Morocco
the Great Desert
From North to Desert Paradise
For our three-week Moroccan road trip, we ventured far beyond the typical tourist route, taking our campervan deep into wild landscapes, secluded camp spots, and rugged mountain passes. Kevin crossed over solo by ferry from Spain with the van, while Liset and Lovi joined him by plane.
From the stunning High Atlas Mountains with their breathtaking views and charming, traditional villages, to the endless, golden dunes of the Sahara, we uncovered hidden gems and unforgettable wild camping spots that gave us a whole new perspective on Morocco.
Now, we know the idea of off-grid camping might sound daunting, but trust us—it’s easier (and more rewarding) than you might think. We found peaceful, safe spots where we could truly immerse ourselves in nature. And the best part? It’s totally doable with kids! We can’t wait to share how you can experience Morocco’s secret corners and stunning landscapes, too.
Take a look some of our highlights below and get inspired to find your own hidden gems in Morocco!
About this initirary
Voeg hier je tooltip-tekst toe
Voeg hier je tooltip-tekst toe
Voeg hier je tooltip-tekst toe
Voeg hier je tooltip-tekst toe
Voeg hier je tooltip-tekst toe
Voeg hier je tooltip-tekst toe
Voeg hier je tooltip-tekst toe
Voeg hier je tooltip-tekst toe
Travel duration: 2 or 3 weeks
How to travel: By camper/car
Stay: (wild)camping, riads & gîtes
Best travel period: March till May or September till November
Currency: Dirham
The Blue City - Chefchaouen
We started our Moroccan adventure in Chefchaouen, nestled in the Rif Mountains, and what a place to begin! Known as the Blue City, it’s hands down one of the most photogenic towns in Africa.
Although the entire medina is photogenic, there is a route that is extra decorated with colorful flower pots, carpets and beautiful corners. This route through narrow streets is 800 meters and is actually THE street you should visit. We found some incredible spots for photos here, but be warned—during the day, it gets busy with everyone trying to capture the perfect shot. To beat the crowds, make sure to visit early!
If you’re up for a bit of hiking, you can take a short 15 minutes trail up to the Spanish Mosque for a panoramic view of the blue city against the green of the Rif Mountains.
A Quiet Lakeside Paradise
As we kept driving, we discovered a lakeside spot that felt like our own little hidden oasis, completely away from the crowds. It was one of those rare places that made us stop and say, “This is what it’s all about.” A quiet beautiful spot, surrounded by nature, with a few friendly dogs who quickly adopted us as their new best friends. We spent the evening enjoying a homemade meal by the lake. If you’re looking for a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path spot to truly escape, this is it. It’s one of those places you’ll wish you could stay forever.
Through the Atlas Mountains
Our first 4×4 adventure took us deep into the Atlas Mountains, and it honestly felt like stepping back in time. The mountain villages we passed through seemed frozen in history—small clay-brick homes that blended with the earth, locals riding donkeys, and winding, muddy paths carved through rocky hillsides. Life here felt incredibly simple, with farmers working the land by hand and children waving as we drove through their towns. What stood out most was how the landscape seemed to change every 10 minutes—one moment we were surrounded by red clay mountains, the next, snow-capped peaks. It’s a rare experience to see such diverse beauty in such a short span. Where else could you find that?
For the night, we headed to a gîte, and the journey there was an adventure in itself. We drove down a narrow road, winding through stunning views that seemed to go on forever. When we finally arrived, we were warmly welcomed by the owner, who made us feel right at home. After a day of driving, they treated us to a homemade tagine—our first one—and it didn’t disappoint! Sitting around the table, with our tagine and (of course) sweet mint tea, we shared stories with the locals.
The next day, the owner gave us a tour of the village, showing us how families live in the traditional clay houses. It was such a unique experience—it felt like stepping back in time. The whole family pitches in to make meals, with chickens roaming and donkeys nearby. Lovi was especially taken with the donkeys, watching them curiously as they went about their day. It was a simple yet beautiful way of life, and it was incredible to witness firsthand.
Handpicked Hidden-Gem spot
"The way to Berber Paradise "
- Details: 4G 🤙, Galaxy ✨, Sunset 🌅 Dromedary's in the area 🐪
- Our score: 🤩 (5/5)
The High Pass Tizi n'Tichka
As we made our way out of the High Atlas, we took the winding Tizi n’Tichka pass, one of the most iconic routes in Morocco. This high mountain pass connects Marrakech to the southern oases and winds its way through dramatic rocky landscapes, lush valleys, and scattered Berber villages clinging to the hillsides.
As we climbed higher, the landscape started to change. It got cooler, and the colors around us seemed to pop more with every turn. Along the way, we passed red clay villages where people were busy working and building their homes. At the highest point, 2260 meters, we stopped at a small spot to enjoy the view. The shops here sold whatever they could find in the mountains.
If you’re heading toward the High Atlas, this road is a must—it’s more than just a way to get from A to B; it’s part of the adventure.
Halfway through our journey, we discovered a hidden valley between the mountain hills, offering panoramic views of the red clay villages below. The valley was peaceful, with just the right mix of openness and seclusion. We could see the rugged mountains surrounding us, and the sight of the villages, with their simple clay homes, was like a scene out of another time. It felt untouched, remote, and just right for a quiet night. We couldn’t resist—this was the perfect spot to park up and settle in for the evening.
Handpicked Hidden-Gem spot
"Paradise Vally"
- Details: 4G 🤙, Galaxy ✨, Sunset 🌅 Dromedary's in the area 🐪
- Our score: 🤩 (5/5)
Ait Ben Haddou: A Movie Set in the Heart of the Desert
The next day, we continued our way to Ait Ben Haddou, a historic village made of red clay. This place is famous for good reason—an impressive, sandcastle-like structure rising out of the desert, with walls that seem to change color as the sun sets. Ait Ben Haddou has been a backdrop for countless films, from Gladiator to Game of Thrones, so wandering through its narrow alleys and ancient buildings felt like stepping onto a movie set. The whole place has a timeless, otherworldly vibe, and it was easy to imagine scenes from the films playing out right in front of us.
Ready set.. Gas!
After visiting Ait Ben Haddou we headed down south. While driving through Morocco’s remote desert, we stopped at the ‘Hills Have Eyes’ Gas Station; a station that felt like it was straight out of a movie. It was old, quiet, and surrounded by nothing but empty roads and sand. The pumps looked worn, and the little shop had just the basics. It might not seem like much, but places like this are essential when you’re far from everything—and they add to the adventure of exploring Morocco.
Not far from the gas station we found a remote and peaceful paradise to set up camp for the night. Surrounded by rugged desert hills, it felt like a fitting extension of the eerie yet beautiful vibe of the area.
Handpicked Hidden-Gem spot
"These paradise Hills have eyes"
- Details: 4G 🤙, Galaxy ✨, Sunset 🌅 Dromedary's in the area 🐪
- Our score: 🤩 (5/5)
The Sahara: offroad from West to East
The next morning we made our way to Foam Zguid, where we prepared ourselves for the challenging route across the Sahara. However, there’s also a desert highway to Merzouga, we decided to travel across the Sahara from Foam Zguid, to Mhamid and then on to Merzouga. We drove along rocky paths and sand dunes, finding our way through one of the quietest, most desolate places we’d ever seen. The Sahara surprised us, with huge sand dunes but also mountains, rock-strewn fields, and endless stretches of emptiness. Crossing over the dry lake Irique made this desert road even more special.
A Hidden Oasis in the Desert
As we drove through the vast desert, surrounded by nothing but sand and red mountains, we came across a hidden oasis between the hills. It seemed almost too perfect to be real, but we couldn’t pass it up. We set up camp and enjoyed a good lunch by the incredible view of the valley below.
Handpicked Hidden-Gem spot
"Sand Pyramide Paradise"
- Details: 4G 🤙, Galaxy ✨, Sunset 🌅 Dromedary's in the area 🐪
- Our score: 🤩 (5/5)
Tree of Sunset and Sunrise
As the sun began to dip, we found a small road that led us to a lone tree standing in the middle of what felt like nowhere. It was one of those quiet, unexpected moments where everything just clicked—a perfect little paradise to watch the sunset. Of course, we couldn’t resist capturing the moment, and it turned out to be one of those unforgettable photos you’ll see here.
Handpicked Hidden-Gem spot
"Sand Pyramide Paradise"
- Details: 4G 🤙, Galaxy ✨, Sunset 🌅 Dromedary's in the area 🐪
- Our score: 🤩 (5/5)
Titel: Donkey land
As we ventured deeper into the Sahara, we came across a family of donkeys making their way through the desert. Since Lovi’s always excited to see animals, we couldn’t resist stopping. We shared a little water with them and enjoying the moment as they drank and wandered around us.
Place to sleep , also donkeys
Handpicked Hidden-Gem spot
"Sand Pyramide Paradise"
- Details: 4G 🤙, Galaxy ✨, Sunset 🌅 Dromedary's in the area 🐪
- Our score: 🤩 (5/5)
Titel: Picknick
Didn’t sleep but worth to mention
Handpicked Hidden-Gem spot
"Sand Pyramide Paradise"
- Details: 4G 🤙, Galaxy ✨, Sunset 🌅 Dromedary's in the area 🐪
- Our score: 🤩 (5/5)
while we got deeper in the desert, it went from totally flat lands (lake beds) to more sane hills with life
Desert colors
text
Handpicked Hidden-Gem spot
"Sand Pyramide Paradise"
- Details: 4G 🤙, Galaxy ✨, Sunset 🌅 Dromedary's in the area 🐪
- Our score: 🤩 (5/5)
while we got deeper in the desert, it went from totally flat lands (lake beds) to more sane hills with life
A Hidden Oasis in the Heart of the Desert
Before reaching M’hamid, we stopped at L’Oasis Sacrée. True to its name, it’s a serene oasis in the desert, dotted with palm trees and small streams. There’s a simple terrace where you can grab a drink and relax, making it a perfect place to take a break from the dusty trails.
Handpicked Hidden-Gem spot
"Sand Pyramide Paradise"
- Details: 4G 🤙, Galaxy ✨, Sunset 🌅 Dromedary's in the area 🐪
- Our score: 🤩 (5/5)
A Riad by the Dunes: The Perfect Desert Campsite
Once we arrived in M’hamid, we took some time to restock our supplies and found a great campsite nestled right next to the dunes, a nice spot to prepare ourselves for the next desert trip.
Handpicked Hidden-Gem spot
"Sand Pyramide Paradise"
- Details: 4G 🤙, Galaxy ✨, Sunset 🌅 Dromedary's in the area 🐪
- Our score: 🤩 (5/5)
rock & roll
Once we arrived in M’hamid, we took some time to restock our supplies and found a great campsite nestled right next to the dunes, a nice spot to prepare ourselves for the next desert trip.
Once we arrived in M’hamid, we took some time to restock our supplies and found a great campsite nestled right next to the dunes, a nice spot to prepare ourselves for the next desert trip.
Handpicked Hidden-Gem spot
"Sand Pyramide Paradise"
- Details: 4G 🤙, Galaxy ✨, Sunset 🌅 Dromedary's in the area 🐪
- Our score: 🤩 (5/5)
rocmountain
Once we arrived in M’hamid, we took some time to restock our supplies and found a great campsite nestled right next to the dunes, a nice spot to prepare ourselves for the next desert trip.
Handpicked Hidden-Gem spot
"Sand Pyramide Paradise"
- Details: 4G 🤙, Galaxy ✨, Sunset 🌅 Dromedary's in the area 🐪
- Our score: 🤩 (5/5)
Desert Route
Once we arrived in M’hamid, we took some time to restock our supplies and found a great campsite nestled right next to the dunes, a nice spot to prepare ourselves for the next desert trip.
Handpicked Hidden-Gem spot
"Sand Pyramide Paradise"
- Details: 4G 🤙, Galaxy ✨, Sunset 🌅 Dromedary's in the area 🐪
- Our score: 🤩 (5/5)
Desert Power
Once we arrived in M’hamid, we took some time to restock our supplies and found a great campsite nestled right next to the dunes, a nice spot to prepare ourselves for the next desert trip.
Once we arrived in M’hamid, we took some time to restock our supplies and found a great campsite nestled right next to the dunes, a nice spot to prepare ourselves for the next desert trip.
Handpicked Hidden-Gem spot
"Sand Pyramide Paradise"
- Details: 4G 🤙, Galaxy ✨, Sunset 🌅 Dromedary's in the area 🐪
- Our score: 🤩 (5/5)
Flat?
Once we arrived in M’hamid, we took some time to restock our supplies and found a great campsite nestled right next to the dunes, a nice spot to prepare ourselves for the next desert trip.
Once we arrived in M’hamid, we took some time to restock our supplies and found a great campsite nestled right next to the dunes, a nice spot to prepare ourselves for the next desert trip.
Handpicked Hidden-Gem spot
"Sand Pyramide Paradise"
- Details: 4G 🤙, Galaxy ✨, Sunset 🌅 Dromedary's in the area 🐪
- Our score: 🤩 (5/5)
Dune paradise
Once we arrived in M’hamid, we took some time to restock our supplies and found a great campsite nestled right next to the dunes, a nice spot to prepare ourselves for the next desert trip.
Once we arrived in M’hamid, we took some time to restock our supplies and found a great campsite nestled right next to the dunes, a nice spot to prepare ourselves for the next desert trip.
Handpicked Hidden-Gem spot
"Sand Pyramide Paradise"
- Details: 4G 🤙, Galaxy ✨, Sunset 🌅 Dromedary's in the area 🐪
- Our score: 🤩 (5/5)
pool
Once we arrived in M’hamid, we took some time to restock our supplies and found a great campsite nestled right next to the dunes, a nice spot to prepare ourselves for the next desert trip.
Once we arrived in M’hamid, we took some time to restock our supplies and found a great campsite nestled right next to the dunes, a nice spot to prepare ourselves for the next desert trip.
Handpicked Hidden-Gem spot
"Sand Pyramide Paradise"
- Details: 4G 🤙, Galaxy ✨, Sunset 🌅 Dromedary's in the area 🐪
- Our score: 🤩 (5/5)
village
Once we arrived in M’hamid, we took some time to restock our supplies and found a great campsite nestled right next to the dunes, a nice spot to prepare ourselves for the next desert trip.
Desert Power 2
Once we arrived in M’hamid, we took some time to restock our supplies and found a great campsite nestled right next to the dunes, a nice spot to prepare ourselves for the next desert trip.
Once we arrived in M’hamid, we took some time to restock our supplies and found a great campsite nestled right next to the dunes, a nice spot to prepare ourselves for the next desert trip.
Handpicked Hidden-Gem spot
"Sand Pyramide Paradise"
- Details: 4G 🤙, Galaxy ✨, Sunset 🌅 Dromedary's in the area 🐪
- Our score: 🤩 (5/5)
lake at port
Once we arrived in M’hamid, we took some time to restock our supplies and found a great campsite nestled right next to the dunes, a nice spot to prepare ourselves for the next desert trip.
Once we arrived in M’hamid, we took some time to restock our supplies and found a great campsite nestled right next to the dunes, a nice spot to prepare ourselves for the next desert trip.
Handpicked Hidden-Gem spot
"Sand Pyramide Paradise"
- Details: 4G 🤙, Galaxy ✨, Sunset 🌅 Dromedary's in the area 🐪
- Our score: 🤩 (5/5)
Other places which you can visit
If you’re planning a trip to Morocco and looking to expand your itinerary, consider exploring places like Ouarzazate, the ‘Hollywood of Morocco,’ or the lesser-visited Tafraoute in the Anti-Atlas Mountains, known for its striking pink granite formations. Next time, we will definitely visit these places, so more of those areas are coming soon!
Our favorite (wild camp) spots
Camping in Morocco offers a unique way to experience its diverse landscapes, but finding the perfect spots can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve created a map with all our favorite wild camping locations, taking the stress out of planning.
For those exploring on their own, pick quiet, off-road areas and always leave nature as you found it. Morocco is generally safe, but staying aware is key. Apps like iOverlander or Park4Night can help, but our map gives you hidden gems you won’t find elsewhere. From mountains to desert dunes, camping in Morocco is a simple, unforgettable way to see the country.
In this journey
Hi, 👋
This is Itsy Bitsy Paradise
Hi! We’re Liset and Kevin, and a few years ago, our little adventurers, Lovi and Quinn, joined the journey. Travel is our greatest passion, and sharing it with our kids has made it even more magical. Together, we explore and create our own “Itsy Bitsy Paradise”—finding those hidden spots of beauty, adventure, and calm wherever we go.
“Itsy Bitsy Paradise”
Morocco Spots
Handpicked hidden gems we’ve explored, these off-the-beaten-path spots are the result of our own effort and trial—so you can save time, avoid missteps, and be sure every paradise delivers beauty and adventure.
Get all Morocco locations in an offline PDF. Contact us for the file and payment details.
Price: € ##,##
What's next
Asia
Philippines
7,000 islands
Nord-America
USA
land of the free
Central America