Are you looking to explore the heart of Morocco? Central Morocco blends waterfalls, quiet lakes, mountain passes, and centuries-old towns. The roads here are made for adventure. You can leave the busy streets of Marrakech, drive through the Atlas Mountains, and stop in peaceful villages that feel frozen in time. The views change fast from olive groves to deep valleys and rocky cliffs. For UK travelers, renting a car in Morocco is the best way to explore without rushing. Keep reading our Central Morocco travel guide to discover where to go, what to see, and how to make the most of your journey.
For UK travelers, renting a car in Morocco is not just about convenience. Public transport won’t get you to Imi-n-Ifri or that lake viewpoint unless you spend hours planning bus connections. With a car, you can leave Marrakech in the morning, see waterfalls by lunch, and reach a lakeside hotel before sunset. Everything is in reach, and the roads between key towns are smooth and marked.
Driving in central Morocco also opens up more roads to explore. For instance, Tizi n’Tichka Pass offers mountain views with almost no traffic. Even in smaller towns, local fuel stations and roadside shops are easy to find. You don’t need to worry about getting lost. Navigation apps work well, but download offline maps in case you lose signal. Locals are easy to approach if you need help with directions.
UK travelers must be at least 21 years old to rent a car. Some rental companies ask for drivers to be 23 or older. You’ll need your UK driving license, and many car rental agencies ask for an International Driving Permit. Ensure your passport and credit card are also ready when you pick up the car. In Marrakech, most rental offices are near the airport or the city center. Pick-up locations are also available in Fes, Tangier, Rabat, Casablanca, and Agadir.
It’s best to book your car in advance to get better rates and more vehicle choices. When picking up the car, inspect it closely and take photos of any damage. Confirm the fuel policy and double-check the return location and time. UK citizens should also understand basic driving rules in Morocco. Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are required, and mobile phone use while driving is not allowed.
This road trip through central Morocco is full of nature and striking mountain views. Starting from Marrakech, the route winds through quiet towns, scenic lakes, and dramatic passes before reaching the desert’s edge.
Starting your Central Morocco road trip in Marrakech is a fantastic choice, especially since the city is easily accessible from Marrakech Menara Airport, where many car rental agencies offer convenient pick-up locations. As you step into the city, you’ll immediately feel its unique energy, from the bustling medina to lively streets.
One of the highlights you shouldn’t miss is the Medina of Marrakech, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a maze of narrow alleys filled with colorful souks where you can shop for traditional crafts, spices, and textiles. The famous Jemaa el-Fnaa Square is at the heart of this area. It transforms from a busy marketplace by day to a lively hub of storytellers, musicians, and food stalls by night. Nearby, you can admire the Koutoubia Mosque, the city’s largest mosque with its iconic 70-meter tall minaret. It is the perfect landmark while exploring the medina, even though non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque itself.
For a quieter, more serene experience, the Jardin Majorelle is a lush garden created by French artist Jacques Majorelle. It offers a peaceful retreat with its blue buildings, exotic plants, and beautiful fountains. You can also explore the Bahia Palace and the ruins of El Badi Palace nearby. Here, you will see Morocco’s rich history and stunning Islamic architecture.
Ouzoud Falls is about three hours from Marrakech. This stunning natural escape is nestled in the Atlas Mountains. It’s famous for its breathtaking cascades, which plunge over 110 meters into the El-Abid River gorge, which empties into the El-Abid River gorge. The lush surroundings, dotted with olive groves and vibrant greenery, contrast with Morocco’s dry landscapes.
Many visitors hike around Ouzoud Falls. The trails here are generally easy to moderate. You can take a leisurely 20 to 30-minute hike down to the base of the falls. If you want more adventure, several other scenic hikes offer elevated views and opportunities to spot local wildlife, especially the playful Barbary macaques in the area. Bring good walking shoes to fully enjoy the trails without slipping.
Besides hiking and photography, you can also take a boat ride at the base of the falls. Nearby, small Berber villages provide a glimpse into local culture, and you can find restaurants serving classic tagines, couscous, and Berber egg dishes.
Bin El Ouidane Lake is a peaceful mountain retreat high in the Atlas Mountains. The Bin El Ouidane Dam created this artificial lake in the early 1950s. Here, you can try paddling across the lake by kayak, paddleboard, or small boat. It’s a quiet, gentle way to reach hidden coves, watch birds, and spot some turtles near the shore.
If you’re into fishing, the lake is famous for carp and bass. Anglers come for the thrill of catching big carp, with some weighing over 30 kg. You don’t need to be an expert. Rental gear and local guides are available to help you cast your line.
When it’s time to rest, lakeside lodging offers calm sunsets over the water. Options range from family-run guesthouses like Dar l’Eau Vive to full resorts like Widiane Resort with spa and pool. Each morning, you can step outside to mountain views and start your day with a fresh paddle or hike along trails above the lake.
Beni Mellal is one of the main cities in central Morocco and the perfect midpoint on your road trip. It sits at the foot of the Middle Atlas Mountains, which have cooler weather and plenty of green spaces compared to the dry plains below. The drive from Bin El Ouidane Lake only takes about an hour. The roads are smooth, and the city is connected by the N8 highway, which links it to other major towns in the region.
One of the main attractions here is Ain Asserdoun, a natural spring that flows from the mountains into the city. Locals say the water is some of the purest in Morocco. You can walk up to the Belvedere, a viewpoint just above the spring, for a wide view over the city, the farmlands, and even the desert edge in the distance. It’s a nice place to stretch your legs, grab mint tea, and take photos with the red-tiled buildings in the background.
The city feels more local and less touristy than places like Marrakech. You’ll find souks selling fresh produce, handmade goods, and cafes full of students and families. Beni Mellal also has good petrol stations, banks, and grocery stores. Stock up before you continue deeper into the mountains.
Azilal is a quiet town tucked in the High Atlas region, about 81 kilometers from Beni Mellal. The drive takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. This town is far from the usual tourist routes, and most people live simple lives rooted in Berber customs.
You’ll immediately see stone houses, small markets, and friendly locals speaking Tamazight, the Berber language. There’s a strong sense of community here. Many families still work in farming, and the weekly souk is a big event where people gather to buy, sell, and catch up. Don’t expect flashy attractions. Instead, you can pause and take in the mountain lifestle.
Demnate is a small mountain town about 30 minutes from Azilal. The drive takes you through narrow roads with sweeping views of the High Atlas. This is one of the oldest towns in the region. The red clay buildings here match the surrounding hills' color, giving the whole town a warm, earthy look.
One of the town’s main features is its Tuesday market. It’s busy but not chaotic, and it’s where local farmers and artisans gather to sell everything from fresh produce to handwoven baskets. Prices are low, and the mood is relaxed. Grab some flatbread or a fresh orange juice and just wander around.
Demnate is a nice base for short walks or drives into the nearby foothills. You can spot snow on the higher peaks from here during cooler months. Small trails lead to picnic spots or quiet farms. This town may be small, but it’s a restful pause before heading toward the more rugged drive across the Tizi n'Tichka Pass.
Tizi n'Tichka is one of the most scenic mountain passes in Morocco. It connects the central regions to the southern desert towns and stands over 2,200 meters above sea level. The road winds through the High Atlas Mountains, offering sharp turns, steep climbs, and wide views across deep valleys and rocky peaks. The drive from Demnate takes about two hours.
This stretch is famous for its panoramic photo spots. Every few kilometers, you’ll see pull-off areas where you can stop and take in the views. The mountains change color from reds, browns, and even purples as the sun moves. In winter, the peaks can be capped with snow. Driving this pass is a bit of an adventure, but the roads are paved and well-maintained. Just take it slow and steady, especially around the sharper curves. Small roadside cafes and vendors sell argan oil, fossils, and pottery if you need a break. Once you cross, you’ll start to feel the desert air as you head toward Ouarzazate.
Ouarzazate sits beyond the High Atlas Mountains and marks the shift from green valleys to dry desert landscapes. It’s often called the “Gateway to the Desert” because it leads to places like the Draa Valley and the Sahara. It is a 1-hour and 30-minute drive from Tizi n'Tichka. When you reach Ouarzazate, you’ll see wide open skies, dusty terrain, and bright sun nearly all year. The town is well-developed, with gas stations, shops, and places to rest after the long drive.
One of the biggest draws here is the film industry. Ouarzazate has hosted scenes from movies and shows, like Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and The Mummy. You can visit Atlas Studios, one of the largest film studios in the world. They offer guided tours where you can walk through sets and learn how these desert scenes come to life. Seeing the giant props and backdrops is impressive even if you’re not a big movie fan.
Just 30 minutes away is Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most photographed places in Morocco. This ancient clay ksar sits on a hill and looks like a fortress from a fantasy film. You can walk across a small bridge and climb up to the top for sweeping views over the desert plain.
Central Morocco is all about contrasts—snow-capped peaks, peaceful lakes, ancient villages, and sunlit desert edges. Driving lets you take it all in without rushing. You can spend a lazy morning by Bin El Ouidane Lake, hike through Imi-n-Ifri in the afternoon, and wind your way up the Tizi n'Tichka Pass the next day.
To make the most of it, book your rental through FinalRentals. Whether you’re navigating city traffic or heading into the High Atlas, we have the right car for you. Choose from compact vehicles that fit tight city corners or SUVs built for bumpy backroads. Pick what fits your comfort, needs, and budget.
