Agadir is more than just a sun-soaked beach destination on Morocco’s southern coast. For road trip lovers and adventure seekers, it’s the perfect starting point for unforgettable drives that span from the Atlantic coastline to the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert. Whether you’re interested in surf towns, Berber villages, or remote desert landscapes, hitting the road from Agadir unlocks the true essence of Morocco.

In this article, we’ll take you through some of the most epic drives starting in Agadir that lead all the way to the Sahara Desert—with stops, tips, and must-see attractions along the way.

?️ Why Start Your Road Trip in Agadir?

Agadir is a well-connected hub with:

• A modern international airport

• Affordable car hire options in Agadir al massira airport

• Good road infrastructure

• Easy access to both coastal and inland routes

Plus, it offers the perfect mix of urban comfort, cultural charm, and geographic location to begin your journey southward toward Morocco’s most remote and magical regions.

? Route Overview: Agadir to the Sahara

Total Estimated Distance: ~600 to 900 km
Travel Time: 2 to 3 days (or longer for more exploration)
Recommended Route:
Agadir → Taroudant → Taliouine → Zagora / M'Hamid / Merzouga

Each stretch of this journey offers unique landscapes, cultural encounters, and must-see sights.

? Stop 1: Agadir to Taroudant (90 km | ~1.5 hrs)

Known as the “Little Marrakech,” Taroudant is a charming walled city with souks, red ramparts, and a laid-back vibe.

What to Do:

• Explore the medina and berber markets

• Visit the Palais Claudio Bravo

• Try traditional tagines at local riads

Driving Tips:

• Roads are in good condition

• Early morning departures help avoid traffic

? Stop 2: Taroudant to Taliouine (150 km | ~2.5 hrs)

This is Morocco’s saffron capital, located in the Anti-Atlas Mountains. The drive to Taliouine begins to showcase the transition from fertile valleys to arid mountain terrain.

What to See:

• Saffron farms (especially vibrant in October–November)

• Berber villages nestled in the hills

• Kasbahs and fortified granaries

Insider Tip: Visit the Maison du Safran to learn about saffron production and buy high-quality local spice.

? Stop 3: Taliouine to Zagora or M’Hamid (300–400 km | ~6 hrs)

From Taliouine, the road continues to descend into more arid terrain. You’re now entering the gateway to the Sahara.

Zagora is the last major city before the desert, famous for its "Timbuktu – 52 days" sign.

What to Experience:

• Ride camels into the dunes

• Camp under the stars in M’Hamid El Ghizlane

• Visit ancient ksars and kasbahs

If you want to experience larger dunes, head east from here toward Merzouga (but this will add more hours to your trip).

? Optional Detour: Agadir → Merzouga via Ouarzazate

If you prefer to visit the famous Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga, consider this longer but equally stunning route:

Agadir → Tazenakht → Ouarzazate → Tinghir → Merzouga

• Highlights: Aït Ben Haddou, Todra Gorge, Draa Valley

• Total Distance: ~700–800 km

• Ideal Trip Length: 4–5 days

?️ Sahara Desert Experiences You Can’t Miss

• Camel trekking at sunset

• Sandboarding down massive dunes

• 4x4 desert tours to ancient caravan routes

• Traditional Gnawa music around campfires

• Sleep in a nomadic-style tent under the stars

? Practical Tips for a Successful Drive

? Vehicle Choice

• A 4x4 is recommended if you plan to go off-road in desert areas

• A compact car is fine for paved routes to Taroudant and Zagora

⛽ Fuel & Supplies

• Always fill your tank in larger towns

• Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and offline maps

? Connectivity

• Cellular reception can be weak in remote areas

• Download Google Maps offline or use Maps.me

? Accommodation

• Book riads or desert camps in advance

• Riads in Taroudant and Zagora are both affordable and atmospheric

? Best Time to Take This Road Trip

• Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are the best times due to mild weather

• Avoid peak summer (June–August): the desert heat can be intense, reaching 45°C+

• Winter (December–February) is pleasant but cold at night in the desert

? Final Thoughts: From Ocean Breezes to Desert Sands

Starting in Agadir, your drive to the Sahara is a journey through Morocco’s soul—from modern cities and ancient medinas to mountain passes and vast dunes. It’s an epic trip that transforms hour by hour, unveiling a new world around every bend.

For travelers who love freedom, exploration, and cultural immersion, this road trip is the adventure of a lifetime.

So rent a car, pack your bags, and drive into the magic of Morocco—from the city to the Sahara. If you are looking for some car to rent in Agadir Al massira airport, we recommand you to check also this best rental car agency in Agadir in Morocco. we offer to you many vehicules and cars with affordable prices.

Company Profile : Car hire Agadir