centigrade in summer, it is worthwhile bearing such challenges for the vistas you will experience and never forget.

Fez: Morocco’s Cultural Capital

And finally on to Fez. Founded in the 9^th century and under the Marinids in the 13^th to 14^th centuries reached its height. Here, you will find madrasas, fondouks, palaces, residences, mosques and fountains to astound with their ancient beauty and making the centre of Morocco’s cultural and spiritual life.

Then it is the sad day to hand in your Indigo Car Hire car keys and take the flight back from Marrakesh. Hopefully this an adventure never to be forgotten though.

Inspired to travel further? Check out some of our further road trip and getaway guides from the Indigo Car Hire blog:

• Top 10 Winter Sun Locations In The World
• Vineyards in South Africa: Which Ones Should I Visit?
• Road Trip Madeira: 7 Day Itinerary