Finalrentals

Finalrentals Blog

One-Week Road Trip Ideas in Morocco for Belgian Travelers
All images used in this website, including all the blogs and blog section are created and obtained from a paid Canva Pro subscription. We do not intend to use any of this information commercially and it is solely for the purpose of knowledge and education of our visitors.

Published in Explore Category.

One-Week Road Trip Ideas in Morocco for Belgian Travelers

Morocco is a top travel spot for Belgian adventurers. Morocco’s proximity to Europe and developed tourism infrastructure make it an easy destination. Renting a car in Morocco lets you explore the country at your own pace. This guide covers road trip routes, rental tips, and travel advice to plan your one-week adventure.

Why Belgian Tourists Love Exploring Morocco by Car

Many Belgian tourists love exploring Morocco by car because of the country’s variety and warmth. You can drive through stunning coastlines, vast desert dunes, and the rugged Atlas Mountains in just one trip. Morocco enjoys many sunny days, offering a nice change from Belgium’s often rainy weather.

French is widely spoken, and Moroccan hospitality immediately makes travelers feel at home.

Flexibility is another reason Belgians enjoy driving around Morocco. You can stop in small villages, discover hidden beaches, and visit scenic spots that tour buses often miss. Every region has something different to offer, and driving lets you experience it all in a short time.

For Belgians, Morocco feels surprisingly welcoming, affordable, and easy to navigate, making it the perfect road trip destination.

Essential Tips for Renting a Car in Morocco

  • Driver’s licence: Bring your full, valid driving licence. An International Driving Permit is usually not needed.
  • Insurance: All rentals include basic insurance, but with a high excess. Consider extra coverage to reduce risk.
  • Deposit: A credit card is required to hold a deposit (often thousands of dirhams). Check your card limit.
  • Driver age: Most companies require drivers to be at least 21 (often 25) years old.
  • Safety: Drive on the right side and always wear seat belts. Police enforce traffic laws, especially at checkpoints.
  • Car inspection: Check the vehicle thoroughly and photograph any existing damage before driving off.
  • Vehicle type: A compact car is fine for cities and highways; consider a 4x4 for rugged mountain routes.

Best One-Week Road Trip Ideas in Morocco for Belgian Travelers

Here are five of the best road trips in Morocco, covering different highlights and landscapes. Each route is best enjoyed by driving 4-5 hours daily, allowing time to explore the sights along the way.

Road Trip 1 – Imperial Cities and the Sahara

Route: Casablanca (or Rabat), Meknes, Fes, Merzouga (Sahara Desert), Ouarzazate (Ait Benhaddou), Marrakech

This classic loop takes Belgian travelers through imperial cities, ancient ruins, and the golden dunes of the Sahara. Renting a car in Morocco makes it easy to explore these amazing stops at your own pace. Covering about 2000 kilometers in 7 to 8 days, it is one of the best road trips for history lovers and first-time visitors.

Casablanca or Rabat: Start your trip on the Atlantic coast. In Casablanca, visit the impressive Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world. Stroll through the Kasbah of the Udayas in Rabat and visit the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. Both cities offer a great introduction to Morocco’s rich past.

Meknes: Drive east to the quieter imperial city of Meknes. Wander through Bab Mansour gate, visit the historic granaries, and enjoy the relaxed medina. Nearby, explore the Volubilis Roman ruins, where you can walk among ancient mosaics and towering pillars.

Fes: Continue to Fes, one of the world’s oldest and most fascinating medieval cities. Get lost in the maze of the Fes el-Bali medina, watch artisans work in the colorful tanneries, and visit Al-Qarawiyyin University, considered the oldest university in the world.

Merzouga (Sahara Desert): Head south toward the Sahara Desert, passing palm oases and rocky landscapes. In Merzouga, ride a camel into the dunes of Erg Chebbi. Spend a night in a desert camp under a sky filled with stars. The sunrise over the dunes is a must-see, making the long drive worthwhile.

Ouarzazate (Ait Benhaddou): After your desert experience, drive west toward Ouarzazate, the gateway to the Sahara. Stop at Ait Benhaddou, a stunning mud-brick kasbah that appears in many movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Explore the ancient alleys and climb to the top for wide desert views.

Marrakech: End your road trip in lively Marrakech. Wander through the Jemaa el-Fnaa square filled with street performers, food stalls, and musicians. Visit the colorful Majorelle Garden, the historic Bahia Palace, and shop for souvenirs in the buzzing souks.

Road Trip 2 – Atlantic Coast Drive

Route: Tangier, Asilah, Rabat, Casablanca, Essaouira, Agadir

This breezy road trip leads Belgian travelers along Morocco's scenic Atlantic coastline. Covering about 1300 kilometers in 6 to 7 days, this is one of the best road trips in Morocco for beach lovers and travelers who enjoy a relaxed vibe.

Tangier: Start your trip in the lively port city of Tangier. Visit the Kasbah Museum for a glimpse into the city’s colorful history. Walk along the waterfront and enjoy the busy mix of Moroccan and European culture.

Asilah: A short drive south brings you to peaceful Asilah. Famous for its whitewashed walls and colorful street art, Asilah’s medina feels quiet and fresh. Stroll through the old town, enjoy local seafood, and relax by the ocean.

Rabat: Continue to the capital, Rabat. Explore the beautiful Kasbah of the Udayas, walk through the Andalusian Gardens, and visit the historic Hassan Tower. Rabat’s seaside atmosphere adds to its charm.

Casablanca: Next, head to Casablanca. Visit the impressive Hassan II Mosque built on the edge of the Atlantic. Stroll the Corniche promenade, where cafés and beach clubs offer great ocean views. Casablanca is also a good spot for shopping and modern dining.

Essaouira: Drive further down to the coastal town of Essaouira. Walk along the city walls, explore the old fortress, and enjoy fresh seafood by the beach. Essaouira is also a top spot for kite surfing due to its steady ocean winds.

Agadir: End your Atlantic drive in Agadir, a modern beach resort city. Enjoy wide sandy beaches, surfing lessons, and sunset views from the Agadir Oufella ruins. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a week of exploring.

Road Trip 3 – Mountains and Kasbahs

Route: Marrakech, Ouarzazate (via Tizi n’Tichka Pass), Dades Gorge, Todra Gorge, Midelt, Fes

This mountain journey takes Belgian travelers through rugged landscapes, towering gorges, and ancient kasbahs. Covering about 1000 kilometers in 7 days, this is the best road trip for hikers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.

Marrakech: Start your road trip in lively Marrakech. Spend a day exploring Jemaa el-Fnaa, Bahia Palace, and the colorful souks. Then get ready for a dramatic drive into the mountains.

Ouarzazate (via Tizi n’Tichka Pass): Drive over the famous Tizi n’Tichka Pass in the High Atlas Mountains. The winding road offers spectacular mountain views. Stop at the iconic Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO-listed kasbah known for its sand-colored walls and historic beauty.

Dades Gorge: Continue to the Dades Gorge, where dramatic rock formations and winding valleys create a perfect setting for hiking and photography. Enjoy a drive through the "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs," where ancient fortresses line the route.

Todra Gorge: Next, visit the towering Todra Gorge, where sheer cliffs rise above a narrow river path. Walk along the gorge’s floor, a popular spot for climbers and hikers. The cool canyon air offers a nice break from the heat.

Midelt: Head north to Midelt, a quiet town in the Middle Atlas Mountains. The journey passes through forests of giant cedar trees. Midelt offers a peaceful atmosphere with cool mountain breezes and nearby hiking trails.

Fes: Finish your adventure in historic Fes. Explore the medieval medina, visit Al-Qarawiyyin University, and experience the vibrant crafts scene. After days in the mountains, Fes offers a rich and colorful return to city life.

Best Time to Visit Morocco

Choosing the right season can make a big difference when planning your Morocco trip. The country’s climate changes from coast to desert to mountains. Here’s a look at what to expect during spring, summer, autumn, and winter, helping you decide the best time to visit.

  • Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Morocco. Days are warm and sunny without the extreme heat of summer. Flowers bloom across the country, making landscapes bright and colorful. It is perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and long drives.
  • Summer (June to August) is best for coastal trips. Cities like Marrakech and areas in the desert are very hot during the day. Even desert nights stay warm, so bring light clothes and bedding. Plan beach breaks or mountain drives in the afternoons to stay cooler.
  • Autumn (September and October) mirrors the pleasant weather of spring. Warm days, cool nights, and fewer crowds make it ideal for outdoor adventures. October skies are often clear, perfect for hiking and exploring.
  • Winter (December to February) is mild along the coast, with temperatures around 18°C during the day in Marrakech and about 8°C at night. In the mountains and desert, nights can get very cold, so warm layers are necessary. Winter also means lower travel prices and a chance to see snow in the highlands.

Takeaway

Morocco’s appeal is clear: rich culture, friendly people, and landscapes from coast to desert. For Belgian travelers, this means a varied itinerary of city, culture, and nature. A road trip by car is the best way to experience it all. Plan early and book well in advance to get the best deals.

Also, check visa rules and health requirements ahead of time. For great rates and reliable vehicles, consider renting a car with Finalrentals.