One thing that is central to Morroccon culture is the Hammam.
A Hammam is similar to a Roman bath and dates back centuries in morrocco.
It was a ritualistic cleansing ritual that people did before prayers, and many Hammams can be found near a mosque.
Before homes had plumbing, a Hammam was a place local people could come to get cleansed.
Seperated by gender, they were a space for people to socialise, relax, and detoxify.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The treatment always begins in a dry steam room.
Relaxing in the heat opens the pores and prepares the body for the scrubbing.
Morroccan black soap is used to scrub the body.
It is a grainy soap made from olive oil and macerated olives, perfect for exfoliating the dead skin cells.
The scrubbing is quite vigorous, and many tourists are not used to it.
This is followed by buckets of water being thrown over you to wash off the black soap.
Some hammams alternative between buckets of cold water and buckets of hot water.
In more luxurious hammams, Rassoul clay from the Atlas mountains is used to cover the body.
It’s rich in minerals like silica, magnesium, and calcium.
After this procedure, your whole body and hair are lathered thoroughly with a gentler soap or gel.
The next treatment is an all-over massage using fragrant oils like rose oil and argan oil.
Once the treatment is finished, you can relax in a separate area with mint tea and morroccan pastries.
The fragrance of incense wafting around the room adds to the relaxing ambience.
There are two types of Hammam in Marrakesh.
Public or private hammams.
The public Hammam is a true taste of Morroccan life, with many local people bathing together and chatting in their native language.
In a public Hammam, you have to take your own soap, towel, and oils in.
These are much less expensive.
The private Hammams provide you with everything you need, including disposable underwear, a bathrobe, and sandles.
Treatment options vary, including the length of the treatment and the type of massage and oils you prefer.
These are more like spa treatments.
You can relax for as long as you want to after the treatment has finished.
It’s worth noting that the underwear for women is very flimsy, and some women ask for male underwear instead.
Nubies can feel slightly vulnerable being exposed with just a disposable thong hiding their modesty.
The rooms are dimly lit, and the women known as Kassalas working in the hammam are very discreet and professional.
Most women get over their initial shyness pretty quickly.
Hammam Mouassine is the oldest Hammam in Marrakesh.
It opened in 1562 and can be found by the Mouassine fountain, close to the secret garden.
Many riads have a Hammam room and offer this service to their guests.
Other popular hammams are,
. Hammam de la rose.
. Mamounia Hamman..
. Les Bains Ziani.
. Les Bains Kenaria.
Palm oil is often used to wash people’s hair, so if you don’t agree with the use of it, make sure to check beforehand.
Experiencing a traditional Hammam is a welcome break from the chaotic souks and Jamaa El Fna.
It’s a relief from the baking heat of the morroccan sun and a chance to slow down the manic pace for an hour or so.
Many tourists feel unsure about wearing virtually nothing in front of strangers, but this is an ancient ritual that has been part of Morroccan culture for centuries.
Visitors to Marrakech have said that they experienced the most invigorating and relaxing time in a hammam and would definitely do it again.
Some tourists are hooked, despite saying it was an unusual experience.
I would recommend paying a little bit more for a private Hammam if it’s your first time.
However, if you want a taste of authentic Marrakechi life, go for a public hammam.
You can buy Morroccan black soap and other toiletries you’ll need inside the souks, or in the spice square.
You can book a Hammam through Get Your Guide or Viator.
Don’t forget a towel, bathrobe and fresh underwear.
Helpful advice for visiting Marrakesh for the first time.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I’ve put together a few useful tips to help your trip run smoothly.
Marrakech is a cash society. Although many cafes and restaurants take cards, cash is often the preferred method of payment.
In the main square called Jamaa El Fna, you will need cash to purchase almost everything.
There are plenty of 🏧 machines located around the city.
I use the one outside the post office where the horse and carriages stand, close to the taxi rank.
The exchange rate is good, and it was usually working.
You can get cash at the airport, but the exchange rate isn’t great.
There are also plenty of places to exchange money around the city.
It’s advisable to carry a small amount of cash with you for tipping, small purchases in the souks, and picking up a bottle of water.
Something you may want to consider if you don’t have cash at the airport is to ask your accommodation to organise a taxi to your hotel or riad in advance.
Most accommodations will do this for you when you book. It’s prepaid, so you won’t have to worry.
You will probably need a SIM card.
I got an Orange SIM in the airport, and they put it into my phone for me.
This saved me any hassle, and I had data from the moment I arrived in Marrakech.
Having data gave me reassurance as a solo female traveller.
I could use Google maps in the medina, which was helpful in case I got lost.
It’s worth noting that Google Maps may not work in some areas of the souks, though.
Tipping is not customery in Marrakesh, but the food and service are usually very good, so it’s nice to be nice.
I generally leave a small tip of approximately 20-30 dirhams.
You can drink the tap water allegedly, but personally, I wouldn’t recommend it.
Some tourists have what’s called a GRAYL water bottle, which takes out the bad stuff, but I haven’t tried one myself.
I preferred to air on the side of caution, plus the water doesn’t taste that good and water purifiers don’t change the taste of the water.
There are plenty of places selling bottled water around the medina, and riads or hotels also sell it.
Non Muslims can’t go inside the Mosques, with the exception of Hassan ll Mosque in Casablanca.
Koutoubia Mosque has the most beautiful gardens, which are well worth a visit. They are open to everyone, and particularly nice in the evening when they’re lit up.
Image Freebird Tracey.
Some tourist attractions get incredibly busy, so try to arrive at opening times for the best experience.
Places like Bacha Coffee can have waiting times for up to 2 hours, so come early and join the queue.
The same applies to Bahia Palace and the Madrasa Ben Youseff.
I found shopping in the souks early in the morning favourable.
It was less crammed with tourists, and I avoided the mid afternoon heat.
Although Marrakech is an Islamic city, it’s fairly relaxed and liberal.
However, out of respect for the culture of your hosting country, it’s appropriate to cover your shoulders when visiting certain religious places.
Aim to dress modestly without exposing too much flesh, and you’ll have a great experience.
I have written a separate post on what to wear when you’re visiting Marrakech.
Marrakech is a dry city. However, there are bars and clubs that cater to Western tourists.
There are a few nice bars selling alcohol and cocktails around the medina, such as Le Pergola and Kabana rooftop bar.
Gueliz and Hivenage have plenty of clubs and bars if you want a night out with alcoholic beverages and entertainment.
Some high-end riads and hotels will also serve alcohol.
It’s forbidden to consume alcohol in the medina unless you’re in a place that is licensed to sell it.
If you get tired of haggling in the souks, there is an artisans market.
The prices are slightly higher but you can simply buy the products without having to bargain for them.
There is also a fixed price store in the Kasbah called Dar Bouchaib.
People in Marrakesh can be quite camera shy.
It’s best not to take photographs unless they specifically say you can.
Be prepared to have to pay for the privilege, too.
Most travellers are discouraged from starting conversations about the King of Morocco.
Try sticking to conversations about the history of Marrakech and Amazigh culture.
The locals will love telling you all about it..
There are a few scams going on in the square, but it’s mainly opportunists trying to make a few dirhams.
I haven’t had any problems myself, but just keep your wits about you and don’t fall prey to anything.
Marrakech is relatively safe, but just like anywhere else in the world, exercise caution with your personal belongings in crowded areas.
Keep your personal items in front of you and don’t carry large amounts of money around.
The Souks close around 9.00 to 10.00 pm, so be careful if you’re walking around after that, especially if you’re a solo female traveller.
I haven’t experienced anything unpleasant, but it can feel rather unnerving in the dark alleyways after dark.
See my separate post about solo female travellers in Marrakech.
I hope some of these nuggets of advice help you to have the best experience in Marrakech.
My 5 favourite and not so favourite things about Marrakech.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Marrakech is ‘my happy place’.
It’s a city of contrasts, from the ancient walls of the medina to the plush bars and clubs of Gueliz and Hivernage, the new part of the city.
Visitors may find Marrakech is an assault on the senses.
The lively sights, sounds, and smells of Jamaa El Fna can be overly stimulating for even the most seasoned of travellers.
However, don’t let that put you off coming to Marrakech because it’s part of the charm of the city and is just as exciting as it is chaotic.
I have made a list of the 5 things that I love and hate about this fascinating city..
The 5 things I dislike are;
1.
If you’re an animal lover, you might find the hustlers in the main square too much to cope with.
The monkeys on chains and the snake charmers that encourage you to have a photo taken with them are difficult for me to accept.
I wouldn’t encourage this.
The monkies have been brought down from their natural habitat in the Atlas mountains.
Although local people need to make a living somehow, they clearly don’t want to be chained up for hours every day dressed in tutus and nappies.
Then there are the horses, taking tourists through the busy traffic and the donkeys pulling heavey laden carts through narrow alleyways full of motorbikes and tourists.
The horses seem to be looked after, but the traffic is horrendous, and I’ve witnessed accidents where they’ve been clipped by passing motorists.
The donkeys look overworked and neglected.
It’s the culture of Marrakech, but very different from what I’m used to.
I can’t criticise an age-old way of life or impose my beliefs onto another culture, but I did struggle with it the first time I visited Marrakech.
I avoided eye contact with the snake charmers and monkeys on chains, and eventually, they stopped approaching me.
There are a lot of stray dogs and cats, but they are looked after by the locals, and many of the cats have been rehomed by the owners of many of the riads.
They are regularly fed, and the people in Marrakesh are kind and caring towards them as a rule.
If you are an animal lover, you may find Marrakech a bit of a culture shock to begin with.
2.
Queueing at the airport.
Be prepared to stand in line for up to 2 hours on arrival. The process is slow, so you have to accept it.
Take a snack and keep a drink readily available. You will most likely need it.
You can pay extra for the fast- track service, but it may cost you around €230 for the first person and €190 for the second person.
Tip: Try to visit the bathroom before the plane lands and consider choosing a seat near the exit.
Get off the plane and boot it to passport control as quickly as you can.
3.
Marrakech is touristy.
The narrow alleyways in the Souks can be very crowded most of the time.
Don’t expect to get anywhere quickly because you and hundreds of other tourists will be browsing around the shops at the same time.
Marrakech is one of the most popular tourist destinations, and it may feel as though they’re all there at the same time as you.
Tip: Plan to visit in January or November when it’s quieter.
It is still sunny but much cooler than during the summer months.
There are fewer people around the tourist attractions, so you will be able to get that perfect photo opportunity, and the queues will be shorter.
Tip: Don’t try taking photographs of the local people or vendors without asking for permission first. They don’t feel comfortable about being photographed and may ask for money off you.
4.
The smell of fumes from the motorcycles in the souks is thick and heavy.
The souks are full of motorcycles and tuk-tuks, giving off clouds of fumes as they hurtle past.
This can get stuck in the back of your throat, causing you to feel a little bit nauseous occasionally.
There is little you can do to change this, but I recommend doing your shopping in the souks early in the morning before they get too busy.
Around 9 is an ideal time.
There are a lot of vehicles on the roads, and it can be chaotic at times.
Pollution is fairly bad in Marrakech, so just be aware of this if you struggle with asthma or other breathing issues.
5.
The street vendors in the main square can be rather persistent.
During the evening, the main square opens up becoming a meeting place for thousands of people.
This includes locals and tourists alike, and it gets incredibly busy.
The food stalls are all in competition with each other, and vendors will persistently shove the menu in your face to get your custom.
Some of them can be very persuasive, even pushing the boundaries occasionally.
It can be very overwhelming, and it’s often difficult to remain calm in those kinds of situations
The henna ladies also vy for your custom.
It’s not uncommon for them to take hold of your hand and begin applying henna on them telling you that it’s a gift.
After they’ve finished they’ll ask for money from you and it can get quite heated.
Tip: If you’re not interested, try not to show too much interest with any of the vendors.
Politely saying “La Shukran” which means no thank you in Arabic, is a helpful way to discourage unwanted attention.
It’s important to remember, every one is simply trying to make a living.
Marrakech was badly affected by the devastating earthquake in 2023, and many people have lost their livelihoods and homes.
Whilst it’s sometimes difficult to cope with the constant barage of vendors calling out to you for your custom, it’s worth remembering their own struggle to survive is very real.
Marrakech is certainly a different way of life from what you may be used to and a culture shock to many first-time visitors.
So now I’ve told you about a few of the things I find challenging in Marrakech, I would like to tell you about what keeps me going back time and time again…
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Marrakech is definitely my ‘happy place’
I am absolutely in love with this city.
Here’s why…
1.
The people are wonderful.
You can expect to meet the friendliest,most welcoming people you have ever met.
They are constantly smiling and can’t wait to tell you all about their beautiful city.
They are multi-lingual, and many people speak up to 5 different languages.
They love to teach you about the Amazigh culture, the indigenous tribes of North Africa.
Many of the people of Marrakech identity as Amazigh, and their culture is fascinating.
The level of service in restaurants is astonishing, and the staff in the riads go out of their way to make sure that your stay is nothing short of perfect.
I highly recommend staying in a riad at least once.
They are traditional Moroccan houses with a central indoor garden or courtyard.
The views over the rooftops of the medina are stunning, and listening to the birds singing in the morning is delightful.
They are a haven of peace and tranquillity after an exhilarating experience outside the walls of the riad.
I have written a separate post about staying in a traditional riad.
2.
The vibrant colours and wonderful craftsmanship around Marrakech.
If, like myself, you are drawn to beautiful, vibrant colours, you will be in paradise in the Souks.
You will find an assortment of fine jewellery, inticately designed Berber rugs, wood carvings, and a vast array of other wonderfully crafted products
You will be blown away by the artisans, creating wonderfully curated pieces of work in front of you, and the displays of various items in their designated areas.
Wherever you look, you will notice something that catches your eye.
Just be prepared to bargain.
3.
The food is delicious.
There are some amazing places to dine in Marrakech, and the food is of an incredibly high standard.
There are good quality vegetarian restaurants and cafes, and many cater for vegans and people with gluten intolerance.
The food in Marrakech is diverse, and you can find dishes to suit everyone’s palate from all over the world.
I found delicious Italian restaurants that made the most wonderful pizzas and pasta dishes.
The signature dish of Marrakech is Tagine.
Tagine is the name of the clay pot used to cook the dish in
It’s cooked very slowly, resulting in the most decadent, mouthwatering flavours.
Choose from meat or vegetable tagine, you won’t be disappointed.
Tangia is a pot of meat, usually lamb or beef, that’s cooked in the embers of the local Hammam.
It’s left to cook for several hours until it’s really tender.
There are some more unusual options, such as sheep’s head and snails found in the main square, Jamaa El Fna.
This seemed to be more popular amongst curious tourists.
Also, a few restaurants sell camel burgers if you’re feeling adventurous.
Overall, I was very impressed with the amount of variety on offer, and many of the restaurants around the medina are absolutely stunning inside.
I also recommend visiting Bacha Coffee if you’re a coffee lover.
There are hundreds of different coffees to choose from and a nice selection of cakes, pastries, and other light snacks.
You do have to wait for a table, but you get to look around the museum and enjoy the lush garden whilst waiting.
4.
The architecture is absolutely stunning.
There are so many interesting places to visit, and the intricacy of the tile work is absolutely exquisite.
Islamic craftsmanship with its symmetry and attention to detail is beautiful, and I was spellbound.
The lush gardens are also breathtaking and a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the Souks.
I recommend visiting these places to get an idea of how exceptional everything truly is,
. Bahia Palace.
. Madrasa Ben Youssef.
. The saadian Tombs.
. The Koutoubia Mosque.
. The Secret Garden.
. Bacha Museum.
. Marrakech Museum
Big wooden doorways around the medina are an example of the amazing craftsmanship that Marrakech is known for.
Marrakech is steeped in history, and there is something exciting to see for every visitor.
5.
Marrakech is a great starting place for visiting other places
I took a wonderful trip out to the Agafay desert, and it was absolutely magical.
I had dinner in the desert watching the sunset it was unforgettable..
There are trips to Ouzoud to see the second largest waterfall in North Africa and experience a boat ride and feed the monkeys.
You can also take a train to Casablanca or visit Essaouira for the day.
If you wish, you can venture into the Sahara desert if you have about 3 days to spare. It’s a very popular destination amongst tourists.
Tours are very well organised, and the tour guides are incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. They go out of their way to make sure you have the best experience.
Riads or hotels are happy to help you organise your trip, but you can also check other popular online sights for price comparison.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
There are many different reasons why I love Marrakech, I have listed only a few.
Here are a few other things to take into consideration..
Marrakech is a safe place to visit, especially for solo female travellers.
Although it is mainly an Islamic city, it is relatively liberal.
I would always encourage showing a little bit of respect regarding your dress code. Wearing a loose cover around your shoulders when visiting religious sites is advisable.
Marrakech can reach temperatures of 50° in the summer, which is incredibly hot, so bare that in mind when choosing when to go.
Riads and hotels have places for you to sunbathe, and it is acceptable to wear shorts and bathing suits there..
Image by Freebird Tracey.
If you’re looking for a place that is a combination of many different things, from the ancient to modernity, a place that is diverse and can often feel like an organised chaos, yet perfectly functional, a place that will transport you to the world of 1001 Nights,
Then Marrakech is for you.
I would recommend doing a little bit of research before you visit.
Arm yourself with plenty of knowledge so that you will know what to expect.
That way, you will have an unforgettable experience and come away with memories of places and people that will remain with you forever.
Marrakech is a walkable city and easily doable on foot.
If you’re staying in the medina, you can get to most places by walking.
If you have mobility issues or the heat is a problem, the other option is to take a tuk- tuk.
Most riads can organise a pick-up point for you and give the driver directions to where you need to go.
It’s a fun way to get around, and some of them are rather elaborately decorated.
They rattle through the souks, competing with the motorcycles, donkeys, and pedestrians.
There are plenty of tuktuks waiting in the square, and they’re cheaper than taking a taxi.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Another option is to take a taxi.
I suggest checking the price with a member of staff in your accommodation and finding out how much you should be expected to pay.
It’s not uncommon for taxi drivers to try to charge more, so stick to your guns and, if necessary, walk away.
There are plenty of drivers available, and they are all competing with each other for fares, so you don’t have to put up with being ripped off.
I only used taxis to get from the medina to Jardin Majorelle and Gueliz.
It was a warm day, and I didn’t feel like walking that far.
After a little polite negotiation, there were no problems, and I paid the correct fare, give or take a few dirhams.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
There are many tourists who pay to see the city on horse-drawn carriages.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The horses are taken into the chaotic traffic, and I’ve witnessed a few upsetting incidents where they’ve been hit by a car.
There doesn’t appear to be any rules on the roads, and they’re pretty crazy. The horses look scared and I’ve seen them freeze in the centre of the traffic.
It’s a personal decision, but if you want to take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage, I would suggest only going around the medina walls or during the evening when it’s slightly quieter for them.
Part of the fun in Marrakesh is walking around the city.
There are so many interesting things to see and you miss so much if you don’t walk.
I especially enjoyed walking through the kasbah, seeing the locals going about their business and getting a feel for the real Marrakech.
When you’re on foot, you get to witness so much more.
There are also walking tours around Marrakech, which you can book online.
These tours take you around the tourist hot spots, usually in a group of people.
This is perfect if you’re concerned about getting lost or feeling slightly vulnerable as a solo female traveller.
There are separate tours for food sampling, which is another great way to experience the culture of Marrakech.
The Alsa bus runs around Marrakech for about 2 dirhams at the time of writing.
The numbers 1 and 16 will ferry you between the medina and Gueliz.
It’s a way to experience local culture and ideal for tourists on a tight budget.
For venturing further, there are daily trains going to places like Casablanca.
Supratours and CTM are the two bus companies that run from Marrakech to Essaouira. Tickets typically cost between 80 – 130 dirhams with a small additional fee for luggage.
There is a reliable daily service, and prices and times can be found online.
Lastly, if you’re brave enough, you could hire a bicycle.
Pikala Cafe is a reputable place to hire one from with good rates should you wish to do that.
I’ve put together a few helpful tips to help you decide.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Marrakech is an all year round destination.
It has a high desert climate, so it is pleasant all year round.
During the summer months, temperatures can reach a staggering 45°C or higher, which a lot of visitors find unbearably hot.
The Winter months can be moderately warm and sunny, feeling chillier in the evenings.
I suggest the best time to go is during the spring, from March till May or in autumn, from September till November.
Springtime sees warm, sunny weather, and you can still dine on the rooftops in the evening.
I would recommend taking a lightweight jacket or jumper to throw on as temperatures can drop after sunset.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
March is the wettest month experiencing 12mm of rain over a day and the occasional storm.
Be prepared by carrying an umbrella and wearing sensible footwear.
June is the driest month with 1mm of rainfall over one day but temperatures in June and July do tend to soar.
This might make excursions and activities more uncomfortable if you’re walking around in that kind of heat.
Suncream is essential whichever time of year you decide to visit because you can not underestimate the power of the hot Moroccan sun.
Carrying bottled water with you is important too so that you don’t become dehydrated.
If you prefer going when there are fewer tourists, I would suggest January to February.
The climate is sunny, with average highs of 19°C and lows of 6°C during the evening.
This would be the ideal time to visit if you’re put off by huge crowds and long queues at popular sightseeing destinations.
Another thing to consider is that Ramadan takes place between February and April, so some stores and restaurants may be closed.
Many do stay open, but the vibe can feel slightly different.
I choose to visit in late March and late September or early October.
The Jacaranda trees along the main roads in Gueliz look really beautiful, and the air is really fragrant at this time of year.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
March can be quite hot, but heavy thunderstorms are also frequent.
The sky can look very dramatic and holds its own kind of beauty just before a storm.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Springtime can still be very busy with tourists, and the souks are lively and bustling with excitement.
For me, that is part of the fun, but for some people, the crowds can be overwhelming.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
September can be humid.
I found it more challenging to walk around the palaces and stand in long queues in the humidity.
Between 3.00pm and 7.00pm becomes particularly warm and sticky, so try to get most of your sightseeing done in the early morning.
Afternoons can be a good time to relax by the pool or take a nap in your hotel or riad.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Marrakech is sunny and warm all year round, and if you do decide to visit during the summer months, here are a few suggestions to help you cope with the heat.
Plan to visit tourist attractions in the morning as soon as they open.
If you pre book, you will avoid waiting in long queues in the heat, and there will be fewer people around.
Pace yourself.
You don’t have to rush around. Many places stay open quite late in the evening.
Alternate between sightseeing and finding places in the shade to have a long rest with a cool drink to avoid too much sun exposure. There are plenty of beautiful spots with banana trees and beautiful tall palms to relax beneath.
Wear natural fibres like cotton or linen clothing.
They are breathable and perfect for wearing in hot weather. Choose loose clothing that covers your arms and shoulders. They allow the air to circulate and help to evaporate sweat, keeping you cooler.
I have written a separate article on suitable clothing for Marrakech.
Stay hydrated.
Carry bottled water at all times to keep yourself from dehydrating.There are plenty of little kiosks dotted around the medina selling reasonably priced water.
Check the seals before purchasing for peace of mind.
Plan to do more during the evening when it’s cooler.
Some of the tours begin later in the day, and trips to Agafay desert begin just before sunset.
The square comes alive in the evening, so most of the souks are still trading until late because people are still present.
Wear high factor sunblock and keep your head covered.
The sun can be pretty fierce, even as early as March.
Visit the water slides of Oasiria.
Take advantage of the air conditioning available and consider taking an afternoon nap.
Visiting the Sahara desert will be blisteringly hot in summertime. Consider going in the cooler months when days are still warm but not unbearable.
Remember, evenings get cold in the desert.
Marrakech is a wonderful city all year round.
If you follow these simple rules, you should have an enjoyable visit whichever time of year you decide to travel.
It’s about planning your trip beforehand.
Consider what it is you want from your experience.
Are you put off by crowds of tourists all crammed into the souks at the same time?
Can you handle the extreme heat, or would you prefer the cooler temperatures in December or January?
Whichever time you decide to travel to Marrakech, the locals are always smiling, and there’s always plenty to do and see..
I recommend reading my article about visiting Marrakech in winter for tips about travelling in the cooler season.
Everyone visiting Marrakech should stay in a traditional riad at least once.
If you want a taste of authentic Moroccan life, spending time in a riad inside the walls of the medina will give you one.
Traditional zellige tiles and the sound of trickling water from the ornate fountain in the central courtyard is just a small part of what riad life has to offer.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Riads are the homes once lived in by the well-to-do of Marrakech.
Whole families lived inside them, and they offered a private, secluded place, especially for the women in the family.
They are built around a central courtyard with the windows facing inwards and have citrus and palm trees in the centre, reaching up through the open rooftop.
Many have a small pool for cooling off in, and most of them still have their original fountain from when they were first constructed.
The rooftop can be reached by climbing the steep tiled steps.
You will be greeted by a vibrantly coloured seating area where you can escape from the heat and admire the incredible views over the medina.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The interior rooms are traditionally decorated in Moroccan lamps and Berber artefacts, which include colourful rugs, cushions, and exquisitely handcrafted furniture.
Many riads around the medina have been purchased by Westerners, renovated and refurbished to appeal to the ever growing influx of tourists.
A lot of riads still maintain their original appearance, and staying in one is like being immersed in a tale from ‘1001 nights’
Some of the original tiles from hundreds of years ago have been brought back to life, and they exude charm and character.
High-end riads are also beautiful and rather luxurious.
They include bidets and television sets in the rooms.
All riads are charming, and it all depends on whether you favour luxury over authenticity.
My choice of riad is a family owned property, one that still has it’s old world charm and feels as though I’m staying with a Moroccan family.
Like a tale from an ‘Arabian Nights’ adventure, a testimony to the beauty of Islamic architecture and craftsmanship.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Most riads cook delicious home cooked food for their guests and offer cooking lessons.
There is also a hammam and massage service available in most riads.
This is a wonderful experience, and something everyone who comes to Marrakech should indulge in at least once.
Rooms in a riad are usually slightly dark inside.
This keeps them cool in the summer when temperatures can exceed 50°
Some of the windows have intricate screens from when the riad was a harem to keep the women private and secluded.
Waking up to the sound of birds singing in the trees and the gentle flowing of water burbling from the fountain is such a wonderful start to the day.
The early morning sunshine reflecting off the beautifully tiled floors puts me in such a happy mood.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Most riads provide their guests with a hearty breakfast, which is sweeter than we are used to in the west.
Some staff cook omelettes, and there is always fresh orange juice and homemade yoghurts and jams served with traditional bread.
The msemen pancakes served with honey and amlou are my absolute favourite.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I love sunbathing on the rooftop, listening to the call to prayer from the Koutoubia mosque.
If you’re staying near Jamaa El Fna,you can hear the gnawa musicians and the drumming in the distance.
This is a true immersion in the culture of Marrakech.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
In the evening, I like to watch the sunset from the rooftop.
At dusk, Jamaa El Fnaa comes alive with thousands of visitors.
You can hear the vendors calling out to beckon tourists into their food stalls.
The aroma of the food cooking catches your breath.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Back in the courtyard, you feel as though you are in an oasis.
This calm and peaceful environment is a far cry from what is happening outside the big, heavy wooden door of the riad.
The sound of gentle music plays quietly in the background, creating a sense of tranquillity.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Staff at the riad can suggest places where you can eat and also arrange popular excursions for their guests.
They are eager to please and go above and beyond the call of duty.
For me, staying in a traditional riad has a more intimate feeling than a hotel.
I like to spend a few days having what I call, a riad experience, and enjoying the culture of Marrakech like a true local.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Whether it’s a former palace or a family owned business, staying in a riad is one of the most authentic experiences you can have when you come to Marrakech.
An introduction to the most visited city in North Africa.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
If Africa is a peacock, then Morocco is its tail.
Welcome to my blog featuring everything you may wish to know about the famous red city of Marrakech.
I include my own personal stories, experiences, and adventures from each time I visit what has become my second home.
My name is Freebird Tracey, and I’ve been a regular visitor to Marrakech for many years.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
As a solo female traveller, I always feel safe travelling around Marrakech.
The friendly locals are incredibly hospitable, which makes Morocco a wonderful place to visit.
Whenever I visit Marrakech, people are so helpful and always with a big smile across their faces.
Nothing is too much trouble for them.
For me, this is what makes Marrakech so special.
I believe I have found my ‘happy place’ in the sunshine, amongst the fragrant orange blossom, the vibrant colours, and the magical sights and sounds of Jamaa El Fna.
Marrakech is a diverse and magical city, steeped in history.
From its beautiful Islamic architecture to the culinary delights and fine craftsmanship on display, there is something to tempt the senses on every corner.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I never get tired of exploring this alluring and magnetising corner of our planet.
There is always something new to see, and it’s full of little surprises.
Marrakech is an assault on the senses..
Allow me to take you on a fascinating journey to North Africa and show you how to make the most of your time in Marrakech.
My main focus is on the medina, the ancient walled city, including the kasbah and mellah.
This is the heartbeat of Marrakech, the place that oozes character and has a wealth of fascinating history.
I will share some of the best places to eat, including vegetarian and vegan options.
I will tell you where to find cool bars that serve alcohol.
Suggest places to stay in the historic medina.
Show you ways you can travel to Marrakech on a budget, plus many more interesting facts and useful tips to ensure you have the best possible experience.
I will give you a few ideas on how to spend your time in Marrakech, including popular excursions, activities, and day trips.
You will also find ways to help you stay safe and avoid potential scams.
This is a tell-all blog at your fingertips.
Keep it close to hand, and use it as a reference before and during your visit to this delightful UNESCO world heritage site.
I hope you will gain some inspiration and find it helpful when planning your visit to the historical red city.
All that said, it’s time to buckle up.
Come and join me on a mind-blowing trip of a lifetime.
Let me introduce you to the sights, sounds, and tastes of Marrakech, all beautifully entwined with each other,creating what can only be described as a little piece of heaven here on earth.
Sounds Of The Souks 