Planning a Morocco trip with your best friend is one of the most enjoyable pre-travel experiences there is — if you do it right. Here’s how to avoid the arguments and make the most of the journey before it even begins.
First Decision: How Long?
Morocco rewards time. A week is the minimum for a meaningful trip. Two weeks lets you go deep — city, mountains, desert, coast. Ten days is the sweet spot for most people: Marrakech (2 nights), Fès (2 nights), Chefchaouen (2 nights), Sahara (2 nights), Essaouira (1 night), back to Marrakech.
The Classic Route: Marrakech to Fès
The most-travelled Morocco itinerary runs from Marrakech in the south to Fès in the north, or vice versa. Both cities have international airports. Fly in one, out the other — no backtracking, maximum variety. The route in between can include Ouarzazate, the Drâa Valley, the Sahara, Merzouga, Midelt and the Middle Atlas.
Splitting Costs
Morocco is one of the most affordable destinations for two people travelling together. Budget €60–80 per person per day for comfortable travel including accommodation, food, transport and entry fees. For genuine budget travel, €35–40 per person per day is achievable.
One Riad or Separate Rooms?
One double room in a good riad typically costs the same as two beds in a budget hostel — and offers infinitely more atmosphere. If your friendship can handle sharing a room, Morocco’s riads make the decision easy.
The Desert: Book in Advance
The best desert camps in Erg Chebbi book up weeks in advance in peak season (October–November and March–April). Decide early, book directly with the camp (better prices than through agencies), and confirm a private tent rather than a shared one.
What to Agree on Before You Go
Pace (some people want to see everything; others want to sit in cafés), food preferences (Moroccan cuisine is not always vegetarian-friendly at basic restaurants), shopping budget (souks are dangerously compelling), and how much time to spend in each city. Have the conversation before arrival — it makes everything easier.
