Forays into the nearby Atlas Mountains and lush surrounding valleys are easy daytrip options from Marrakech. Rent a car for the day or head out with a tour operator – either way, you won’t have to go far to experience some of Morocco’s most beautiful natural highlights.
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Cascades d'Ouzoud Morocco’s most impressive waterfalls are easily accessible from Marrakech--just don’t expect to have the three-tiered wedding-cake-esque cascades to yourself – on weekends, in particular, Moroccans and foreign tourists descend in droves to admire the 360-feet high falls. Cascades d'Ouzoud, Morocco; About 104 miles northeast of Marrakech, Cascades d'Ouzoud
Ourika Valley A 45-minute car ride delivers you from Marrakech’s dusty streets to one of the most dramatic valleys of the High Atlas. Spend a stop-and-go day driving through the beautiful villages, visiting Kasbahs and cooling off in riverside swimming holes. Ourika Valley; About 30 miles south of Marrakech, Ourika Valley
Kasbah du Toubkal Even if you’re not spending the night, drive out to the spectacular Kasbah du Toubkal, a refurbished Kasbah-turned-hotel (formerly the vacation home of a local ruler). The surrounding snowy peaks provide some of North Africa’s finest mountain scenery. Kasbah du Toubkal, Morocco; About 38 miles south of Marrakech, Kasbah du Toubkal; www.kasbahdutoubkal.com
Oukaimeden Winter visitors should hit Morocco’s best ski resort. Just an hour and a half drive south of Marrakech in the town of Oukaimeden, the resort is home to Africa’s highest ski lift (10640 feet). Oukaimeden, Morocco; 45 miles south of Marrakech; www.lexicorient.com/morocco/oukaimeden.htm
Setti Fatma For just a few bucks, you can take a shared grand taxi from Marrakech to this typical Ourika Valley village. Once in Setti Fatma, hire one of the guides who approach you for tours of the seven nearby waterfalls. Setti Fatma; About 38 miles southeast of Marrakech
Essaouira Essaouira, one of Morocco’s most beloved beach towns, lies 2.5 hours by car from Marrakech. Although it’s doable as a daytrip from Marrakech, it’s worth spending a night or two for the fresh seafood, sea breezes and mellow vibe. Essaouira, Morocco; 110 miles west of Marrakech; www.essaouiranet.com
