First Time in Morocco: What to Do, Where to Go and How to Plan Your Trip

What should you do on your first trip to Morocco? Most first-time visitors combine a few imperial cities such as Marrakech and Fes, the blue town of Chefchaouen, a crossing of the High Atlas Mountains and, above all, a night in the Sahara desert at Merzouga. A trip of 7 to 10 days lets you see the highlights without rushing. This guide explains where to go, how to build an itinerary, the best time to visit and the practical tips that make a first visit easier.

Top things to do on a first trip to Morocco

• Explore Marrakech: the medina, Jemaa el-Fna square, the souks and the gardens.
• Get lost in Fes: the oldest medina in Morocco, with tanneries and old madrasas.
• Visit Chefchaouen: the blue town in the Rif Mountains, best as a slow one or two night stop. Read is it worth it to visit Chefchaouen.
• Cross the High Atlas: drive over the Tizi n’Tichka pass and stop at Ait Benhaddou, a famous fortified village.
• See the Todra or Dades gorges: dramatic canyons on the road to the desert.
• Spend a night in the Sahara: ride a camel into the Erg Chebbi dunes and sleep in a desert camp.
• Try Moroccan food: tagine, couscous, harira soup and mint tea.
• Relax on the coast: Essaouira is a calm, windy seaside town that is easy to add.

Why the Sahara should be on your list

For many travellers, the desert is the highlight of Morocco. At Merzouga, the Erg Chebbi dunes rise up to about 150 metres, and the sand changes colour from gold to red through the day. You can ride a camel at sunset, eat dinner in a camp, listen to Berber drums and watch a sky full of stars. Take a look at our desert camps, our 1 night in the Merzouga desert tour and the camel trekking options.

A 10-day first-time itinerary

1. Days 1 to 3, Marrakech: the medina, souks, gardens and a day trip if you like.
2. Day 4, High Atlas and Ait Benhaddou: cross the mountains and stop at the fortified village.
3. Day 5, Dades or Todra Gorge: scenic canyons on the way to the desert.
4. Day 6, Merzouga: camel ride at sunset and a night in a desert camp.
5. Day 7, Merzouga to Fes: sunrise on the dunes, then a long drive through the Middle Atlas.
6. Days 8 and 9, Fes: the old medina and its crafts.
7. Day 10, Chefchaouen or departure: continue to the blue town, or fly out of Fes or Casablanca.

If you have less time, a 3 or 4-day tour from Marrakech to the Sahara is the most efficient way to see the best of the south. Read our guide to a trip from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert, and the details on Marrakech to Merzouga.

Shorter plans

• 5 days: Marrakech, a 3-day Sahara tour, back to Marrakech.
• 7 days: Marrakech, Ait Benhaddou, Merzouga, Fes.
• 14 days: the 10-day route plus Essaouira, Chefchaouen and Casablanca.

Best time to visit Morocco for the first time

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the most comfortable, with warm days and mild nights. Summer is very hot in Marrakech and the desert, often above 40 degrees in the middle of the day, while the coast and mountains are cooler. Winter is mild in the cities, but nights in the desert and in the mountains can be cold, so bring warm clothes. For the Sahara, October to April is the best period.

Practical tips for first-time visitors

Money

The currency is the Moroccan dirham. You can withdraw cash from ATMs in cities, and it is useful to carry some cash for taxis, small shops, tips and the desert.

Visas and documents

Entry rules depend on your nationality, and they can change, so check the official requirements before you travel. Make sure your passport is valid for the period required.

What to wear

Morocco is a Muslim country, and modest clothing is appreciated, especially in the medinas and small villages. Light, loose clothes cover you from the sun, and a scarf is useful in the desert.

Bargaining and tipping

Bargaining is normal in the souks. Be friendly, start lower and agree on the price before you buy. Tips are expected for guides, drivers and restaurant staff.

Getting around

Trains connect the main northern cities, and buses cover many routes. For the south and the desert, a private driver or an organised tour is the easiest option, because distances are long and public transport is limited.

Respect local customs

Ask before photographing people, dress modestly in religious places and be patient with local hospitality.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Trying to see too much in too few days. Long drives are tiring, so build in rest.
• Skipping the desert night. The Sahara is the most memorable part for most visitors.
• Booking the desert on the same day as a long flight, without a buffer.
• Not asking what is included in a tour before you book.

Frequently asked questions

How many days do you need in Morocco for the first time?

Seven to ten days is ideal for the highlights. With five days, focus on Marrakech and the Sahara.

Is Morocco safe for first-time travellers?

Morocco is a popular destination, and most visitors have no problems. As anywhere, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places and use licensed guides and drivers.

What is the best way to see the Sahara?

A camel ride with a night in a desert camp at Merzouga is the classic option. You can also choose a 4×4, quad or buggy, as shown in our guide to Merzouga desert excursions.

Can I visit the desert from Marrakech?

Yes, but it is a long way, around 560 km to Merzouga, so plan at least 3 days.

Add the Sahara to your Morocco trip

We are a local team based in Merzouga, and we can organise your desert night, camel ride and activities. Tell us your dates and group size and we will suggest the best plan. Message us on WhatsApp at +212 620 628 083 or use our contact page. For more ideas, see the best things to do in Merzouga.