5 Days in Morocco: Best Travel Itinerary

5 Days in Morocco: Best Travel Itinerary and Guide

Vibrant markets, ancient cities, vast deserts, and fragrant tagines—Morocco is a country that offers a heady mix of cultures, colors, and flavors. From the winding alleys of Marrakech to the dunes of the Sahara Desert, Morocco blends tradition with adventure in a way that captivates every traveler.

If you're short on time, this 5-day Morocco itinerary delivers the perfect mix of must-see cities, dramatic landscapes, and authentic experiences. Whether you’re wandering through centuries-old medinas or watching the sunset over the desert, your five days in Morocco will be filled with magic.

Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech – The Red City’s Pulse

Morning: Welcome to Morocco

Fly into Marrakech Menara Airport, one of the country’s main international gateways. Once you've cleared customs, transfer to your riad (a traditional Moroccan guesthouse) in the medina—the old city.

Riad recommendations:

Riad Yasmine – For Instagram-worthy aesthetics
Riad Kniza – Luxury and history combined
Riad Dar One – Stylish and central

Afternoon: Dive Into the Medina

Start exploring Jemaa el-Fnaa, the beating heart of Marrakech. This UNESCO-listed square is bustling with snake charmers, street performers, henna artists, and orange juice stalls.

From there, wander into the souks:

Souk Semmarine – For textiles and slippers
Souk El Attarine – For spices and perfumes
Souk Haddadine – For traditional ironwork and lamps

Take your time to haggle (it’s expected) and embrace the chaos—it’s part of the charm.

Evening: Moroccan Dinner and Rooftop Views

Tagine of lamb with prunes
Chicken with preserved lemons and olives
Couscous with seven vegetables

End your night with mint tea and panoramic views of the medina at sunset.

Day 2: Marrakech Sights and Cultural Treasures

Morning: Explore Marrakech’s Heritage

Visit:

Bahia Palace – A 19th-century palace with intricate tile work and serene courtyards.
El Badi Palace – A ruined but majestic site once known as "The Incomparable."
Saadian Tombs – Ornate tombs of Saadian royalty, rediscovered in 1917.

Wander through the peaceful Jewish Quarter (Mellah), known for its markets and the Lazama Synagogue.

Afternoon: Jardin Majorelle and Yves Saint Laurent Museum

Escape the heat and crowds at the Majorelle Garden, a serene oasis of bamboo, fountains, and cobalt blue architecture created by French artist Jacques Majorelle.

Next door is the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, showcasing the designer’s deep connection with Morocco.

Day 3: Atlas Mountains and Aït Benhaddou

Early Morning: Depart for Aït Benhaddou

Start your journey toward the High Atlas Mountains, traveling the scenic route through Tizi n’Tichka Pass—the highest major mountain pass in North Africa (2,260 meters). The drive takes about 3.5–4 hours, but the views are spectacular.

Midday: Explore Aït Benhaddou

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a ksar (fortified village) made of clay and stone. It has been featured in films like Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, and Game of Thrones.

What to do:

Climb to the top for sweeping desert views
Visit local artisans and shops
Have lunch at a riverside café with tagine and mint tea

Optional: Overnight in Ouarzazate

Continue 30 minutes to Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Morocco,” and stay overnight. Visit:

Taourirt Kasbah
Atlas Studios – Africa’s largest film studio

Stay at:

Dar Chamaa
Le Temple des Arts

Or return to Aït Benhaddou and stay in a local guesthouse like Kasbah Tebi.

Day 4: Sahara Desert Adventure – Merzouga and Erg Chebbi

Morning: Drive to the Sahara

Depart early for the Sahara Desert, a journey of around 5–6 hours from Ouarzazate to Merzouga, the gateway to Erg Chebbi—a sea of golden dunes.

Stop for lunch in Rissani, known for its dates, traditional souk, and Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif, the founder of Morocco’s ruling dynasty.

Afternoon: Camel Trek Into the Dunes

At Merzouga, swap your car for a camel caravan and ride into the desert during golden hour. As the sun sets behind the dunes, the Sahara turns into a glowing landscape of reds and golds.

Evening: Desert Camp Experience

Spend the night in a luxury or traditional Berber camp beneath the stars. Options include:

Luxury Nomad Camp
Sahara Stars Camp
Merzouga Desert Camp

Enjoy:

A traditional Moroccan dinner
Drumming and dancing around the fire
Stargazing in one of the darkest skies in the world

Day 5: Sunrise in the Sahara and Return to Marrakech

Early Morning: Sunrise and Breakfast

Wake before dawn and climb a dune to watch the sunrise over the Sahara. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime view.

After a hearty Berber breakfast, ride back to Merzouga by camel or 4x4.

Drive Back to Marrakech (Optional Flight from Errachidia)

Begin the drive back to Marrakech (about 9–10 hours) with stops along the way for breaks and lunch. Alternatively, consider:

Spending a night halfway in Dades Valley or Skoura Oasis
Booking a domestic flight from Errachidia to Marrakech or Casablanca

Evening: Farewell Dinner in Marrakech

Return to Marrakech and enjoy your final dinner at:

Dar Yacout – Classic Moroccan with an elaborate set menu
Al Fassia – Run by women, famous for its tagines

Toast your incredible adventure with a final glass of mint tea.

Optional Add-Ons (If You Have More Time)

Essaouira – A coastal town with Portuguese history, beachside cafés, and seafood
Chefchaouen – The iconic “Blue City” nestled in the Rif Mountains
Fes – Morocco’s cultural capital with a UNESCO-listed medina

Essential Morocco Travel Tips

Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD); credit cards accepted in most cities, but cash is preferred in souks.
Language: Arabic and French are official; English is spoken in major tourist areas.
Transport: Grand taxis (shared) and private drivers are common for intercity travel. Trains and buses are also available.
Safety: Morocco is safe for travelers; be cautious in crowded markets and avoid isolated areas at night.
Dress Code: Modest dress is appreciated, especially for women. Loose, breathable clothing is best.

Packing List for 5 Days in Morocco

Lightweight clothing + layers for cooler nights
Comfortable walking shoes
Scarf or shawl for sun protection or religious sites
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Reusable water bottle
Power adapter (Type C and E sockets, 220V)

Is 5 Days in Morocco Enough?

Yes—with a smart itinerary. While Morocco is a vast and diverse country, 5 days is enough to experience a perfect snapshot of its most iconic attractions:

The buzz of Marrakech
The history of Aït Benhaddou
The mystery of the Sahara
The warmth of Moroccan hospitality

You’ll leave wanting more—but you’ll also leave fulfilled, inspired, and ready to return for a deeper dive into this colorful kingdom.