Planning a trip to Morocco? I visited solo and spent five packed days exploring based in Marrakech. I’m sharing everything I learned to help you make the most of your time. This guide covers where to stay (whether you’re on a budget or going for luxury), safety tips especially helpful for solo travelers, and how to get around the city without the stress. I’ll also walk you through exactly how I spent my days exploring the beauty of Morocco, plus the best day trips to take if you want to see waterfalls, the beach, or even the desert. If you’re trying to experience the magic of Morocco on a 5-day trip without wasting time or feeling overwhelmed, you’re in the right place.

Where to Stay

Here’s a breakdown of good places to stay based on your budget. If it’s your first time in Marrakech, staying in or near the medina helps you stay close to most attractions. I stayed in a budget riad in the heart of the Medina near Jemaa el-Fnaa. Make sure to book your accommodation early if you’re going during peak seasons like spring or fall. The good spots go quickly

Budget Options

• Riad Al Youssoufi
   A simple, pretty riad near the medina. Rooms are basic but clean, and the inner courtyard is peaceful. Great for solo travelers or anyone wanting a quiet stay.Around $40 to $55 per night.
  
• Riad Dar Nimbus
   This one is affordable, laid-back, and has a small rooftop and pool. The vibe is friendly, and it’s not too far from the main sights.Around $35 to $50 per night.
  
• Equity Point Hostel
   One of the more social hostels in town. It has a pool, common areas, and a mix of dorms and private rooms. A good choice if you’re traveling solo or want to meet people.Around $20 to $35 per night for a dorm, $50+ for a private room
  
• Madrassa Hostel
   A newer hostel with cool decor, comfy beds, and a community feel. It’s in a good location and well-reviewed for cleanliness and design.Around $25 to $40 per night for a dorm, $45+ for a private room.
  

Mid-Range Spots

• Riad Palais Sebban
   Stylish rooms, a cute pool, and classic Moroccan tilework. It’s close to the medina and offers a mix of comfort and design at a fair price. Around $100 to $130 per night.
  
• Les Jardins de la Médina
   A bit more spacious than your average riad, with gardens, a pool, and a quiet vibe. You’re still close to the center but it feels more relaxed.Around $120 to $150 per night.
  
• Riad Le Jardin d’Abdou
   This one is a bit outside the chaos but still walkable. It’s calm, with big rooms and a rooftop for lounging after a long day. Around $80 to $110 per night.
  

Luxury Hotels and Riads

• Jnane Tamsna
   Located in the Palmeraie area, this boutique hotel feels private and low-key. It’s known for its beautiful gardens, relaxed vibe, and wellness focus.Around $300 to $500 per night
  
• Royal Mansour Marrakech
   This hotel is on another level. You stay in a private riad, and the service is top-tier. It’s designed to feel like a palace because it kind of is.Starts at $1,200+ per night.

• La Mamounia
   A well-known, historic luxury hotel. Big gardens, a spa, and over-the-top interiors. It’s iconic for a reason and makes a big impression. Around $500 to $900 per night.
  
• La Sultana Marrakech
   Small and high-end with amazing rooftop views, a spa, and detailed decor. It’s close to key sights like the Saadian Tombs and feels exclusive without being too flashy.Around $400 to $700 per night.

Getting Around:

Getting around Marrakech is pretty straightforward, especially if you’re staying in the medina like I did. I walked everywhere, including to all my tour meeting points, which were super close to the souks and main squares. For anything farther out, taking a taxi is the easiest option. You can use popular taxi apps like roby taxi and inDrive, hail a taxi on the streets or you can ask your hotel or riad to help you arrange A lot of riads offer airport pickup which makes arrival easier. I did this and would recommend it.transfers. For day trips to other cities like Casablanca, there are trains that are affordable and reliable. The train to Casablanca takes about 2.5 to 3 hours and is a good option if you want to explore beyond Marrakech without the hassle of flying.

Day 1: Arriving in Morocco & Desert Experience in Agafay

I flew into Marrakech from Turkey, and honestly, I was both excited and a little drained. I was excited because it was my first time in Africa, but it had been a busy few days before this trip, so I was really looking forward to slowing down and soaking up something totally new. Luckily, the transition was super smooth. The riad I booked, Riad Sijane had arranged an airport pickup, which was a lifesaver. Going through customs was a breeze. No stress, no trying to figure out taxis after a flight. The driver met me right outside, and within about 20 minutes I was pulling up to the narrow, winding alleys of the Medina where the riad was tucked away. 

If you’ve never stayed in a riad before, it’s one of those experiences that really makes your trip feel special. The one I stayed at was a hostel with beautiful traditional tiles, soft lighting, and a peaceful little courtyard right in the center. After checking in, I took some time to relax and reset.

Later that afternoon, I kicked off my trip with a sunset tour to the Agafay Desert.It was a  great way to ease off into the activities in Marrakech. A lot of people think of golden Sahara desert  dunes when they picture the Moroccan desert, but Agafay is totally different in a good way. It’s rocky and rugged, with wide open views and this soft, golden light that makes everything feel kind of magical. The best part? It’s only about an hour from Marrakech, so you don’t have to commit to a long road trip on your first day. I had to be at the meeting point at 4:30 pm. I walked about 15 minutes from my riad through the souk there where I boarded a van for the drive to the desert. Keeping mind if you’re staying in the souk, cars are not allowed in some parts so you’ll have to walk to areas where cars are allowed for tour pick-ups.

The tour included a camel ride, which I know is a classic tourist thing to do, but honestly, it was so cool. After that, we were taken to a desert camp setup for dinner under the stars where I was greeted with mint tea. It was one of those moments where everything just slows down. I had my first taste of Moroccan cuisine of chicken tagine, fresh bread, and sweet mint tea, all while listening to live Gnawa music. 

For a first day in Morocco, it was the perfect balance of ease and adventure. Nothing too overwhelming. After the tour, I walked through the buzzing souk back to my riad and called it a night. 

Day 2: Gardens, Palaces, and the Buzz of Marrakech at Night

After a solid night’s sleep and a big Moroccan breakfast at the riad of msemen flatbread, honey, and fresh orange juice, I was ready to dive into Marrakech properly. First stop: Jardin Majorelle. To get there by taxi it was about a 10 minutes drive from Jemaa el-Fna. You can also take public transportation (L4 bus) from Jemaa el-Fna which will take 20 minutes, or walk 40 minutes there.

Majorelle Gardens is a must, even if you’re not huge into gardens. It’s hard not to fall in love with it. Designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later owned by Yves Saint Laurent, the whole space is a mix of cobalt blue buildings, lush greenery, and quiet pathways. It feels calm and dreamy, especially if you get there early before the crowds roll in. Every corner looks like it was made for photos, but beyond that, it’s just a really peaceful place to slow down and take in some beauty. It can get busy so it’s good to get there right when it opens at 8:00 am to avoid the crowds. Tickets will set you back $28 and sell out fast, so make sure to book well ahead of time.

Right next to the garden is the YSL Museum, and if you’re into fashion, design, or even just interesting spaces, it’s worth checking out for $12.. It’s not huge, but it’s really well done. You get a look at Yves Saint Laurent’s most iconic pieces, sketches, and how his work was influenced by Moroccan style and color. The museum also has a cool little bookstore and café if you feel like taking a break. 

After that, take a 20 minute taxi ride to Bahia Palace, which is one of those places that doesn’t look like much from the outside. However, once you step in, it’s a whole different world. The palace is full of intricate tile work, painted ceilings, and big open courtyards. It’s the epitome of Moroccan architecture. You can just wander at your own pace and imagine what it must have been like when it was filled with royalty. It’s a little maze-like, but that’s part of the charm. And at around $7, tickets are affordable too, which is always a win. You can explore independently or book a half day group or private tour that will take you to most of these stops above and koutoubia mosque( the largest mosque in Marrakech) ,and saadian tombs. That’s not the option I went with, but I honestly wish I did. I highly recommend going with a tour to keep things hassle free as you go between multiple historic sites in the city.

I had lunch at Restaurant le Grand Bazar near Jemmaa el-Fna before resting for the rest of the day.  In the evening, I made my way to explore the vibrant souks and Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main square, which completely transforms after dark. This square is a Unesco world heritage site that is busy during the day, but at night it turns into full-on sensory overload in the best way. Food stalls start popping up with everything from grilled meats to fresh orange juice and snail soup if you’re feeling brave. There’s live music, street performers, henna artists, and so many people just out enjoying the night until like 2:00 am. It’s the perfect place to get a taste of the country’s rich cultural heritage.

It can feel a bit chaotic, but that’s kind of the point. It’s the perfect place to wander, people-watch, try some street food, and just take it all in. You definitely want to keep an eye on your stuff here, but don’t let that stop you from enjoying it. It’s one of those places that makes you feel like, yes, you’re really in Morocco.

Day 3: Day Trip to Ouzoud Falls, Tallest Waterfall in North Africa

On Day 3, I swapped city chaos for nature and booked a full-day trip to Ouzoud Falls,  the tallest waterfall in North Africa located in the middle atlas mountains. It’s about a 2.5 to 3-hour scenic drive each way from Marrakech, but the views and the whole vibe make it totally worth it. I booked a tour so that all the logistics would be smooth. Pickup at the meeting point was on time, the van was comfortable, and our guide was friendly and gave us just the right amount of info without turning it into a lecture.

When we got there, I was immediately hit with how lush and green the area was. The falls are stunning,  tall, loud, and surrounded by red cliffs, olive trees and the majestic atlas mountains. The short hike itself is scenic and not too intense. It takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos (and trust me, you’ll want to). There are stairs and a few uneven spots, so definitely wear comfortable walking shoes or trainers. I also recommend bringing sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle, it gets hot, especially midday. Bring cash to pay the tour guide that will lead the hike, for lunch and the boat ride.

At the bottom, there are little boats that take you close to the base of the falls. It’s not mandatory, but it’s super fun and you will get a bit wet,  maybe skip it if you’re not into that. After the boat and the hike, we stopped at a restaurant overlooking the waterfall, and it was the perfect spot to chill. I had chicken tagine and mint tea while watching the breathtaking landscapes and the water crashing down. It honestly felt like something out of a postcard.

As you hike down to the base, you’ll definitely run into the Barbary monkeys, which are kind of the unofficial mascots of the place. They’re wild but super used to people. Some will come pretty close, especially if they think you’ve got snacks, so just be cool. Our guide had snacks that he gave us to feed them.

The drive back was quiet, and most of us napped on the way, which kind of tells you how full the day was. If you’re spending a few days in Marrakech and want a change of scenery, Ouzoud Falls is 100% worth adding to your itinerary, perfect way to explore the outdoors of Morocco. It’s easy to book, super scenic, and just the kind of peaceful break you didn’t know you needed. After a nice day exploring Ouzoud falls, we drove back to Marrakech. I stopped by on the way to my Riad to grab some pizza and called it a night.

Day 4: A Breezy Day Trip to Essaouira

Day 4 was a slower, breezier change of pace with a day trip to Essaouira, a coastal town on the Atlantic that’s known for its artsy vibe, seafood, and Atlantic ocean views. I booked the tour through viator and once again, the logistics were easy,  early morning pickup, comfy van, and a helpful guide who gave us just enough info without turning it into a full-blown tour day.

One of the best parts of the drive was the surprise goat sighting. About halfway there, we pulled over to see the famous goats in the argan trees. It’s absolutely  wild to see, and our driver let us stop to take photos. It’s totally random and totally worth it. We also made a short stop at a local argan oil cooperative, where we saw how the oil is traditionally made by hand. They had cosmetic products and culinary oil, and the women running the place were so kind and welcoming.

After about 2.5 hours, we rolled into Essaouira, and from the start it had a totally different energy from Marrakech. It’s calmer, breezier, and way less hectic. We were given free time to explore independently, which I loved. No tight schedule, just a full afternoon to wander.

I headed straight for the souk, which is way more relaxed than the one in Marrakech. The alleys were filled with colorful textiles, ceramics, woodwork, and spices, and the shopkeepers were friendly without being pushy. It was a fun place to browse and actually talk to people without feeling rushed. After this, I explored the port and watched the local fishermen do their work.

For lunch, I found a cozy little spot just outside the souk that had fresh fish on display out front with views of the atlantic coast. You pick what you want, they grill it right there, and it comes with bread, salad, and lemon. So fresh and super affordable. Essaouira is the best place to try out fresh seafood while on this trip.

After eating, I walked down to the beach and chilled there for a while. There were families, surfers, and other travelers just hanging out. The breeze was cool, the air smelled like salt and grilled sardines, and it felt like the kind of spot you could lose track of time in. I didn’t swim, but just dipping my feet in and laying on the sand for a bit was the perfect reset before the ride back.

Essaouira has this relaxed charm that’s totally different from the energy of Marrakech, and if you’re craving ocean air and a slower pace, it’s the perfect escape. The full-day trip was a highlight and definitely worth carving out a day for.We arrived back in Marrakech in the late afternoon which gave me time to hang out in Jemaa El Fna to catch some street performances and eat at La Cantine des Gazelles. The food was great and the service was 10/10.

Day 5: Hot Air Balloon Ride & Heading Home

For my last morning in Morocco, I went big. I booked a hot air balloon ride over the red desert, and it was hands down the most magical way to close out the trip. The day started super early  pickup from the meeting point was around 5 AM, but once we got out to the launch site and saw the sun starting to rise over the desert, it was totally worth it. I had to walk to the meeting point as my Riad was in the middle of the souk and it did feel a bit intimidating since it was still dark out and the narrow streets were more or less empty. Thankfully, no one bothered me and I was just fine. We were greeted with mint tea of course while a staff member documented information like our names and weight.

The whole experience was really smooth. The crew was professional, the ride felt safe, and watching the landscape slowly change color as we floated above it was surreal. You get panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains, little Berber villages, and endless red earth, all glowing in the morning light. The balloon ride itself lasted about an hour, and afterward they served a light traditional breakfast in a Berber tent, which was a nice touch. I was back in Marrakech by around 8:30 AM, with the whole day still ahead of me.

Since it was my last day, I used the rest of the time to pack, grab a few last souvenirs, and just enjoy one final mint tea at the riad before heading to the airport. It felt like the perfect sendoff,  peaceful, memorable, and something totally different from the rest of the trip.

The hot air balloon ride is totally flexible. You could easily do it on Day 2 or any other morning you’re free, since it finishes early and doesn’t take up the whole day. So you could do this itinerary in 4 days if you want ! Another option if you’re staying longer is to take a day trip to Casablanca. It’s about 2.5 hours away by train, and you could go just for the day to see the Hassan II Mosque, walk along the Corniche, and get a feel for a more modern, coastal city vibe. I didn’t squeeze it in this time, but I’ve heard it’s an easy and worthwhile trip if you’ve got the time.

Safety Tips for Solo Travelers in Morocco (Especially Women)

Traveling solo in Morocco was an incredible experience, but I won’t lie,  it’s a place where you do need to stay aware, especially as a woman. It can be intense at times, but it’s also warm, welcoming, and full of beauty. With a bit of street smarts and preparation, solo travel here is 100% doable if you already have extensive solo travel experience and honestly, so worth it. For most people, even if you’ve solo traveled before, I’d recommend going on a group tour ! Here are some tips I found helpful during my trip:

1. Dress modestly

 Morocco is a conservative country, so try to stick to loose pants, midi or maxi skirts, and tops that cover your shoulders especially in areas outside of the city.  You don’t have to wear a headscarf. I pretty much dressed how I would dress anywhere else, saw people in Marrakech with shorts, tank tops and even crop tops. But,dressing modestly can helps avoid unwanted attention and shows respect for local culture.

2. Expect some street attention

 In places like Marrakech, you’ll probably get some catcalling or people trying to talk to you, especially in the medina. It’s best to just ignore it, keep walking confidently, and avoid engaging. It’s usually harmless but persistent and annoying.

3. Stay in a reputable riad

 I chose riads with good reviews, especially from other solo travelers. Many offer airport pickup (which I did) and help arrange tours, which made me feel safer and more supported.

4. Use official tours for day trips

All my excursions,  like Ouzoud Falls, Essaouira, and the hot air balloon were through trusted platforms with great reviews so I didn’t have to worry about navigating on my own especially for the day trips.

5. Be cautious at night

I avoided walking alone in quiet alleys after dark. In busy squares like Jemaa el-Fnaa, I stuck to the crowds and always knew my way back to the riad. 

6. Keep small cash, hide the rest

 A lot of places only take cash, but I kept my bigger bills tucked away and carried just what I needed for the day. A crossbody bag with a zipper worked great for keeping things secure. Here’s a helpful tip, don’t even bother with your credit card, cash is king in Marrakech.

7. Nothing is truly free

If someone offers to show you around, give you directions, or hands you something — there’s usually an expectation of payment. Politely say no and keep moving. The same goes for taking photos of performers or animals (like monkeys or snake charmers in Jemaa el-Fnaa) you’ll need to pay, and sometimes they can get aggressive if you don’t.

Final Thoughts

That wraps up my 5-day trip to Morocco. If you’re wondering if it’s worth it to visit only for 4-5 days, yes it is ! I had a great time exploring Marrakech and doing a few day trips, and I already can’t wait to go back and see more of the country. One thing I really wanted to do but didn’t have time for was an overnight desert tour to the Sahara. If you have extra days, definitely try to squeeze it in. Overall, it was an amazing experience and I hope this guide helps you plan your own adventure.

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