The 8 Best Outdoor Activities in Marrakech

Exciting outdoor activities await you in Marrakech, from camel rides in the desert to excursions in the Atlas Mountains - unforgettable adventures await in this magical city!
The 8 Best Outdoor Activities in Marrakech

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Atlas Mountains| ©xiquinhosilva
Atlas Mountains| ©xiquinhosilva

1. Dinner under the stars in the Agafay Desert

Nothing represents the essence of Morocco better than a dinner in the desert, surrounded by dunes and with the starry sky as a ceiling. In this experience, you will travel to the Agafay Desert, where you will enjoy an unforgettable evening with local gastronomy, live music and the silence of the desert as a backdrop.

In addition, some excursions include a camel ride at sunset, one of the most iconic images of Morocco.

Book your desert excursion with dinner

2. Hot air balloon ride at sunrise over Marrakech

If you are looking for a unique experience, a hot air balloon ride over the desert is one of the most spectacular ways to start the day. At sunrise, when the first rays of sunlight tinge the sand with gold, you will take off gently and see Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains from the air.

The sensation of floating in the silence of the Moroccan sky is difficult to describe, but it is undoubtedly one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have in Morocco.

Book your balloon ride over the desert

3. Excursion to the Atlas Mountains and the Agafay Desert

If you love nature, this excursion to the Atlas Mountains and the Agafay Desert is perfect for you. You will start by touring the mountainous landscapes of the High Atlas Mountains, where you will visit Berber villages and learn about the local culture.

Later, the journey continues to the Agafay Desert, where you can feel the vastness of the landscape and end the day with a tea in a traditional haima.

Book your excursion to the Atlas and Agafay Desert

4. Night in Berber haima in the Zagora Desert

If you dream of living the full experience of sleeping in the desert, the Zagora Desert excursion is for you. You will travel by car through the Atlas Mountains, passing through breathtaking landscapes and traditional villages until you reach the dunes of Zagora.

There, you will ride a camel at sunset and spend the night in a Berber camp, with dinner, music and the starry sky as the only light.

Book your excursion to the Zagora Desert

5. Visit Essaouira and its medina by the sea

Essaouira is one of the most beautiful cities in Morocco, with its white medina, its fishing port and its relaxed atmosphere. On this excursion from Marrakech, you will walk through its old town, visit its fortress by the sea and enjoy its endless beaches.

Also, during the trip you will stop to see the famous goats climbing the argan trees, one of the most curious images of Morocco.

Book your excursion to Essaouira

6. Route through the Ourika Valley and its waterfalls

Just an hour from Marrakech, the Ourika Valley is a natural refuge where water, mountains and vegetation create a completely different landscape from the city.

On this excursion, you can visit its Berber villages, walk along trails surrounded by nature and discover the famous Setti Fatma waterfalls, where you can take a refreshing bath if the weather permits.

Book your excursion to Ourika Valley

7. Ascent of Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in Morocco.

For hiking enthusiasts, the ascent of Mount Toubkal is a challenge not to be missed. With its 4,167 meters, it is the highest mountain in North Africa, and climbing to its summit will allow you to enjoy spectacular views of the Atlas Mountains.

The trek crosses valleys, rivers and Berber villages, offering a unique experience for those seeking adventure in its purest form.

Book your trekking to Mount Toubkal

8. Quad biking adventure and camel trekking in the desert

If you want to combine adventure and tradition, this quad tour and camel ride is ideal. You will start by riding through the desert landscapes on a powerful quad, sliding on sandy trails and arid areas.

Then, you will change speed for calm and get on a camel to feel the desert at the slow pace of this emblematic animal of Morocco.

Book your quad and camel ride tour

Reviews from other travellers

4.6
· 24917 Reviews
  • K
    K. C.
    5
    (0 Reviews)
    The camel ride was what my family and I were looking for. It was a great experience from the beginning to the end. Our driver, Abdessadek, was amazing as was the rest of the team. Looking forward to riding camels again with H&L.
  • A
    A.
    5
    (0 Reviews)
    What a great day in the Ourika Valley! The landscapes of the Atlas Mountains are postcard-perfect, I was blown away.
  • O
    O.
    5
    (0 Reviews)
    Unforgettable experience exploring the Ourika Valley and the Atlas Mountains. Breathtaking nature, vibrant culture and excellent guides.
  • G
    G.
    5
    (0 Reviews)
    The trip was wonderful, the scenery of the Ourika Valley is breathtaking. I give it a 9 out of 10, highly recommended!
  • I
    I.
    5
    (0 Reviews)
    The panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains are absolutely breathtaking, but the drive can be a little long for some.