Morocco north to south or south to north: 5, 7 and 9-day routes

Crossing Morocco from end to end lets you see the Mediterranean, the Rif mountains, the imperial cities and the Sahara in a single trip. The usual question is which direction to travel and how many days to give it.

Where to start?

Starting in the north makes sense if you arrive by ferry or plane in Tangier: the trip opens with white and blue towns and ends in the south, in Marrakech, which has plenty of flights home. Starting in the south works just as well in reverse: you land in Marrakech and finish in Tangier, close to the Spanish coast. Let your flights decide the direction.

5 days: south to north, at a brisk pace

The 5-day south to north route goes from Marrakech to the desert, then up through Fez and Chefchaouen to Tangier. It covers a lot of ground in a few days, for travellers who want the contrast between dunes and medinas even if it means plenty of time on the road.

7 days: north to south

The 7-day north to south route leaves Tangier and passes through Tetouan, Chefchaouen and Fez before heading down to the desert and ending in Marrakech. The extra days give you time to explore the medinas calmly.

9 days: imperial cities and desert

The 9-day imperial cities and desert route follows the same line, from Tangier to Marrakech through Tetouan, Chefchaouen, Fez and Merzouga, with more time at each stage. It suits travellers who prefer fewer hours in the car each day and more time on foot.

Things to keep in mind

• Distances between the north and the desert are long: more days mean shorter driving days.

• The medinas of Fez and Marrakech are more rewarding with a guided visit.

• Desert nights can be cold for much of the year: bring a warm layer.

If you are torn between two options, write to us with your dates and flights: we will help you choose the direction and length that fit best.