Where Is Marrakech in Africa? Location, Map and Travel Tips
Where is Marrakech in Africa? Marrakech is in the north-west of the continent, in central-southern Morocco, at the foot of the High Atlas Mountains. It lies inland, not on the coast, with the Atlantic Ocean to the west.
Marrakech Location at a Glance
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Country | Morocco |
| Region of Africa | North Africa (north-west) |
| Landscape | Plain at the foot of the High Atlas Mountains |
| Nearest ocean | Atlantic, to the west |
| Gateway to | The High Atlas, Ouarzazate and the Sahara |
How Far Is Marrakech from Other Places?
| From Marrakech to | Approximate time by road |
|---|---|
| Casablanca | About 3 hours |
| Essaouira (coast) | About 2.5 to 3 hours |
| Agafay desert | About 1 hour |
| Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou | About 4 to 5 hours |
| Zagora | About 6 to 7 hours |
| Merzouga (Sahara dunes) | About 9 to 10 hours |
Travel times depend on traffic, the road and stops, so use them as a guide only.
Getting to Marrakech
- By air: Marrakech has an international airport with flights from many European cities
- By train: a rail link connects Marrakech with Casablanca, Rabat and Tangier
- By road: well-connected highways link Marrakech with other major cities
Marrakech and the Sahara
Many people ask whether Marrakech is in the Sahara. It is not. It sits north of the Atlas Mountains in a semi-arid plain. The real Sahara dunes start much further south and east, at Merzouga and Erg Chebbi. For a full plan, see our Morocco desert tour from Marrakech guide.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the most comfortable. Summer is very hot, and winter days are mild but nights can be cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which part of Africa is Marrakech in?
Marrakech is in North Africa, in central-southern Morocco.
Is Marrakech in the Sahara desert?
No. It is near the High Atlas Mountains. The Sahara dunes of Merzouga are about 560 km away.
Is Marrakech on the coast?
No, it is an inland city. The nearest popular coastal town is Essaouira.
Is Marrakech the capital of Morocco?
No. The capital is Rabat. See our guide: Is Marrakech the capital of Morocco?
Continue to the Sahara with a Local Family
From Marrakech, we can help you reach the dunes and plan a night in a desert camp. Message us on WhatsApp to get started.