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Quality 4.67
Amenities 4.33

3 Days Merzoga Tour

Amenities 4.67

2 Days in Desert M’hamid El Ghizlaine

Amenities 4

Desert Explorer 3 days

Quality 3.67
Location 4.67
Services 4.67

1 Day trip to Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah from Marrakech

Location 3.33
Amenities 3.67
Services 3.67

Combined 7 days Sahara Desert Tker and 4x4 tour

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1 Day trip to Essaouira from Marrakech

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1 Day trip to Imlil from Marrakech

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City Walks Tour

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Visit volubilis and meknes

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Tours starting from Marrakech are 3 days

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We have compiled a list of top destinations across the globe, scoured the world for the most alluring and fascinating places to visit. From the beautiful beaches of the Caribbean to the majestic mountains of Europe and the vibrant cities of Asia, our destination list has something for everyone.

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Embrace the thrill of the unknown.

Are you tired of the typical tourist destinations and looking to step out of your comfort zone? Adventure travel may be the perfect solution for you! Here are four reasons why you should book an adventure travel experience :

Connect with nature
Experience other cultures
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Benefits of traveling alone, from the freedom to discover new places with new friends.

Iconic landmarks that make Europe one of the world's most popular travel destinations.

Practical advice for travelers who want to see the world without breaking the bank.

Must-see destinations and experiences, including wildlife and cultural experiences.

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Marrakesh Travel Experts & Events is a group of passionate and Expert travel consultants with over 30 years of designing trips and event in Morocco, Working with high profile travel agents, event planners and at Heart travelers.

At Marrakesh Travel Experts & Events ,most importantly, we care about getting to know our clients, and invest time into building important relationships, which enable us to create holidays of a lifetime. We do all the planning for you, make everything easy and take the stress away, so you don’t need to worry about a thing.

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Shared Day Trip To Ouzoud From Marrakech

Shared Group Trip For Only 20 € per person

Shared Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga

Our extremely popular 3 day shared trip to Merzouga from Marrakech can transport you into the wondrous world of the Sahara.

3 Days 2 Nights Morocco Desert Tour

3 Days 2 Nights to Merzouga from Marrakech from Only 105€

Zagora Desert tour from Marrakech

2 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Zagora only from 65€

Classic Ballooning Flight Around Marrakech

Enjoy a relaxing hot-air balloon flight around Marrakech and watch a sunrise across the Atlas Mountains - from only 190 €

Merzouga Luxury Desert Camp

NOUS TRANSFORMONS LES RÊVES MAROCAINS EN RÉALITÉS MAGIQUES ET EN SOUVENIRS IMPÉRISSABLES.

Day Trip To Essaouira From Marrakech

Take a day trip to Essaouira from Marrakech for only 25 € per person

Marrakesh Travel Services

At Marrakech Travel Service, we are absolutely thrilled to be your gateway to an unforgettable Moroccan adventure. We understand that your holiday is a precious and cherished time, and that's why we are dedicated to making it the most exhilarating and enriching experience possible.

Morocco Tours & Trips

Whether you want to trek the Atlas Mountains with a Berber or ride a camel through the dunes of the Sahara, Morocco is full of wonders just waiting to be explored.

Shared 3 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga

Our extremely popular 3 day shared trip to Merzouga from Marrakech can transport you into the wondrous world of the Sahara

Day trips from Marrakech

from Marrakech to Essaouira , Ouzoud waterfalls , Ourika...

Private Tours from Marrakech

Private tours from Marrakech , Fes , Casablanca and more

Available Private & Shared Tours

Shared 3 days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga

Shared desert tour from marrakech.

Envoy our Best seller Shared Desert Tour from Marrakech , We have plenty of thrilling desert activities lined up for you, as you experience the fascinating lifestyle of Berber indigenous civilisation that stretches back over 20,000 years and still survives in this most arid part of the world.

Shared 3 days/2 nights from Marrakech to Merzouga

Itinerary of Shared 3 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga Hotel pick up ...

Shared 2 days/1 night to Zagora from Marrakech

Itinerary of Shared 2 days to Zagora from Marrakech Hotel pick up 7 :00am – ...

3 Days 2 Night to Chegaga From Marrakech

Itinerary 3 Days 2 Night to Chegaga From Marrakech Day 1 Marrakech-Ait Ben ...

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Day Trips from Marrakech

From Marrakech you can have a lot of different trips such as Ouzoud waterfalls, Ourika valley, Essaouira or you can have a trip in the streets of Marrakech in order to discover its beauty.

Shared Day trip to Ourika Valley from Marrakech

Our shared day trip to Ourika valley from Marrakech takes us through the High Atlas Mountains. ...

Shared Day Trip To Ouzoud From Marrakech & This trip operates daily Hotel pick up ...

Shared Day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira

Itinerary Shared Day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira Hotel pick up 8:00am – Hotel ...

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Activities in Marrakech

Exciting activities in Marrakech, romantic activities in Marrakech, cultural activities in Marrakech and more - we offer all activities in Marrakech and would love to share our activities in Marrakech with you.

Camel Ride Trip Marrakech

Two departures daily 10 :00am and 4 :00 pm Camel Ride Trip Marrakech is a dream! We ...

Quad Bike Excursion Marrakech

Departures daily, 9:00 am and 2:00 pm Quad bike excursion Marrakech We offer all ...

Cooking Classes at the Riad in Marrakech

This activity can be arranged on a day to suit you We offer you an exclusive cooking ...

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MOROCCO DAY TOURS & ITINERARIES BEST DEALS 2024

Enjoy a fabulous range of tours throughout Morocco local experts offer you a friendly and knowledgeable service with tours across Morocco Desert Tours , Berber experience Day Activities and more.

Morocco Desert Itineraries

The largest sand dunes in Morocco Merzouga & Zagora

Atlas Mountains Morocco

Discover the Atlas Mountain Ourika & Imlil Valleys

H24 Support

Travel Agency based in Medina Marrakech Morocco recommended on tripadvisor

What Clients say here's what our clients say about us.

Timothy eslick, victoria snow, bianca duyvesteijn, lates blog experiences.

Best things to do in Morocco

Essaouira Morocco A Guide to the Windy City of Africa

Essaouira: The Enchanting Windy City of Africa Are you ready for an extraordinary journey to ...

Essaouira A City of History Culture and Beauty

Essaouira touches the soul with its beauty. It’s azure harbour, surrounded by white houses ...

Best things to do in Marrakech

Marrakech Unveiled: A Kaleidoscope of Adventures Marrakech, a city synonymous with magic, ...

PRIVATE MOROCCO DESERT TOURS

SHARED DESERT TOURS
PRIVATE MARRAKECH DAY TRIPS
SHARED MARRAKECH DAY TRIPS

ATLAS MOUNTAINS TREKKING

MOUNT TOUBKAL TREKKING

MARRAKECH DESERT TOURS

Our best camel guide taking a rest in Mrzouga dunes

Marrakech Desert Trips

Embark on our Marrakech Desert Tours and explore the best of Morocco, the land of mystery and enchantment. We offer a wide range of Morocco desert tours, day trips, and Atlas Mountains treks designed to help you get the most out of your Moroccan adventure. With over 13 years of experience in organizing hassle-free Sahara desert tours , we know exactly how to show you the best this country has to offer. No matter what type of Morocco desert tour you’re looking for or where you want to start and finish your trip, we can help make your dream desert safari a reality. So come with us on an unforgettable journey through the Moroccan Sahara Desert – it will be an experience you’ll never forget! Marrakech Desert Trips is a licensed and fully bonded Moroccan tour company with offices based in Marrakech. Our talented travel experts, drivers, and tour guides have well over a century’s worth of experience in the Moroccan travel industry. After years of organizing seamless Morocco desert tours , we have the skills and resources to create the best value-for-money desert tour experiences in Morocco. Our attention to detail and commitment to our client’s satisfaction is second to none. We are proud to offer an unbeatable selection of desert tour packages that will suit any budget or preference. Contact us today to start planning your perfect Moroccan adventure!

Shared Desert Tours from Marrakech

Sunset view of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou reflected in still water, iconic stop on group Marrakech to Merzouga 3-day tour.

Group 3-Day Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga

Shared Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour

Tourist enjoying a camel ride in the Moroccan desert with others following on a clear day.

Group 2 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech

Intimate desert dining on sandy dunes during a private 3-day Marrakech to Merzouga tour.

Private 3 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga

Marrakech To Fes Desert Tour

Snow capped Middle Atlas Mountains during your Fez desert tour to Marrakech via Merzouga

Fes to Marrakech Desert Tour 3 Days

Caravan of camels with riders trekking across the sweeping dunes of the Sahara Desert at sunrise.

Morocco Desert Tour From Casablanca Via Chefchaouen & Fes

Colorful textiles hanging along the blue-washed walls of Chefchaouen, Morocco, on a cultural stop during the Marrakech to Chefchaouen Desert Tour.

Marrakech To Chefchaouen Tour Via Sahara Desert & Fes

Historic Kasbah with snow-capped Mount Toubkal in the background, surrounded by lush palm trees under a clear blue sky in Morocco.

5 Days Mt. Toubkal trek & Sahara Desert Tour

Enthralling evening entertainment with traditional music by a campfire on the 4 Day Sahara Desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga.

4-Day Desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga

Camel caravan silhouette against the setting sun in the Sahara Desert on a Morocco desert tour.

4 Days Morocco Desert Tour from Marrakech

Caravan of camels with riders casting long shadows on sandy dunes during a Marrakech to Fes desert tour.

4-Day Marrakech to Fes Tour Via Morocco’s Sahara Desert

Ait Benhaddou Kasbah standing tall with its traditional earthen architecture in the Moroccan desert.

4 Days Morocco Sahara desert tour from Fes to Marrakech

Man in traditional attire walking through the Erg Chigaga dunes with date palms under the bright sun.

Marrakech to Erg Chigaga Desert Tour – 4 days

Ancient red sandstone Kasbah Ait Benhaddou beside a river with people and palm trees under a blue sky.

2 Days Desert Tour From Marrakech

Marrakech day trips.

Seagull flying over the rocky shore with the historic white-washed buildings of Essaouira in the background under a clear blue sky.

Best Shared Day Trip To Essaouira From Marrakech

Verdant cliffs framing the majestic Ouzoud Waterfalls with lush foliage in the foreground.

Marrakech to Ouzoud Waterfalls Group day Trip

Adventurous tourist quad biking in the Marrakech desert with palm trees in the background.

Half Day Marrakech Quad Biking Expereince

Scenic view of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains from Ourika Valley near Marrakech, with lush green fields in the foreground.

Shared Day Trip To Ourika Valley From Marrakech

Tourists enjoying a guided camel ride in Marrakech's palm grove oasis with blue saddle blankets.

Marrakech Camel Ride In The Palm Grove

Group of happy tourists on a Marrakech adventure tour, with quad bikes and camels in the background, celebrating their desert experience.

Half Day Marrakech Quad Biking & Camel Ride in the Palmeraie

Private marrakech tours & activities.

Two hikers observing terraced agriculture in the Atlas Mountains on a day trip from Marrakech

Day Trip to the Atlas Mountains from Marrakech

Seagull flying over the coastal town of Essaouira, Morocco, with fortified walls and white buildings along the shoreline.

Private Day Trip From Marrakech To Essaouira

Scenic view of Agafay Desert with rolling dunes, a winding path, and distant mountains under a clear sky.

Day Trip To Agafay Desert From Marrakech

The Hassan II Mosque, a key destination on Marrakech to Casablanca day trips, looms over the Atlantic Ocean with its impressive 210-meter minaret under a clear blue sky.

Day Trip From Marrakech To Casablanca

Two travelers on a camel in Agafay Desert with guide walking alongside.

Marrakech Sunset Camel Ride In Agafay Desert

Marrakech Quad Biking In Agafay Desert

Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou amidst blossoming almond trees in Ounila Valley.

Day Trip From Marrakech To Ouarzazate & Ait Ben Haddou

Two hikers exploring the Ouzoud Waterfalls with mist rising from the cascading waters and lush greenery in the background.

Private Day Trip From Marrakech To Ouzoud Waterfalls

Lush green Ourika Valley with a flowing river, nestled between red Atlas Mountains under a clear blue sky.

Private Marrakech Day Trip To Ourika Valley

Group of people seated around a roaring bonfire under a starry sky in the Agafay Desert during a sunset camel ride event, with traditional Moroccan lamps and drums.

Sunset camels ride in Agafay Desert with Moroccan Dinner

Aerial view of Agadir's expansive sandy beach and curved bay, with palm-lined boulevards and white buildings, during a day trip from Marrakech.

Marrakech to Agadir Day Trip

Tourists on a Marrakech guided walking tour admire the intricate Arabic calligraphy and tilework in the Medina.

Marrakech Walking Tour

Colorful hot air balloon against a dramatic sunrise over the Marrakech horizon, with silhouetted mountains in the background.

Marrakech Hot Air Ballooning Adventure

Hiker at Mount Toubkal peak on a 2-Day Trek adventure.

2 Days Mount Toubkal Ascent Trek

Adventurer pausing on a snowy trek during a 3-day Mount Toubkal ascent.

3-Day Mount Toubkal Ascent Trek

3 Day Atlas Mountain Trek

Joyful group on Mount Toubkal summit during a 4-Day Mount Toubkal Trek.

4 Days Mountain Toubkal Trek

Trekkers observing snow-capped peaks during the Imlil to Ourika Valley 3-day trek in the Atlas Mountains.

Imlil To Ourika 3 Days Trekking In The Atlas Mountains

Trekkers crossing a rocky stream with a traditional Berber village in the backdrop in the Atlas Mountains.

Toubkal Summit And Berber Villages Trek

Why choose us, licensed tour operator.

We are a fully licensed and registered Moroccan tour company.

Satisfaction guaranteed

We follow the strict guide lines set by our mother company: EXTRA MILE.

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Take advantage of our buying power and benefit from the best rates.

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Morocco desert tours - An adventure of a lifetime

A touch of magic, a sense of divinity, and a feel of adventure are always brought to our approach when delivering your Morocco desert tours. The result was no less than thousands of rejuvenated guests after a memorable desert tour from Fes, Marrakech or Casablanca. So come visit Morocco with us; you will experience the Sahara Desert, not just see it! Our philosophy is simple: to offer our guests the best Desert tour experience at the most competitive price. We’ve reached that thanks to our team of genuine experts, local knowledge, and buying power. Being a licensed, registered, and fully bonded Moroccan tour company will allow you to book your Morocco desert tours with absolute peace of mind.

Marrakech Tours

Berber nomad welcoming our guests on their Morocco desert tours from Marrakech

THE BEST MARRAKECH DESERT TOURS FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE

At Marrakech Desert Trips , we pride ourselves on organizing hassle-free Morocco desert tours. We regularly scrutinize our contracted lodges, desert camps, Riads, and camel operators to stand out from the crowd. We look through thick and thin to ensure our partners’ service levels meet our standards, and we hunt for innovative and fresh products and ideas to use exclusively for our guests. We have carefully handpicked the most popular Morocco desert tours for you to choose from. But you can always get in touch with our travel advisors to customize a unique tour itinerary for you. Every Morocco desert tour from Marrakech, Casablanca or Fez includes an overnight stay at a Sahara desert camp and a camel trek in the dunes of Erg Chebbi, Zagora desert, or Erg Chigaga dunes to watch the sunset and the sunrise. Be our guest, and we will show you the best of Morocco’s Sahara desert, where a good time lasts for a long time. We guarantee you will fly home with lifetime memories.

BOOK YOUR MARRAKECH DESRT TOURS Tours WITH THE LOCAL EXPERTS

Our motto is attention to detail with the complete understanding that quality shared or private Morocco desert tours should allow you to interact with the local Berbers and Nomads in the Sahara desert. For that reason, your drivers will arrange exclusive visits to the fortified villages or nomad camps built in the middle of nowhere, share a cup of mint tea with them, and listen to their stories. To enjoy your Morocco desert tours, all our vehicles, be it minibusses for shared Marrakech desert tours or Jeeps and deluxe vans for the private tours are air-conditioned. They are driven by local experienced, friendly drivers/guides who speak English, French, and sometimes Spanish.

Lady posing for a photo on the the way to the Sahara Desert from Marrakech

BEST TAILOR-MADE MOROCCO DESERT TOURS

No matter what your special requirements are, Marrakech Desert Trips will tailor the perfect Morocco desert tour for you. Our archaeology, astronomy, and geology-themed Sahara tours are second to none. We offer great rates for student groups taking our Marrakech to Fes desert tour , one of our 3 days desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga , or a Fes to Marrakech desert tour . We have served many satisfied international university students on a tight budget. So if you have any questions about our Morocco Shara desert trips or would like us to customize a dream tour for you from either Marrakech or Fes, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Travel Tips and Advice

Group of adventurers riding quad bikes across the smooth sand dunes of Morocco Sahara Desert at dusk.

Ultimate Guide: Planning Your Perfect Morocco Sahara Desert Tour

Four friends enjoy a candlelit dinner in the Agafay Desert, with rolling dunes under a twilight sky.

Agafay Desert: Marrakech Nearest Desert Gateway

Woman in orange dress leading camel at sunset in Merzouga dunes.

Best things to do in Merzouga, Morocco

Smiling Moroccan man in traditional blue djellaba and turban standing by an old door in a Kasbah.

Morocco: Come for the country, stay for the people

Scenic view of Ouzoud Waterfalls with lush greenery and red cliffs

10 Reasons to Visit Ouzoud Waterfalls in Morocco

Scenic view of the Kasbah of Aït Benhaddou with river and mountains in the background.

What is a Kasbah? A Comprehensive Guide to Morocco’s Ancient Fortresses

A tourist riding a camel led by a guide through the sandy dunes under the bright sun in the Moroccan desert

Morocco Camel Ride: An Unforgettable Sahara Desert Journey

Camels trekking across the sun-drenched sand dunes of the Sahara Desert under extreme summer temperatures.

15 Fascinating Facts About the Sahara Desert

Diagram illustrating the structure and function of a traditional Khettara irrigation system, including the mother well, access shaft, Qanat channel, and distribution network.

Unveiling the Hidden Marvels of Morocco: The Ancient Khettaras

Scenic view of a river, historic Kasbah, and unique rock formations in Dades Valley, Morocco.

Dades Valley Unveiled: A Journey Through Time and Terrain in the Heart of Morocco

Luxurious Moroccan riad interior showcasing classical architecture with carved archways, opulent chandeliers, and a central garden area.

What is a Riad? Understanding Morocco’s Enchanting Accommodations

Woman in white blouse and skirt walking amidst vibrant, colorful traditional rugs and textiles displayed on walls and piles in a Marrakech souk, showcasing the rich culture and craftsmanship of Moroccan markets.

Exploring the Colorful Souks of Marrakech: A Treasure Hunter’s Dream

Assortment of traditional Berber costumes on display at the Yves Saint Laurent Berber Heritage Museum.

Who Are the Berbers of Morocco? Unveiling North Africa’s Indigenous Secrets

Casablanca beer bottle next to a full glass and traditional Moroccan tea set on a mosaic table.

Is Alcohol Readily Available in Morocco? A Deep Dive into Its Accessibility and Regulations

Community of Moroccan people celebrating Eid Al Fitr in a decorated street.

What Should Every Traveler Know About Journeying Through Morocco During Eid Al Fitr?

Meandering river in Ourika Valley with lush greenery and towering Atlas Mountains.

What Makes Ourika Valley a Must-Visit Destination in Morocco?

Mother and child enjoying a vibrant alley in Chefchaouen, with blue walls and plant pots, capturing a joyful moment.

Azure Dreams: Unveiling the Magic of Chefchaouen, Morocco’s Blue City

Silhouette of Koutoubia Mosque's minaret against a twilight sky with a crescent moon during Ramadan in Marrakech, Morocco.

Can you visit Morocco during Ramadan?

A woman tourist enjoying a traditional Moroccan tea served by a man in a blue turban outdoors with mountains and greenery in the background.

Discover Zagora: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Woman with flowing hair joyfully running in front of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou

Why visit Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou?

Woman in traditional attire watching the sunset over the Sahara dunes with a camel caravan in the background

20 Best Things to Do While on a Morocco Desert Tour

Exploring the Beauty of Morocco: Chefchaouen, Toubkal National Park, and Essaouira

Majestic Ouzoud Waterfalls with vibrant cascades amidst lush Moroccan landscape

Exquisite Escapes: Discovering the 8 Unforgettable Day Trips from Marrakech

Interior view of the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca showcasing the intricate architecture and ornate decoration.

Best Things to Do in Casablanca, Morocco: A Comprehensive Guide

Caravan of tourists on a camel trek across the sweeping sand dunes of the Moroccan Sahara Desert.

Choose the right budget-shared Marrakech Desert Tour

Camel caravan meandering through the majestic dunes of Erg Chigaga in Morocco's Sahara Desert.

Desert Wonders: Choosing Between Morocco’s Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga

Tourists exploring the bustling souks of Essaouira with local shops displaying crafts and wares.

Essaouira Travel Guide: Unveiling the Charms of this Coastal Gem

Moroccan chicken Tagine with olives, preserved lemons and a cup of Harissa sauce

Experience the Exquisite Flavours of Moroccan Cuisine

Scenic aerial view of Moulay Driss Zerhoun, the holy town perched on the hills of Morocco.

Morocco Unveiled: Your Ultimate Travel Guide for 2024 -2025

Moroccan horsemen in traditional attire performing the Fantasia, a cultural equestrian display.

Morocco: A Blend of Cultures and Influences

Night view of Chefchaouen, Morocco, with its iconic blue houses illuminated under a twilight sky.

Discover the Hidden Gems of Morocco

Cozy rooftop terrace of a Marrakech restaurant with views of Koutoubia Mosque amid palm trees at dusk.

Best things to do in Marrakech

Group of children in traditional Moroccan attire in a mountain village, showcasing the vibrant cultural heritage.

What is Morocco known for?

A panoramic view of the Dades Valley with traditional Moroccan architecture and lush greenery, against the backdrop of the snow-dusted Atlas Mountains.

Experience the magic of the Sahara with a captivating 3-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga

Three women showcasing different outfits suitable for a Sahara Desert tour in Morocco.

What to pack for a Morocco Sahara desert tour

Camel on Taghazout beach with Moroccan village in the background.

Why visit Morocco?

Verdant forests in the foreground leading to the snow-covered peaks of the Atlas Mountains under a clear blue sky.

Your Essential Travel Guide to the Atlas Mountains

Customer reviews.

After my first trip to Morocco with a couple of female friends from Marrakech to Fes, this was my second tour with Marrakech Desert Trips. This time, my husband and I travelled to Erg Chegaga desert, and it was fantastic. At my age, I had some issues about staying in a Sahara desert camp, but it is actually rather pleasant. I have always had positive experiences in Morocco, and I believe one of the main reasons was Marrakech Desert Trips particular attention and care. Instead of treating you like a “customer”, you get treated like a friend. I can’t say enough good things about them.

Marrakech Desert Trips provided us with a once-in-a-lifetime Moroccan experience. It was private tour that started in Casablanca. We headed to Chefchaouen, then Fez, before we explored the Sahara desert for 3 days. Our tour ended in Marrakech, where we were dropped off at our Riad.. It was a nicely run and unforgettable tour. We were blown away by the attention to details, the accommodations were all good value for what we paid for our tour, the food was varied as we ate in local restaurants most of the times, and the amazing views we saw gave us a tremendous sense of Morocco’s numerous natural and historical facets. Reda ( our lovely drive and guide ) kept us occupied for several hours while traveling, with wonderful music, chatting, and pauses whenever we needed. The quality of the trip, as well as the safety, made this a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Thank you very much!

Learning about this Marrakech Desert Trips from a family member’s positive experience, we chose them for our 8-day tour from Marrakech to Chefchaouen, and they exceeded our expectations. Abdel, our driver and tour guide, was fantastic! His deep understanding of the country and its attractions was matched by his kindness, patience, exceptional driving skills, and willingness to adapt our itinerary as needed. Recommending them wholeheartedly, we wouldn’t hesitate to engage their services again. A big thanks to Abdel for making our journey memorable and seamless!

In just three days, Hassan provided us an incredible glimpse into Morocco’s treasures. He guided us through breathtaking Atlas Mountain landscapes and the amazing Sahara desert. Immersing us in the Berber culture, he shared insights about their language, cuisine, and music. Meeting wonderful locals enriched the journey, and Hassan’s boundless energy and attentiveness ensured our comfort and security throughout. His adept handling of diverse situations was impressive. I wholeheartedly endorse this tour, with a special suggestion to request Hassan as your guide – his expertise truly elevates the experience.

Our 3-day private round trip to the Sahara from Marrakech was truly remarkable. Driver Lachen exceeded expectations, ensuring an incredible journey from start to finish. Engaging conversations with Lachen immersed us in local culture and introduced us to authentic people, creating a bespoke adventure. The journey itself revealed breathtaking landscapes. Along the way, we enjoyed delicious meals and cozy lodgings, including a luxurious camp with a private, warm desert shower. Lachen’s seamless coordination with accommodations was impressive. I wholeheartedly recommend this tour to anyone interested in exploring Morocco and the Sahara. Lachen’s exceptional service elevates the experience, providing personalized and insightful adventures that become cherished memories.

In our diverse group of eight, spanning ages 13 to 40s and various dietary preferences, the journey was a hit! The Panorama hotel impressed with its friendly English-speaking staff, offering comfort, great food, and picturesque views. Camel trekking into the desert and optional quad bike rides back were unforgettable, creating cherished memories. Overnight camping in the desert was equally magical, waking up in the heart of the Sahara. The hosts, accommodations, and facilities exceeded expectations. Our driver, Hassan, was exceptional, sharing his enthusiasm and abundant knowledge about the area, culture, and language. He became a cherished friend, enhancing the overall experience.

We embarked on a remarkable three-day journey from Fes to Marrakech, traversing deserts, gorges, and ancient cities. This trip efficiently showcased an array of stunning landscapes—desert dunes, gorges, snowy mountains, ski resorts, and desert oases—providing an unforgettable experience. Opting for the luxury desert camp upgrade added a touch of magic that enhanced our adventure. The company also organized transfers from Rabat to Chefchaouen and Chefchaouen to Fes at reasonable rates with the same driver. I recommend considering their private transfers, as they offer convenience at only slightly higher costs than grand taxis. Crucially, our guide and driver, Lahcen, played a pivotal role. He offered valuable insights prior to each destination, answered our questions, and shared intriguing facts and personal experiences throughout the journey. Lahcen truly made the adventure memorable.

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Marrakesh Travel Guide

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Valentino Ellis

Our tour was fabulous. Ali was our driver and also one of our tour guides. We had a wonderful time -- Morocco is amazing and we cannot recommend Ali highly...

Marrakesh – “Morocco City”, as early foreign travellers called it – has always been something of a marketplace where tribesmen and Berber villagers bring their goods, spend their money and find entertainment. At its heart is the Jemaa el Fna, an open space in the centre of the city, and the stage for a long-established ritual in which shifting circles of onlookers gather round groups of acrobats, drummers, pipe musicians, dancers, storytellers, comedians and fairground acts. The city’s architectural attractions are no less compelling: the magnificent ruin of the El Badi Palace, the delicate carving of the Saadian Tombs and, above all, the Koutoubia Minaret, the most perfect Islamic monument in North Africa.

Brief history of Marrakesh

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It won’t take you long to see why Marrakesh is called the Red City. The natural red ochre pigment that bedecks its walls and buildings can at times seem dominant, but there’s no shortage of other colours. Like all Moroccan cities, it’s a town of two halves: the ancient walled Medina, founded by Sultan Youssef Ben Tachfine in the Middle Ages, and the colonial Ville Nouvelle, built by the French in the mid-twentieth century. Each has its own delights – the Medina with its ancient palaces and mansions, labyrinthine souks and deeply traditional way of life, and the Ville Nouvelle with its pavement cafés, trendy boutiques, gardens and boulevards.

Marrakesh has become Morocco’s capital of chic, attracting the rich and famous from Europe and beyond. Though the vast majority of its residents are poor by any European standard, an increasing number of wealthy foreigners are taking up residence and their influence on the tourist experience is evident.

Marrakesh has Berber rather than Arab origins, having developed as the metropolis of Atlas tribes. Once upon a time, it was the entrepôt for goods – slaves, gold, ivory and even “Morocco” leather – brought by caravan from the ancient empires of Mali and Songhay via their great desert port of Timbuktu. All of these strands of commerce and population shaped the city’s souks and its way of life, and even today, in the crowds and performers of the Jemaa el Fna, the nomadic and West African influence can still seem quite distinct.

Despite its size and the maze of its souks, Marrakesh is not too hard to navigate. The broad, open space of the Jemaa el Fna is at the heart of the Medina, with the main souks to its north, and most of the main sights within easy walking distance. Just west of the Jemaa el Fna is the unmistakable landmark of the Koutoubia Minaret, and from here, the city’s main artery, Avenue Mohammed V, leads out through the Medina walls at Bab Nkob and up the length of Guéliz, the downtown area of the Ville Nouvelle. You might want to consider hiring a guide to explore the Medina, but given a decent map, it really isn’t necessary.

Want to be better prepared for your trip to Morocco? Read our useful travel tips for travelling to Morocco and check out our 10-day Morocco itineraries for inspiration.

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Moroccan Cities and Ultimate Sahara

From the cities to the desert - follow the footsteps of Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca, discover the blue and whitewashed buildings of Chefchaouen before heading on to Fez and consequently the desert. Stay overnight in a luxurious desert camp before continuing to Marrakech.

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For those short on time, this trip allows you to visit the highlights of Morocco in little over a week: the cultural capital Fez, the beautiful city of Chefchaouen, sleeping in a deluxe tent in the desert, as well as discovering Marrakech - it's time to explore Morocco!

Luxurious Morocco

Highlights include Rabat, Fes, Chefchaouen, and a luxury desert camp in Merzouga. Privately guided activities with expert local guides allow you to truly get to know Moroccan culture and cuisine. Combine it with the best hotels and riads in the cities and you have the perfect trip.

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Morocco is full of wonders and highlights. On this trip, you will experience the real Berber nomadic life in the desert, as well as the cosmopolitan lifestyle many younger Moroccans now enjoy in the cities, from Marrakech to Rabat. Get your dose of culture, history and desert in one trip.

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Morocco in a nutshell: perfect for foodies, your days in Marrakech are spent tasting different delicacies as well as hands-on during a cooking class at a non-profit. Venture outside the city to explore the desert and stay overnight at a desert camp.

Deserts & Marrakech

From the fascinating city of Marrakech through the valleys and on to the desert - this trip packs a lot of highlights into a very short timeframe. Ideal for those that want to discover Morocco in a few days without spending too much time driving around.

Marrakesh was founded near the beginning of Almoravid rule, by the first Almoravid dynasty ruler, Youssef Ben Tachfine, around 1062–70. It must at first have taken the form of a camp and market with a ksour, or fortified town, gradually developing round it. The first seven-kilometre circuit of walls was raised in 1126–27, replacing an earlier stockade of thorn bushes. These, many times rebuilt, are essentially the city’s present walls – made of tabia, the red mud of the plains, mixed and strengthened with lime.

The golden age

Of the rest of the Almoravids’ building works, hardly a trace remains. The dynasty that replaced them – the Almohads – sacked the city for three days after taking possession of it in 1147, but they kept it as their empire’s capital.

With the 1184 accession to the throne of the third Almohad sultan, Yacoub el Mansour, the city entered its greatest period. Kissarias were constructed for the sale and storage of Italian and Oriental cloth, a new kasbah was begun, and a succession of poets and scholars arrived at the court. Mansour’s reign also saw the construction of the great Koutoubia Mosque and minaret.

By the 1220s, the empire was beginning to fragment amid a series of factional civil wars, and Marrakesh fell into the familiar pattern of pillage, ruination and rebuilding. In 1269, it lost its status as capital when the Fez-based Merenids took power, though in 1374–86 it did form the basis of a breakaway state under the Merenid pretender Abderrahman Ibn Taflusin.

Taking Marrakesh, then devastated by famine, in 1521, the Saadians provided a last burst of imperial splendour. Their dynasty’s greatest figure, Ahmed el Mansour, having invaded Mali and seized control of the most lucrative caravan routes in Africa, had the El Badi Palace – Marrakesh’s largest and greatest building project – constructed from the proceeds of this new wealth, and the dynasty also of course bequeathed to Marrakesh their wonderful mausoleum, the Saadian Tombs.

Modern times

Under the Alaouites Marrakesh lost its status as capital to Meknes, but remained an important imperial city, and the need to maintain a southern base against the tribes ensured the regular presence of its sultans. But from the seventeenth to the nineteenth century, it shrank back from its medieval walls and lost much of its former trade.

During the last decades prior to the Protectorate, the city’s fortunes revived somewhat as it enjoyed a return to favour with the Shereefian court. Moulay Hassan (1873–94) and Moulay Abd el Aziz (1894–1908) both ran their governments from here in a bizarre closing epoch of the old ways, accompanied by a final bout of frantic palace building. On the arrival of the French, Marrakesh gave rise to a short-lived pretender, the religious leader El Hiba, and for most of the colonial period it was run as a virtual fiefdom of its pasha, T’hami el Glaoui – the most powerful, autocratic and extraordinary character of his age.

Since independence, the city has undergone considerable change, with rural emigration from the Atlas and beyond, new methods of cultivation on the Haouz plain and the development of a sizeable tourist industry. After Casablanca, it’s Morocco’s second largest city, with slightly over a million inhabitants, and its population continues to rise. It has a thriving industrial area and is the most important market and administrative centre of southern Morocco.

The Medina has the main concentration of small, budget hotels, especially in the area around the Jemaa el Fna. It is also where you’ll find most of Marrakesh’s riads, usually hidden away deep in its backstreets. Guéliz, whose hotels tend to be concentrated in the mid range, is handier for transport, especially for the train station. Hotels in Hivernage and Semlalia are upmarket, in modern buildings with swimming pools, but they’re pretty soulless. Advance bookings are a wise idea, especially for the more popular places in the Medina. The busiest times are the Easter and Christmas/New Year holiday periods, when virtually every decent place can be full to capacity.

You can find out more about accommodation options in our guide to the best places to stay in Marrakech .

Guéliz has most of the city’s French-style cafés, bistros and restaurants, and most of the bars. In the Medina, there are the Jemaa el Fna food stalls, many inexpensive café-restaurants, and a number of upmarket palace-restaurants.

The dish for which Marrakesh is known throughout Morocco is tanjia, or jugged meat, usually beef but sometimes lamb. Strictly speaking, the tanjia is the jug itself, and the traditional way to make a tanjia is to go the butcher with your jug (or use one of the butcher’s), buy the meat and spices to put in it, and then take it to a hammam and have it cooked slowly in the embers of the bathhouse furnace. When the urn emerges from the embers a few hours later, the meat is tender and ready to eat. Most reasonably upmarket Marrakesh restaurants offer tanjia, as do cheaper tanjia diners such as the tanjia stalls opposite the olive souk (see map), where it is best ordered in advance.

Entertainment and nightlife in the Medina revolve around Jemaa el Fna. For a drink in the Medina, choices are limited; apart from the Tazi, you can get a beer – or more likely a cocktail – in the Café Arabe, Kosybar or Le Tanjia, all of which double as upmarket bars. In the Ville Nouvelle, there’s more variety; some of the bars are rather male, but women should be all right in the Chesterfield and also in the bars of hotels such as the Akabar and Ibis, as well as the Comptoir Darna, which is an upmarket bar as well as a restaurant. Nightclubs can be fun, though some at the top end of the market are a bit snooty, and may frown, for example, on jeans or trainers; most play a mix of Western and Arabic music, but it’s the latter that really fills the dancefloor. None of them really gets going until around midnight (in fact, some don’t open until then), and they usually stay open until 3 or 4am.

The two-week Festival National des Arts Populaires held in June or July each year, is the country’s biggest and best folklore and music festival, with musicians and dancers coming in from across Morocco and beyond, spanning the range of Moroccan music. Shows start around 9pm and are preceded by a fantasia at Bab Jedid, with Berber horsemen at full gallop firing guns into the air. Marrakesh also has an annual Marathon , run on the third or fourth Sunday in January, and the Marrakesh Film Festival in November or early December, in which the featured movies are shown at cinemas across town and on large screens in the El Badi Palace and the Jemaa el Fna. The Marrakech Biennale is a visual arts festival held in even- numbered years in late April or early May, with events held at locations around town, and in March every year, TEDx Marrakech is a series of TED-style talks delivered at the Es Saadi hotel in Hivernage.

For gay men, a certain amount of cruising goes on in the crowds of the Jemaa el Fna in the evening, and there’s a gay presence at the Diamant Noir nightclub behind Hôtel Marrakesh (look for the sign on Av Mohammed V). The gay male tourist scene in Marrakesh is growing, and a number of riads are run by gay couples, but there is no easily perceptible lesbian scene in Marrakesh as yet. Travelmarrakech has a small section on gay-friendly places.

There are a massive number of shops in Marrakesh selling all kinds of crafts, but nothing you won’t get cheaper elsewhere. Marrakesh’s attraction is that you don’t have to go elsewhere to get it, and if you’re flying home out of Marrakesh, then buying your souvenirs here means you won’t have to lug them round the country with you.

Place de la Kissaria, an open space surrounded by important public buildings, sits at the northern end of the souks area. Its north side is dominated by the Ben Youssef Mosque, successor to an original put up by the city’s Almoravid founders. The mosque was completely rebuilt under the Almohads, and several times since, so that the building you see today dates largely from the nineteenth century.

The Almoravid koubba

The Almoravid koubba (Koubba Ba’adiyn) is just a small, two-storey kiosk, but as the only Almoravid building to survive intact in Morocco (excepting possibly a minaret in Tit near El Jadida), its style is at the root of all Moroccan architecture. Its motifs – such as pine cones, palms and acanthus leaves – appear again in later buildings such as the nearby Ben Youssef Medersa. The windows on each of the different sides became the classic shapes of Almohad and Merenid design – as did the merlons, the complex “ribs” on the outside of the dome, and the square and star-shaped octagon on the inside, which is itself repeated at each of its corners. It was probably just a small ablutions annexe to the Ben Youssef Mosque, but its architecture gives us our only clue as to what that mosque might originally have looked like.

Excavated only in 1952, the koubba had previously been covered over amid the many rebuildings of the Ben Youssef Mosque. It is well below today’s ground level, and you have to go down two flights of stairs to get to the level it was built at, now uncovered once again thanks to excavations. Once down there, you can also look around the attendant facilities, including a large water cistern, and remains of latrines and fountains for performing ablutions, much like those you will still find adjacent to many Moroccan mosques.

Ben Youssef Medersa

The Ben Youssef Medersa was a koranic school attached to the Ben Youssef Mosque, where students learned the Koran by rote, and is the most beautifully decorated building in Marrakesh, with lashings of classic Moroccan decor – zellij tiling, stucco plasterwork, carved cedarwood – all worked to the very highest standards.

Like most of its counterparts up in Fez, the Ben Youssef was a Merenid foundation, established by the “Black Sultan” Abou el Hassan (1331–49), but rebuilt in the 1560s, under the Saadians. As with the slightly later Saadian Tombs, no surface is left undecorated, and the overall quality of its craftsmanship, whether in carved wood, stuccowork or zellij tilework, is startling.

The central courtyard, its carved cedarwood lintels weathered almost flat on the most exposed side, is unusually large. Along two sides run wide, sturdy, columned arcades, which were probably used to supplement the space for teaching in the neighbouring mosque. Above them are some of the windows of the dormitory quarters, which are reached by stairs from the entry vestibule, and from which you can get an interesting perspective – and attempt to fathom how over eight hundred students were once housed in the building. One room is furnished as it would have been when in use.

At its far end, the court opens onto a prayer hall, where the decoration, mellowed on the outside with the city’s familiar pink tone, is at its best preserved and most elaborate, with a predominance of pine cone and palm motifs.

The main route between the Ben Youssef Medersa and the city gate of Bab Debbagh is marked at its halfway point by Place el Moukef, more an intersection than a square, where four routes meet. Eastward, Rue Souk des Fassis, the road to the Ben Youssef Medersa, is lined by fondouks, while in the opposite direction, Rue du Bab Debbagh passes through the rather smelly tanneries area on its way to Bab Debbagh. Northward, Rue Bab el Khemis leads to another city gate, Bab el Khemis, while Rue Essebtiyne, leading south, forks after 200m. Bearing right here (if coming from Place el Moukef), you come to Place Ben Salah, where the Zaouia of Sidi Ben Salah, with its very fine and prominent minaret, was commissioned by a fourteenth-century Merenid sultan.

One of the most characteristic types of building in the Medina is the fondouk or caravanserai. Originally inns used by visiting merchants when they were in Marrakesh to trade in its souks, fondouks have a courtyard in the middle surrounded by what were originally stables, while the upper level contained rooms for the merchants. Some date back to Saadian times (1520–1669), and some still have fine original woodcarving or stuccowork.

Today, Marrakesh’s fondouks are in varying states of repair; some have become private residences, others commercial premises. Some have been converted to house tourist souvenir shops and welcome visitors, but even in others, the doors to the courtyards are often left open, and no one seems to mind if you wander in to have a look.

Interesting fondouks include: a group on Rue Dar el Bacha by the junction with Rue Mouassine, several of which welcome visitors; a couple just south of the junction on Rue Mouassine itself; a row on the south side of Rue Bab Debbagh, behind the Ben Youssef Medersa; a whole series along Rue Amesfah, north of the Ben Youssef Mosque; and one directly opposite the Chrob ou Chouf fountain. Terrasse le Medersa restaurant is on the terrace of a fondouk.

T’hami el Glaoui, Pasha of Marrakesh during the French Protectorate, was the last great southern tribal leader, a shrewd supporter of colonial rule (see The Glaoui) and personal friend of Winston Churchill. Cruel and magnificent in equal measure, he was a spectacular party-giver in an age where rivals were not lacking. At the extraordinary difas or banquets held at the Dar el Glaoui for his Western friends, “nothing”, as Gavin Maxwell wrote, “was impossible.” Hashish and opium were freely available, and “to his guests T’hami gave whatever they wanted, whether it might be a diamond ring, a present of money in gold, or a Berber girl or boy from the High Atlas”.

As a despot, and agent of colonial rule, he was so hated that, on his death in 1956, a mob looted the palace, destroying its fittings and the cars in its garages, and lynching any of his henchmen that they found. However, passions have burnt out over the years, and the family has been rehabilitated. One of T’hami’s sons, Glaoui Abdelssadak, rose to high rank in the Moroccan civil service and became vice president of Gulf Oil.

There’s nowhere in Morocco like the Jemaa el Fna – no place that so effortlessly involves you and keeps you coming back for more. By day, most of the square is just a big open space, in which a handful of snake charmers bewitch their cobras with flutes, medicine men (especially in the northeast of the square) display cures and nostrums, and tooth-pullers, wielding fearsome pliers, offer to pluck the pain from out of the heads of toothache sufferers, trays of extracted molars attesting to their skill. It isn’t until late afternoon that the square really gets going. At dusk, as in France and Spain, people come out for an early evening promenade (especially in Rue Bab Agnaou), and the square gradually fills until it becomes a whole carnival of storytellers, acrobats, musicians and entertainers. Come on down and you’ll soon be immersed in the ritual: wandering round, squatting amid the circles of onlookers, giving a dirham or two as your contribution. If you want a respite, you can move over to the rooftop terraces, such as the Café du Grand Balcon, for a vista over the square, its storytellers and musicians, and the crowds who come to see them.

As a foreigner in the Jemaa, you can feel something of an interloper. Most of the crowd are Moroccan of course (few foreigners, for example, will understand the storytellers’ tales), but tourists also make a major contribution to both the atmosphere and the cash flow. Sometimes a storyteller or musician may pick on you to take part or contribute generously to the end-of-show collection and, entering into the spectacle, it’s best to go denuded of the usual tourist trappings such as watches, money-belts or too much money; pickpockets and scam artists operate (giving a “present” and then demanding payment for it is an old scam to beware of, asking tourists to change counterfeit euro coins is a more recent one). The crowds around performers are sometimes used as an opportunity to grope female foreigners, and by male Moroccans and gay male tourists for cruising.

Sideshow attractions include games of hoop-the-bottle, fortune-tellers sitting under umbrellas with packs of fortune-telling cards at the ready and women with piping bags full of henna paste, ready to paint hands, feet or arms with “tattoos” that will last up to three months, though beware of synthetic “black henna”, which contains a toxic chemical; only red henna is natural (the Henna Café guarantees to use only natural henna).

For refreshment, stalls offer orange and grapefruit juice (but have it squeezed in front of you if you don’t want it adulterated with water and sugar, or even squash), while neighbouring handcarts are piled high with dates, dried figs, almonds and walnuts, especially delicious in winter when they are freshly picked in the surrounding countryside. As dusk falls, the square becomes a huge open-air dining area, packed with stalls lit by gas lanterns, and the air is filled with wonderful smells and plumes of cooking smoke spiralling up into the night.

The souks north of the Jemaa el Fna seem vast the first time you venture in, and almost impossible to navigate, but in fact the area that they cover is pretty compact. A long, covered street, Rue Souk Smarine, runs for half their length and then splits into two lanes – Souk el Attarin and Souk el Kebir. Off these are virtually all the individual souks: alleys and small squares devoted to specific crafts, where you can often watch part of the production process.

If you are staying for some days, you’ll probably return often to the souks – and this is a good way of taking them in, singling out a couple of specific crafts or products to see, rather than being swamped by the whole. To get to grips with the general layout, you might find it useful to walk round the whole area once with a guide, but it’s certainly not essential: with a reasonable map, you can quite easily navigate the souks on your own, and besides, getting a little bit lost is all part of the fun.

The most interesting times to visit are in the early morning (6.30–8am) and late afternoon, at around 4 to 5pm, when some of the souks auction off goods to local traders. Later in the evening, most of the stalls are closed, but you can wander unharassed to take a look at the elaborate decoration of their doorways and arches; those stalls that stay open, until 7 or 8pm, are often more amenable to bargaining at the end of the day.

The easiest approach to the main souks from the Jemaa el Fna is opposite Rue des Banques (see map), where a lane to the left of the Terrasses de l’Alhambra restaurant leads to Souk Ableuh, dominated by stalls selling olives. Continue through here and you will come out opposite the archway that marks the beginning of Rue Souk Smarine.

The development of the Jemaa el Fna

Nobody is entirely sure when or how the Jemaa el Fna came into being – nor even what its name means. The usual translation is “assembly of the dead”, a suitably epic title that may refer to the public display here of the heads of rebels and criminals (the Jemaa was a place of execution until well into the nineteenth century). The name might alternatively mean “the mosque of nothing” (Jemaa means both “mosque” and “assembly” – interchangeable terms in Islamic society), recalling an abandoned Saadian plan to build a new grand mosque on this site.

Either way, as an open area between the original kasbah and the souks, the square has probably played its present role since the city’s earliest days. It has often been the focal point for rioting and the authorities have plotted before now to close it down and move its activities outside the city walls. This happened briefly after independence in 1956, when the government built a corn market on part of the square and tried to turn the rest into a car park, but the plan lasted barely a year. Tourism was falling off and it was clearly an unpopular move. As novelist Paul Bowles observed, without the Jemaa, Marrakesh would be just another Moroccan city.

Jemaa el Fna food stalls

Even if you don’t eat at them, at some stage you should at least wander down the makeshift lane of food stalls on the Jemaa el Fna, which look great in the evening, lit by lanterns. As well as couscous and pastilla, there are spicy merguez sausages, harira soup, salads, fried fish, or, for the more adventurous, stewed snails (over towards the eastern side of the square), and sheep’s heads complete with eyes. To partake, just take a seat on one of the benches, ask the price of a plate of food and order all you like. It’s probably worth avoiding places that try to hustle you, and it’s always wise to check the price of a dish before you order, or you’re likely to be overcharged. Stalls patronized by Moroccans are invariably better than those whose only customers are tourists. If you want a soft drink or mineral water with your meal, the stallholders will send a boy to get it for you. On the southern edge of the food stalls, a row of vendors sell a hot, spicy galangal drink (khoudenjal), said to be an aphrodisiac, and usually taken with a portion of nutty cake. Orange and grapefruit juice stalls line both sides of the food stall area at all hours of the day, but check the price first, and insist on having the juice pressed in front of you – if they pull out a bottle of ready-pressed juice, it’ll most likely be watered down, and quite possibly mixed with squash.

The area south of Jemaa el Fna is quite different from that to the north of it, generally more open and home to Dar el Makhzen (the royal palace), the kasbah (old inner citadel), and the Mellah (former Jewish quarter). The two obvious focal sights, not to be missed, are the Saadian Tombs, preserved in the shadow of the Kasbah Mosque, and El Badi, the ruined palace of Ahmed el Mansour. Also worth seeing are the Bahia Palace and the nearby Dar Si Said and Tiskiwin museums.

The Bahia Palace

The Bahia Palace was originally built in 1866–7 for Si Moussa, a former slave who had risen to become Moulay Hassan’s chamberlain, and then grand vizier. His son, Bou Ahmed, who himself held the post of chamberlain under Moulay Hassan, became kingmaker in 1894 when Hassan died while returning home from a harka (tax-collecting expedition). Ahmed concealed news of the sultan’s death until he was able to declare Hassan’s fourteen-year-old son Moulay Abd el Aziz sultan in his place, with himself as grand vizier and regent (see The last sultans). He thus gained virtually complete control over the state, which he exercised until his death in 1900. He began enlarging the Bahia (meaning “brilliance”) in the same year as his coup, adding a mosque, a hammam and even a vegetable garden. When he died, his servants ransacked the palace, but it was restored and, during the Protectorate, housed the French Resident General.

The small riad

Visitors enter the palace from the west, through an arcaded courtyard which leads to a small riad (enclosed garden), part of Bou Ahmed’s extension. The riad is decorated with beautiful carved stucco and cedarwood, and salons lead off it on three sides. The eastern salon leads through to the council room, and thence through a vestibule – where it’s worth pausing to look up at the lovely painted ceiling – to the great courtyard of Si Moussa’s original palace. The rooms surrounding the courtyard are also all worth checking out for their painted wooden ceilings.

The large riad

South of the great courtyard is the large riad, the heart of Si Moussa’s palace, fragrant with fruit trees and melodious with birdsong, approaching the very ideal of beauty in Arabic domestic architecture. To its east and west are halls decorated with fine zellij fireplaces and painted wooden ceilings. From here, you leave the palace via the private apartment built in 1898 for Ahmed’s wife, Lalla Zinab, where again you should look up to check out the painted ceiling, carved stucco, and stained-glass windows.

Buried in history

There was probably a burial ground behind the royal palace before the Saadian period, but the earliest tomb here dates from 1557, and the main structures were built under Sultan Ahmed el Mansour, around the same time as the Ben Youssef Medersa and the El Badi Palace. A few prominent Marrakshis continued to be buried in the mausoleums after Saadian times: the last, in 1792, was the “mad sultan”, Moulay Yazid, whose 22-month reign was one of the most violent and sadistic in the nation’s history. Named as the successor to Sidi Mohammed, Moulay Yazid threw himself into a series of revolts against his father, waged an inconclusive war with Spain, and brutally suppressed a Marrakesh-based rebellion in support of his brother. A massacre followed his capture of the city, though he had little time to celebrate his victory – a bullet in the head during a rebel counterattack killed him soon after.

The tombs escaped plundering by the rapacious Alaouite sultan Moulay Ismail, probably because he feared bad luck if he desecrated them. Instead, he blocked all access bar an obscure entrance from the Kasbah Mosque. The tombs lay half-ruined and half-forgotten until they were rediscovered by a French aerial survey in 1917, and a passageway was built to give access to them.

El Badi Palace

Though substantially in ruins, and reduced throughout to its red pisé walls, enough remains of El Badi to suggest that its name – “The Incomparable” – was not entirely immodest. The palace was originally commissioned by the Saadian sultan Ahmed el Mansour shortly after his accession in 1578. The money for it came from the enormous ransom paid by the Portuguese after the Battle of the Three Kings. It took his seventeenth-century successor Moulay Ismail over ten years of systematic work to strip the palace of everything valuable, and there’s still a lingering sense of luxury and grandeur. What you see today is essentially the ceremonial part of the palace complex, planned on a grand scale for the reception of ambassadors, and not meant for everyday living.

The scale of the palace, with its sunken gardens and vast, ninety-metre-long pool, is certainly unrivalled, and the odd traces of zellij and plaster still left evoke a decor that was probably as rich as that of the Saadian Tombs. The most enduring account of the palace concerns its state opening, a fabulous occasion attended by ambassadors from several European powers and by all the sheikhs and caids of the kingdom. Surveying the effect, Ahmed turned to his court jester for an opinion on the new palace. “Sidi,” the man replied, “this will make a magnificent ruin”.

The central court

The palace’s entrance was originally in the southeast corner of the complex, but today you enter from the north, through the Green Pavilion, emerging into a vast central court, over 130m long and nearly as wide. In its northeast corner, you can climb up to get an overview from the ramparts, and a closer view of the storks that nest atop them.

Within the central court are four sunken gardens, two on the northern side and two on the southern side. Pools separate the two gardens on each side, and there are four smaller pools in the four corners of the court, which is constructed on a substructure of vaults in order to allow the circulation of water through the pools and gardens. When the pools are filled – as during the June folklore festival that takes place here – they are an incredibly majestic sight.

Summer pavilions

On each side of the courtyard were summer pavilions. Of the Crystal Pavilion, to the east, only the foundations survive. On the opposite side, a monumental hall that was used by the sultan on occasions of state was known as the Koubba el Hamsiniya (The Fifty Pavilion), after its size in cubits.

Stables and dungeons

South of the courtyard, accessed just to the right of the building housing the minbar, are ruins of the palace stables, and beyond them, leading towards the intriguing walls of the present royal palace, a series of dungeons, used into the last century as a state prison.

The Koutoubia Minbar

The original minbar (pulpit) from the Koutoubia Mosque is housed in a pavilion in the southwest corner of the main courtyard, and can be seen for an additional fee. It may not sound like much, but this minbar was in its day one of the most celebrated works of art in the Muslim world. Commissioned from the Andalusian capital Cordoba in 1137 by the last Almoravid sultan, Ali Ben Youssef, it took eight years to complete, and was covered with the most exquisite inlay work, of which, sadly, only patches remain. When the Almohads took power, they installed the minbar in their newly built Koutoubia Mosque, where it remained until it was removed for restoration in 1962, and eventually brought here. Unfortunately, members of the public are not usually allowed to walk all the way round it to inspect the surviving inlay work, but the gardien may relent if you show a particular interest. Photography is not usually allowed.

The absence of architectural features on the Jemaa el Fna serves to emphasize the drama of the nearby Koutoubia Minaret. Nearly 70m high and visible for miles on a clear morning, this is the oldest of the three great Almohad towers (the others are the Hassan Tower in Rabat and the Giralda in Seville) and the most complete. Its pleasing proportions – a 1:5 ratio of width to height – established the classic Moroccan design.

Completed under Sultan Yacoub el Mansour (1184–99), work on the minaret probably began shortly after the Almohad conquest of the city, around 1150. It displays many of the features that were to become widespread in Moroccan architecture – the wide band of ceramic inlay near the top, the pyramid-shaped, castellated merlons (battlements) rising above it, the use of darj w ktaf (“cheek and shoulder”) and other motifs – and it also established the alternation of patterning on different faces. Here, the top floor is similar on each of the sides but the lower two are almost eccentric in their variety. The semicircle of small lobed arches on the middle niche of the southeast face was to become the dominant decorative feature of Almohad gates. The three great copper balls at the top are the subject of numerous legends, mostly of supernatural interventions to keep away thieves. They are thought to have originally been made of gold, the gift of the wife of Yacoub el Mansour, presented as penance for breaking her fast for three hours during Ramadan.

Close to the arches, the stones of the main body of the tower become slightly smaller, which seems odd today, but not originally, when the whole minaret was covered with plaster and painted, like that of the Kasbah Mosque. There was talk about restoring this on the Koutoubia back in 2000, but the authorities settled for a straight clean-up – to stunning effect, especially when it’s floodlit at night. At the same time, archeologists excavated the original mosque, which predates the tower, confirming that it had had to be rebuilt to correct its alignment with Mecca.

Marrakesh’s Ville Nouvelle radiates out from Guéliz, its commercial centre. Though it’s hardly chock-a-block with attractions, it does have one must-see: the Majorelle Garden. South of Guéliz, the Hivernage district, built as a garden suburb, is where most of the city’s newer tourist hotels are located. Further afield, on the northeastern edge of town, is Marrakesh’s palmery.

The heart of modern Marrakesh, Guéliz has a certain buzz that the sleepy old Medina rather lacks. Its main thoroughfare, Avenue Mohammed V, runs all the way down to the Koutoubia, and it’s on and around this boulevard that you’ll find the city’s main concentration of upmarket shops, restaurants and smart pavement cafés. Its junctions form the Ville Nouvelle’s main centres of activity: Place de la Liberté, with its modern fountain; Place 16 Novembre, by the main post office; and Place Abdelmoumen Ben Ali, epicentre of Marrakesh’s modern shopping zone. Looking back along Avenue Mohammed V from Guéliz to the Medina, on a clear day at least, you should see the Koutoubia rising in the distance, with the Atlas mountains behind.

The Majorelle Garden

The Majorelle Garden, or Jardin Bou Saf, is a meticulously planned twelve-acre botanical garden, created in the 1920s and 1930s by French painter Jacques Majorelle (1886–1962), and subsequently owned by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. When Yves Saint Laurent died in 2008, his ashes were scattered in the garden, which contains a memorial to him, while the street the entrance is in was renamed after him.

The feeling of tranquillity in the garden is enhanced by verdant groves of bamboo, dwarf palm and agave, the cactus garden and lily-covered pools. The Art Deco pavilion at the heart of the garden is painted in a striking cobalt blue – the colour of French workmen’s overalls, so Majorelle claimed, though it seems to have improved in the Moroccan light. This brilliantly offsets both the plants – multicoloured bougainvillea, rows of bright orange nasturtiums and pink geraniums – and also the strong colours of the pergolas and concrete paths – pinks, lemon yellows and apple greens. The enduring sound is the chatter of the common bulbuls, flitting among the leaves of the date palms, and the pools also attract other bird residents such as turtle doves and house buntings. The garden became better known abroad when it was featured by Yves Saint Laurent in a brilliant reproduction at London’s 1997 Chelsea Flower Show. Pierre Bergé and Madison Cox’s Majorelle, A Moroccan Oasis is a superbly photographed coffee table book on the garden, sometimes available at Librairie d’Art.

When leaving the garden, ignore the taxi drivers waiting outside, who run a cartel and will not take you unless you pay well over the odds. The answer is simply to walk down to the main road and hail a cab there.

Berber Museum

In Majorelle’s former studio, housed within the pavilion, the Berber Museum kicks off with an exhibition about Morocco’s Berbers, their culture and languages, and where in the country they live, before launching (in the next room) into a display of traditional Berber crafts, including textiles and carpet-making, and showing the tools used in making them, as well as the finished articles. There’s even a beautiful but slightly rickety wooden minbar (mosque pulpit) from the Middle Atlas, decorated with Berber designs. The next room is dedicated to jewellery, all of it silver, as gold is considered unlucky in Berber tradition. The last room contains a display of Berber costumes from different regions of the country.

Top image: Taditional moroccan cafe in Marrakesh © Shutterstock

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25 Tips for your First Trip to Marrakech, Morocco

By Brianna | January 27, 2020

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Few cities capture the imagination quite like Marrakech. A blend of Berber, Arabic and French influences give this UNESCO World Heritage site a timeless appeal. With the beautiful frenzy of the Medina, ornate Arabic architecture and one of the world’s greatest cuisines it’s no surprise that more people are traveling to Marrakech now more than ever. Whether you spell it Marrakech or Marrakesh (both are acceptable), a visit to Morocco’s Red City is surely an experience you will never forget. Marrakech can be overwhelming to say the least, with a dizzying array of sights, smells and tastes providing a sensory overload; but armed with these tips you can find the best things to do in Marrakech and make your first trip one to remember.

Ben Youssef Madersa-25 Tips for your First Trip to Marrakech, Morocco www.casualtravelist.com

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1.Airport/Transportation in Marrakech

Flights to Marrakech arrive at Menara Airport (RAK). A valid passport is required for entry into Morocco, currently for Americans visas are not required for visits less than 90 days ( check the State Department website for the latest requirements ).

Taxis are available but best to arrange transportation with your hotel. If you are staying in the Medina be aware that cars can’t make it through the narrow streets to drop you off directly at your accommodation. Your riad or hotel can arrange for staff to meet you at a drop off point and walk with you to your destination.

2.Money in Morocco

Cash is king in Marrakech as only resorts, riads, some restaurants and a handful of shops accept credit cards. ATMs can be hard to find in the Medina (much easier in the new city) so your best bet is to exchange money at the airport (this can be done for no fee). Some riads and resorts will also exchange money for you. The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham(MAD) and currently the exchange rate is approximately 9 MAD/1USD. Of note, it is also illegal to take dirham out of Morocco so make sure you spend or exchange your dirham before leaving the country.

3. Tipping in Morocco

Morocco has a big tipping culture and it is expected that you tip anyone you assists you (whether that help was wanted or not). Be sure to carry plenty of coins and small bills.

4. Dress for Women

I did not once feel unsafe as a woman travelling in Marrakech and while many women visit and have a great experience it is not uncommon to hear from women who have received unwanted attention or catcalls. Marrakech tends to be more accepting of Western attire but as Morocco is a Muslim country women are advised to dress conservatively. So what should you wear in Morocco ? This means making sure your knees and shoulders are covered ( save the halter top for Ibiza ladies ). I wore loose t shirts and lightweight pants or long skirts most days, with a wrap or scarf to cover up if I got chilly at night. Close toed shoes are also a good idea as donkeys and other animals (and what they leave behind) are a common sight in the Medina.

Female travel in Marrakech- 25 Tips for your First Trip to Marrakech, Morocco www.casualtravelist.com

5. Stay in an Authentic Riad in Marrakech

For a more authentic Marrakech experience a stay in a riad is your best bet. Riads are traditional Moroccan homes centered around a courtyard located within the Medina, most are 10 rooms or less and offer up a more intimate experience. Most riads are decorated with handmade items from the local souks and many feature beautiful courtyard pools and gardens as well as rooftop terraces. There are beautiful riads throughout Marrakech for every budget, for less than $100 per night you can enjoy the boutique hospitality of Riad Al Loune or if you’re looking to splash out check in at the luxurious El Fenn . I loved my stay at Riad Farnatchi , a beautifully restored guesthouse in the heart of the Medina (read my review of Riad Farnatchi here ).

Riads in Marrakech

Budget riads.

Riad Haraka

Mid-Range Riads

Riad Sapphire

Riad Annyssates

Luxury Riads

Riad Farnatchi, Marrakech-25 Tips for your First Trip to Marrakech, Morocco www.casualtravelist.com

6. Luxury Resorts in Marrakech

Marrakech’s modern and fashionable Ville Nouvelle (new city) is home to some some of the world’s most glamorous resorts. For five star luxury with a decidedly Moroccan flair check out the Royal Mansour and La Mamounia .

7.Weather in Marrakech

Marrakech is a popular destination with nearly year round sunshine. Summers (June-September) can get quite hot with temperature near 100 degrees F while the winter months can get chilly with night time temps dipping into the 30 degree F range. March-May and September-October are generally pleasant with highs in the 70s and 80s.

25 Tips for your First Trip to Marrakech, Morocco www.casualtravelist.com

8.Shop the Souks in Marrakech

I’m typically not a big shopper when I travel but Marrakech is one of the few places where I wish I had shopped more. Morocco has a rich heritage of crafts and instead of the typical “made in China” souvenirs I found the souks filled with leather goods ( I got a pair of handmade leather shoes for $18 ), beautiful metal work, colorful ceramics and handmade rugs.

Shopping in the souks of Marrakech-25 Tips for your First Trip to Marrakech, Morocco www.casualtravelist.com

9.Buying Moroccan Rugs in Marrakech

I had zero intention of buying a rug went I visited Marrakech.

I now own a Moroccan rug.

Our tour guide brought us into the cooperative and I fully expected to enjoy the demonstration while sipping my mint tea and go on my way. I’m not sure if it was the intricate Berber patterns, or the softness of the camel wool but I soon found myself the proud owner of a Moroccan rug and I absolutely love it. The quality of this handmade Berber rug far surpasses any commercial rug I’ve owned before. You will find rugs of varying size and quality throughout the souks, be prepared to haggle or buy your rug from a cooperative that ensures a fair wage for the craftswomen.

Buying a Moroccan rug in Marrakech-25 Tips for your First Trip to Marrakech, Morocco www.casualtravelist.com

10. Language in Morocco

The official languages in Morocco are Modern Standard Arabic and Amazigh (Berber) and additionally many Moroccans speak French. While most people I interacted with spoke English it’s always a good idea to learn a few words of the local language wherever you travel, here are a few common words in Arabic:

Hello -Al Salam Alaikum,

Thank You – Shukran,

Yes – naäam,

No – Laa

Night market in Marrakech-25 Tips for your First Trip to Marrakech, Morocco www.casualtravelist.com

11. Scams in Marrakech

Scams are an unfortunate part of life in the Medina, often in the form of unsolicited help with directions, telling tourists that the street they are on is closed or “tannery tours” , all of which will then demand a payment for their services. My friend Amanda of Marocmama has excellent advice on various scams in Marrakech.

12.Consider Hiring a Guide in Marrakech

The winding streets of the Medina can be overwhelming for a first time visitor, I recommend hiring a guide for your first afternoon or morning out to get a feel for the city as well learn about the history and culture of Marrakech. Have your hotel or riad arrange a guide for you or if you hire one on your own make sure they are licensed( licensed guides will have a badge).

The Medina, Marrakech-25 Tips for your First Trip to Marrakech, Morocco www.casualtravelist.com

13. You Will Get Lost

With the narrow winding streets of the Medina and little signage the chances of you getting lost at some point is fairly high. Paper maps provided by your hotel immediately mark you as a tourist, a better option is to download an offline map via Google maps. Beware of unsolicited advice for directions ( see Scams above ), if you must ask for directions your best bet is asking a shopkeeper or restaurant staff.

14. Food in Marrakech

Food in Marrakech is a feast for all the senses. The souks are lined with rows of sweet oranges, plump dates and countless varieties of olives while the air is heavy with the scent of intensely fragrant spices from the spice market. Gently spiced shakshuka (eggs cooked in a gently spiced tomato sauce) and spongy Moroccan pancakes are a must for breakfast. You can’t leave Marrakech without having a tagine; a stew, usually with chicken, lamb, beef or vegetables cooked and served in a clay pot of the same name. Eating is one of the best ways to experience Marrakech and a few of my personal favorites were sfenj ( a fried doughnut drizzled with intensely floral honey), msemen (fried bread either served plain or stuffed with spices, meat or cheese), and tanjia (succulent lamb slow roasted in clay pots for hours in underground ovens). To see where the locals eat join one of several tours offered by Marrakech Food Tours or take a Moroccan cooking class .

Moroccan vegetables-25 Tips for your First Trip to Marrakech, Morocco www.casualtravelist.com

15. Mint Tea in Morocco

Whether served as a sign of welcome, sipped during a business transaction or enjoyed as a way to unwind in the afternoon mint tea is central to life in Marrakech. A blend of green tea and fresh mint it is traditionally served very sweet.

Mint tea in Morocco-25 Tips for your First Trip to Marrakech, Morocco www.casualtravelist.com

16. Alcohol in Marrakech

Being a Muslim country alcohol is not prevelant though you can increasingly find wine, beer and cocktails in restaurants and hotels catering to tourists (often at exhorbitant prices). Surprisingly there are even a handful of Moroccan vineyards producing Spanish style wines. Drinking to the point of intoxication (especially in public) is highly frowned upon.

17.Religion

Islam is the official state religion of Morocco, you will hear the call to prayer ring throughout the city 5 times per days and in general non-Muslims are not allowed inside mosques. Friday is the Muslim day of prayer and you may find some businesses and restaurants closed.

18. Jamma el fna

When night falls Marrakech’s main square comes alive in what’s some call the greatest show on Earth. One of North Africa’s oldest and busiest market squares it is home to a dizzying array of dancers, magicians and storytellers vying for your attention (and dirham) as well as food vendors hawking a variety of Moroccan specialties. Of note, the animals you see with the snake charmers and dancing monkey acts are usually poorly treated and it’s best not to patronize these acts.

Jemma el fna, the main square in Marrakech at night-25 Tips for your First Trip to Marrakech, Morocco www.casualtravelist.com

19.Be Prepared to Bargain

Haggling is an essential part of the shopping experience in Morocco. Don’t be afraid to walk away if the vendor does not agree to a final price you are comfortable with.

20. Argan Oil and Traditional Medicine in Morocco

Argan oil is arguably one of Morocco’s best known exports, usually used for hair and skin care in the US. Many shops in the souks sell pure argan oil both for cosmetic and culinary uses. Morocco has a long tradition of using herbs as traditional medicine and I recommend a stop at an herbalist for everything from natural remedies to fragrant cooking spices.

Spices in Marrakech-25 Tips for your First Trip to Marrakech, Morocco www.casualtravelist.com

21. Bottled Water

To avoid any tummy issues it is advised that you use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth.

22.Toilet Paper

Toilet paper in public restrooms is not a given in Marrakech so it’s best to carry your own. In places where there is a restroom attendant make sure you leave a small tip.

23. Going to a Hammam in Marrakech

A visit to a hammam, a traditional Moroccan bathhouse, is a must for any visit to Marrakech. A typical hammam experience starts with a steam room, a thorough scrubbing with a traditional kessa mitt and an olive based black soap and several rinses alternately with warm and cool water. For a traditional experience you can visit one of Marrakech’s community hammams ( be aware that community hammams are separated by gender, either with separate spaces or differing times for men and women) or treat yourself to an elevated hammam experience at one of Marrakech’s luxury spas. Whatever hammam experience you choose know you will be naked (or nearly naked) in front of others.

Hammam in Morocco-25 Tips for your First Trip to Marrakech, Morocco www.casualtravelist.com

24. Top Marrakech Attractions

Ben youssef madersa.

One of the most popular sites in Marrakech, the Ben Youssef Madersa previously served as a center for Islamic learning for over 400 years. Today visitors marvel at the intricately carved Moorish walls and stunning tile mosaics.

Majorelle Gardens

Once a private retreat for famed French designer Yves Saint Laurent the Majorelle Gardens are a beautiful mix of Berber and French cultures and provide a calming respite from the hustle of Marrakech.

Le Jardin Secret

An oasis from the chaos of the Medina, this beautifully restored courtyard features stunning tile work and lush gardens.

Bahia Palace

Considered one of the most lavish palaces in Marrakech, Bahia Palace features expansive courtyards, lush gardens and ornate architecture.

There are also many great day trips you can take from Marrakech , from the golden sands of the Sahara to the rugged peaks of the Atlas Mountains . You can also visit the blue city of Chefchaouen .

Ben Yousef Madersa-25 Tips for your First Trip to Marrakech, Morocco www.casualtravelist.com

25. Photography in Marrakech

The sights and colors of Marrakech can be irresistible to photographers but before you start snapping away nonstop be aware that many people in Marrakech are not open to having their picture, or pictures of their products, taken. In fact, I saw several signs in the souks requesting no photography. The main thing is to ask permission to take pictures and be respectful if the answer is no.

More Marrakech Inspiration

Review of the Selman Hotel, a luxury hotel in Marrakech

Make sure to include Marrakech when you’re traveling through Morocco with kids .

Planning a trip to Marrakech, Morocco? Pin this post for later!

About the Author

Freelance travel writer and blogger who seeks out laid back luxury. Focus on culinary, adventure and nature travel. [READ ALL ARTICLES]

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February 9, 2018 at 1:24 pm

This is sooo helpful as we’re likely taking our first trip to Marrakech this spring after two years of living close by in Spain! Especially BYOTP (bring your own toilet paper) – eek!

Absolutely beautiful photos too, now you’ve got me even more excited to visit!

Brianna says

March 2, 2018 at 10:31 pm

Thank you so much! Marrakech is an amazing destination.

Rhonda Albom says

February 10, 2018 at 6:02 am

The medinas in Moroccan cities were fascinating. I always stayed in riads whenever I could. The staff in the riads provided great tips on everything from where to eat down to which stalls in the souk to buy particular items from. Don’t forget, Friday is couscous day although my favourite dishes were chicken tajines with preserved lemon and olives or chicken with prunes.

March 2, 2018 at 10:32 pm

The couscous dishes were some of my favorites!

February 10, 2018 at 9:17 am

What beautiful photos you have of Marrakech!

Hannah says

February 10, 2018 at 10:24 am

This is a great list! I was nervous about visiting Marrakech because I’ve read so many negative things but your list makes it sound incredible and has totally changed my mind about going! Thanks so much for sharing 🙂

March 2, 2018 at 10:33 pm

Marrakech can be overwhelming at first but is an amazing destination!

Marissa says

February 10, 2018 at 11:21 am

I just got back from Morocco last week, so I 100% agree with all of these! I found the souks in Marrakech had the best options compared to other cities I visited. It’s also important that you mentioned you will get lost because it’s true, but it’s fine. I tried to embrace it and “purposely” get lost during the day to explore more.

March 2, 2018 at 10:34 pm

The streets can be crazy to navigate for sure!

Rocio Novarino says

February 10, 2018 at 11:41 am

Nice pictures!! I am a photographer, so I take a particular look at the pictures always!! Stunning ones!

March 2, 2018 at 10:35 pm

Brianne Miers says

February 10, 2018 at 12:10 pm

Thanks for such a thorough and helpful post, Brianna! Marrakech is very high on my list, so this will be a great resource for me. Jamma el fna sounds like an incredible sight to see! And very interesting about the sensitivities surrounding photography.

Carmelatte says

February 10, 2018 at 12:12 pm

I am totally in love with your pictures <3

http://carmelatte.co/dubai-tour-guide-firsttimers/

Esther says

February 10, 2018 at 2:57 pm

I totally agree on this. Husband and I travelled through Morocco and loved staying in Riads. Guides were worth our money, since we really didn’t like the scams. Also, after visiting Morroco twice, we now know that it can take quite a while to get into the country as queues for customs can be looong. In Casablanca I nearly finished my book waiting kn line for almost 2 hours!! #weekendwanderlust

March 2, 2018 at 10:36 pm

Hiring a guide in Marrakech was a life saver for us!

February 10, 2018 at 10:22 pm

Thanks for all the tips.. They will come handy when I plan for Morocco.. Would you recommend going solo in that country?

March 2, 2018 at 10:39 pm

I had several friends travel solo in Morocco. Like anywhere be sure to take your usual safety precautions and be aware.

February 11, 2018 at 5:21 am

Souks of Marrakech look so colorful. I am not sure if I will pick up a carpet as they are heavy to carry, but I know I will end up picking something or the other. Are there herbalists available to explain those herbs? Due to lack of explanation, I always find it difficult to buy herbs.

March 2, 2018 at 10:40 pm

The merchant was able to ship my rug to me. There was an herbalist and she was very helpful.

Claire says

February 11, 2018 at 7:03 am

Great tips! Especially for the closed shoes – I wouldn’t want to step in something unpleasant! The food sounds amazing, I love shakshuka and tagine, although the European versions of them – I’ve never had them in Morocco. I think I’d need to take a food tour to sample all the delicious dishes I can!

Carolina Colborn says

February 11, 2018 at 12:05 pm

Great tips. I remember our trip to Tangier and it is the same: getting lost in narrow alleys and poorly treated animals for show. But the colors and food are truly amazing. Lots of good photographs and meals!

Yvette Benhamou says

February 11, 2018 at 2:45 pm

My dad is from Casablanca and a Morocco has long been on my list of places I’d like to visit. Great tips and your photos are stunning.

Indrani says

February 12, 2018 at 4:29 am

You had an excellent tour there! I am relieved to know it isn’t so unsafe for women there as it sounds. Thanks for the tips on dressing. Lucky you got a rug from there, hope to have one myself. This no photography sign I saw in Sharjah, UAE too.

February 12, 2018 at 5:56 am

Great tips! Morocco is high on my list of places to visit. Actually hope to make it there around April after traveling through Asia. It just seems like a place full of life, color and more. Saving this one so I can start planning my trip there. #weekendwanderlust

February 13, 2018 at 8:14 am

Morocco seems to be a popular spot right now. It was not on my radar so you comprehensive set of tips are something I have pinned in case we travel there. It would be a toss up for me whether I stay in a traditional Riad or what looks to be great luxury accommodations. Maybe splitting my time would work. We did a hammam in Cordoba and it was so relaxing. I would definitely look for one here. I must admit I laughed when I heard you bought a rug. I too usually avoid places like this – maybe because I am afraid I too would go home with a rug!

Sandy N Vyjay says

February 13, 2018 at 12:21 pm

This is an exhaustive dossier on Marrakech. Indeed a ready reckoner for first time visitors to Marrakech. Marrakech and Morocco have been on our bucket list and we hope to get there some day. When we do this post and the tips therein are going to stand us in good stead. Who knows, we may end up being the proud owners of a Moroccan rug.

alison abbott says

February 13, 2018 at 10:14 pm

I hear you! I had no intention of purchasing a carpet either. It’s one of my most favorite purchases ever and takes me back to the medina each day I walk on it. Great tips-they are all spot on.

JeffNourse says

February 15, 2018 at 8:23 am

What a useful tips you shared with us. It is really interesting and informative post. Thank you so much for sharing it.

Kristin L. says

February 15, 2018 at 10:03 am

I remember going to Marrakech for the first time in 2005 and I was SO stressed about what to wear, so I made sure I had plenty of things that covered my knees and my shoulders. Then, to my surprise, I arrived and found all the young local women wearing the shortest mini-skirts and tank tops! I’ve been back to Morocco twice since then and don’t worry about my clothing, except if I’m going in a mosque.

Lauren Monitz says

February 15, 2018 at 1:58 pm

Morocco is just so hot right now! While I don’t like going to super trendy places, I keep seeing these amazing photos and feel like I must!

Mike from TravelAndDestinations says

February 17, 2018 at 1:34 pm

Definitely the best post I have read on Marrakech. Me and my gf are thinking of visiting this year so it’s super helpful and also good to know about the scams. I will also check out your friends post that you recommended. The city looks amazing and I can’t wait to visit!!

February 17, 2018 at 9:45 pm

Very useful tips! I’m looking at going to Morocco so this is very timely. thanks!

February 19, 2018 at 11:01 am

OMG I’ve been dying to go to Morocco all year. Your pictures made my wanderlust worse, I went back in 2008 but as a backpacker so I couldn’t bring any big souvenirs back, I want to go back with an empty suitcase and hit the souks hard!

Charlotte says

February 19, 2018 at 11:57 am

I loved this post, so many great tips! Marocco is high on my travel wish list. And I have every intention of buying one of those incredible rugs 😀 Can’t wait!

Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net) says

February 20, 2018 at 9:32 pm

What a great post! We are ashamed to say that we have not been to Morocco, and we even have friends to visit there! Shame Shame Shame on us. When we do go, though… we’ll be reading through your posts again! Meanwhile, your beautiful pictures are fueling our Moroccan day dreams. 🙂

March 2, 2018 at 8:15 am

Lovely post and great tips to get me ready for my trip to Morocco! Cheers!

Cory Lee says

March 2, 2018 at 9:33 am

This is such a great post! I’ll be going to Morocco next month and while I’ll be touring a lot of the country, I’m most excited for Marrakech. Awesome tips here!

Jossus Travelpics says

March 2, 2018 at 10:11 pm

I loved Marrakech and the Bahia Palace.

Bernie Watt says

April 25, 2018 at 12:27 pm

Great advice. We are so, so keen to get to Morocco and this is quite the inspiration.

Sebastian Vaz says

August 10, 2018 at 2:42 am

I haven’t been to Morocco. But I have heard lots of good things about the country. Must visit soon. Your guide will help me plan. Thanks 🙂

Violet Tellez says

August 30, 2018 at 1:29 pm

Thank you for the insightful info. I’m currently planning a trip for next spring and originally thought about joining a tour group but since I’d rather have a more relaxed schedule, an individual tour guide might be best to help me get around. Can you recommend a good company that does this, please?

We3Travel says

September 21, 2018 at 5:00 pm

Great tips and I’m glad I read them before our trip!

Marilyn Jacob says

June 21, 2019 at 1:14 am

We are travelling.to Morocco in December,so it’s our very first time.Looking forward to our.holiday.Good tips and advice made sense to.me,so I.am aware ,I will make the best and enjoy Morocco.

August 2, 2019 at 7:09 pm

the amount of times i got lost in Medina, sometimes it was fun – like in Essaouira, sometimes a bit scarry like in Marrakesh, but still at least i have stories to tell.

Katie Diederichs says

February 1, 2020 at 12:02 pm

This is SO helpful! We’ve been itching to get to Morocco, so I’m definitely saving this for later.

February 1, 2020 at 1:14 pm

The food and the night market look amazing! I always feel like Morocco is a mysterious place.

Linnea says

February 1, 2020 at 1:36 pm

Great guide! I appreciated the tip about cash. How much was your rug if you don’t mind me asking? Did you ship it home?

Kariss Ainsworth says

February 1, 2020 at 3:49 pm

I’ve been looking at going here, it is so colourful!

Diana Sahara says

October 24, 2020 at 3:08 am

yeah it s amazing. Colors and smells…

February 1, 2020 at 9:36 pm

This guide was so so helpful thank you so much and loved the recommendations and the pictures. Looking forward to go to Le Jardin Secret it makes me curious.

October 24, 2020 at 3:06 am

Very useful tips! There is also a bus to go to the medina for those traveling on budget and yeah! For sure everyone gets lost in the medina. I think it s important to point that someone will try to help you when you get lost (expecting some tip) so better to let him know you will not tip him in advance…

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Marrakech Travel Guide: Know Before You Go

Table of Contents

Marrakech Travel Guide Overview

City guide to marrakech and its wonders:.

If you are planning a holiday to Morocco and you are landing in the red city, then our ultimate Marrakech travel guide will help you make the best of your time in this North African country.

Marrakech is undoubtedly the bustling heart of Morocco, world famous for its vibrant souks, scented spice shops, the central Djema’a El Fna square, glorious palaces, and traditional medina. Its royal riads, luxury hotels, trendy art galleries, and international festivals are the source of international praise.

But, it is undoubtedly the Marrakech medina that tourists gravitate to most. The Imperial walled medina has attracted travellers through the charm of its Gnawa music, the call to prayer, and ever bustling Oriental atmosphere. Its narrow alleyways are full of bazaars, selling silver, leather, metal, textiles, recycled glass and wooden goods, artisan workshops displaying their artwork, colourful local markets, and beautiful guest-houses (riads); in fact everything you could dream of in this magical and mysterious city.

But beyond the wondrous atmosphere of the ancient medina and Djema’a El Fna, a modern and new part of Marrakech is developing fast, particularly in the Gueliz district towards the train station, nicknamed la Ville Nouvelle. The thriving Ville Nouvelle (new town) is full of green parks, fancy restaurants, contemporary art scenes and deluxe cafés. Gueliz also attracts fashionistas and trendy couples in search of luxury hotels, party venues, and the best bars in town. So Gueliz is definitely a must to include in your wanderings in this amazing city.

Offering such an enormously diversified taste of Africa, Marrakech has been the main arrival and departure destination for visitors from all over the world and offers easy access to Europe with its beautiful and expanding airport, which in itself is architecture to admire.

And as you relax sipping the inevitable glass of traditional Moroccan mint tea on a rooftop terrace overlooking the vibrant Djema’a el Fna square, full of storytellers, Gnawa music and food-stalls and, as you admire the sunset smouldering behind the snow-capped peaks of the majestic Atlas Mountains, turn your mind to Marrakesh’s legacy.

Where is Marrakech located?

Geographically, Marrakech is practically at the heart of the country, so our Morocco travel advice is to use the city as your base. Most of the other famous tourist destinations are within easy reach of the famous “red city”. Marrakech is just 241 km from Casablanca along the motorway, 324 km from the capital and Imperial city, Rabat, and only 246 km from Agadir on the Atlantic coast, famous for its wonderful beaches.

As far as Marrakech travel tips are concerned, the city is located in the shadow of the majestic Atlas Mountains, and so ideal for mountain lovers and mountain trekkers. So it is within very easy reach for your climb of the highest peak in North Africa, Mount Jebel Toubkal, or to go trekking through the Berber villages of the Atlas Mountains. And more importantly for all tourists, Marrakech is your perfect base for setting out on a desert trip from Marrakesh to one of the three Sahara desert regions of Morocco.

The most famous Moroccan desert, and tourist favourite, is the red Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga. However, the sweeping sand dunes of Erg Lihoudi and the remote and expansive Erg Chagaga desert offer you a much more authentic and less touristy desert experience .

Marrakesh is a straight 9-hour drive from Merzouga and also from Erg Chagaga. So programme a minimum of a 3-day desert tour from Marrakech into your Moroccan desert tour adventure schedule. Even better would be to opt for a full 4 days for a much more relaxed and enjoyable Marrakesh desert tour experience. This will allow you to get to know the full, astonishing beauty of the south, the local way of life there (very different from Marrakech) and the magical mystery of the desert.

History of Marrakesh:

Marrakesh’s history stretches right back to the 11 th century. It is one of Morocco’s four Imperial Cities, along with Meekness, Fes and Rabat. It was founded around 1062 by the Almoravids and became the capital of their empire. The Almoravid empire was co-ruled by Youssef ben Tachfine and his wife, Zaynab Nefzaouia and it is she who is historically said to be the real founder of the city.

Marrakesh was later captured by other dynasties including the Almohad Caliphate in the 12 th century and Marinids in around 1269. Marrakech was finally captured by the Saadians who left their distinctive mark on the city’s architecture.

When are the best times to visit Marrakech:

Our travel guide to Marrakech indicates the following month as the best times to visit:

Winter : from mid-December to mid-January . This time of the year offers very clear, deep blue skies, but in spite of the warm sun can be cold at night, so remember to pack warm outfits. You may be in Africa, but you will need that winter coat. This time of the year is peak season, attracting many tourists, especially around Christmas and the New Year’s Eve celebrations. It offers an opportunity to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Marrakech or even better in the Sahara Desert.

Spring: from March to May. Most tourists travel here around the Easter holiday, making it one of the country’s high seasons. Temperatures of some 30 °C make it a suitable time to explore the medina and the alleyways of Marrakech, even though the evenings can still be cool. Bring a warmer wrap or jacket for the evenings in the square, outdoor cafes and restaurants.

Summer : from June to August. Summertime in Marrakech is very hot and during these three months, Marrakech experiences a great many tourists, especially local visitors. But be aware of these high temperatures, drink plenty of water, have a suitable head covering, use plenty of high factor sunscreen and stay in the shade from 12:00 to 3:00pm.

Autumn : from September to November. September is still hot in the city but over the following weeks, the temperatures slowly drop so this time of year is a great choice for a visit, especially through lower accommodation rates and perfect weather, neither too hot nor too cold.

How to get around Marrakech?

Arriving at Menara Airport – travel tips for Marrakech If you take a flight to Marrakech, you will land at the beautiful Menara Airport. It is located about 6 km from the centre of Marrakech, Djema’a el Fna square. Getting there from the Menara airport takes about 15 minutes by taxi.

The quickest and easiest way to reach your Riad is to take one of the innumerable taxi parked just outside the airport. You should find official taxi prices in the vicinity of the exit. Ideally you shouldn’t really pay more than a 100 MAD for a ride from the airport to the centre of the city. But depending on your negotiation skills, a ride to Djema’a el Fna from the airport could still range from 100 to 150 Moroccan dirham.

But you can always ask your Riad or hotel if they offer transport and if they will send someone to meet you.

Getting around – city guide to Marrakech Once you have settled in your hotel or riad and are ready to explore Marrakech, you have several options for getting around the city from one place of interest to another.

Public Transportation: ALSA is the main provider of public transport in Marrakech. ALSA buses are reliable and operate from the early morning until late at night, with night buses running to and from popular places, including Djema’a el Fna, the Gueliz district and Boulevard Mohammed V. The cost of the fare is very low and is usually paid to the driver on board the bus.

Taxis: Even better than the buses are the standard yellow Marrakech taxis. Small taxis allow you to get around the red city in a faster and more practical fashion. But once you get in, check that the metre is working. The price of the ride is displayed and by law, the driver is not permitted to drive without it. But they will often try to close it down for the unsuspecting tourist. It is important to note that small taxis in Morocco are allowed to take three different passengers on a ride, depending on the location, of course. So you may find the taxi stopping frequently when the driver thinks someone might be going your way.

Rent a Car: Driving in Marrakech is not something we would recommend for tourists in our Marrakech travel guide. Most of the roads in the medina are very narrow for cars and the traffic jams in Marrakech make it difficult even for Moroccans from other cities to negotiate the streets. Many Moroccans themselves even refuse to drive in the red city! But, if you do wish to rent a car, the driver must be over 21 years old. European driving licences are accepted, but an international driving permit is a better option if you happen to have one.

There are numerous small local companies that offer rental cars at varying prices, depending on the season of the year and the condition of the car. Make a thorough check of the car’s condition to avoid unpleasant surprises when you return it. Street parking is rare, and should you find a parking space, always have a few dirhams spare for the parking guardian, easily identifiable in a blue overall. In popular areas, parking lots can be found at big hotels or in secure car parks.

Best Activities and Unique Attractions in Marrakech

Marrakech visit guide:.

Marrakech is not all about the medina’s alleyways and snake charmers. With its warm sunny days, bustling busy nights, and vibrant places, this favourite tourist destination in Morocco has much more to offer its visitors. We have written this essential Marrakech travel guide to help you decide your best choices of activities in Marrakech.

1- Marrakech Sightseeing Tours:

Probably the best way to explore the walled “red city” is to go on a full day Marrakech Sightseeing tour, with a local knowledgable guide to reveal all the secrets of Marrakech; the most popular attractions of Marrakech, the medina and colourful souks. With this registered guide to show the way, immerse yourself in the rich history, interesting sites and fascinating culture of Marrakech. He will be on hand to help you get to hidden spots that you may not discover on your own.

2- Cooking Classes in Marrakech:

Most visitors of Marrakech are deeply impressed by Moroccan cuisine; delicious tagines, meaty brochettes, steaming couscous, and other regional specialities, all waiting to be tasted. Take this chance to learn how to cook your favourite Moroccan dishes back home. There are several cooking schools, riads, and restaurants that can provide you with the opportunity to join in Cooking classes in Marrakech – definitely a great experience for food lovers.

3- Sunset Camel Rides in the Marrakech Palmeraie:

There is no question that the absolute best way to experience camel riding is in the towering sand dunes of the Sahara Desert . But you may not have enough time this time round, so take a sunset camel ride in the Marrakech Palmeraie as the perfect alternative. Explore the numerable palm tree groves of Marrakech and witness the spectacle of the sunset, all from the back of a camel.

4- Quad Biking in Agafay Desert near Marrakech:

If you are a mechanical sports enthusiast, quad-biking in Agafay Desert is probably the ideal option for you to explore Agafay Desert at a faster pace. Hop on an ATV, drive through the moon-like desert and the diverse landscapes of the countryside around Marrakech. Pass by Berber villages and catch views of the often snow-topped Atlas Mountains.

5- Horse-drawn Tours in Marrakech:

The most iconic way to experience the magic of Marrakech is definitely from the comfort of a horse-drawn carriage. Pass by the bustling city’s illuminated landmarks and discover the famous attractions of the medina protected by high ramparts. Witness the locals in their traditional attire, absorb the scented smells of the souks, the sound of Gnawa music and drumming in Djema’a el Fna square. And best of all, on a horse-drawn carriage ride in Marrakech , you will be able to get to places that are inaccessible by car, and, what’s more, you don’t have to keep stopping to hail a taxi.

6- Unwind in a Traditional Hammam:

After a busy morning wandering the vibrant souks, it is time to relax, and what better way than to treat yourself to a traditional hammam? It is an integral part of Moroccan culture and one of the best traditional experiences you can have in Marrakech. The hammams in Marrakech come in different styles and levels. Some are as expensive as a spa, but others are local to the neighbourhood and so more affordable. You can ask an employee to scrub your body, exfoliating your skin in a steam room. And you will leave feeling a new person again; relaxed and fresh with a clear head.

7- Food Tours in Marrakech:

Spice up your holiday in Morocco with a food tour in Marrakech . Discover favourite local food places in the alleyways of the medina where locals are eating ad enjoying their meal at any time of day. Taste the most delicious street food of Marrakech in the evening by pulling up a chair and sitting down to a meal at one of the much-talked about Djema’a el Fna food stalls. Marrakech food tours will accompany you to some of the best places in the city to lunch, dine or simply stop for a coffee or mint tea. We promise you will never leave hungry or dissatisfied.

Top Attractions to Visit in Marrakech:

Marrakech is a city of many wonders, and finding out the best sites and popular places to visit in this exotic North African city could take a lifetime. So, if you are planning to visit the red city and don’t yet know what to visit, you have come to the perfect place and landed on the pages of the ultimate Marrakech travel guide. Here we shall introduce you to the top attractions to visit in Marrakech to get a feel of this Moroccan gem.

1- Djema’a el Fna

Marrakech is probably most known for its landmark Djema’a el Fna square. If you wish to truly immerse yourself in the red city and feel what Marrakech really is all about, you should pay a visit to Djema’a el Fna, preferably at night. In the main square, you will find affordable fruit juices (served throughout the day), tasty grilled meat in the food stalls, snake charmers, women applying henna, and so much more.

2- Koutoubia Mosque

The moment you arrive in the centre of Marrakech, the stunning Koutoubia Mosque is the first sight that will truly catch your eye. Its fascinating minaret stands tall against the skyline of the red city, acting not only as an admirable piece of architecture and a spiritual symbol, but also as a reference point for visitors trying to get their bearings. Even though the mosque is accessible only to Muslims, its beautiful arches and stunning proportions, especially at night, when it is illuminated in golden light, are gorgeous from the outside. The surrounding gardens are a popular relaxation place for both locals and tourists and are a welcome escape from the bustling Djema’a El Fna.

3- El Bahia Palace

The 19 th century Bahia Palace is one of the main touristic attractions of Marrakech, providing a glimpse into royal lives in Morocco in former times. Today, the El Bahia Palace is a must-see historical attraction as well as being a permanent museum open to the public. The palace is decorated with exquisite tiling and Moroccan architecture, with green courtyards with fountains. Be sure to check out the garden at the rear.

4- Madrasa Ben Youssef

Madrasas are ancient Quranic schools. These schools can be found all over Morocco, especially in the Imperial cities of Marrakech, Fes and Meknes. In particular, Madrasa Ben Youssef was once the largest Quranic school in North Africa. Decorated with intricately patterned tiles, and beautiful craftsmanship in the wood and plasterwork, Medersa Ben Youssef has a stunning inner courtyard and is an absolute architectural masterpiece. It is a masterpiece of so much of what constitutes Moroccan architecture.

5- Marrakech Medina

If you are happy to take the risk of getting lost in the medina, one of the best ways to discover Marrakech is to stroll its alleyways. Admire the medina surrounded by high walls and adobe-built houses. Wander the vibrant souks, full of silver, leather, textiles, wooden and pottery handicrafts, as well as the colourful bazaars selling souvenirs and traditional furniture. Stop by the little shops selling scented spices and food vendors serving all types of street food. If you plan to buy an item, don’t be intimidated if you hear a high price. Instead, make an offer of about a third, even if the seller seems to object. Moroccans love to negotiate and haggle and expect you to do the same. You will definitely be tempted to buy souvenirs to remind you of this special, unique place.

6- Jardin Majorelle

With a combination of the famous Majorelle blue and a variety of plants from across the globe, the Jardin Majorelle is an oasis in the heart of Marrakech. Designed by the French artist, Jacques Majorelle, and later owned by the famous fashion designer, Yves Saint Laurent, the garden is home to exotic plants including bamboo, banana trees and more cacti and desert plants than can be found in any other garden in the world. The variety of plants in the gardens is complemented by shimmering water pools and the famous blue tone of the plant pots and buildings. You will be fascinated by this combination of colour, water and plants, offering a peaceful haven for an hour or two.

7- Menara Gardens

Just outside the centre of town and the Nouvelle Ville, lie the Menara Gardens, which consist of an enormous square pool built by a Sultan in the 12 th century. With its backdrop of the snow-covered Atlas Mountains, the Menara Gardens are one of the most frequently photographed places in Morocco; a must-see attraction of Marrakesh, especially in the spring when the blue sky setting off the palm trees and the snow on the mountains seem an unreal image.

8- Saadian Tombs

The Saadian Tombs is another of the most visited sites in Marrakech and a must-see attraction for history enthusiasts. These tombs are one of the few remains of the Saadian Dynasty that ruled Marrakesh during the 16th century. The Saadian Tombs were discovered and opened to the public in 1917. They are very well-kept and are decorated with exquisite carving and tile-work.

Best Mountain and Desert tours from Marrakech and Refreshing Day Trips

Situated at the heart of Morocco, Marrakech is ideally placed for your out-of-town adventure to any of the popular destinations in Morocco. Marrakech offers you easy access to the exotic Imperial Cities, the blue city of Chefchaouen, awesome surfing beaches, majestic mountains, immense sand dunes, and much more. Whether you are planning a short trip or a multi-day trip, this Marrakech travel guide will introduce you to some hand-picked itineraries that will help you plan your desert trip in Morocco and see the most beautiful attractions.

Best Marrakech desert tours to consider:

Marrakech is the perfect departure point for visitors who wish to travel to Morocco’s Sahara Desert . The most popular desert destination in Morocco is the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga, while the Erg Chagaga dunes outside M’hamid offer a more wild and nomadic experience. But even if you only have two days to spare there are always the smaller the Zagora desert dunes offering a quicker getaway.

Marrakech desert tours offer overnight camping underneath the starlit desert sky, while others include visits to historical sites, followed by the night in authentic guest-houses.

Whichever desert trip from Marrakech you decide to go on, you can rest assured that you will explore the towering sand dunes astride a camel, admire the sun descending slowly into the never-ending desert dunes, and finally sleep peacefully in a comfortable nomad tent in a desert camp among the dunes.

So, without further ado, here are our recommended desert trips from Marrakech:

2-day Marrakech to Zagora Desert Tour

Zagora desert trip is the perfect option for travellers who wish to experience a desert trip, but can only spare a couple of days. On this trip, you will travel over the Atlas Mountains, visit the two most famous kasbahs in Morocco, Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou and Telouet, travel through the Dra’a Valley and several Berber villages, visit the green pottery workshops and tour the ancient Quranic Library in Tamegroute village.

Experience camel trekking in the desert dunes of Zagora and witness the spectacle of the sunset. Taste dinner under the Sahara sky and share an evening of music and drumming around a fire camp. Stay in a comfortable nomad tent in a desert camp among Zagora dunes.

3-day Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour

This is the most popular desert trip from Marrakech . On this excursion, you will enjoy varying beautiful landscapes ranging from the often-snow-covered Atlas Mountains to the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga.

Visit fortified Kasbahs and beautiful Berber villages, and explore green valleys and massive gorges.

Experience camel trekking and admire the sunset from the summit of the dunes. Taste dinner among the dunes, dance to Berber music and sleep in a comfortable nomad tent. To reduce driving distance and time spent in the car each day, we strongly suggest you opt for a 4-day desert tour to Erg Chebbi .

3-day Marrakech to Erg Chagaga Desert Tour

A desert trip to Erg Chegaga is the best option for travellers whose choice is to visit a wilder and less touristy desert, and so experience the peacefulness and the majesty of the Sahara Desert.

This excursion will take you over the Atlas Mountains and to the amazing high dunes of Erg Chagaga outside M’hamid. Tour fortified kasbahs, explore fertile valleys and stop by the green pottery exhibits. Ride camels to the summit of the dunes, admire the spectacular sunset, enjoy an evening of Berber music and sleep in comfortable nomad tents.

Experience 4×4 off-road driving through the magnificent Sahara Desert and learn about Berber rug and carpet crafting in Taznakht. If you have enough time, we highly recommend that you take a 4-day Erg Chagaga desert tour .

Desert Majesty Tour – 5 days

Unlike a shorter 3-day trip, this 5-day desert tour from Marrakech allows you to enjoy your desert trip in a much more relaxed slower pace and to explore a little more of southern Morocco. This itinerary will take you over the High Atlas Mountains to the majestic dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga.

On the way, you have plenty of time really to explore adobe-built kasbahs, hike in gorges and wonderful valleys with amazing rock formations and colours, visit the fossil museum, visit green pottery workshops and learn about nomadic life in the oases of the south.

At the same time experience the fun of camel trekking, witnessing the spectacle of the sunset and sleeping in nomad tents.

Grand Tour of the South – 7 days

If you want to discover all that the south and the Sahara Desert have to offer, then this 7-day tour from Marrakech is the perfect option for you. There is so much more time to pause and admire, to learn and experience without having to move on again quickly.

Explore the whole south, spanning not just the famous dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga but also the wild and expansive dunes of Erg Chagaga outside M’hamid for a comprehensive exploration and appreciation of the magnificent Sahara Desert and southern Morocco.

On the way, you get to tour historical kasbahs, explore valleys and gorges, to wander green oases. You will stay in authentic and beautiful guest-houses and taste some of Morocco’s most delicious dishes.

And best of all you will experience camel riding in the Sahara Desert and spend the night in a desert camp among the dunes.

Best Marrakech day trips to escape the bustling city

If you prefer to stay put in the same hotel throughout your stay, you can take a day trip to the beautiful Atlantic coastal towns, fascinating waterfalls, the highest mountains in North Africa, the Hollywood favourite film location in Morocco, Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, as well as so much more. Here we have laid out a brief outline of the best Marrakech day trips fro you to choose from:

High Atlas, Telout, Kasbah Ait ben Haddou day trip – 1 day:

Kasbah Ati Ben Haddou Day Trip from Marrakech

On this day trip from Marrakech , you will travel over the majestic Atlas Mountains, capture panoramic views of the snow-topped mountains and beautiful Berber villages.

You pay a visit to Kasbah Telouet, which once served as a palatial residence and headquarters to the last Pasha of Marrakech. Some parts of it are in ruins, but others are still completely intact and are a good representation of tiling artwork, and wood and plaster craftsmanship.

Shortly afterwards, you will explore Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou. This site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most historical and significant landmarks. Throughout the years, this historical site has been used as a backdrop for Hollywood cinematic artworks including; “Gladiator”, “The Mummy”, “Kingdom of Heaven” and some scenes of the famous TV series “Game of Thrones”. The kasbah is also a great representation of the clay architecture of Morocco and is still inhabited by a number of Berber families.

Essaouira day trip from Marrakech – 1 day

Essaouira is a windy town located on the Atlantic Coast. It is adored by travellers owing to its tranquillity and exotic medina. On a day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira , you will visit a local co-operative which produces a variety of argan oil products and you can see that goats really do climb up into argan trees. It is not just a rumour!

Once in Essaouira, you can wander the rampart-enclosed medina, and explore the narrow, winding streets full of little shops selling, most particularly, the famous thuja wood handicrafts. Stop by the famous seaport to choose a selection of fresh fish to be prepared for lunch on the spot. But be warned, there are so many types of fish to select from, you might get carried away and order more than you can manage.

Sip a glass of tea in one of the cafés overlooking the beach or go for a walk along the vast beach. If you are a water sports enthusiast, you will be pleased to know that Essaouira is famous both for surfing and kite surfing. You can hire all the necessary equipment and clothing. So if you wish to escape the hustle of Marrakech for a day, we highly recommend a day trip to Essaouira.

Agafay Desert day trip from Marrakech – 1 day

Located about 45 min from Marrakech, the Agafay desert is a hidden gem to explore. Agafay desert is the best alternative for travellers who desire to visit the desert but are really short of time.

Experience an hour’s camel riding, photograph your party wearing blue turbans with a beautiful sunset in the background. Enjoy a glass of mint tea and Moroccan biscuits, and, in addition, the splendid views of the snow-topped Atlas Mountains in the distance.

Agafay desert’s dry, moon-like landscape offers opportunities for quad-biking and buggy driving for those who are interested in mechanical sports. Visit the reservoir of Lalla Takerkoust, stop by Berber villages, and learn about life in the mountains.

Ourika, Berber villages, Saffron Farm, Andre Heller Garden – 1 day

As Marrakech is close to many interesting natural destinations, it is easy to take a refreshing break in Nature away from the hustle and bustle of the red city.

An Atlas Mountains day trip to the Ourika Valley offers an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful wildlife of the mountains and provides a glimpse into the Berber way of life.

Explore the scenic green lush valleys of the southern slopes of the Atlas Mountains. Go for a hike with a local guide into the surrounding countryside. Discover the waterfalls of Setti Fadma and explore the green Toubkal National Park.

Visit the Berber village of Asni, sip a glass of mint tea, and treat yourself to a delicious tagine in a Berber family home. On this day trip, you can also visit local co-operative producing argan oil products and discover the Andre Heller Anima Garden.

Ouzoud Waterfalls day trip from Marrakech – 1 day

A day trip from Marrakech to the Ouzoud Waterfalls also offers a refreshing change from the bustling and busy city of Marrakech. Ouzoud Waterfalls make up one of the most invigorating, natural settings in Morocco and you will not return disappointed.

This Ouzoud day trip takes you along the green and often the snow-covered Atlas Mountains to show you the highest waterfalls in North Africa, which rises up at 110 meters. Once at the Ouzoud Waterfalls, take a walk by the river, fabulous photos of your group and of the fascinating falls.

Sip a glass of mint tea at leisure, and for lunch, how about a hot delicious tagine in one of the restaurants overlooking the falls? Hire one of the local boats to take you on a tour around the different channels of the river and the waterfalls.

Witness the Barbary apes roaming on the trees and around the falls. Go for a hike with a local guide into the surrounding green fields. On this day trip from Marrakech, you will also visit the “Door to the Cave” which is a spectacular sight. What an amazing day out with such enormous variety of experiences!

Where to Eat in Marrakech:

Marrakech has a huge selection of restaurants offering delicious dishes to satisfy travellers with varying tastes and budgets. Whether you choose local eateries, gourmet rooftop restaurants or fancy restaurants serving Moroccan wine, you will always be able to find a place serving tempting and mouth-watering dishes. This Marrakech travel guide has grouped great restaurants into three categories for you to browse and pick from: expensive (over 350 MAD), mid-range (100 to 350 MAD) and more budget friendly (100 MAD).

The prices we give for Marrakech restaurants are typically for three-course meals. Please remember that although alcohol is not generally available in many Marrakesh restaurants, there are still plenty that do.

Best Luxury Restaurants in Marrakesh :

1- la maison arabe:.

Cuisine: Moroccan

The restaurant at La Maison Arabe is open to its hotel guests as well as all other travellers in Marrakech seeking a special and refined dining experience. Le Restaurant offers a selection of traditional Moroccan dishes in addition to the delicious specialities created here.

Meals are served in beautiful tables with hand-painted woodwork, which complement the shaded courtyard, and when accompanied by their excellent Arab-Andalusian musical treats, create a unique dining atmosphere.

2- Dar Moha:

Set into a sophisticated riad, Dar Moha is one of the best restaurants to taste some of the contemporary Moroccan cuisine’s most delicious dishes. The restaurant is run by chef Mohamed Fedal, who has transformed this family home into a sophisticated dining space.

Without question, the best seats in this Marrakech restaurant are around the pool in the garden, where musicians play during evening meals. Dar Moha serves Moroccan dishes such as pastilla and rfissa but with an innovative, unique cooking style. Alcohol is served here and reservations are required in advance! Why not treat yourself to this special Marrakech experience?

3- Gastro MK:

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Known for its five-course taster dinner, Gastro MK is one of the best culinary experiences in the Marrakech medina. The evening kicks off with aperitifs and canapes served on the rooftop terrace overlooking the medina, and dinner is then served in the serene and sophisticated space of the restaurant.

Gastro MK’s popular menus consist of Mediterranean dishes with a contemporary Moroccan touch. This restaurant serves alcohol and requires booking in advance! So why not check out the cool, relaxed vibe of this renowned restaurant!

4- Le Marocain at La Mamounia Hotel:

Cuisine: Moroccan, French & Italian

For a real treat we suggest you try out the Mamounia hotel restaurant. Decorated with traditional Moroccan tiling, shaded courtyards, and flourishing gardens, this restaurant is one of the most luxurious in Marrakech. Le Marocain Restaurant here includes a dining terrace as well as indoor dining spaces, plus a series of private lounges and alcoves.

La Mamounia offers Italian, French, and Moroccan cuisine in each of these dining spaces, but places a great emphasis on modern Moroccan cuisine and its abundance of spices. This restaurant requires reservations in advance and serves alcohol!

It is just perfect for a warm evening tucked away in luxury away from the noise of traffic and people.

5- Jnane Tamsna:

Cuisine: Mediterranean-Moroccan

If you are staying in the medina during your time in Marrakesh, there will surely be a moment when you wish to escape from the normal, vibrant hustle and bustle of the red city. Located a 20-minute drive from the medina, Jnane Tamsna is an oasis in the Palmeraie offering opportunities to enjoy moments of pure peace.

And more than that, this restaurant offers a selection of Mediterranean-Moroccan dishes, which are prepared with fresh vegetables and herbs from their gardens. Book a table by the swimming pool under the shade of the olive trees and treat yourself to a calm and charming dining experience.

Best mid-range restaurants in Marrakech:

Since its opening in 2014, Nomad has become one of the medina’s busiest dining venues, so definitely a place to try out whilst wandering the medina to take a break and relax a moment.

Spread over several floors with multiple indoor and outdoor spaces, this Marrakesh restaurant offers more familiar Mediterranean food but with a Moroccan touch, as well as some of Moroccan cuisine’s specialities. The menu highlights include sardine tart and vegetarian pastilla, and presents traditional dishes in an innovative fashion.

Expect dishes such as grilled lamb chops and flourless orange, cardamom, ginger cakes; a treat for gluten-free diners. And an array of vegetarian dishes are also served.

Nomad’s popularity comes from its stylish and playful interior design as well as the beautiful views of the medina rooftops and the snow-covered Atlas Mountains.

2- Al Fassia:

The restaurants of both Al Fassia Gueliz and Al Fassia Aguedal are undoubtedly some of the best restaurants in Marrakech. Run by two sisters and an all-female staff, these two restaurants are as popular with locals as they are with tourists and offer their guests an extensive traditional Moroccan cuisine. What great recommendation do you need than that?

Al Fassia allows diners to try out a selection of dishes, with an emphasis on freshness and recreated family recipes. Meat dishes, different types of tagines, couscous, and a variety of vegetarian-friendly salads are all on offer. Both of these Marrakesh restaurants serve alcohol, and the inner decor offers you an insight into traditional aristocratic homes.

3- Terrasse des Epices, Marrakech

Cuisine: French Moroccan

Located on a hidden rooftop terrace in the heart of the Marrakech medina, Terrasse des Epices is one of the best places to relax over a drink and taste French-Moroccan food. It is a mid-range Marrakech restaurant with a contemporary design, characterised by wood craftsmanship and decorated furniture.

This restaurant offers its guests splendid views of the medina rooftops and the snow-capped Atlas Mountains. Marrakech offers many options for rooftop terrace dining, but Terrace des Epices does it to perfection.

4- Le Jardin

Tucked away in a secluded alleyway at the heart of the medina, Le Jardin brings a touch of elegance and tranquillity to the bustle of the Marrakech medina. It is a hidden oasis of pure peacefulness within the vibrant medina and offers diners an opportunity to experience the royal charm of ancient Marrakech in a fascinating atmosphere.

The restaurant is built around a large courtyard and displays a beautiful combination of traditional Moroccan design and 1960s interior decoration. This Marrakech restaurant menu features Moroccan classics and some organic dishes.

5- Fine Mama

Unlike most Marrakech restaurants near Djemma El Fna that offer nothing but a few sandwiches, Fine Mama offers its guests a larger number of options. This restaurant features a selection of tagines, fantastic breakfast and brunch spread as well as an array of vegan and vegetarian-friendly dishes, including a Buddha bowl composed of falafel, fresh vegetables, lentils, and beetroot hummus. The restaurant also offers its variety of fresh juices to accompany your meal.

Authentic affordable places to eat in Marrakech:

1- tagine darna:.

Cuisine: Traditional Moroccan

Of the many Marrakech restaurants offering outdoor terraces and overlooking Djemaa El Fna, Tagine Darna is an ideal choice. Not as crowded as some might think from its perfect location, it serves a variety of tagines, expertly prepared sandwiches, and salads. This is not the most affordable restaurant in the main square, but it is worth the extra dirham for the views and the atmosphere.

2- Djemaa El Fna

Cuisine: Street food

There are plenty of night-time food stalls in Djemaa El Fna, the central and busiest square of the red city. The area is popular among locals and tourists, although you will, in fact, find a larger number of tourists eating there these days.

Despite the possible tourist traps and the occasional overpriced stall, you are basically paying for the atmosphere and the experience. A useful tip is to look for food stalls where locals are eating thereby avoiding any tourist traps.

The stalls serve menus of fish such as sardines and shrimps along with aubergine salad, spiced fresh tomatoes and chips. Other popular dishes served include steamed meat, kebabs, tagines, sheep’s brains and grilled heart.

3- Amal Centre

Cuisine type: Moroccan

The Amal Centre in Gueliz, Marrakech, is an excellent restaurant to go to for authentic affordable food. It offers a menu that features Moroccan cuisine as well as a few international dishes. The menu changes daily, but there are usually three choices of starter, mains and dessert, and in addition, there is at least one vegetarian option.

On Fridays, the star of the show is couscous and the restaurant is often at full capacity, so booking in advance is highly recommended. You can eat really well here for under 10 euro and it is all for a good cause. The Amal Centre is a non-profit organisation that supports and trains disadvantaged women in restaurant skills.

4- Henna Art Café

Henna Art Café is a charming café restaurant with a rooftop terrace in the heart of the Marrakech medina. This restaurant offers vegetarian and vegan couscous and has a menu serving a mix of North African dishes, sandwiches, wraps and salads as well as the famous Berber omelette.

As its name suggests, it also has a local art exhibition, a collection of Amazigh artefacts and offers the opportunity to have your hands hennaed.

5- Café de France

Café de France is popular among the local inhabitants of Marrakech as a meeting point for those with business in the medina and is also an ideal place for tourists to sip a glass of Moroccan mint tea or a coffee overlooking the comings and goings in the Djemaa El Fna.

The café offers soft drinks and dishes at a reasonable price. Once again, you are paying for the location and the convenience factor.

Marrakech City Riad Guide

As the main travel destination in Morocco, Marrakech is among the highlights of every holiday in Morocco and is worth taking the time to discover. Ideally, you would want to spend a night or two in the red city.

Marrakesh is remarkable for its traditional architecture. So probably one of the best experiences that you can have in this bustling city is to stay in a riad . A riad is a typical well-to-do Moroccan house, decorated with Moroccan tiling artwork, (zellige), and wood and metal craftsmanship. A riad, usually located in the old medina of Marrakech, boasts a handful of rooms and suites around a central courtyard as well as a fountain and very often a swimming pool.

Marrakech also offers its visitors the modern districts of Gueliz and Hivernage which are popular if you prefer to stay outside the busy medina. In these areas, you will find some of Marrakech’s nightlife, modern restaurants, boutique shops, and many large hotels.

To help you plan your accommodation in the bustling city, this expert Marrakech travel guide will cover some of the best places where you can stay and divided into three categories: luxury (over 1200 MAD), mid-range (500 MAD to 1200 MAD), and affordable (under 500 MAD).

Luxury Hotels in Marrakech:

La maison arabe.

Opened in the 1940s, La Maison Arabe was a popular dining place for the rich and famous. In 1998, it was turned into a riad-hotel set on the very edge of the Marrakech medina. It is an authentic haven of pure tranquillity that conveys the rich history, Moroccan hospitality, and exquisite culture of Marrakech.

This luxurious riad-hotel has 26 rooms, half of which are suites, and all decorated with fine craftwork, beautiful tiling, and intricate cedar wood, evoking old-school luxury and creating a beautiful stay experience for its guests.

Dating back to the 18th century, Riad Kniza is a traditional luxurious boutique riad at the heart of Marrakech. Restored using traditional materials and fine artisans to recreate the authentic Moroccan experience, this small luxury riad offers its guests an outdoor swimming pool, a sauna, and a hammam.

Its spacious suites are decorated in a traditional Moroccan style and feature carved wooden furniture and a fireplace. The riad also has a wonderful rooftop terrace where you can enjoy a traditional Moroccan breakfast and admire the sunset by the end of the day.

Riad Joya is a traditional riad in the heart of the red city that has seven spacious suites with handcrafted furnishings and luxurious fabrics. Owned by Italian friends and renovated by an Italian designer, the interior of the riad combines the character of contemporary Italian design, without sacrificing a sense of traditional Moroccan decoration.

The riad offers its guests a panoramic rooftop terrace and a traditional hammam to relax and enjoy peaceful moments away from the bustle of Marrakech. There is a real focus on food here and the riad offers a cooking class which involves a visit to the souks. So you can learn how to recreate your favourite Moroccan meal back home.

La Mamounia

Set within lush green gardens containing orange trees, rose bushes, and olive trees and offering splendid views of the majestic Atlas Mountains, this luxury five-star hotel is the most famous accommodation in Morocco and has been a leading hotel in Marrakech since its establishment in the 1920s.

Being the most famous hotel in Marrakech, La Mamounia has a Moorish design across its majestic halls and 270 rooms and suites in three separate riads, decorated with intricate tiling and lively colours.

La Mamounia has hosted many famous names from Tom Cruise and Nelson Mandela to Winston Churchill, who was a frequent visitor and has a bar named after him. Here you will experience exquisite rooms, sophisticated on-site dining, and enviable spa facilities.

Les Jardins De La Koutoubia

Located right behind the much-talked-about Djemaa El Fna square, this hotel boutique is home to 100 beautiful rooms and sophisticated suites, spread around a palm-shaded courtyard with a large swimming pool.

This lovely Marrakech riad includes serene spa treatments, offers its guests a traditional hammam experience, a piano bar to sit and relax, and a rooftop terrace overlooking vibrant Djemaa El Fna square.

Some of the best mid-range Riads in Marrakech

On this section on our Marrakech riad travel guide, we cover some of the best mid-range accommodation and riads in Marrakech:

Dar Rocmarra

Located a 10 min walk from Djemaa El Fna square, Dar Rocmarra is a stunning, authentic riad that has been totally redecorated by local master craftsmen. This riad has four air-conditioned en-suite bedrooms, a very generously sized suite, a panoramic rooftop terrace with sunbeds and a blazing fire in winter.

Each bedroom has been individually designed by the riad’s English owners. And while each bedroom is different from the other, they all offer guests the highest level of comfort and Moroccan hospitality.

The breakfasts here are second to none, and the evening meals a culinary delight. They need to be ordered in the early morning, the day before, or before arrival.

Riad Dar Dialkoum

Riad Dar Dialkom , meaning “your home” in Arabic, is a 4-star riad located about 15 minutes away from the vibrant centre of town, so within easy reach of the red city’s main attractions such as museums, souks, Djemaa El Fna Square, palaces and the new town “Gueliz”.

This traditional mid-nineteenth century riad was renovated in the purest Moroccan tradition in 1999 and enlarged in 2009. It is a peaceful haven that includes 4 rooms and 3 suites, all decorated in different styles. It includes a plunge pool, two rooftop terraces with sunbathing facilities and showers.

Riyad El Cadi

This elegant riad-hotel is a maze of seven linked historic riads clustered around five courtyards offering rooms showcasing Middle Eastern and Turkish artwork, from hand-painted tiles in the Ottoman suites to ancient Berber wedding veils in the Douirya Suite.

This beautiful guesthouse is remarkable for its private balconies and rooftop terraces which are perfect for that evening sunset.

Riad Al Massarah

With its mixture of traditional architecture, beautiful custom-made furnishings and modern bathroom facilities, Riad Al Massarah is a fabulous place to stay in Marrakech.

This guesthouse hosts six suites, situated in a charming neighbourhood and has been designed by its owners Michael and Michel, who are committed to carrying out responsible tourism and making contributions to local charities.

Riad Aya is authentic and full of warmth, intimacy, and harmony. At Riad Aya , you will enjoy pure tranquillity, unmatched hospitality, and top-tier service.

The atmosphere inside this oasis is amplified by the solid and intricately carved old wooden doors, the extremely comfortable sofas, the presence of large green plants, as well as the typical lamps and local fruits of the Medina.

Five of the best budget Riads in Marrakech:

If you would like to save money to explore more of the city and take trips outside the city, Marrakech also offers you a wide choice of affordable accommodation for travellers on a budget. Here are our Marrakech riad travel guide picks for travellers looking for appropriate accommodation to fit their smaller budget.

Hidden in the neighbourhood of Kaat Benahid, Dar Hanane is all about home comfort. Clever minimalist styling, grey and white decor and a selection of traditional furniture have turned this historic house into four double bedrooms and two boutique suites.

This riad has a beautiful rooftop terrace with a dining space and a nomad tent to relax in and sip a glass of mint tea. It offers its guests a varied menu of traditional Moroccan breakfasts, while lunch and dinner need to be pre-ordered.

Du Pacha is an authentic riad with a very old-school luxury and antique furniture located near the main station of Marrakech.

Expect a warm welcome from the friendly staff of the riad, stay in clean simple rooms with a TV and Wi-Fi and traditional Moroccan breakfast. This boutique hotel offers its guests tranquil grounds to sit in and relax.

Riad Dar Aby

Located just outside the vibrant medina, Riad Dar Aby consists of a number of en-suite bedrooms spread around a bright courtyard decorated with beautiful tiling.

The riad offers its guests a traditional breakfast that consists of mesemen, (Moroccan pancakes) and mint tea. It has Wi-Fi access, and tranquil areas to chill and relax.

Riad Jomana

Affordable luxury is the best way to describe this riad boutique. It is remarkable for its traditional look with beautiful tiling artwork and a water fountain in the centre of the courtyard.

The riad is known for its huge rooms with king-sized beds. If you are looking for a place that offers you luxury without breaking the bank, this is the place to stay.

Riad Les 2 Portes

Riad Les 2 Portes is smaller compared to other establishments but has comfortable rooms and a cosier and more private atmosphere than is usual in other affordable riads. Painted in very light colours and located in the heart of the medina, this riad is ideal to stay close to the city’s main attractions.

We hope that this Marrakech Travel Guide was useful and that you will have a wonderful holiday in Marrakech.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us or if you need help planning your vacation in Morocco, please contact our friendly team of experts at Desert Majesty today .

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About Morocco Travel Experts – Marokko ReisExperts

About Morocco Travel Experts (Marokko ReisExperts)

Welcome to Morocco Travel Experts(Marokko ReisExperts), your gateway to unforgettable journeys in Morocco. Our passion for travel and profound knowledge of this enchanting country inspire us to craft exceptional experiences for our clients.

With years of expertise, we specialize in curating tailor-made trips, allowing you to explore the diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of Morocco. Our team of experienced travel professionals is dedicated to providing personalized itineraries, ensuring that every moment of your adventure is nothing short of extraordinary.

From the bustling markets of Marrakech to the timeless dunes of the Sahara, let Morocco Travel Experts tailor your dream trip, creating cherished memories that last a lifetime. Embark on your Moroccan adventure today with us!

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We are a diverse team of Moroccan and international travelers united by our love for Morocco. With deep-rooted connections to this enchanting land, we curate unique experiences showcasing the best of Morocco’s landscapes, history, and culture. Our passion for travel and insider knowledge enables us to create unforgettable tailor-made journeys tailored to your preferences. Whether you seek bustling markets, serene oases, or thrilling adventures, we’re ready to make your Moroccan dream a reality. Let our expertise and genuine hospitality guide you on a remarkable exploration of Morocco’s wonders.

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At Morocco Travel Experts(Marokko ReisExperts), our mission is to be your trusted companion on a transformative journey through Morocco. We strive to create exceptional travel experiences that immerse you in the country’s rich heritage, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality. Our dedicated team of Moroccan and international travelers aims to provide personalized travel routes, ensuring every moment of your adventure is filled with joy, discovery, and meaningful connections. With passion and expertise, we are committed to crafting unforgettable memories that reflect the true essence of Morocco and instill in you a deep appreciation for this enchanting destination.

Passion for Morocco

At Morocco Travel Experts, our love for Morocco is at the heart of everything we do. We are deeply passionate about sharing the beauty, culture, and heritage of the country with travelers from around the world.

Authenticity is the vibrant thread running through the fabric of our travels at Morocco Travel Experts(Marokko ReisExperts). Led by expert locals, carefully curated experiences paint a portrait of the true Morocco, where genuine encounters and cultural exchanges are cherished. Embrace the enchantment of this captivating land and let your heart dance amidst unforgettable memories. Discover the soul of Morocco, where every step whispers ancient tales and every smile speaks of timeless traditions. Experience a deep connection with Morocco that will touch your soul. Let’s weave an unforgettable Moroccan story together.

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At Morocco Travel Experts(Marokko ReisExperts), our ultimate goal is to create memories that last a lifetime. We carefully craft your journey so that every moment is filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished stories. From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the serene Sahara Desert, authenticity is central to every adventure. Our core values guide our actions, ensuring that your Moroccan expedition is extraordinary. Let us be your compass, guiding you to the enchanting beauty and cultural treasures of Morocco. Embrace the magic of this captivating land with us, and let’s weave together an unforgettable Moroccan story that will forever linger in your heart.

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Explore Morocco's Popular Destinations

Explore the sweeping vistas of the Sahara Desert, wander through the lively souks of vibrant Fes and Marrakech, stroll along the azure streets of Chefchaouen, and feel the coastal breeze in Essaouira. Immerse yourself in the vibrant spectrum of colors, sounds, and tastes that characterize Morocco's rich tapestry of landscapes and cultures. Whether you're captivated by the timeless charm of historical landmarks or seeking the peaceful serenity of coastal panoramas, Best Travel Morocco, your premier Morocco travel agency, provides an unforgettable journey tailored to your desires.

Morocco Tours & Travel packages

We are experts at creating a Moroccan experience perfectly tailored to our guests needs. These are some of our most popular itineraries, and they may be customized to the utmost extent of your imaginations.

Morocco’s Hidden Treasures

17 DAYS MOROCCO TOUR

From Casablanca

To Marrakech

Morocco's hidden Jewels

15 DAYS MOROCCO TOUR

Authentic Morocco tour

14 DAYS MOROCCO TOUR

To Casablanca

Classic Morocco Tour

From Marrakech

The Best of Morocco

13 DAYS MOROCCO TOUR

Colors of Morocco

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Imperial Cities and Northern Morocco

10 DAYS MOROCCO TOUR

Imperial Cities and Coast

Morocco tours highlights.

These experiences are what Morocco is known for, plus we have many more activities, sights, and secrets hidden up our sleeve. Don't see something you want to do? Get in touch and we'll make it happen!

Visit the Hassan II Mosque

Ride a camel across the dunes

Relax in a charming riad.

Shop for handcrafted rugs

Walk the blue-washed streets

Explore the Volubilis ruins

Explore ancient ruins

Find hidden-gems in the markets

Visit the Chouara Tannery

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Go to Marrakech to have every sense thrown into overdrive, and don’t be surprised if you come home dreaming of your next return to this vibrant Moroccan city.

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The minute you step foot on the soft golden dunes of the Sahara Desert, you’ll be transported to another world, another time - you’ve come to the perfect place for a peaceful retreat.

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Our guide Mohammed, Salem the driver and Brahim our desert friend were very helpful and took care of everything to make this trip special. We had a great experience and great fun. Definitely one to remember!! I can assure you that Best Travel is the best in organizing these tours. Thank You from Chris, Sasha, Jonathan and Melanie from Malta :-)

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I just came back from a 9 day tour with Best Travel Morocco, and I am so grateful for the experience. Before adventuring to Morocco, I was concerned about safety, as we were three women traveling together. Signing up with Best Travel Morocco was the right choice for us -I felt safe the whole time, and we got to meet so many amazing Moroccans!

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My friend and I did a 15 day tour across Morocco and totally enjoyed the cultural learning experience. Our two guides were very friendly, knowledgeable, gracious, and lots of fun. Highly recommend Best Travel Morocco if you are considering a trip to Morocco. You won't be disappointed!

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Travelguide Marrakech

Tips for your holiday in Morocco

Your travel guide to Marrakech and Morocco

Marrakech is one of Morocco’s most exciting destinations. You should aim to spend at least a few days in the “Red City“ if you are to get a true sense of its unique ambience. Take the time to meander through the souks in the Medina, visit some of Morocco’s most beautiful buildings and soak up an exotic atmosphere redolent of the 1,001 nights.

Alongside Fez, Meknès and Rabat, Marrakech is one of Morocco’s four royal cities. Its history can be traced back to the 11th Century. Many great dynasties have left their mark here. Monumental buildings such as the El-Badi Palace and the Bahia Palace have borne witness to the passage of time in one the Islamic world’s most important outposts.

Among the souks of the Medina, the atmosphere can be confronting in its intensity. Unfamiliar colours, smells and sounds overwhelm the senses. At the heart of this bustle and chaos is the Jemaa el-Fnaa. The so-called Beheading Square exerts an enduring fascination. Here, you can experience snake-charmers, storytellers and musicians. As night falls, the scent of food stalls envelopes the square. It is fair to say that you haven’t really been to Marrakech unless you have experienced the Jemaa el-Fnaa.

Marrakech is located in the western part of southern Morocco. The “Red City” is not just a dream destination for a city-break, but the perfect place from which to set off on a tour of the coast, the High Atlas Mountains or the Sahara.

Travel time and weather

Marrakech is worth visiting at any time of year. Although temperatures do fluctuate throughout the seasons, you will generally find that – apart from mid-Summer, which can be uncomfortably hot – the climate is usually more pleasant than it is in Europe.

In the months of April, May, September and October, all options are open to you when planning a trip. These are the best times to travel to Morocco.

At other times of the year, some limitations may apply. For example, in the summer, the Sahara becomes very hot, especially during the middle of the day.

Ideal travel time for travelling to Marrakech
The weather in Morocco

Holiday duration

You should allow at least three days for your visit to Marrakech. This is enough time to get a proper feel for the city, and to see most of the important attractions.

If you would like to see more of Morocco during your trip, take the time to plan an excursion or small tour outside of the city.

Around 7-10 days is a good length of time to spend on a first visit to southern Morocco. Of course, the more time you have, the more flexible you will be able to be when making arrangements.

Getting there

The quickest and easiest way to travel to Morocco from Europe is by plane. Flights from Germany usually take around 4 and a half hours. Return flights cost between 80 und 300 Euros.

There is a regular shuttlebus from the airport to the city-centre. Taxis are also available. Private transfers are scarcely any more expensive, but much less hassle.

Get into town from Marrakech Airport
Private Airport transfers

Accommodation in Marrakech

Marrakech offers a wide variety of accommodation and you will generally find that you are spoilt for choice when searching for a hotel. It is definitely worth choosing a nice riad in the medina. Many of these are townhouses which have been luxuriously renovated. They generally have green inner courtyards and are true pearls, which will make your holiday unforgettable.

There are also various conventional hotels in the newer part of the city, as well as a number of hostels for those on a budget.

The 10 most beautiful riads in Marrakech
Hostels in Marrakech

The most beautiful sights in Marrakech

Marrakech has no shortage of fascinating buildings, small museums, gardens and exhibitions. The less time you have, the more difficult it will be to decide what to do.

For most, the absolute must-sees in Marrakech are the Bahia Palace, the Koutoubia Mosque, the Medersa Ben Youssef and the Jardin Majorelle.

Overview: Sights in Marrakech

What to do in Marrakech?

If you would like to explore beyond the impressive palaces of Marrakech, take the time to arrange an excursion or some exciting activities.

This might mean anything from a half-day cookery course, to a hot-air balloon ride at sunrise, to a desert tour lasting several days

Day trips and excursions
Desert tours

The Anima Garden: A Trip to the “Island of the Blessed”

A trip to André Heller’s Anima Garden is a journey into another world where art and nature are lovingly intertwined. Find out more about the most beautiful garden in Morocco! This breath-taking dream of greenery in an otherwise barren landscape

Camel rides in Marrakech

You don’t necessarily need to go to the Moroccan desert to enjoy a camel ride. Short excursions just outside of Marrakech give you the chance to experience an adventure on camelback. For example, camel tours are popular as the sun is setting over the Palmeraie.

Desert Tour from Marrakech to Erg Chegaga

A three-day desert safari from Marrakech to Erg Chegaga. This organised tour takes you on a drive through the diverse landscapes of Southern Morocco and you’ll spend two nights in the Sahara. One word of caution though: This trip potentially offers an all-time holiday highlight that’s hard to beat.

Trekking in the Atlas Mountains (3 days)

The Toubkal National Park is the ideal place for hiking in the Marrakech region. If you go on a guided trekking tour, you’ll experience the Atlas Mountains first-hand against the breath-taking backdrop of snow-capped peaks, luscious valleys and secluded Berber villages. A field report.

A cooking class at the House of Fusion for foodies, amateur chefs and gourmets

Gourmets and ambitious amateur chefs will really get their money’s worth by taking part in the cooking class at the House of Fusion. Along with her students, Hostess Edwina puts together an ingenious 8-course meal in honour of traditional Moroccan cuisine. A field report.

Private transfers in Morocco

For transport between cities in Morocco you can choose between bus, train, rental car or shared taxi. However, it can also be worth considering the private transfers of professional travel agencies, as these may can spare you time and stress

Field report: Atlas Mountains & 4 Valleys Day Trip

A day trip to the nearby Atlas is a great addition to a longer stay in Marrakech. On this tour, you will explore four different valleys and experience the landscape diversity of Morocco. This day trip is designed for small

Day trips and excursions from Marrakech

Marrakech is a perfect base for day trips beyond the suqs of the medina. Experience the various Moroccan landscapes in the lush and fertile Ourika-Valley, the Portuguese-style coastal town of Essaouira, the Toubkal National Park or at the Ouzoud Waterfalls

Field report: Private Airport Transfer in Marrakech with Getyourguide

There are many ways to get from Marrakech’s Menara Airport into the city centre. Apart from shuttle bus services and taxis you can by now book convenient airport transfers easily online. Here’s a field report on Getyourguide. A four-hour-flight (depending

How to get into town from Marrakech’s Menara Airport

After having sat in a plane for hours and having passed passport desk and visa control you will find yourself in the entrance hall of spacious Menara Airport. If you have booked an organised trip or planned otherwise in advance,

Travel tips for Morocco

There are some cultural differences that you will need to bear in mind during your travels. Many things are simply done differently in Morocco, from attitudes to alcohol to the practice of haggling.

In our FAQs you will find advice on a range of topics from changing currency, renting a car, using the internet, alcohol, homosexuality and travelling as an unmarried couple.

FAQ: Travel in Morocco
Tips for your first holidays in Marrakech
Currency and money
Prepaid SIM-cards and mobile data
Car hire in Morocco

Morocco is a very safe country to visit. Statistically speaking, robbery and violent crime rates are lower than they are in many European countries. Even in large cities like Marrakech with large numbers of tourists, unpleasant situations are very unusual.

This at least partly because the consumption of alcohol is frowned upon under Islam.

Scams in Morocco and Marrakech: The most common frauds and rip-offs

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We have the knowledge and know-how to construct unforgettable journeys tailored to your objectives as a leading supplier of genuine tours for visitors who wish to experience the spectacular scenery, historical treasures, and warm friendliness that are the country’s trademarks. On our website, you will find tours that are timely, up-to-date, and emphasize the concept of sustainable travel. As well as other concepts like socially conscious vacations, escorted tours, Gulet ferries, all-inclusive family vacations, adventures, beach vacations, city breaks, and custom-designed itineraries . Our itineraries are ideal for families and those looking for more luxurious travel, as well as explorers who love to experience unusual destinations.

We have created a number of travel packages that vary based on your desires, length of stay, and affordability. You can personalize any of the packages to match your specific needs. Regardless of your traveling style, be it as a group, with your family, while on your honeymoon, or by yourself, you will be able to explore the entire country in just a short amount of time with the best Morocco tour company .

With the chance to explore the local families’ houses, hike in the highlands, trek in the desert, and take a rest in beach resorts. Our journeys enrich local cultural tourism in Morocco . Our primary objective is to offer you a unique and original adventure that will present you with a superior, luxurious experience.

Look no farther than a world-class tour operator that can save you time by researching and advising you on your holiday. We know from first-hand experience how special traveling can be, and we want to share that knowledge with you. Our travel agents will focus on carefully listening to their target market, which includes hotel, cruise, and air inbound tour operators, and will collaborate with them to design an individualized Morocco travel experience for you.

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The world's 'most welcoming' hotel for 2024 was nearly destroyed last year

By CNN staff | 7 hours ago

It was designed by the King of Morocco, and this luxury Marrakech resort has been pulling out all the stops to make guests feel like royalty since its launch back in 2010.

Now the Royal Mansour Marrakech, situated within the ancient walls of old Marrakech, is being singled out for its "outstanding" service.

The exquisite hotel , made up of a collection of private riads, has been revealed as the winner of the Art of Hospitality Award by The World's 50 Best Hotels ahead of the annual list, which will be announced in September.

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First-class experience

Set within six acres of lush gardens, Royal Mansour Marrakech is described as a "benchmark for the luxury hotel industry" thanks to its "exceptional" hospitality and attention to detail.

Conceptualized with the notion of creating a "medina within a medina," the secluded resort has a network of hidden tunnels and "secret doors" that help to provide guests with exclusivity and ultimate privacy.

And according to the World's 50 Best Hotels Academy, which consists of around 600 "anonymous" hotel industry experts from across the globe, Royal Mansour Marrakech is truly unbeatable when it comes to being welcoming and hospitable.

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"Providing each guest with their own private palace and personal butler, Royal Mansour Marrakech epitomises the art of hospitality," says Emma Sleight, Head of Content at the World's 50 Best Hotels, who went on to praise the hotel for its resilience after a devastating 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit central Morocco last September.

The Marrakech Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back centuries, was among sites left badly damaged after the quake.

"Despite the challenges that the earthquake brought, the team at Royal Mansour continues to deliver a first-class experience to its guests."

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Crown jewel

In order to determine the winner, academy members were asked to name the property where they'd received the "single-best hospitality experience" within the 18-month voting period, paying particular attention to its ambience, delivery of "unique experiential elements" and the overall warmth of the hospitality and environment.

Jean-Claude Messant, Managing Director of the Royal Mansour Collection, says he's "extremely proud" of the award, which went to Scotland's five-star Gleneagles Hotel in 2023.

Messant credits the "fantastic" team at the five-star resort for being "faultless in delivering the highest level of warmth, hospitality and service for our guests."

"We want all guests to leave our hotels with the happiest and most magical memories from their stay," says Messant, who described Royal Mansour Marrakech, home to four fine dining restaurants, as the "crown jewel" of the Royal Mansour Collection.

The iconic Royal Mansour Casablanca, located in the heart of the Art Deco district of Sidi Belyout, reopened back in April, while beachfront resort Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay launched earlier this year.

Last year, 24-key Italian property Passalacqua, which overlooks Lake Como, was named the top hotel in the first-ever edition of the World's 50 Best Hotels list, which honors 50 different hotels from various destinations around the world.

"Creating truly memorable experiences and working with like-minded people who put hospitality at the heart of everything they do is one of the main reasons that people get into and fall in love with this industry, so we felt that the Art of Hospitality award was one of the most fitting awards to announce first," adds Sleight.

The World's 50 Best Hotels 2024 will be announced in an awards ceremony held in London on September 17.

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Royal Mansour Marrakech crowned world's most welcoming hotel for 2024
It was designed by the King of Morocco, and this luxury Marrakech resort has been pulling out all the stops to make guests feel like royalty since its launch back in 2010.. Now the Royal Mansour Marrakech, situated within the ancient walls of old Marrakech, is being singled out for its "outstanding" service.. The exquisite hotel, made up of a collection of private riads, has been revealed as ...
Le Royal Mansour Marrakech Au Maroc Remporte Le No.3 Gin Art of
LONDRES, 20 août 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Le Royal Mansour Marrakech, au Maroc, a été nommé lauréat du No.3 Gin Art of Hospitality Award, en amont de The World's 50 Best Hotels awards 2024 en ...
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