Day trips from Marrakech with a private driver: Ourika, Agafay, Ouzoud, Imlil and more

Why do day trips with a private driver?

Organised excursions from Marrakech run on a fixed timetable with a full minibus. With a private driver, the van is yours: you choose when to leave, how long to stay and where to stop on the way back. Drive times below are approximate and depend on traffic and stops.

Ourika Valley (about 1 hour)

The closest escape into the Atlas foothills: river-side cafés, Berber villages and the walk to the Setti Fatma waterfalls. An easy half-day or full day, good with children.

Agafay desert (about 45 minutes to 1 hour)

A stony desert of hills and plateaus with views of the Atlas, camel rides and sunset dinners in camps. Ideal if you do not have time for the Sahara. A private driver can take you there in the afternoon and bring you back after dinner.

Imlil and the Toubkal area (about 1 hour 30 minutes)

The starting point for walks in the High Atlas, below Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak. Bring layers: it is much cooler than Marrakech.

Ouzoud waterfalls (about 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours)

Some of Morocco’s highest falls, with paths down to the pools and boat rides at the bottom. A long day, so leave early.

Essaouira (about 2.5 to 3.5 hours)

The windy Atlantic port with its walled medina, harbour and beach. See our Marrakech–Essaouira day trip guide and the Marrakech to Essaouira route.

Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate (about 4 hours each way)

Over the Tizi n’Tichka pass to the famous kasbah. Possible in one long day, more comfortable with a night in Ouarzazate. See the Marrakech to Ouarzazate route.

Tips for your day trip

• Agree the departure time, the stops and the return time with your driver before leaving.
• Leave early for the longer trips (Ouzoud, Essaouira, Ait Benhaddou).
• Mountain roads are cooler and winding: bring a layer and tell your driver if anyone gets car sick.

Find private drivers in Marrakech and book your day out.