Morocco Itinerary: The Unforgettable 2-week Road Trip

Introduction

Morocco is a country in North Africa bordered by both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Its mix of Berber, Arab, and European influences makes it one of the most fascinating places you can travel to.

For travelers, Morocco is incredibly photogenic—old medinas full of life, colorful tiles on historic buildings, mountain villages, and of course, the golden dunes of the Sahara. Everywhere you go, there’s something worth capturing and experiencing.

This 2-week Morocco itinerary is the exact road trip we followed, allowing us to see the country’s highlights at a leisurely pace. We started in the north with Fes and Chefchaouen, then made our way down to the coast with Rabat, Casablanca, and Essaouira. From there, Marrakech was our gateway back to the mountains, before heading east into the Sahara Desert for what became one of the most unforgettable parts of the journey.

The best way to follow this Morocco itinerary is by road trip. While Morocco has good public transport between the main cities, having your own car gives you the freedom to reach smaller towns, mountain passes, and desert landscapes that would otherwise be difficult to explore.

Read: 16 Essential Tips to Road Trip Morocco peacefully

Getting there

The easiest way to start this Morocco itinerary is by flying into one of the country’s main international airports. The biggest hubs are Casablanca, Marrakech, and Fes, all of which have direct connections to many European cities. If you’re coming from further away, you’ll likely connect through Europe before reaching Morocco.

For this Morocco itinerary road trip, Fes is the most convenient starting point, as it puts you close to the north of the country and allows you to make a loop. That said, you could also start in Marrakech or Casablanca and follow the same route in reverse.

Once you land, the best option is to rent a car directly at the airport. Morocco does have trains and buses between the major cities, but to really follow this Morocco itinerary and reach places like Chefchaouen, the Atlas Mountains, or the Sahara Desert, having your own car makes the journey much easier and more flexible.

Moving Around

The best way to follow this Morocco itinerary is definitely by car. Renting a car gives you the freedom to stop in small villages, take scenic mountain roads, and reach places like Merzouga or Imlil that are much harder to access with public transport. Roads between major cities are generally good, with highways connecting Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, and Marrakech, while secondary roads take you into the mountains and desert.

Driving in this Morocco itinerary is quite straightforward once you get used to it, though you’ll need to be patient in busy cities where traffic can be chaotic. Parking is usually inexpensive, and in smaller towns you’ll often find attendants guiding you to a spot for a few dirhams.

If you don’t want to drive, you can still travel in Morocco by combining buses, trains, and organized tours. The ONCF trains are reliable for routes between cities like Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, and Marrakech. For destinations like Chefchaouen or Merzouga, long-distance buses (CTM and Supratours) are your main option, and from there you can join day tours or transfers. Just keep in mind that traveling without a car will take more planning and time.

We recommend to rent a car through Discover Cars with free cancellation. Book your rental car here.

When to Visit

You can follow this Morocco itinerary year-round, but the experience will vary a lot depending on the season. Morocco’s climate changes from the coast to the mountains and the desert, so it’s good to know what to expect.

• Spring (March – May): Spring is one of the best times to visit Morocco. Days are warm and pleasant, with average temperatures between 20°C and 28°C (68°F – 82°F). The Atlas Mountains are green, the medinas lively, and it’s comfortable for exploring both cities and the desert.
• Summer (June – August): Summer is very hot, especially inland and in the desert, where daytime temperatures can reach 40°C (104°F) or higher. Coastal towns like Essaouira or Casablanca are cooler thanks to the Atlantic breeze, around 25°C (77°F). If you’re planning this Morocco road trip itinerary in summer, it’s best to keep activities to early morning and evening.
• Autumn (September – November): Autumn is another great season, with daytime temperatures around 22°C to 30°C (72°F – 86°F). The weather is stable, skies are clear, and it’s a comfortable time to enjoy everything from Marrakech to the Sahara without the extreme heat.
• Winter (December – February): Winter is mild on the coast (15°C – 20°C / 59°F – 68°F) but much colder in the mountains and desert. Nights in the Sahara can drop close to 0°C (32°F), so bring warm clothes if your Morocco itinerary includes glamping in Merzouga. On the other hand, the tourist crowds are fewer, making it a quieter time to explore.

Tip: Spring and autumn are the most balanced seasons for this Morocco itinerary, with warm days, cool nights, and great conditions to explore every part of the country.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Where to Stay

Accommodation in Morocco is part of the adventure, and it can really shape your experience on this Morocco itinerary. In the cities, staying in a riad is a must—these traditional Moroccan houses are usually tucked inside the medinas, with inner courtyards, colorful tiles, and a calm escape from the busy streets outside. Riads range from budget-friendly to luxury, so there’s always something that fits your style.

Outside the cities, especially in the mountains or the desert, you’ll find small guesthouses and unique stays. In places like Merzouga, a night in a luxury desert camp is an unforgettable highlight. In the High Atlas, mountain lodges and riads with rooftop views give you a chance to slow down.

Whether you’re traveling on a budget or looking for something more upscale, this Morocco itinerary has plenty of choices. Throughout this itinerary, we’ll share our favorite stays in each destination—ranging from affordable guesthouses to boutique riads and unique experiences.

Don’t forget to book your accommodations in advance – the best places always fill up quickly.

What to Eat

Food is one of the best parts of traveling through Morocco, and following this Morocco itinerary means you’ll get to try a mix of traditional dishes across the country. Meals are usually simple, hearty, and full of flavor, with a strong focus on fresh vegetables, spices, and slow cooking.

Here are some of the must-try dishes:

• Tajine – A classic Moroccan dish cooked in the cone-shaped tajine pot. It can be made with just vegetables or with meat, slowly simmered until tender.
• Couscous – Usually served on Fridays, couscous is topped with vegetables, chickpeas, and sometimes meat or dried fruit.
• Harira – A traditional tomato-based soup with lentils and chickpeas, often eaten to break the fast during Ramadan but delicious anytime.
• Moroccan Salad – Fresh and colorful, often made with tomatoes, carrots, peppers, or even rice depending on the region.
• Pastilla – A sweet and savory pastry filled with meat (often pigeon or chicken), almonds, and cinnamon.

For drinks, the most traditional is mint tea—usually green tea loaded with fresh mint leaves and sugar. You’ll find it everywhere, from fancy restaurants to roadside stops. Alcohol is much harder to come by, as it’s only served in licensed restaurants and hotels.

Throughout this road trip, you’ll notice that food varies slightly from one region to another. Coastal towns like Essaouira have excellent seafood, the mountains serve up hearty meals perfect for cooler nights, and in the desert you’ll often be treated to tajine or couscous under the stars.

2-week Morocco Itinerary Overview

Our Morocco itinerary covers the country’s main highlights and works perfectly as a 14 to 17-day road trip. In total, you’ll drive more than 2,500 km, so expect plenty of time on the road—but also plenty of variety, from mountains to desert to coastline.

We personally did it as a loop from Fes back to Fes, but you can easily adapt it to start and end in whichever city you arrive. Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech all make great alternatives, as the itinerary naturally loops around the country. No matter where you begin, you’ll be able to follow the same route and enjoy the same experiences.

• Day 1: Arrive in Fes
• Day 2: Explore Fes
• Day 3: Road trip to Meknes, Volubilis, Chefchaouen
• Day 4: Explore Chefchaouen
• Day 5: Road trip to Casablanca with a stop in Rabat (Bonus)
• Day 6: Road trip to Essaouira + Explore Essaouira
• Day 7: Chill in Essaouira (Bonus)
• Day 8: Road trip to Marrakech
• Day 9: Explore Marrakech
• Day 10: Road trip to Imlil + Explore Imlil
• Day 11: 1-day hike in Toubkal National Park (Bonus)
• Day 12: Road trip to Ait Ben Haddou
• Day 13: Explore Ouarzazate, road trip to Tinghir
• Day 14: Road trip to Merzouga
• Day 15: Glamping in the Sahara Desert
• Day 16: Road trip to Ifrane
• Day 17: Explore Ifrane and return. (Can be combined with the day before)

If you don’t have the full two weeks for this Morocco itinerary, there are a few easy ways to shorten it without missing the highlights.

You can skip Ifrane altogether, and if your flight is late enough on the last day, drive straight from Merzouga to Fes Airport. Another option is to drop the relaxing day in Essaouira or the one-day hike in Toubkal National Park. That said, we’d still recommend keeping Imlil in your Morocco itinerary—it’s so close to Marrakech and offers a completely different mountain atmosphere.

If you’re more focused on the coast and the desert, you could also skip Rabat and Casablanca and head directly from Chefchaouen down to Essaouira.

And if you don’t have at all 2 weeks, then we recommend reading our complete Marrakech itinerary, as this would be more suited.

Check our Google Map of Morocco

2 weeks Morocco Itinerary day by day

Day 1: Arrive in Fes

To kick off your Morocco itinerary, arrive in Fes and pick up your rental car at the airport. From there, head to your accommodation and take it easy—you’ll want to be rested and ready to dive into the medina the next day.

If your flight lands early enough, you could head out for a first stroll and enjoy a Moroccan meal in the old city. It’s a great way to ease into the atmosphere of Morocco before starting the road trip for real.

Where to stay: (€): Riad Farah, (€€): Riad Dar Borj, (€€€): Riad Laaroussa

Read: 16 Best things to do in Fes

Day 2: Explore Fes

Spend your first full day diving into Fes and discovering the first beauties of Morocco. The old medina is a maze of narrow streets and hidden gems, and getting lost in it is part of the experience.

Make sure to stop at the Al Attarine Madrasa, a beautifully decorated old Islamic school, and then head to the Tanneries de Fes, where you can see the traditional leather-dyeing process (prepare for the strong smell). For a calmer break, stroll through the Jnan Sbil Garden, a peaceful green space perfect for catching your breath before heading back into the bustle of the city.

Where to stay: (€): Riad Farah, (€€): Riad Dar Borj, (€€€): Riad Laaroussa

If you are unsure about visiting the old centre on your own, consider this guided tour.

Day 3 – Fes to Chefchaouen via Meknes and Volubilis

After breakfast, continue your Morocco itinerary by hitting the road. Your first stop is Meknes, where you can visit the Dar Jamai Museum, a beautiful 19th-century palace located right next to Lahdim Square. From there, drive to Volubilis, the impressive Berber-Roman ruins that were once the capital of the Kingdom of Mauretania.

In the afternoon, continue the journey north to reach Chefchaouen, the famous Blue City in the Rif Mountains. After settling into your accommodation, head out for dinner at Clock Café, where you can enjoy good food and live performances to end the day.

Where to stay: (€):  Casa Sabila, (€€):  Casa La Hiba, (€€€): Casa Amina

Read: Best things to do in Meknes

Day 4: Explore Chefchaouen

Time to explore the Blue City, one of the highlights of this Morocco itinerary. Start your morning with a short hike up to the Spanish Mosque, where you’ll get the best panoramic view over Chefchaouen and its sea of blue houses.

Back in town, spend the rest of the day wandering the medina. The steep cobbled streets, blue-washed walls, and artisan shops make Chefchaouen a place where simply getting lost is the main attraction.

In the evening, relax with a rooftop dinner at your accommodation, enjoying the views as the city lights up.

Where to stay: (€):  Casa Sabila, (€€):  Casa La Hiba, (€€€): Casa Amina

Read: 7 Best things to do in Chefchaouen

Day 5 – Road Trip to Casablanca with a Stop in Rabat

After breakfast, continue your Morocco itinerary by driving south toward the coast. Your first stop is Rabat, Morocco’s capital. Here, you can visit the Hassan Tower, an impressive 12th-century minaret, and stroll through the Kasbah of the Udayas, a historic fortress with whitewashed alleys and beautiful ocean views.

From Rabat, keep driving to Casablanca, where you’ll spend the night. This way, you’ll shorten the drive for the following day and be well-positioned to continue on to Essaouira.

Where to stay: (€):  Ryad 91, (€€):  StayHere Gauthier, (€€€): Art Palace Suites & Spa

Read: Best things to do in Rabat

Day 6: Road trip to Essaouira + Explore Essaouira

Start the day early with a drive from Casablanca to Essaouira, a relaxed coastal town that’s sure to become one of your favorites on this Morocco itinerary. Once you arrive, spend the afternoon wandering the charming medina, strolling along the ramparts, and browsing the little shops and art galleries.

As the day winds down, head to the beach to catch one of Morocco’s most beautiful sunsets. Essaouira’s wide stretch of sand and laidback vibe make it the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the ocean breeze.

Where to stay: (€): Dar Halima ( Maison d’hôtes/Restaurant/galerie), (€€): riad bab essaouira, (€€€): Riad Perle D’Eau – Essaouira

Read: 11 Best things to do in Essaouira

Day 7: Chill in Essaouira (Bonus)

If you have a spare day in your Morocco itinerary or simply want to slow down, Essaouira is the perfect place to do it. Find yourself a cozy accommodation and take the time to relax, enjoy local food, and let the ocean breeze set the pace.

We chose a homestay in the middle of nowhere, which turned out to be one of the best experiences of our trip. The day was all about resting, eating freshly made meals, and even going on a short hike in the area. It was the kind of pause that makes a long road trip feel more balanced.

Where to stay:  Dar Baba Diali

Read: Dar Baba Diali: Unique Stay in Essaouira

Day 8: Road trip to Marrakech

Continue your Morocco itinerary by driving inland to Marrakech, one of the most exciting cities in the country. Depending on when you arrive, you can already start exploring a bit.

We spent our first afternoon in Gueliz, the modern district of Marrakech, with its cafés, shops, and a very different vibe compared to the medina. If you’re staying inside the old city, a short stroll through the souks and flea markets is a great way to ease into the atmosphere before diving into the full Marrakech experience the next day.

Where to stay: (€): Riad Tahyra, (€€): Riad Helen, (€€€): La Sultana, Apartment: Sweet Jacob’s Appartment

Read: 19 Best things to do in Marrakech

Day 9: Explore Marrakech

Today is all about discovering Marrakech, the most visited city in Morocco and a key stop on any Morocco itinerary. Start with the Bahia Palace, known for its intricate tilework and gardens, before heading to the impressive ruins of the Badi Palace.

In the afternoon, make your way to the lively Jemaa el-Fna square, the beating heart of the city, where street performers, food stalls, and market life create a unique atmosphere. Don’t miss the Ibn Youssef School (Ben Youssef Madrasa), one of the most beautiful examples of Islamic architecture in Morocco, with its detailed carvings and peaceful courtyard.

Where to stay: (€): Riad Tahyra, (€€): Riad Helen, (€€€): La Sultana, Apartment: Sweet Jacob’s Appartment

Tip: Explore safely and with lots of ease in the Medina with the Medina Souks Guided Walking Tour

Day 10: Road trip to Imlil + Explore Imlil

After the bustle of Marrakech, it’s time to head for the mountains. Drive about 1h30 south to Imlil, a small Berber village at the foot of the High Atlas. It’s one of our favorite stops on this Morocco itinerary, offering a totally different pace of life and stunning mountain views.

Once you’ve checked into your accommodation, head out for the loop hike in the valley. It’s an easy walk that takes you through the village and its surroundings, with views of terraced fields, small streams, and snow-capped peaks in the distance.

In the evening, settle in for a traditional Moroccan dinner by the fireplace, with the mountains as your backdrop. It’s the perfect way to end your first night in the Atlas.

Where to stay: (€€): Riad Atlas Toubkal

Read: 4 Best things to do in Imlil

Day 11: Hike in Toubkal National Park

Today, lace up your boots and head into Toubkal National Park, home to Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in Morocco at 4,167 m. With a local guide (required for hikes in the park), set out on a one-day trek that takes you along the valley, through small Berber villages, and up toward the refuge area used by climbers on their way to the summit.

The hike is rewarding without being too difficult, and along the way you’ll pass mule caravans and meet fellow hikers aiming for the top of Toubkal. Stop for a mint tea at one of the small tea houses before heading back down to Imlil.

Where to stay: (€€): Riad Atlas Toubkal

Tip: If you do not want to sleep in Imlil, get this Atlas Mountains Full-Day Hiking Trip

Day 12: Road trip to Ait Ben Haddou

It’s time in your Morocco itinerary to leave the mountains behind and begin the journey toward the desert. On your way, stop first at the Anima Garden, a colorful and creative space designed by artist André Heller—a peaceful spot filled with art installations and lush greenery.

Continue along one of the most scenic drives of this Morocco itinerary, passing through the High Atlas. Make a detour to visit Telouet Kasbah, once the seat of the powerful El Glaoui family. Though partly in ruins, it’s still a fascinating stop with beautifully decorated rooms.

By the afternoon, you’ll arrive at Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Morocco’s most breathtaking ksars (fortified villages). With its mud-brick walls and dramatic desert setting, it’s easy to see why so many films have been shot here.

Where to stay: (€):  ksar lamane ait ben haddou, (€€):  Kasbah El Hajja, (€€€): Caravane

Tip: Get your André Heller’s ANIMA Garden Ticket online

Day 13: Explore Ouarzazate, road trip to Tinghir

Start your Morocco itinerary’s morning in Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Morocco.” Visit the Atlas Cinema Studios, where films like Gladiator and Kingdom of Heaven were shot, and then explore the impressive Kingdom of Heaven set nearby. Afterward, treat yourself to a meal in town before continuing your journey.

In the afternoon, drive east toward Tinghir. Along the way, stop at the historic Kasbah Amridil, one of the best-preserved kasbahs in Morocco, and then make a detour to the dramatic Dadès Gorges, known for their winding roads and unique rock formations.

By evening, arrive in Tinghir, a town set in a palm grove at the edge of the Todra Gorge, where you’ll spend the night.

Where to stay: (€): Retour Au Calme, (€€): Auberge Camping Atlas, (€€€): Auberge Le Festival Todra Gorge

Read: 9 Best things to do in Ouarzazate

Day 14: Road trip to Merzouga

Begin the next day of your Morocco itinerary in Tinghir with a walk through the lush palm grove and a visit to the old kasbah before hitting the road. From there, take the scenic drive through the dramatic Todra Gorges, with their towering cliffs, before continuing toward Amellagou.

As you head east, stop at the ancient underground water system—a fascinating piece of local engineering that once supplied the desert communities.

By late afternoon, you’ll reach Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara. From here, a 4×4 or camel ride will take you into the dunes of Erg Chebbi, where you’ll spend the night in a luxury desert camp. Watching the sunset over the sand and falling asleep under the stars is one of the most unforgettable experiences of this entire Morocco itinerary.

Where to stay: (€): merzouga activities camp, (€€): Sahara Desert Luxury Camp , (€€€): Sunrise Sahara Camp

Tip: Get exactly this experience: Sahara Desert Luxury Camp.

Day 15: Enjoy the Sahara Desert

Dedicate this day of your Morocco itinerary to experiencing the Sahara Desert in full. Spend the morning on a 4×4 tour of the dunes, visiting nomad families, fossil sites, and hidden viewpoints.

Back at camp, try your hand at sandboarding on the slopes of Erg Chebbi before relaxing with tea in the shade. In the evening, set out on a sunset camel ride, the perfect way to take in the vast golden dunes as the light changes.

End the day with dinner under the stars and maybe some traditional music by the fire—an unforgettable highlight of your Morocco road trip.

Where to stay: (€): merzouga activities camp, (€€): Sahara Desert Luxury Camp , (€€€): Sunrise Sahara Camp

Read: Sahara Desert Luxury Camp Ultimate Experience

Day 16: Road trip to Ifrane

Your Morocco itinerary is slowly coming to an end. After one last morning in the desert, it’s time to leave Merzouga and make the long drive north. The journey takes most of the day, so don’t expect much time for sightseeing once you arrive.

If you’re following the full loop, spend the night in Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” thanks to its alpine-style architecture and cooler climate. But if your flight schedule is tight, you can also skip Ifrane and drive directly to Fes to be closer to the airport.

Where to stay: (€):  Gite du barrage, (€€): Ferme d’hôte la vallée, (€€€): Michlifen Resort & Golf | Ifrane – Maroc

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Day 17: Explore Ifrane and return.

This is the final day of your Morocco itinerary. Depending on your flight time, you may have a few hours to enjoy a last stroll or a mint tea before heading to the airport. After more than two weeks on the road—through cities, mountains, desert, and coast—it’s time to say goodbye to Morocco.

We hope this 2-week Morocco itinerary helps you plan your own unforgettable road trip. Safe travels!

Renting a car

Renting a car in Morocco is really easy, and for this 2-week Morocco itinerary, we would definitely recommend it. Having your own car makes the trip much more flexible, the price is reasonable, and overall, the process is straightforward.

Read: 16 Essential Tips to Road Trip Morocco peacefully