Updated Guide: Southern Morocco Road Trip (January 2026)
Escape the tourist crowds of northern Morocco with a self-drive adventure along the wild Atlantic coast and into the dramatic Anti-Atlas Mountains. This off-beaten-path route offers rugged beaches, Spanish colonial towns, painted rocks, and optional Sahara extension—all drivable or via grand taxis.
Sidi Ifni – Misty, laid-back coastal gem with Art Deco vibes.
Driving Tips (2026)
- Roads are generally good; main highways well-maintained.
- Police checkpoints frequent—drive defensively, avoid night driving.
- Honking is communication; lines optional in cities.
- Fuel widely available; use apps like Maps.me offline.
- Rental: ~$30–50/day via Discover Cars or local agencies. IDP recommended; full insurance essential.
Currency: 1 USD ≈ 9.12 MAD (Jan 2026). ATMs common; carry cash for rural areas.
Best Time: Spring (Mar–May) or fall (Sep–Oct) for mild weather (60–80°F). Avoid summer heat/desert extremes.
Core Itinerary (7–10 Days)
Start/end Marrakech. ~1,000km loop.
Marrakech → Aglou Plage (4–5hrs): Toll highway fast; coastal via Essaouira scenic. Relaxed beach stop.
Aglou → Sidi Ifni (1–2hrs): Cliff-hugging drive; stunning views. Chill town with Spanish architecture.
Legzira Beach (10min from Sidi Ifni): Iconic red rock arch (one remains post-2016 collapse; accessible low tide).
Sidi Ifni → Tafraoute (3–4hrs): Inland to Anti-Atlas. Painted blue rocks, gorges, palm oases.
Sahara Extension (+5–7 Days)
Tafraoute → Taroudant → Ouarzazate (film studios/kasbahs).
Ouarzazate → Merzouga (Erg Chebbi dunes; camel trek/camp).
Merzouga → Tinghir → Aït Benhaddou (UNESCO kasbah).
Aït Benhaddou → Imlil → Marrakech (High Atlas views).
Western Sahara Add-On
Extend south from Sidi Ifni to Laayoune/Dakhla for remote beaches/desert (extra permits/checkpoints).
Budget: $50–100/day (car/fuel/food/lodging). Flexible, scenic, unforgettable—perfect off-grid Morocco!