Marrakech Excursions: 12 Best Private Trips from the Red City

Marrakech excursions range from a sunrise balloon over the palm groves to a full day at the Atlantic coast. In fact, the Red City sits at the crossroads of the High Atlas, the desert and the ocean, so many great trips are only one to three hours away. Here are the twelve excursions our guests book most, all private, with pickup at your riad.

Half Day Marrakech Excursions

1. Marrakech Medina Tour

To begin with, discover the souks, workshops and hidden lanes on foot with a licensed guide on our Marrakech medina tour.

2. Hot Air Balloon at Sunrise

Then float over the countryside at dawn on the hot air balloon ride in Marrakech, followed by a Berber breakfast.

3. Quad Biking in Agafay

Also, ride the stony hills of the Agafay desert on our quad biking trip.

4. Sandboarding in Agafay

Meanwhile, families love the gentle slopes on our sandboarding trip.

Full Day Excursions from Marrakech

5. Agafay Desert

The Agafay day trip combines a camel ride, mint tea and sunset, only one hour away.

6. Ourika Valley

In addition, the Ourika Valley day trip brings Berber villages, river cafés and waterfalls.

7. Atlas Mountains and Imlil

For views of Toubkal, choose the Atlas Mountains day trip.

8. Ouzoud Waterfalls

Then see Morocco’s highest falls and Barbary macaques on the Ouzoud Waterfalls day trip.

9. Essaouira

Also, the Essaouira day trip leads to the blue boats, ramparts and the Atlantic.

10. Ait Ben Haddou

Meanwhile, cross the Tichka pass to the UNESCO ksar on the Ait Ben Haddou trip.

11. Marrakech City Tour

For palaces and gardens, book the full day Marrakech city tour.

12. A Night in the Sahara

Finally, if you have three days, the 3 day tour to Merzouga turns an excursion into a desert adventure.

How to Choose Your Marrakech Excursions

You wantBest excursion
CultureMedina tour, city tour
NatureOurika, Atlas, Ouzoud
AdventureQuad biking, balloon, sandboarding
DesertAgafay, Merzouga
OceanEssaouira

Tips for Marrakech Excursions

  • Book the balloon early in your stay, in case the weather delays it.
  • Choose mountain trips in spring and autumn, and Essaouira in summer.
  • Wear closed shoes for quads, camels and hikes.
  • Check the weather on the Moroccan weather service.

Also see all our day trips from Marrakech and half day trips.

FAQ: Marrakech Excursions

What is the best excursion from Marrakech?

In general, the Atlas Mountains and Agafay are the most popular, while Essaouira is best for the coast.

Are Marrakech excursions private?

Yes, all our excursions are private, with pickup at your riad.

How far ahead should I book?

A few days ahead is usually enough, but book the balloon early.

Plan your excursions with locals: send us your dates or message us on WhatsApp for a free quote.