8-day road trip starting from Agadir
by Ponturio
Translated into English.
Original post
Hi everyone!
I’m heading to Morocco for a full 8 days in early November—it’s my first time visiting. I’m traveling solo and arrive in Agadir on Sunday at 10 PM.
I plan to rent a car to get around.
I’m reaching out to get your advice so I can plan my trip as well as possible...
Here are my questions:
1 - Given my late arrival, is it better to stay overnight in Agadir for the first night? If so, do you have any hotel recommendations, and is transportation easy to arrange at that hour?
2 - Do you have any trusted rental car companies to recommend in Agadir?
3 - For 7 days, here’s the route I’ve planned: Agadir → Taroudant → Taliouine → Tafraoute → Tiznit → Agadir. Does this route seem good (not too short, not too long, any spots worth adding?), considering I enjoy driving?
4 - Should I book my accommodations in advance?
Thanks in advance for your recommendations! I hope these questions aren’t too repetitive compared to what’s already been asked on the forum.
Sébastien
Hello,
Given the arrival time, is it better to stay and sleep in Agadir for the first night?
Yes, obviously.
If so, do you have any hotel ideas, and is the transfer easy at that time?
The transfer is easy—there are plenty of taxis at the airport for every flight arrival. Prices are low, and scams are rare (Agadir taxis use their meters, unlike those in Marrakech). I don’t have a specific hotel address, but you can check Booking or other reservation sites.
Do you have any recommendations for renting a car in Agadir?
A local rental company will have better rates than a big chain. For example, Medloc Maroc. But I’d recommend running a simulation with a search engine like Skyscanner.
For 7 days, here’s the itinerary I’ve planned: Agadir/Taroudant/Taliouine/Tafraoute/Tiznit/Agadir. Does this route seem good (not too short, too long, any places to add)?
That’s about 600 km. It’s doable in terms of distance, but you won’t have much time to enjoy each place. If you like driving and don’t mind unpacking for just one night, it’s fine. I like your route and suggest spending 2 nights in Taroudant 🙂
Should I book my accommodations in advance?
In Morocco, there’s plenty of availability—you’ll always find something. But booking ahead saves time, just make sure you can cancel up to the day before if you change your mind.
I hope these questions aren’t too repetitive compared to others already asked on this forum.
There’s no expiration on questions or bad ones 😉
Given the arrival time, is it better to stay and sleep in Agadir for the first night?
Yes, obviously.
If so, do you have any hotel ideas, and is the transfer easy at that time?
The transfer is easy—there are plenty of taxis at the airport for every flight arrival. Prices are low, and scams are rare (Agadir taxis use their meters, unlike those in Marrakech). I don’t have a specific hotel address, but you can check Booking or other reservation sites.
Do you have any recommendations for renting a car in Agadir?
A local rental company will have better rates than a big chain. For example, Medloc Maroc. But I’d recommend running a simulation with a search engine like Skyscanner.
For 7 days, here’s the itinerary I’ve planned: Agadir/Taroudant/Taliouine/Tafraoute/Tiznit/Agadir. Does this route seem good (not too short, too long, any places to add)?
That’s about 600 km. It’s doable in terms of distance, but you won’t have much time to enjoy each place. If you like driving and don’t mind unpacking for just one night, it’s fine. I like your route and suggest spending 2 nights in Taroudant 🙂
Should I book my accommodations in advance?
In Morocco, there’s plenty of availability—you’ll always find something. But booking ahead saves time, just make sure you can cancel up to the day before if you change your mind.
I hope these questions aren’t too repetitive compared to others already asked on this forum.
There’s no expiration on questions or bad ones 😉
Mes photos sur Flickr:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/153304262@N05/albums
"Le Temps nous égare. Le Temps nous étreint. Le Temps nous est gare. Le Temps nous est train".
Hi there,
Given your arrival time, it’s definitely best to spend the night in Agadir.
If you already have some experience in Morocco, you can pick up the rental car that same evening. Otherwise, it’s better to wait until the next day.
My last rental was with Medloc. No issues at all. I booked directly on their website. A Dacia Logan isn’t much to look at, but it’s perfect for Morocco’s roads, which aren’t always in great shape...
For the itinerary and since you enjoy driving, you could do a route down to Lezgira, then Itch, Amtoudi, Tafraoute, Taroudant, and back.
This route is outlined starting from day 6 in this travel journal:
https://www.myatlas.com/Attila/zigzags-entre-log-anes-et-motobec-anes
For accommodations, I prefer to book in advance. That way, you’re guaranteed a room where you want it, and you don’t waste time searching. The exception is when I can’t find any way to book online or when prices are way too high and I think I can negotiate on the spot. That’s usually in really remote areas...
Given your arrival time, it’s definitely best to spend the night in Agadir.
If you already have some experience in Morocco, you can pick up the rental car that same evening. Otherwise, it’s better to wait until the next day.
My last rental was with Medloc. No issues at all. I booked directly on their website. A Dacia Logan isn’t much to look at, but it’s perfect for Morocco’s roads, which aren’t always in great shape...
For the itinerary and since you enjoy driving, you could do a route down to Lezgira, then Itch, Amtoudi, Tafraoute, Taroudant, and back.
This route is outlined starting from day 6 in this travel journal:
https://www.myatlas.com/Attila/zigzags-entre-log-anes-et-motobec-anes
For accommodations, I prefer to book in advance. That way, you’re guaranteed a room where you want it, and you don’t waste time searching. The exception is when I can’t find any way to book online or when prices are way too high and I think I can negotiate on the spot. That’s usually in really remote areas...
La rue comme gagne-pain : concours de photos amical de septembre 2026
Rubrique Jeux Voyages
C'est le moment de poster vos meilleurs clichés !
On the side of the road, people sometimes pretend to have a breakdown and wave for you to stop. Don’t stop.
Toujours une fois. Au moins.
hi
for accommodation, I recommend Villa du Souss near the airport—it’s a beautiful, quiet family home.
For car rental, we usually go with Rayhane Cars. You can ask them to deliver the vehicle to your accommodation the next morning.
We really like this route: Tiznit, Aglou, Sidi Ifni, Guelmim, and staying at Maison de l’Homme Bleu in the Tighmert oasis. The oasis itself isn’t anything special, but the vibe at this place is amazing.
Then, visiting Amtoudi is a must before heading to Tafraoute. Make sure to include the Afella-Ighir oasis and the Aït Mansour gorges, among other spots. You could also return via Taroudant if you’d like.
have a great trip!
We really like this route: Tiznit, Aglou, Sidi Ifni, Guelmim, and staying at Maison de l’Homme Bleu in the Tighmert oasis. The oasis itself isn’t anything special, but the vibe at this place is amazing.
Then, visiting Amtoudi is a must before heading to Tafraoute. Make sure to include the Afella-Ighir oasis and the Aït Mansour gorges, among other spots. You could also return via Taroudant if you’d like.
have a great trip!
The House of the Blue Man
Amtoudi's granary – you have to climb
The roads of the Anti-Atlas
Aït Mansour Gorges
I checked the medloc Morocco website and they only offer vehicles at 50 euros/day. That seems a bit steep..?
Ugh... those are the new Moroccan prices! It's getting worse and worse... You’ll have to dig around on search engines. Back in 2023, in Marrakech, I found a local rental place, Yacout, who charged us 27 € per day. But I just checked, and they don’t have an office in Agadir 😕
Ugh... those are the new Moroccan prices! It's getting worse and worse... You’ll have to dig around on search engines. Back in 2023, in Marrakech, I found a local rental place, Yacout, who charged us 27 € per day. But I just checked, and they don’t have an office in Agadir 😕
Mes photos sur Flickr:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/153304262@N05/albums
"Le Temps nous égare. Le Temps nous étreint. Le Temps nous est gare. Le Temps nous est train".
Once you're there, don't hesitate to say that a friend of yours got a price of 23 € last year and that some Moroccan friends got the same kind of rate.
You say that’s what you’re doing—either hitchhiking or walking everywhere. Renting a car for a few days, especially if there isn’t much demand, should work out.
No one will rent it out if they’re not making a profit, so no need to worry.
Pretending to walk away or give up can work too. That’s how it is in countries where bargaining is the norm.
In Morocco, one day I got something for half price and was really pleased with myself—until I found out locals were paying half as much again!
Toujours une fois. Au moins.
Looks like there's a surcharge for Agadir...
From Casablanca, it's half the price...
And about thirty in Marrakech.
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In October, from Marrakech, I rented an automatic Dacia Logan for 10 days at a rate of 25 €/day from MEDLOC
Hi there!
I’ve just come back from Morocco!
I rented a vehicle from Rayan Car, which was delivered to me at the airport and picked up again after my trip!
For hotels, I stayed 2 nights in Agadir, not far from the beach, at the Kamal! But there are plenty of options!
Kamal isn’t very expensive and has a lovely pool!
No need to go through Booking or anything like that—it’s cheaper!
I called a day or two before!
Taroudant is a pretty town, but the ramparts are starting to fall into disrepair, maybe due to the 2023 earthquake!
Don’t forget to buy saffron in Taliouine!
4 € per gram at the cooperative!
If you want argan oil, avoid the cooperatives—it’s way overpriced!
I bought a liter in Tafraout for 45 €!
At a shop (Ahmed Moussa’s brother’s place, the babouche merchant)
Great oil!
Have a great trip!
francia
le mérite d'un homme réside dans sa connaissance et dans ses actes et non point dans la couleur de sa peau ou de sa religion!
Khalil Gibran
I bought a liter in Tafraout for 45 euros
Hey! You mean 45 dirhams, right?
Hey! You mean 45 dirhams, right?
Mes photos sur Flickr:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/153304262@N05/albums
"Le Temps nous égare. Le Temps nous étreint. Le Temps nous est gare. Le Temps nous est train".
hi there!
45 DH, that’s 4.50 €!
No, it’s actually 45 €! That’s the cheapest I’ve found!
At the cooperatives, it’s 80 € per liter!
You can find it along the road between Agadir and Essaouira!
A lot of argan trees have died because of the drought!
Prices are skyrocketing!
have a great day
francia
le mérite d'un homme réside dans sa connaissance et dans ses actes et non point dans la couleur de sa peau ou de sa religion!
Khalil Gibran
Once it became known that the product has many benefits, the price went up. This isn’t recent. There’s a lot of work involved, much of it handmade.
It’s great for you, Kate—the argan has anti-aging properties ;P
Toujours une fois. Au moins.
Good for you, Kate, argan has anti-aging benefits 😛
🏴☠️😛
🏴☠️😛
Mes photos sur Flickr:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/153304262@N05/albums
"Le Temps nous égare. Le Temps nous étreint. Le Temps nous est gare. Le Temps nous est train".
I’ll try to answer as kindly as possible...... I’ll probably fail.
No, no, you didn’t fail. 🙂 Clarity, sadness, anger... disillusionment... Facing the world as it is... sometimes? More and more often?
Roaming the planet is no longer an extraordinary adventure. While our eyes seek and embrace the change of scenery, our suitcases—perhaps unknowingly, perhaps because we’re too well-informed?—carry everything needed to keep our habits, our way of doing or being, from being disrupted by those of these foreign places we seem so eager to experience.
No, no, you didn’t fail. 🙂 Clarity, sadness, anger... disillusionment... Facing the world as it is... sometimes? More and more often?
Roaming the planet is no longer an extraordinary adventure. While our eyes seek and embrace the change of scenery, our suitcases—perhaps unknowingly, perhaps because we’re too well-informed?—carry everything needed to keep our habits, our way of doing or being, from being disrupted by those of these foreign places we seem so eager to experience.
Hi,
I understand your "anger"—I was shocked myself when I saw how stingy some people can be!
I traveled with friends, and some just don’t get that 10 DH is one euro!
The issue for them is also not knowing the prices! In France, you have price tags, and usually, you don’t haggle!
But in Morocco, people call out to you, tell you it’s cheap, and you negotiate—it’s not in our habits!
When you say no and the seller insists, it can get annoying sometimes!
I remember once spending 2 hours with a rug seller—the patience he had, all the tea we drank, the chit-chat, the laughs... I didn’t buy anything and left with big smiles!
But that’s not the case everywhere! That’s why I don’t go to Marrakech anymore!
For car rentals, I paid 30 € per day, the same price as 8 years ago, so very reasonable!
Argan oil was 80 € in cooperatives (even where there are no argan trees), and I said no!
I found some for 45 € in Tafraout at a friend’s shop, but 60 € on the roadside is still expensive!
Even though the drought has destroyed many argan trees between Agadir and Essaouira!
After all, it’s a choice, like all luxury products!
In 2018, I paid 20 € per liter!
Plus, it’s no longer women cracking the nuts but machines!
Behind all this trade, there are people stuffing their pockets—often not even Moroccans!
I stayed in the south of the Atlas and found very decent accommodations at low prices!
I would never have helped myself to the fridge!
But I wasn’t in guesthouses!
Overall, it was a very positive trip for me—the rain had just fallen abundantly, nature was turning green, which was great for some but tragic for others who lost family (near Tata) or their homes (in Amtoudi), for example!
To make up for others’ stinginess, I had a nice fund to help people in villages above Taroudant who received no aid!
A lot of supplies meant to help got stuck in the lower valleys, taken by corrupt Moroccans!
Nothing is all bad or all good, unfortunately!
Have a great day!
francia
le mérite d'un homme réside dans sa connaissance et dans ses actes et non point dans la couleur de sa peau ou de sa religion!
Khalil Gibran
Since you’re asking me directly, I’ll answer you 🙂
I’ve been to Morocco about fifteen times, and you don’t know who I am or how I travel, so I don’t recognize myself in the portraits you paint—those of the "cheapskate" travelers you encounter. I know what 10 MAD represents, and I’m aware of the hourly minimum wage in Morocco. If a guesthouse in the middle of nowhere went from 15 € a night in 2020 to 25 € in 2024, I find that completely normal. But a coffee for 20 MAD in the Marrakech medina, a fish dish for 20 € in Essaouira, a car rental for 45 €, or houses being sold at "French" prices—those are practices that aren’t necessarily moving in the right direction.
I was simply pointing out a fact, often an abuse. But excessive price hikes due to overtourism end up penalizing Moroccans themselves.
By the way, the price of olive oil has skyrocketed! Nearly 150 MAD per liter. I still know where to find it cheaper—I won’t share the address, though.
I see you’re also looking for "great tips." It’s only human 😕
I’ve been to Morocco about fifteen times, and you don’t know who I am or how I travel, so I don’t recognize myself in the portraits you paint—those of the "cheapskate" travelers you encounter. I know what 10 MAD represents, and I’m aware of the hourly minimum wage in Morocco. If a guesthouse in the middle of nowhere went from 15 € a night in 2020 to 25 € in 2024, I find that completely normal. But a coffee for 20 MAD in the Marrakech medina, a fish dish for 20 € in Essaouira, a car rental for 45 €, or houses being sold at "French" prices—those are practices that aren’t necessarily moving in the right direction.
I was simply pointing out a fact, often an abuse. But excessive price hikes due to overtourism end up penalizing Moroccans themselves.
By the way, the price of olive oil has skyrocketed! Nearly 150 MAD per liter. I still know where to find it cheaper—I won’t share the address, though.
I see you’re also looking for "great tips." It’s only human 😕
Mes photos sur Flickr:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/153304262@N05/albums
"Le Temps nous égare. Le Temps nous étreint. Le Temps nous est gare. Le Temps nous est train".
After COVID, tourist prices skyrocketed pretty much everywhere in the world, especially for car rentals.
It’s not unique to Morocco.
Since then, prices have been slowly coming down.
What *is* unique to Morocco—but it’s kind of the same in other developing countries—is that the cost of renting a car there can actually be more expensive than in developed countries.
I guess vehicles cost a lot more to buy when there are fewer potential buyers.
For the rest, French travelers are used to everything being clearly priced.
If the kitchen is free-access with products, they assume it’s like in Airbnbs where oil, etc., are provided. You have to tell them that’s not the case.
There are also some thoughtless people...
As for baggage porters, I hate that. Either it requires a lot of effort and it’s fair to give something (but how much??? That’s the question the person asks themselves. Without an answer, they’d rather sweat blood than give too much or too little.) Or it’s just going up a flight of stairs, and I can do that myself—I don’t need slaves...
Since then, prices have been slowly coming down.
What *is* unique to Morocco—but it’s kind of the same in other developing countries—is that the cost of renting a car there can actually be more expensive than in developed countries.
I guess vehicles cost a lot more to buy when there are fewer potential buyers.
For the rest, French travelers are used to everything being clearly priced.
If the kitchen is free-access with products, they assume it’s like in Airbnbs where oil, etc., are provided. You have to tell them that’s not the case.
There are also some thoughtless people...
As for baggage porters, I hate that. Either it requires a lot of effort and it’s fair to give something (but how much??? That’s the question the person asks themselves. Without an answer, they’d rather sweat blood than give too much or too little.) Or it’s just going up a flight of stairs, and I can do that myself—I don’t need slaves...
La rue comme gagne-pain : concours de photos amical de septembre 2026
Rubrique Jeux Voyages
C'est le moment de poster vos meilleurs clichés !
On the side of the road, people sometimes pretend to have a breakdown and wave you down. Don’t stop.
Personally, I’d really hope someone would stop if I was *actually* broken down. If you do stop and it’s a "scam," what’s the worst that could happen? Getting offered tea and makrouds? That’s exactly what happened to me once—the "good Samaritan" offered me tea, I had seconds, and even asked for more makrouds!
Personally, I’d really hope someone would stop if I was *actually* broken down. If you do stop and it’s a "scam," what’s the worst that could happen? Getting offered tea and makrouds? That’s exactly what happened to me once—the "good Samaritan" offered me tea, I had seconds, and even asked for more makrouds!
Getting tea and makrouds offered to you?
Yeah, served in a shop 😉
Yeah, served in a shop 😉
Mes photos sur Flickr:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/153304262@N05/albums
"Le Temps nous égare. Le Temps nous étreint. Le Temps nous est gare. Le Temps nous est train".
Right at the carpet dealer’s... He had his work cut out for him—I always wanted to see the one buried at the bottom of the pile 😏
My kitchen is separate. On my floor. I can't be any clearer.
So your guests are boorish, have no manners, and you have to lock the private part of your accommodation. (Or padlock the fridge...)
I would never go snooping around someone's place.
At my place, it’s not a staircase you have to climb. I’m a 5- to 10-minute walk away, with a path that’s not easy to find.
Yeah, that’s often the case in Morocco.
After that, if the place is properly listed on Google Maps or you provide GPS coordinates, people should be able to find it.
(And your guests, who seem rather young, should be able to carry their own stuff...)
If it’s really impossible to find, I don’t think the guest should have to suffer the consequences.
My guesthouse is full, pretty much every day—the only reason is the low price. My neighbor, who rents apartments for 70 euros a night, is empty.
If your neighbor’s value for money was good, he’d have guests too. There are clients for every budget. Not everyone is looking for the same thing.
But if his apartments don’t offer any added value compared to what you’re offering...
What? No hairdryer? Damn, I have to go buy one... What? No heating? I tell everyone about it. What? Can’t we get couscous at midnight? What? There’s no nightclub in Ourika? Well, no—look at the stars, spin around, sing, and there’s your nightclub!
I wonder if raising your prices might help you avoid the cheapskates and regain some peace of mind!
How much do you want to pay for your coffee?
Globalization can work against Morocco. Some people aren’t looking to visit a country but just to go on vacation as cheaply as possible.
Albania is competition, Portugal could be too (less than one euro for a coffee there...), and other Eastern European countries.
I’m not saying it’s a good thing. It’s just an observation.
So your guests are boorish, have no manners, and you have to lock the private part of your accommodation. (Or padlock the fridge...)
I would never go snooping around someone's place.
At my place, it’s not a staircase you have to climb. I’m a 5- to 10-minute walk away, with a path that’s not easy to find.
Yeah, that’s often the case in Morocco.
After that, if the place is properly listed on Google Maps or you provide GPS coordinates, people should be able to find it.
(And your guests, who seem rather young, should be able to carry their own stuff...)
If it’s really impossible to find, I don’t think the guest should have to suffer the consequences.
My guesthouse is full, pretty much every day—the only reason is the low price. My neighbor, who rents apartments for 70 euros a night, is empty.
If your neighbor’s value for money was good, he’d have guests too. There are clients for every budget. Not everyone is looking for the same thing.
But if his apartments don’t offer any added value compared to what you’re offering...
What? No hairdryer? Damn, I have to go buy one... What? No heating? I tell everyone about it. What? Can’t we get couscous at midnight? What? There’s no nightclub in Ourika? Well, no—look at the stars, spin around, sing, and there’s your nightclub!
I wonder if raising your prices might help you avoid the cheapskates and regain some peace of mind!
How much do you want to pay for your coffee?
Globalization can work against Morocco. Some people aren’t looking to visit a country but just to go on vacation as cheaply as possible.
Albania is competition, Portugal could be too (less than one euro for a coffee there...), and other Eastern European countries.
I’m not saying it’s a good thing. It’s just an observation.
La rue comme gagne-pain : concours de photos amical de septembre 2026
Rubrique Jeux Voyages
C'est le moment de poster vos meilleurs clichés !
Hello,
Well no, it's not normal to wait until midnight! You should just warn your clients. I rented out my place on AIRBNB for 4 years, and I never accepted that.
Anyway, I wanted to stay with you during a future trip... so I'll go elsewhere since I've been on this forum since 2006.
You may be upset, but
It's up to you to set boundaries with your clients.
Just to clarify, I was married to a Moroccan man and lived in Morocco.
So I know it pretty well.
Have a good evening,
Francia
le mérite d'un homme réside dans sa connaissance et dans ses actes et non point dans la couleur de sa peau ou de sa religion!
Khalil Gibran
I think you should ask the managers of this site to remove your recent posts because they’re really giving you some bad publicity.
Even if it might have felt good to get everything off your chest.
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Hi there,
Here’s a first draft for a 14-night itinerary during the Christmas break with two teens. We’re especially fond of hiking (nothing too extreme, though), which is why we’re drawn to the south.
- Marrakech (2 nights) - Aït Ben Haddou (1 night) - Dadès (3 nights, though we’re thinking of doing a day trip to the Todra Gorge on one of those days) - M'hamid (1 night) - Erg Chigaga (1 night) - 4 nights to slot in - Marrakech (2 nights)
Okay, I realize this involves a lot of driving, and we’re still debating the return route since we’d like to avoid the Tichka Pass in January, but going through Taroudant seems like it would add *a lot* of time. 😕
If you’ve got other suggestions for an itinerary with great hikes, I’m all ears!
Also, the 4 nights total in MRK isn’t really our preference, but since we’re arriving/departing super early from overseas, we’d like to be a bit rested before the long flight.
Another question: For hikes (aside from the desert one), is it better to have a guide with us, or are the trails well-marked?
Thanks for your help!
Here’s a first draft for a 14-night itinerary during the Christmas break with two teens. We’re especially fond of hiking (nothing too extreme, though), which is why we’re drawn to the south.
- Marrakech (2 nights) - Aït Ben Haddou (1 night) - Dadès (3 nights, though we’re thinking of doing a day trip to the Todra Gorge on one of those days) - M'hamid (1 night) - Erg Chigaga (1 night) - 4 nights to slot in - Marrakech (2 nights)
Okay, I realize this involves a lot of driving, and we’re still debating the return route since we’d like to avoid the Tichka Pass in January, but going through Taroudant seems like it would add *a lot* of time. 😕
If you’ve got other suggestions for an itinerary with great hikes, I’m all ears!
Also, the 4 nights total in MRK isn’t really our preference, but since we’re arriving/departing super early from overseas, we’d like to be a bit rested before the long flight.
Another question: For hikes (aside from the desert one), is it better to have a guide with us, or are the trails well-marked?
Thanks for your help!
Hi everyone,
Our trip to Morocco will be from November 3 to 17, in the High Atlas.
Basically, our route would be:
Marrakech - Aït Benhaddou
Skoura - Tinghir - Merzouga
Merzouga via the N12 to Zagora
Zagora - Draa Valley - Marrakech
It seems to be the low season, so I’d love to travel without having to book accommodations in advance. In other countries, pre-booking has restricted us and kept us from visiting unplanned sites. Freedom is important to us, but I’d also like to avoid arriving somewhere and finding nothing available. What do you recommend? Book ahead or not? Your advice is always helpful, and thanks to anyone who can shed some light on this for me. Roberto
It seems to be the low season, so I’d love to travel without having to book accommodations in advance. In other countries, pre-booking has restricted us and kept us from visiting unplanned sites. Freedom is important to us, but I’d also like to avoid arriving somewhere and finding nothing available. What do you recommend? Book ahead or not? Your advice is always helpful, and thanks to anyone who can shed some light on this for me. Roberto
Hello to all Morocco lovers,
First of all: a big thank you to everyone whose insightful, funny, lively, and exotic posts we’ve enjoyed. It’s a joy to find such lovely writers on this forum, who’ve given me tons of ideas and addresses to prepare our trip.
Our plan: to explore Morocco from November 2nd to December 4th. We’ll have our own vehicle (a 2011 Renault Grand Scenic, in great condition), shipped with us from Sète to Tanger Med. Returning from Nador.
Our profile: 75 and 62 years young, so old but happy to be, in very good health. Seasoned travelers—it’s practically our whole life. Lovers of beautiful landscapes, historic sites, fine craftsmanship, and road trips. This will be my 3rd trip to Morocco, but the first two were 20 and 17 years ago. I’ve never been north of the Essaouira-Marrakech line (though I’ve gone further south). As for my husband, a lifelong expat including in Muslim countries, it’s his first time in Morocco.
He’s the one driving. He’s very experienced, cautious, not necessarily fast, but used to driving in all conditions (and countries, including the most creative on the road). But I don’t want to tire him out, and he no longer drives at night (and we’ll be there in November).
I’ve decided to show him a bit of everything by taking a road trip along beautiful backroads, with daily distances averaging 180-200 km (except on highways, which will be rare), regularly broken up by rest days. I’m counting on a speed of 40-50 km/h, plus stops/visits along the way.
Since I’ve read so many posts, I’ve narrowed it down to some very specific questions.
1) Coming directly from Rabat via the highway, we’d prefer to skip Marrakech*. Still, we’ll need to sleep somewhere nearby. We’ll head toward Skoura the next day. Does anyone have a well-located address for this route, possibly east of Marrakech? Ideally, we’re looking for a small town, easy parking, clean accommodation (minimum) with average comfort (or better if available), a bit heated, and if possible, pretty and/or nice—but above all, a place to sleep well, wash with lukewarm (ideally hot) water, and have a decent dinner.
(*Explanation for the "no-go" in Marrakech: it’s a shame, because there are truly beautiful things in this city, but I think the vibe won’t suit us—it’s an understatement for "it’ll put us off" / "make us flee" / "traumatize us." Not because it’s too crowded and we want to stand out from tourists (we’re part of them), but because of forced henna on your hand, or spending 10 minutes every quarter-hour saying "no thank you" to a "guide" who’s as much a guide as I am a trapeze artist. Knowing us, it’ll wear us down. The country is vast and beautiful, and our time too short to waste our memories just days after arriving. And I don’t want to ruin things for my peaceful husband, or he’ll demand we turn back—and Sète in November isn’t exactly thrilling either.)
2) Which route to Skoura (in 2 days)? I see two options: either via the Tichka Pass, with a night in Telouet before reaching Skoura, or via the R307/N23 from Demnate, with a night near Megdaz before descending to Skoura. So: Tichka Pass or R307/N23? I have a slight (big) preference for the second option, even though I know the other route is very beautiful too. Of course, before deciding, we’ll check the weather and the current state of the R307/N23—does anyone know where to get info on the road conditions? But even assuming the road is "passable," is it a bit too tough in itself? In short, is it reasonable? If a kind soul could share their experience, a thousand thanks in advance.
That’s all I’ve written for now. I’ll save the other questions for later posts. Thanks again to those who had the patience to read this and to those who can respond. Happy Sunday to all!
Fran
First of all: a big thank you to everyone whose insightful, funny, lively, and exotic posts we’ve enjoyed. It’s a joy to find such lovely writers on this forum, who’ve given me tons of ideas and addresses to prepare our trip.
Our plan: to explore Morocco from November 2nd to December 4th. We’ll have our own vehicle (a 2011 Renault Grand Scenic, in great condition), shipped with us from Sète to Tanger Med. Returning from Nador.
Our profile: 75 and 62 years young, so old but happy to be, in very good health. Seasoned travelers—it’s practically our whole life. Lovers of beautiful landscapes, historic sites, fine craftsmanship, and road trips. This will be my 3rd trip to Morocco, but the first two were 20 and 17 years ago. I’ve never been north of the Essaouira-Marrakech line (though I’ve gone further south). As for my husband, a lifelong expat including in Muslim countries, it’s his first time in Morocco.
He’s the one driving. He’s very experienced, cautious, not necessarily fast, but used to driving in all conditions (and countries, including the most creative on the road). But I don’t want to tire him out, and he no longer drives at night (and we’ll be there in November).
I’ve decided to show him a bit of everything by taking a road trip along beautiful backroads, with daily distances averaging 180-200 km (except on highways, which will be rare), regularly broken up by rest days. I’m counting on a speed of 40-50 km/h, plus stops/visits along the way.
Since I’ve read so many posts, I’ve narrowed it down to some very specific questions.
1) Coming directly from Rabat via the highway, we’d prefer to skip Marrakech*. Still, we’ll need to sleep somewhere nearby. We’ll head toward Skoura the next day. Does anyone have a well-located address for this route, possibly east of Marrakech? Ideally, we’re looking for a small town, easy parking, clean accommodation (minimum) with average comfort (or better if available), a bit heated, and if possible, pretty and/or nice—but above all, a place to sleep well, wash with lukewarm (ideally hot) water, and have a decent dinner.
(*Explanation for the "no-go" in Marrakech: it’s a shame, because there are truly beautiful things in this city, but I think the vibe won’t suit us—it’s an understatement for "it’ll put us off" / "make us flee" / "traumatize us." Not because it’s too crowded and we want to stand out from tourists (we’re part of them), but because of forced henna on your hand, or spending 10 minutes every quarter-hour saying "no thank you" to a "guide" who’s as much a guide as I am a trapeze artist. Knowing us, it’ll wear us down. The country is vast and beautiful, and our time too short to waste our memories just days after arriving. And I don’t want to ruin things for my peaceful husband, or he’ll demand we turn back—and Sète in November isn’t exactly thrilling either.)
2) Which route to Skoura (in 2 days)? I see two options: either via the Tichka Pass, with a night in Telouet before reaching Skoura, or via the R307/N23 from Demnate, with a night near Megdaz before descending to Skoura. So: Tichka Pass or R307/N23? I have a slight (big) preference for the second option, even though I know the other route is very beautiful too. Of course, before deciding, we’ll check the weather and the current state of the R307/N23—does anyone know where to get info on the road conditions? But even assuming the road is "passable," is it a bit too tough in itself? In short, is it reasonable? If a kind soul could share their experience, a thousand thanks in advance.
That’s all I’ve written for now. I’ll save the other questions for later posts. Thanks again to those who had the patience to read this and to those who can respond. Happy Sunday to all!
Fran
hi there,
I’m just a few days away from my trip to Marrakech—I’m leaving from November 13th to 20th and bringing my parents along! I’d love to plan my stay as best as I can, and I’m sure the forum crew can help. So, here are my questions:
- Where’s the best place to exchange money without getting ripped off? The owner of the riad where we’re staying told us to avoid doing it at the airport because it’s really expensive and to do it in the medina instead, near Jemaa el-Fna square.
- Which traditional hammams do you recommend that are reasonably priced? How much should we budget for one? That’ll help me plan my expenses.
- What are some nice restaurants in the medina?
- I’d also like to know roughly how much to expect for a tea, a meal, a taxi, a djellaba, and babouches. I don’t want to get overcharged and would like to know what to expect.
- What are the must-do activities and places to visit?
Thanks in advance for your help....
I’m just a few days away from my trip to Marrakech—I’m leaving from November 13th to 20th and bringing my parents along! I’d love to plan my stay as best as I can, and I’m sure the forum crew can help. So, here are my questions:
- Where’s the best place to exchange money without getting ripped off? The owner of the riad where we’re staying told us to avoid doing it at the airport because it’s really expensive and to do it in the medina instead, near Jemaa el-Fna square.
- Which traditional hammams do you recommend that are reasonably priced? How much should we budget for one? That’ll help me plan my expenses.
- What are some nice restaurants in the medina?
- I’d also like to know roughly how much to expect for a tea, a meal, a taxi, a djellaba, and babouches. I don’t want to get overcharged and would like to know what to expect.
- What are the must-do activities and places to visit?
Thanks in advance for your help....
Hi
I’d like to know if the road between Msemrir and Tamttatouchte is doable with a standard car (Dacia Logan).
Thanks a lot
hi,
I’m looking for a country to visit for 10 days in February.
What do you recommend for a trip with some sunshine, hiking, and sightseeing?
Thanks for your help
Thanks for your help
Hi, I’d like to head to Morocco next week with my car. I’ve looked online at all the different info about the ferry crossing to Tangier, but I’m finding it really expensive. Is there a way to buy tickets in Spain? Or another way to get the Algeciras–Tangier crossing cheaper? Thanks for any tips or info!
Hi there,
We found a guide who offers the trip from M'hamid to a camp (departure at 3 PM, tea, meal, camel ride, overnight stay, breakfast, and return to M'Hamid by 11 AM the next day via the sacred oasis). He quoted us a price of 380 € for April. What do you think of this rate? This might sound like a silly question, but is it common to negotiate the price for this kind of thing (we're booking from France)? It’s still a big part of our travel budget.
Thanks
We found a guide who offers the trip from M'hamid to a camp (departure at 3 PM, tea, meal, camel ride, overnight stay, breakfast, and return to M'Hamid by 11 AM the next day via the sacred oasis). He quoted us a price of 380 € for April. What do you think of this rate? This might sound like a silly question, but is it common to negotiate the price for this kind of thing (we're booking from France)? It’s still a big part of our travel budget.
Thanks
Hi there,
We're planning to visit Egypt between January 25 and February 15, 2027. I looked up the Ramadan dates and found some sites saying it starts on February 8, while others say February 18... Where's the mistake?
Thanks,
Christian
Hi there,
We’re a family of 4 with two boys aged 12 and 10 traveling to Egypt in February.
We’re spending 3 days in Cairo to take our time exploring the city and the sites before heading south.
-Is it necessary to have a guide to visit the GEM? Are audio guides available? -Do you have any contacts for drivers to organize a few transfers (Giza, Saqqara, Airport)? -Do you know a French-speaking guide who’s friendly, family-friendly, and good at making things exciting, with reasonable prices?
Marie
-Is it necessary to have a guide to visit the GEM? Are audio guides available? -Do you have any contacts for drivers to organize a few transfers (Giza, Saqqara, Airport)? -Do you know a French-speaking guide who’s friendly, family-friendly, and good at making things exciting, with reasonable prices?
Marie
Hi there!
With our two teens, we’re heading to Morocco for two weeks at the end of December and beginning of January. It’ll be our first trip that’s more "off the beaten path," even though we’ve visited several countries before. Given the overwhelming amount of info, I’m feeling a bit swamped with the prep this trip requires, and I’ll admit I’m a little lost when it comes to figuring out what’s realistic to visit in two weeks 😕 So, all your tips, personal experiences, and suggestions are more than welcome!
- Which places should we prioritize during this time of year? (I’ve read that some spots are less accessible in winter?) - What’s the best way to get around? (rental car, train, private transport, buses, etc.? — just a heads-up, we’ll have a few suitcases!) - In terms of "safety," are there any areas to avoid? - Any recommendations for reliable local tour companies (beyond the big names like "Get Your Guide") that offer excursions or private transport to help us explore the country? - A doable 2-week itinerary that lets us enjoy the country’s diversity without having to change accommodations every two days?
Thanks so much for your advice!
With our two teens, we’re heading to Morocco for two weeks at the end of December and beginning of January. It’ll be our first trip that’s more "off the beaten path," even though we’ve visited several countries before. Given the overwhelming amount of info, I’m feeling a bit swamped with the prep this trip requires, and I’ll admit I’m a little lost when it comes to figuring out what’s realistic to visit in two weeks 😕 So, all your tips, personal experiences, and suggestions are more than welcome!
- Which places should we prioritize during this time of year? (I’ve read that some spots are less accessible in winter?) - What’s the best way to get around? (rental car, train, private transport, buses, etc.? — just a heads-up, we’ll have a few suitcases!) - In terms of "safety," are there any areas to avoid? - Any recommendations for reliable local tour companies (beyond the big names like "Get Your Guide") that offer excursions or private transport to help us explore the country? - A doable 2-week itinerary that lets us enjoy the country’s diversity without having to change accommodations every two days?
Thanks so much for your advice!
Hi everyone,
I’m planning a trip to the High Atlas in Morocco and have a few questions for you: - Why do so many people recommend avoiding international agencies for car rentals? Can anyone explain why? - Is Booking.com reliable, and has anyone rented a vehicle through their service? There’s a pretty big price difference compared to local Moroccan agencies. - Is there a detailed road map included in the rental car? - Is Google Maps enough to get around the High Atlas? This will be my first trip there.
Thanks so much to anyone who can help with this destination I’ve been dreaming about for years. Have a great evening, Roberto
I’m planning a trip to the High Atlas in Morocco and have a few questions for you: - Why do so many people recommend avoiding international agencies for car rentals? Can anyone explain why? - Is Booking.com reliable, and has anyone rented a vehicle through their service? There’s a pretty big price difference compared to local Moroccan agencies. - Is there a detailed road map included in the rental car? - Is Google Maps enough to get around the High Atlas? This will be my first trip there.
Thanks so much to anyone who can help with this destination I’ve been dreaming about for years. Have a great evening, Roberto
hi, I just wanted to know the exchange rate for euros in Tunisia, thanks
hi there, I’m heading to Tunisia 🙂 from April 27 to May 8 with my family. I’ve read through the various discussions about the country, but I’m still a bit unsure🤪: for currency exchange, I saw on the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs website that withdrawing currency with a bank card from ATMs is limited to 200 TND per week. There are four of us traveling by car, so that might be a bit tight! And it’s a hassle to carry a lot of cash, even if I’m not being paranoid! What do you all recommend?
Cheers,
Laurent.
Hi there,
I was wondering if it’s possible to join a group as a solo traveler with local agencies in Djanet for circuits like Tadrart, Essendilene, Sefar, or Tassili? If you have any agencies to recommend, I’d love to hear about them. I didn’t find any info on the forum. Best,
Fouzi
I was wondering if it’s possible to join a group as a solo traveler with local agencies in Djanet for circuits like Tadrart, Essendilene, Sefar, or Tassili? If you have any agencies to recommend, I’d love to hear about them. I didn’t find any info on the forum. Best,
Fouzi
We're planning a 2-week trip in late February/early March for a road trip in the High Atlas with a rental car, and we'd love to avoid booking our accommodations in advance. Is that doable, easily manageable, or risky (are accommodations available, expensive, or not great)? Thanks for your tips!
Annie
Hi,
This autumn, we’re planning to explore the Oriental region and we’re wondering where the best place to land would be. We’ll have three weeks ahead of us and we’ll be renting a car.
Any tips would be much appreciated. Thanks.
Is there an official website or list of certified Egyptologist guides in Egypt? And most importantly, what are the normal prices for a full day or half day? There’s so much scamming and crazy pricing—depending on who you contact, it can range from simple to quadruple!!!!
Thanks
Hello,
In September, my wife and I, along with another couple, will be traveling to Tunisia and staying at the Sheherasade Hotel near Sousse.
We’d love to hear your recommendations or tips on places to visit, as well as advice on taxis or other transportation options.
Thanks in advance!
Hi there, 🙂
This autumn’s trip should be in Morocco—barring any geopolitical issues between now and then.
After many trips to the south of Fès, I’m giving the north a try.
My plan is roughly to do a road trip loop from Rabat back to Rabat, passing through Asilah, Tangier, Tétouan, Chefchaouen, Akchour, Fès, Meknès, and Volubilis.
That’s a lot of cities. Probably a bit too many for our taste—we usually prefer more isolated spots...
So I’m looking for tips on little backroads, secluded beaches, half-day hikes, and offbeat places.
If you’ve also got recommendations for accommodation... (We’re open to splurging over 100 € if it’s a real favorite.)
Feel free to think outside the box—this is an open-ended plan! !😉
Thanks
This autumn’s trip should be in Morocco—barring any geopolitical issues between now and then.
After many trips to the south of Fès, I’m giving the north a try.
My plan is roughly to do a road trip loop from Rabat back to Rabat, passing through Asilah, Tangier, Tétouan, Chefchaouen, Akchour, Fès, Meknès, and Volubilis.
That’s a lot of cities. Probably a bit too many for our taste—we usually prefer more isolated spots...
So I’m looking for tips on little backroads, secluded beaches, half-day hikes, and offbeat places.
If you’ve also got recommendations for accommodation... (We’re open to splurging over 100 € if it’s a real favorite.)
Feel free to think outside the box—this is an open-ended plan! !😉
Thanks
Based on your experiences, do you have a professional to recommend?
Hello,
I’m looking for testimonials from Pieds-Noirs who have recently returned to Algeria.
There can’t be many left after 65 years of the country’s independence.
I’m planning to go back myself soon to reconnect with my roots... before I pass away...
I’ve started making a few pre-bookings for hotels and apartments to rent in Algiers. At first, I received friendly and welcoming responses. Then, when I mentioned I wanted to stay for two or three weeks—maybe even a month—explaining that my trip wouldn’t be strictly touristy but more of a pilgrimage to the places of my childhood, and that it would likely be a very emotional journey, I expected a positive and warm reaction to my approach. Instead, I suddenly stopped getting replies from the three or four people I’d contacted. So now I’m wondering about the reception former Pieds-Noirs can expect...
Anyone here who can share their experience of returning? I specified “recently” because it seems that right now, diplomatic relations between the two governments are extremely tense, not to say hostile... even if Macron claims otherwise...
There can’t be many left after 65 years of the country’s independence.
I’m planning to go back myself soon to reconnect with my roots... before I pass away...
I’ve started making a few pre-bookings for hotels and apartments to rent in Algiers. At first, I received friendly and welcoming responses. Then, when I mentioned I wanted to stay for two or three weeks—maybe even a month—explaining that my trip wouldn’t be strictly touristy but more of a pilgrimage to the places of my childhood, and that it would likely be a very emotional journey, I expected a positive and warm reaction to my approach. Instead, I suddenly stopped getting replies from the three or four people I’d contacted. So now I’m wondering about the reception former Pieds-Noirs can expect...
Anyone here who can share their experience of returning? I specified “recently” because it seems that right now, diplomatic relations between the two governments are extremely tense, not to say hostile... even if Macron claims otherwise...
Hello,
I’m traveling to Algeria from October 27 to November 16, 2026.
I’d love to hear from anyone who’s been through the process about the accommodation attestation required for the visa application:
- Does it need to cover the entire duration of the trip?
- Is this document mandatory for a hotel to rent a room?
- Is it checked during inspections?
- Is a hotel booking (e.g., via Booking.com) sufficient for the visa?
- If so, does it need to be paid in advance?
I plan to visit several cities and do one or more treks with a guide or agency. If you have any contacts you’d recommend, I’d be grateful!
Also, I’d love to share this trip with a companion who’s already done some traveling. We’d organize the journey together, of course.
Thanks for your feedback! Safe travels to all, Dom, Dijon, 64 years old
I plan to visit several cities and do one or more treks with a guide or agency. If you have any contacts you’d recommend, I’d be grateful!
Also, I’d love to share this trip with a companion who’s already done some traveling. We’d organize the journey together, of course.
Thanks for your feedback! Safe travels to all, Dom, Dijon, 64 years old
Hi there,
I’m leaving for Tunisia in five weeks for a full 15-day trip. I’ll be arriving in Monastir and departing from there as well.
I’d like to do a route that’s a bit different from my first stay, which was more focused on cities and culture (Tunis, Sousse, Kairouan, El Jem).
I’ll be getting around by public transport.
I’d like to head south toward Tozeur, and I saw that you can take a *louage* from Monastir to Sbeitla (2h30). I imagine it’s not too complicated to get to Tozeur from there afterward? The issue is the return trip to Monastir and safety in Sbeitla.
If this route seems too complicated, I might opt for Djerba instead, which looks simpler.
Thanks in advance.
I’m leaving for Tunisia in five weeks for a full 15-day trip. I’ll be arriving in Monastir and departing from there as well.
I’d like to do a route that’s a bit different from my first stay, which was more focused on cities and culture (Tunis, Sousse, Kairouan, El Jem).
I’ll be getting around by public transport.
I’d like to head south toward Tozeur, and I saw that you can take a *louage* from Monastir to Sbeitla (2h30). I imagine it’s not too complicated to get to Tozeur from there afterward? The issue is the return trip to Monastir and safety in Sbeitla.
If this route seems too complicated, I might opt for Djerba instead, which looks simpler.
Thanks in advance.
Hi, I'm looking for a taxi from Dakhla airport to downtown Dakhla.
If you know a contact ?????
Hi there,
I’m looking for info about driving a vehicle in Tunisia.
Is it complicated?
Do I need an international driver’s permit?
Thanks for your help
Hi there,
I’m heading to Morocco in September 2026, and part of my trip takes me through Merzouga. I’m looking for a 4x4 driver-guide to explore the area with my partner and me.
Any recommendations?
Have a great day
I’m heading to Morocco in September 2026, and part of my trip takes me through Merzouga. I’m looking for a 4x4 driver-guide to explore the area with my partner and me.
Any recommendations?
Have a great day
It's all in the title.
Thanks in advance
Hi everyone,
Even though I come to Morocco four times a year, it’s been a long time since I’ve made the trip by car. I need to refresh my knowledge! I’ll be traveling in early October. I have a car that’s about 20 years old. The plan is to cross via Algeciras/Ceuta.
A few questions:
1) Does this crossing still exist? If so, do I need to buy the ticket in advance or on the spot? From whom? Any advice is welcome!
2) What documents are required for the car?
3) If anyone is making the trip around the same time, it could be fun to drive together 😊
I know there are experts on this forum.
Thanks in advance
Even though I come to Morocco four times a year, it’s been a long time since I’ve made the trip by car. I need to refresh my knowledge! I’ll be traveling in early October. I have a car that’s about 20 years old. The plan is to cross via Algeciras/Ceuta.
A few questions:
1) Does this crossing still exist? If so, do I need to buy the ticket in advance or on the spot? From whom? Any advice is welcome!
2) What documents are required for the car?
3) If anyone is making the trip around the same time, it could be fun to drive together 😊
I know there are experts on this forum.
Thanks in advance
Hi there,
I’m looking for some friendly recommendations for places to stay in Marrakech for 3 nights in June 2026.
In the meantime, have a great day, everyone! Thanks so much in advance.












