Agadir in 8 Days for Friends - Aït Ben Haddou kasbah (film location)
In Collaboration with Morocco Travel Shara. Updated on February 14, 2026.
This eight-day road tour links Marrakech with the Anti-Atlas, Erg Chegaga Sahara dunes, Taroudant, Agadir and Essaouira to show kasbahs, Draa Valley, desert dunes and the Atlantic coast. Local driver/guide support, airport pickup and a mix of hotel/riad and Berber camp accommodation are provided.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Morocco Travel Shara, inspired by the tour Morocco Anti-Atlas & Sahara 8 Days Tour from Marrakech. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Aït Ben Haddou kasbah (film location)
- 4x4 crossing to Erg Chegaga dunes and desert camp
- Draa Valley palm oases
- Coastal drive - Agadir to Essaouira
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Marrakech, airport pickup and transfer to your hotel/riad in the Medina. Time to settle in and rest after travel.
Arrival — Marrakech Menara Airport pickup
Our driver meets you at Marrakech Menara Airport and assists with transfer from the terminal to the vehicle.
Tips from local experts:
- Have your flight number and arrival time ready for the driver to track any delays.
- Look for the driver holding a sign with your name just outside the arrivals exit.
- Keep travel documents (passport) handy during pickup for quick check-in at the vehicle.
Transfer to hotel / riad in Marrakech Medina
Private transfer from the airport to your selected hotel or riad in Marrakech's medina for check-in and orientation.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect narrow lanes in the medina; your driver will drop you at the riad entrance if the vehicle cannot enter.
- Carry a small overnight bag for immediate needs while larger luggage is brought to your riad.
- Confirm your riad’s check-in time in advance; early arrivals may store luggage and freshen up.
Overnight — Hotel / Riad in Marrakech
Check in and overnight stay at your chosen hotel or riad in Marrakech (room only; dinner not included unless stated).
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm breakfast time with reception for the next morning.
- If you want a rooftop view of Jemaa el-Fna at sunset, ask reception for nearby terraces.
- Secure valuables in the room safe and note emergency contact numbers at reception.
Day 2
Drive from Marrakech across the High Atlas toward Aït Ben Haddou with scenic stops on the Tizi n'Tichka pass; afternoon visit to the Aït Ben Haddou ksar and continue to Ouarzazate for overnight.
Breakfast at your Marrakech hotel/riad
Breakfast at the riad/hotel before departure.
Tips from local experts:
- Have a light, early breakfast if you plan to be on the road by 08:00.
- Request any dietary needs the evening before to speed service in the morning.
- Fill a reusable water bottle before departure; potable water is widely available in hotels.
Drive — Marrakech to Ouarzazate via Tizi n'Tichka
Depart Marrakech after breakfast; cross the High Atlas via the Tizi n'Tichka pass with short stops to view Berber villages and panoramas.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect slow-moving local traffic and multiple photo stops; bring layers — mountain temperatures can be cooler.
- Motion-sickness remedies can help on the mountain passes with several switchbacks.
- Allow time for short stops to take photos; communicate with your driver about preferred viewpoints.
Visit — Aït Ben Haddou kasbah
Guided visit and time to walk the streets of the UNESCO-listed ksar of Aït Ben Haddou (film location).
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable shoes: paths through the kasbah are unpaved and can be uneven.
- Bring sun protection and water — shade is limited during midday visits.
- Local guides at the entrance can provide concise context if you want extra history (confirm language beforehand).
Transfer — Aït Ben Haddou to Ouarzazate and hotel check-in
Short drive to Ouarzazate; check in to your hotel/riad and free time to rest. Dinner at the hotel in Ouarzazate is included.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm dinner time with the hotel reception in Ouarzazate as included meals are served at set hours.
- If you want a quick visit, Kasbah Taourirt is a short walk from central Ouarzazate (check opening hours).
- Keep some local cash for small purchases; remote areas may not accept cards.
Dinner at the hotel in Ouarzazate (included)
Evening meal served at your hotel/riad in Ouarzazate.
Tips from local experts:
- Notify the hotel of any dietary restrictions on arrival to ensure a suitable meal.
- Evening in Ouarzazate can be cool — bring a light layer if dining outdoors.
- Local mint tea is commonly served after dinner; ask for less sugar if preferred.
Overnight — Hotel / Riad in Ouarzazate
Overnight stay at your Ouarzazate hotel or riad.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm breakfast time for the next morning and arrange any luggage needs with reception.
- Check heating/air-conditioning controls on arrival — nights can be cool in desert-adjacent towns.
- Store valuables in the room safe and keep a small amount of cash for evening purchases.
Day 3
Cross the Anti-Atlas and Draa Valley toward M'Hamid; reach the desert edge and transfer by 4x4 into the Erg Chegaga dunes for an overnight in a Berber camp with dinner and music.
Breakfast in Ouarzazate (hotel)
Breakfast at the hotel before departing for the Draa Valley and the southern desert route.
Tips from local experts:
- Have a good breakfast — next longer meal may be later in the day during travel.
- Pack sunscreen and a hat in your daypack before leaving the hotel.
- Keep essential medication and documents in your daypack for easy access.
Drive — Ouarzazate to Zagora via Anti-Atlas and Draa Valley
Drive south through the Anti-Atlas toward Zagora, passing the Draa Valley with its extensive palm groves.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect standard road conditions but occasional slow local traffic; allow time for stops and photos.
- If you want local produce (dates), buy from a clearly marked vendor or cooperative.
- Carry small change for restroom stops at roadside cafés and services.
Drive / 4x4 transfer — Zagora / Tinfou area to M'Hamid
Continue toward M'Hamid; near Tinfou you begin to see dunes; at M'Hamid switch to 4x4 vehicles for the desert crossing to Erg Chegaga.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear closed-toe shoes for the 4x4 transfer into the dunes and bring a wind layer; desert winds can pick up quickly.
- Keep cameras and phones secure during the 4x4 ride; use straps for safety on sandy tracks.
- Motion may be rough in the 4x4; if prone to motion sickness, consider taking remedies before departure.
Erg Chegaga — Arrival, dinner and Berber camp overnight
Arrive at the Berber camp at Erg Chegaga; evening includes a traditional dinner and Berber/Gnawa music under the stars.
Tips from local experts:
- Temperatures drop after sunset; bring a warm layer for the evening in the camp.
- Camps are typically basic; bring a small flashlight and a headlamp for moving around after dark.
- Respect the camp’s local customs and ask before photographing local performers or staff.
Day 4
Early sunrise over the dunes, breakfast at camp, then return toward Taroudant with a midday journey across southern plains; overnight in Taroudant with optional medina visit if time permits.
Sunrise on the dunes — Erg Chegaga
Early morning climb to a dune ridge to watch the desert sunrise, followed by a Berber-style breakfast at the camp.
Tips from local experts:
- Wake-up call is typically before sunrise; bring a camera with extra batteries or power bank.
- Walk carefully on dunes — sand can be slippery; use sun protection even at sunrise.
- If you prefer less walking, request a nearby viewpoint from the camp staff.
Breakfast at the Berber camp
After sunrise, return to the camp for a fuller breakfast before packing for the drive to Taroudant.
Tips from local experts:
- Try local breads and tagines served in camp; inform staff of any dietary restrictions earlier in the day.
- Collect water and snacks for the road—some stretches have limited services.
- Keep luggage packed and ready the night before to ensure an early departure.
Drive — M'Hamid to Taroudant (with lunch en route)
Long drive north-west toward Taroudant with a road-side or local restaurant lunch stop en route. If arrival is early there is an option for a local guide to visit the Medina.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect a long day in the vehicle; plan restroom breaks with your driver.
- If you want a guided medina walk in Taroudant, confirm language and meeting point in advance.
- Taroudant's medina streets are flatter than Marrakech’s — a comfortable walking choice if you want a short stroll after arrival.
Overnight — Hotel / Riad in Taroudant
Check in to your hotel/riad in Taroudant; evening at leisure and optional short medina visit with a local guide (if pre-arranged).
Tips from local experts:
- If you plan a medina visit, wear comfortable shoes and carry water and sun protection.
- Ask reception for a recommended route for a short, safe evening walk of the ramparts and market.
- Confirm breakfast time and departure details for the next day before turning in.
Day 5
Short drive from Taroudant to Agadir. Explore Agadir Oufella (the kasbah viewpoint), optional Souk Al Hadd, then free time to relax at the beach and seaside promenade.
Breakfast in Taroudant hotel
Breakfast at your riad/hotel before departure to Agadir.
Tips from local experts:
- Have breakfast early if you want more time in Agadir for the beach.
- Pack swimwear and a towel in your daypack for immediate beach access on arrival to Agadir.
- Confirm pickup time with reception to avoid delays.
Drive — Taroudant to Agadir
Short transfer (roughly 1–1.5 hours) from Taroudant to Agadir on the Atlantic coast.
Tips from local experts:
- The coastal air is cooler; take a light layer for the beach breeze.
- Ask the driver about a short stop at viewpoint(s) on the approach to Agadir.
- If you prefer less walking, the main beach promenade has easy pedestrian access and cafés.
Visit — Agadir Oufella (the Kasbah viewpoint) and optional Souk Al Hadd
Short visit to the Agadir Oufella viewpoint for coastal views; Souk Al Hadd is an optional market stop if wished.
Tips from local experts:
- The climb to Agadir Oufella is uphill; there is a short walk from the parking/view area.
- Souk Al Hadd is busiest mid-morning — keep an eye on personal items in crowded areas.
- Bring sunscreen and water for the viewpoint; exposure to sun is direct.
Afternoon — Agadir beach free time
Relax on the beach or promenade; optional water-sport activities available locally (not included).
Tips from local experts:
- Public beaches have lifeguards in season; follow local flags and instructions when swimming.
- Shaded beach umbrellas and loungers are available for rent along the main beachfront.
- Local seafood restaurants line the promenade — check with your driver for trusted options.
Overnight — Hotel / Riad in Agadir
Evening check-in and overnight in Agadir.
Tips from local experts:
- If you plan to eat out, ask reception for recommended seafood restaurants along the promenade.
- Confirm the next morning’s pickup time with reception to ensure a timely departure.
- Keep valuables secured in the hotel safe while at the beach.
Day 6
Coastal drive from Agadir to Essaouira passing small coastal villages and argan groves; arrive Essaouira for seafood and beach time.
Breakfast in Agadir hotel
Breakfast at the hotel before departure toward Essaouira via the coastal route.
Tips from local experts:
- Grab a light breakfast if you want more time in Essaouira for walking the ramparts.
- Pack a windbreaker — coastal winds increase approaching Essaouira.
- Take any beach items you want for arrival as luggage access may be limited during stops.
Drive — Agadir to Essaouira along the coastal route
Enjoy scenic coastal and rural views en route, with optional short stops at argan groves or village viewpoints.
Tips from local experts:
- Plan for a roughly 3–4 hour drive with a couple of short stops for photos and comfort breaks.
- Argan trees are common along this route; if stopping at a cooperative, confirm opening hours in advance.
- Carry small change for restroom stops or local purchases en route.
Arrival — Essaouira: medina, port and seafood
Free time to explore Essaouira’s medina, seaside ramparts and port; recommended to try local seafood at the port-side restaurants.
Tips from local experts:
- Essaouira’s medina is compact and largely stroller-friendly compared with inland medinas; comfortable shoes are still advised.
- At the fish market, choose your catch then have it prepared at a nearby restaurant — confirm the preparation price first.
- Winds can be strong on the beach; secure hats and loose items during exploration.
Overnight — Hotel / Riad in Essaouira
Check in to a riad or hotel in Essaouira and overnight.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a room with a view of the medina or sea if available for a memorable evening.
- Check dinner options with reception — the medina has many small restaurants with fresh local seafood.
- Store valuables in the room safe before heading out for evening strolls.
Day 7
Depart Essaouira mid-morning toward Marrakech. Option to stop at an argan cooperative en route. Arrival in Marrakech with free time to visit key historic sites in the medina.
Breakfast in Essaouira hotel
Breakfast at the hotel before departure to Marrakech (departure around 09:00 as described).
Tips from local experts:
- Check-out times vary — confirm with your riad if you need a later checkout or luggage storage.
- Pack any purchases from Essaouira safely for the road back to Marrakech.
- If you plan to visit gardens in Marrakech, keep insect repellent handy for shaded areas.
Drive — Essaouira to Marrakech (with optional argan cooperative stop)
Depart around 09:00 for Marrakech. There is an opportunity to stop at an argan oil cooperative and observe argan trees and local cooperatives if desired.
Tips from local experts:
- If you want the cooperative stop, let the driver know in advance to include the extra 30–45 minutes.
- At cooperatives, purchases are common; inspect packaging and ask about ingredients if you have allergies.
- Roadside cooperative stalls vary — prefer established cooperatives where women’s groups produce the oil.
Arrival — Marrakech: free time for key sites (Koutoubia, Jemaa el-Fna, Majorelle gardens etc.)
Arrive in Marrakech with time to visit the main historic sites and the Jemaa el-Fna main square (sites listed as suggestions; entrance fees/visits optional).
Tips from local experts:
- Major sites have set opening hours—prioritize what you most want to see and check opening times in advance.
- Jemaa el-Fna is busiest at sunset; beware of pickpockets in crowded squares and keep belongings close.
- If visiting Majorelle Gardens, pre-booking reduces waiting time, especially in high season.
Overnight — Hotel / Riad in Marrakech
Evening check-in and overnight in Marrakech.
Tips from local experts:
- If you want rooftop dining, request recommendations from reception for terraces over the medina.
- Confirm your departure transfer details for the following day if you have an early flight.
- Consider a short evening stroll through the medina with a local guide if you want an orientation.
Day 8
Breakfast at your Marrakech hotel/riad and transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport timed to your flight schedule for departure.
Breakfast in Marrakech hotel
Breakfast served at the riad/hotel before departure.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm the required airport arrival time with your airline and inform reception for appropriate pickup timing.
- If your flight is early, request an earlier breakfast or packed breakfast the evening before.
- Double-check passports, boarding passes and any COVID or travel documents required for departure.
Transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport
Private transfer from your hotel/riad in Marrakech to Marrakech Menara Airport timed to your outbound flight.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow extra time for medina traffic and limited vehicle access near riads when planning for airport transfer.
- Confirm your flight time with the driver and reception at least the night before departure.
- Keep boarding passes and passports easily accessible for a smooth check-in at the airport.
If required — Overnight (post-departure support)
If your travel schedule requires, an additional overnight in Marrakech can be arranged at your hotel/riad (subject to prior arrangement).
Tips from local experts:
- If you request a late checkout or extra night, notify reception as soon as possible to confirm availability.
- Keep an eye on luggage collection times if your room is vacated but you remain at the property for a late flight.
- For early departures, ask for a packed breakfast the evening before to save time in the morning.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 8 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 11 |
| Restaurants | 8 |
| Total Activities | 22 |
| Total Places | 22 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Hotel, Meal, Attraction, Experience, Outdoor, Neighborhood, Culture |
