The city of Marrakech used to be an imperial city in Morocco, brimming with character. Much of it has been preserved today for the world to see. Being the economic centre of Morocco, there is much to explore in Marrakech. From mosques to palaces and from markets to gardens, Marrakech will not disappoint you. If visiting Morocco with less time in hand, you can plan a trip to this city, which offers you day-long picnics to happening tourist destinations. All that is required is that there should be a group of at least two people for the trip. One might even get to travel at discounted prices. Also, there are a wide variety of Sahara desert trips from Marrakech on a daily basis. All these trips are filled with adventure and excitement, thus making them a once in a lifetime experience. So here are a few highlights of the day trips:
Atlas Mountains – This destination is a one-and-a-half hour drive south towards Moulay Brahim Gorges in Asni. A weekly market takes place here on every Saturday. Situated on the upper level foothills of the Atlas Mountains is a place called Imlil, which is the next destination of this picnic. This further leads to the main trailhead to Mt. Toubkal and other valleys. If you still have the energy to go further out, there is a hike towards the south of Berber village of Aroumd, hamlets of Ait Suka, up and down the stark slopes Arga Imoula, the Toubkal Massif along with Adrar Adj, Jbels Aguelzim, and the Aksouâl.
Kasbah Ait Benhaddou – In this adventure, the group experiences the High Atlas Mountains as well as the Tizi-n-Tichka pass, which is the highest in Africa. While reaching the other side, the mountains the landscapes change suddenly, turning to semi-arid. Here, one can enjoy the unique Kasbah architecture that makes the traditional houses very suitable for the climatic conditions of the area. The next destination is the ruins of Telouet Kasbah, which was owned by the Glaoui family who were said to be the Lords of the Atlas. The group then takes lunch at Ait Benhaddou. Post lunch, the last destination is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Benhaddou, which has served as a backdrop for a large number of Hollywood blockbusters. The group then returns to Marrakech.
Ouzoud Waterfalls – Ouzoud waterfalls are the highest waterfalls of Morocco and are situated in the middle of the Atlas section, which is quite close to Azilal city. The group takes a guided tour around the waterfalls here. This is where the excursion ends, and the group is taken for lunch before returning to Marrakech.
Taking a trip to any of these destinations is quite exciting and the experience of a lifetime. These day-trips can turn out to be a great idea if the duration of stay is less than two days, or if one just plans an outing with family or friends on an off day from work.
About the Author
This article has been written by Mustapha Bouinbaden; an experienced mountain guide and owner of a travel firm, Desert Trips Morocco. Born in the village of Imlil, he pursued his B.A from the Cady Ayyad University in Marrakech. He is also a graduate of the Mountain Guide School in Tabant (CFAMM) and has been working in the field of tourism since 2005.
