Beyond Marrakech: Inspiring Destinations for Solo Travellers in Morocco
Looking for hidden gems in Morocco and off-the-beaten-path destinations beyond Marrakech? Discover some of the best places to visit in Morocco for solo travellers wanting to escape the tourist masses.
With its buzzing souks and spice-scented streets, Marrakech may be Morocco’s most popular tourist destination. But it’s far from the whole story and, if I’m being honest, I think it only offers one perspective.
As a solo traveller, I find the energy in Marrakech can be overwhelming, the “hassle” sometimes frustrating and after a couple of days, I’m ready to escape.
That’s not to say I don’t love being immersed in its chaos and energy…for a short time at least. Marrakech boasts stunning architectural sites, Insta-worthy rooftop restaurants and the riads really are something else. I’ve had some amazing experiences here!
But there’s always a point in my visit where I’m more than ready to leave the chaos of the medina behind in search of somewhere quieter and with a stronger connection to nature. If you’re also a traveller who craves adventure and authenticity, you might feel the same.
Thankfully, you don’t have to venture far beyond Marrakech’s city limits to find atmospheric towns and dramatic landscapes that provide incredible experiences (without the crowds).
In this article, I’ll share 7 of my favourite hidden gems in Morocco, whether you crave ocean air, mountain hikes or the meditative quiet of the desert.
Looking for itinerary inspiration? Many of these hidden gems feature in my 10-day Morocco itinerary for solo travellers.
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1. Chefchaouen – The “Blue Pearl” of the Rif Mountains
Tucked into the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is arguably Morocco’s most photogenic town, with its streets awash in all shades of blue. I love coming here – the journey through the mountains from Fes or Tangier alone is spectacular!
It’s a dream destination for solo wanderers who prefer a peaceful ambiance without compromising on cultural immersion. You can wander without worrying about being hassled and the air is so fresh and crisp that my lungs always feel rejuvenated.
Why Chefchaouen is perfect for solo travellers:
- The medina is small and walkable, with friendly locals who will point you in the right direction if you get lost.
- The blue-washed streets offer up incredible photography opportunities, including some gorgeous spots designed by locals (some require a small payment).
- It’s one of Morocco’s safest and most laid-back towns, with minimal hassle from vendors.
Best things to do in Chefchaouen:
- Hike to the Spanish Mosque for sweeping views across Chefchaouen. Trails also lead from here into the Rif Mountains.
- Browse the artisan shops for handwoven rugs, natural soaps and (my favourite) woollen blankets that are unique to the Rif region.
- Eat a fruit cup beside the rushing waters of Ras el-Maa, a series of cascades on the edge of the medina.
For more info about visiting Morocco’s “Blue Pearl”, check out my Solo Traveller’s Guide to Chefchaouen.
2. Essaouira – The Windy City by the Sea
Calm, creative and with a distinctly bohemian vibe, Essaouira offers a slower pace of exploration compared to Marrakech. That’s despite being less than three hours away from the “Red City”.
Its ocean breezes offer a welcome contrast to the heat of Morocco’s inland cities and the art galleries make it an essential destination for culture vultures.
Disclaimer: Essaouira is one of my favourite cities in Morocco – its energy is right on my wavelength! I love that you can be in the medina in the morning, then on the beach in the afternoon.
If you’re into kitesurfing or windsurfing (or want to learn), you’ll be in heaven!
Why Essaouira is perfect for solo travellers:
- The medina is easy to navigate and far less intense than Marrakech or Fes – I don’t get lost in Essaouira nearly as much!
- There are fantastic cafes serving globally-inspired cuisine and Moroccan favourites. Many host events and live music nights, making them perfect for networking.
- It’s undeniably arty – you’ll find an abundance of galleries that host changing exhibitions.
Best things to do in Essaouira:
- Shop for artisan goods in the whitewashed streets – it’s far less overwhelming than in the souks of Marrakech.
- Soak up the sweeping coastal views from the Skala de la Kasbah – it’s a particularly popular sunset spot.
- Select your seafood at the fish market and have it grilled to order at one of the barbecue stands.
For more Essaouira travel inspiration for solo travellers, check out my detailed article here.
Solo tip:
Stay in a riad inside the medina – it’s a cultural experience and will put you within walking distance of all Essaouira’s attractions.
If you’re an introvert visiting Morocco, discover some of my top tips and tricks for staying calm amidst the chaos.
3. Aït Benhaddou – The Ancient ksar
For history lovers, Aït Benhaddou is an essential stop on any Morocco itinerary. But truth be told, I think it will captivate everyone – it really does feel like stepping back in time.
This UNESCO World Heritage ksar (fortified village) has appeared in “Game of Thrones”, “Gladiator” and countless other films.
In short, it’s an enchanting backdrop for leisurely wanders and a great place to better understand the caravan routes that once connected the Sahara with Marrakech and Fes.
You can learn more about visiting Ait Benhaddou in my detailed travel guide here.
Why Ait Benhaddou is great for solo travellers:
- Compact and easy to explore independently, with a relaxed atmosphere and few touts.
- Offers a unique insight into ancient earthen-walled architecture and the history of Saharan caravans.
- Perfect for photography – the “golden hour” light in the early morning and late afternoon is particularly atmospheric.
Best things to do in Ait Benhaddou:
- Cross the river and climb to the hilltop granary for panoramic views across the ksar.
- Stop in nearby Ouarzazate, also known as “Ouallywood” due to its legendary film studios.
- Stay in a family-run guesthouse to enjoy home-cooked meals and experience Ait Benhaddou once the day-trippers leave.
Solo tip:
Reaching Ait Benhaddou independently isn’t easy. If you’re not hiring a car in Marrakech or joining a guided tour, you can catch a bus to Ouarzazate. Ask to be dropped at the turnoff to Ait Benhaddou and flag down a share taxi here for the remainder of the journey.
4. Imlil – Gateway to the Atlas Mountains
Just 90 minutes from Marrakech, Imlil is a peaceful mountain village that feels worlds away. It’s the base for trekking Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak, as well as several other wonderful hikes.
But even if you’re not a hiker, the serene atmosphere of Imlil comes as a welcome relief after Marrakech. The village is dotted with family-run guesthouses, many with terraces offering stunning views across the Atlas Mountains.
Why Imlil is perfect for nature-loving solo travellers:
- The air is crisp, the pace slow and the views spectacular – perfect for nature enthusiasts.
- Locals are welcoming and it’s easy to join a guided trek on arrival or wander independently.
- Ideal for recharging after the buzz of Marrakech – you can get active or do absolutely nothing!
Must-do activities in Imlil:
- Embark on a day hike through the nearby Amazigh villages and walnut groves.
- Stay in a family-run eco-lodge with a terrace offering mountain views and a fireplace for cosying up in the winter months.
- Feast on traditional tagines and home-cooked meals in the evenings
Planning a slow travel itinerary in Morocco? Discover some of the best destinations to visit.
5. M’Hamid – The Gateway to Erg Chigaga
If you’re dreaming of golden dunes and starlit silence, the Sahara is pure magic. Riding a camel across the sand is a quintessentially Moroccan experience, as is staying in a traditional desert camp.
Honestly, I never tire of visiting the Sahara – it’s indescribably beautiful and the silence at night makes for the best sleep ever! It’s also a deeply cultural experience as people have existed in this seemingly barren landscape for centuries.
While most travellers head to the popular gateway town of Merzouga (on the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes), M’Hamid (on the edge of Erg Chigaga) offers a quieter alternative. There are fewer camps here, so the atmosphere is more peaceful and the dune landscapes are equally stunning.
For more info about the difference between Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga, check out my detailed article here.
Why the Sahara Desert is ideal for solo travellers:
- Desert camps welcome solo guests warmly and are designed for connection with both locals and other travellers.
- Stargazing in the Sahara is an undeniably reflective experience – perfect for solo contemplation.
- The silence of the desert is deeply restorative, particularly after the hectic pace of Marrakech.
Best things to do in the Sahara Desert:
- Take a camel ride across the dunes at sunset — the light for photography is sublime.
- Spend a night in an Amazigh desert camp — there are options for both budget and luxury travellers.
- Try sandboarding down the dunes or embark on a quad-biking excursion through the desert villages.
Tossing up between the Sahara and Agafay? Discover the difference between these two desert destinations here.
Solo tip:
Book a small-group desert trip with a reputable operator that accommodates individuals, rather than large tour groups. It offers a more personal experience and you won’t be left feeling like an “outsider”.
6. Taghazout – Morocco’s Surf and Yoga Haven
Once a sleepy fishing village, Taghazout has become a global hotspot for surfers, yogis and digital nomads. Despite its growing popularity, it maintains a relaxed, beach-town vibe ideal for solo travellers.
It was this that first drew me to Taghazout back in 2014 and I ended up staying for several years! It was here that I met my future husband and became completely addicted to surfing. An addiction I haven’t been able to shake!
In fact, most travellers come to Taghazout to surf. There are plenty of surf camps if you’re a complete beginner, as well as shops offering rental equipment for those who know what they’re doing.
Why Taghazout is perfect for solo travellers:
- Surf and yoga camps provide ready-made communities – there’s an instant connection with fellow travellers.
- Locals are friendly and used to travellers in beachwear. It’s safe to walk around day or night.
- Easy access to nearby Paradise Valley for a day of hiking and swimming in the natural pools.
Top experiences in Taghazout:
- Take a surf lesson – you can either book a week-long course at a surf camp or arrange a private lesson with one of the surf stores in the village.
- Dine on healthy dishes post-surf at one of the eclectic cafes — perfect for digital nomads.
- Watch (or join) the locals who play football on the beach in the evenings and at weekends. They usually organise it around low tide for the best “pitch” conditions.
For more info about things to see and do in Taghazout, check out my detailed travel guide here.
Solo tip:
If the atmosphere in Taghazout feels too “busy”, consider staying in nearby Tamraght. It’s located just a few kilometres down the coast and has a growing number of surf camps and guesthouses.
7. Tafraoute – The Hidden Heart of the Anti-Atlas
Surrounded by pink granite mountains and palm-filled valleys, Tafraoute is one of Morocco’s most underrated gems. It’s ideal for solo travellers who crave an authentic experience and landscapes untouched by mass tourism.
Located in the Anti-Atlas Mountains, Tafraoute is also a hub of Amazigh culture. It’s a great place to learn more about Morocco’s Indigenous peoples in a naturally stunning setting.
Why Tafraoute is perfect for solo travellers:
- Locals are exceptionally kind and welcoming – the interactions are genuine and enlightening.
- You can explore at your own pace – hiking, cycling or simply wandering around town.
- Affordable guesthouses make it easy to stay longer if you’re travelling on a budget.
Must-do experiences in Tafraoute:
- Visit the surreal “Blue Rocks”, a painted installation created in 1984 by Belgian artist Jean Verame.
- Explore the picturesque Ameln Valley, dotted with earthen villages and agadir-topped hills.
- Enjoy home-cooked meals prepared with love by local Amazigh families.
Discovering Morocco’s hidden gems as a solo traveller
For me, travelling solo in Morocco isn’t just about having complete independence. It’s about creating opportunities for connection and venturing off the beaten path, far from the tourist crowds.
Don’t get me wrong, I love sharing Morocco with friends and family, taking them to all of the country’s iconic destinations. But when I head out solo, there’s a sense of freedom that I readily embrace and being able to journey beyond the well-trodden tourist path is liberating!
Beyond Marrakech, you’ll find destinations that offer a different take on Morocco and see the country in its most authentic form. Far from the tourist souks and trend-setting rooftop restaurants, there’s a whole world to discover.
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I’m Malika, an Australian-born travel writer with an intense love for Morocco. I first travelled here solo in 2014 and after meeting (and marrying) a local, I made this North African gem my home.
Over the last 10 years, I have explored the country extensively, travelling to all corners with my partner, friends and solo.
