We spent three weeks exploring Morocco, and while it felt like a whirlwind at times, we discovered some incredible places and experiences worth sharing. Here’s a breakdown of what we loved (and didn’t) to help you plan your own adventure.

Marrakesh: A Chaotic Jewel

Marrakesh is one of those places that you’ll either fall in love with or want to escape from. It’s noisy, bustling, and packed with colour, smells, and life. Personally, I loved the chaos, but it can be overwhelming if you’re not prepared.

Explore: The medina is a maze where getting lost is part of the experience. My favourite spot was around Rue Assouel—it’s less crowded and has a charming vibe. Don’t miss Jardin Secret for a peaceful coffee break in the gardens.

Relaxation: For something truly special, spend a day at La Sultana. The hamam spa is divine, and the lunch is a touch fancy but so worth it.

Food & Drinks: Grab dinner at Nomad for modern Moroccan dishes, then head to Dardar Rooftop for cocktails with a view.

Sights Worth Seeing: Jardin Majorelle and the YSL Museum are beautiful (and popular), so book in advance to avoid disappointment. Dar el Bacha is stunning too, but go in the afternoon to avoid the queues.

What to Skip: The main square (Jemaa el-Fnaa) left me sad. Monkeys on chains, snake charmers, and an overwhelming tourist trap vibe—it’s not a place I’d recommend.

Tip: Two nights in Marrakesh is plenty before moving on to quieter adventures.

Todra Gorge: A Climber’s Dream

Leaving Marrakesh, we made our way to Todra Gorge, and wow—what a change of pace!

Why Todra Gorge is Amazing:

For climbers, it’s paradise. We spent a week here sport climbing on incredible limestone walls. Whether you’re into single-pitch or multi-pitch, there’s something for everyone. Just make sure you bring a 70m rope!

Unfortunately we had issues with our rope (a climber’s nightmare), however the team at Adventures Verticals saved the day. They helped us out with a hire rope and even gave us a great deal.

Not a Climber? No Problem!

Todra Gorge is also a fantastic hiking destination. We tackled the Todra Gorge Loop hike, and it was unforgettable. Approximately 10km and took around 3.5hrs including a tea break with the nomads.

The trail starts gently, winding through a red rock valley before climbing steep zig-zags. The effort is worth it for the panoramic views at the top.

Along the way, we passed nomadic settlements and stopped at a local summit for 360-degree views of the Tinghir Oasis below. The contrast of green oasis and arid landscape was breathtaking.

Tip: If you want a bit of luxury, consider staying at Petite Nomad, closer to Tinghir. For €50 a night, you’ll enjoy a comfy bed and great breakfast.

The Sahara Desert: A Whole New World

From Todra, we ventured into the desert. But first, we made a stop at Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar (fortified village). It’s like stepping into another era, with its mud-brick buildings and dramatic backdrop—it’s been featured in loads of movies and is a must!!

The Desert Experience:

The dunes of Merzouga are mesmerizing. The contrast between the endless sand and the rocky landscape around it is unreal.

Instead of riding camels, we opted for quad bikes. Racing across the dunes was exhilarating, and at around €40 for one person, it’s worth every dirham.

We stayed at the Luxury Desert Camp, and it was incredible. Picture cozy tents with private bathrooms, delicious meals, and evenings spent dancing to local music under the stars.

Essaouira: Coastal Calm

After the intense desert heat, we headed to Essaouira for a few days of relaxation. This laid-back beach town is the perfect antidote to Marrakesh’s chaos.

Why We Loved It: The medina here is smaller and way more chill. It’s also much cheaper—so if you’re eyeing pottery or souvenirs, wait until you get here.

Where to Stay: We stayed in a riad overlooking the sea, which was idyllic. For a final splurge, we spent our last night at Villa Beldi, and it was dreamy. Their outdoor heated pool was exactly what we needed.

Food Heaven: Essaouira’s seafood is fantastic. We ate our way through charming local restaurants and didn’t have a single bad meal.

Final Thoughts

Morocco is a land of contrasts—chaotic cities, serene deserts, lush oases, and tranquil beaches. Whether you’re a climber, hiker, or just looking to immerse yourself in the culture, there’s something here for everyone. Three weeks gave us the chance to experience a little bit of everything, but even a shorter trip would be unforgettable.

Thinking of a guided tour to Marrakesh… drop us a line

Adventure Road Trip Around Morocco: Our Highlights