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 to find 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.
There are two types of taxis in Marrakech, the yellow ones, which will pick up only you or what’s called a grand taxi. Grand taxis operate differently. They are shared taxis, and you either wait until they’re full before setting off to your destination or they pick up people along the journey. These taxis are cheaper and ideal if you’re going further to places like Imlil.
I have only used the single taxis in the main square or near Tinsmiths Square. After a little polite negotiation, there were no problems, and I paid the correct fare, give or take a few dirhams.
There are many tourists who pay to see the city on horse-drawn carriages. 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 around the city, 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 do want to take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage, I would suggest only going around the walls of the medina or during the evening when it’s slightly quieter for them. Obviously, if you want to take one to the new part of the city, be mindful of how busy the traffic is.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
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 daily 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, and a tour 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.
The sound of the souks is something you will never forget. There is everything you could dream of buying in the colourful bazaars around Marrakech medina. As you meander through the maze of winding alleyways, prepare yourself for a complete overload on the senses. You will be dazzled by everything from beautiful Amazigh jewellery to exotic spices, leather goods, Morroccan lamps, and pretty ceramics. It’s all there waiting for you inside the vibrant souks.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Within each bustling area, skilled craftsmen are busy at work, and there are souks dedicated to creating and selling different items.There is an area for leather goods, a place where metal workers make Moroccan lamps and metal sculptures and areas where handmade wooden things are meticulously created. The art of rug weaving is demonstrated, and you may even get the chance to have a go.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
It’s interesting watching the locals make their wares to sell and seeing silver and copper bangles being engraved with your Arabic name on them. There is also an opportunity to have a go at making a pair of traditional Morroccan shoes known as babouches.
Berber rugs hang proudly around the medina. Each colour and pattern tells the story of the villagers who worked tirelessly to create them in the Atlas mountains.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
You will find argan oil and morroccan black soap, orange blossom oil, and gardenia.The subtle fragrance floats past you, only shattered by the fumes of motorcycles as they drive through. It’s a heady combination of spices, incense, and day to day life in Marrakech.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Wooden boxes ornately decorated with mother of pearl,chess sets, cuddly toys, and traditional teapots tempt you as you search the souks for souvenirs. You learn the art of haggling for the best prices.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Cushion covers made from cactus silk are eye-catching. The only problem is choosing your favourite colours, patterns, and textures and wandering how you’ll fit them into your luggage.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Moroccan sweets are a delicacy. You’ll find yourself spoilt for choice with the amount of nuts and pastries for sale around the medina.
The medicinal herbs and spices are a cacophony of colours and fragrances. You draw closer to look, and a friendly vendor sticks a piece of eucalyptus under your nose. Before you know it, your eyes are watering, and you’re reaching for a tissue.
Fresh olives pop with colour. Their subtle spice dances on your tongue, and you have to buy some because they’re addictive. One or two is never enough to satisfy.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Paintings of Morroccan doors, Amazigh people and camels crossing the Sahara desert are displayed on walls and hang strategically outside shop doorways.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
For people who love to shop until they drop, the souks are a dream come true. The lively rhythm and friendly banter is a magical experience.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
It’s not always a breeze shopping in such a densely packed area, though. The souks get incredibly busy with tourists. You constantly have to dodge motorcycles, donkeys, and vendors with carts. You will probably get lost, but that’s all part of the charm. You eventually find your way out with some effort.
I recommend fully immersing yourself in the experience and enjoying every moment. It will invoke in you the spirit of camel caravans and their ancient trade routes from centuries ago. After all, the souks are one of the main reasons tourists come to Marrakech. Shopping in them is the perfect way to delve into the fascinating culture of Marrakech and pick up a few treasures along the way.
Here are a few helpful tips to help you enjoy your shopping experience in the souks.
First of all, pace yourself. The souks are very busy and can feel slightly chaotic at times, especially in the heat. Stop regularly for a drink and rehydrate. Rest for a while, and have a spot of lunch on a rooftop terrace. There are plenty inside the souks.
Be prepared to haggle. It may seem daunting at first, but you’ll soon get the hang of it. In Morocco, bargaining is a way of life, and although it can get frustrating wondering if you’re being ripped off, it’s also rather gratifying if you manage to procure something at a good price. Take time to shop around and walk away if you don’t think you’re being offered a fair price. You will often find yourself being called back, and a realistic price can be reached. If not, the same items will most likely be found for sale in another part of the souks.
Stay vigilant, and keep your wits about you. Marrakech is a safe city, but pick pocketing can happen like anywhere else in the world. In crowded, narrow streets, keep your possessions safe in a closed bag at the front of your body. Don’t be tempted to take out too much cash at once and leave your passport in a safe wherever possible.
If you’re lost, look for signs above your head pointing you back to Jamaa El Fna. Having an orange sim is useful but may not always work in the denser parts of the souks. If you need help, ask a shop vendor. They’re more than happy to help, but be aware of opportunists who may try to send you in a different direction.
This brings me to don’t accept directions from locals who may lead you to a friend or family members’ shop. They get a commission if you buy something. You may find yourself seated, drinking mint tea, and before you know it, there’s a mountain of Berber carpets at your feet.
Exercise patience. Remember, this is someone’s livelihood, and it’s a different culture to what you may be used to. Wages are not very high for most people in Marrakesh, and tourists with money to spend are fair game for boosting the take-home salary of most vendors. Marrakech was badly affected by the earthquake in 2023, and people’s livelihoods suffered as a result.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Although the souks may often feel overwhelming, they are an unforgettable shopping experience in Marrakech. The cacophony of colours, pulsating energy, and bustling atmosphere will stay with you for a long time.
A jewellery souk selling precious metals by weight.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The Grand Bijouterie is a small ornate jewellery arcade located in the Mellah district of Marrakech. An impressive carved stucco arch opposite Bahia Palace leads into this enclosed souk. Inside, small jewellery shops stock rings, gold bangles, silver chains, gem-encrusted belts, watches, and semi-precious stones. You will find traditional Moroccan pieces, as well as delicate filigree designs from India. Gold is sold by the ounce here, so keep an eye on the current market value of gold and silver. Especially if you’re a serious shopper of precious metals.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Many imported designs are available in the jewellery souk. However, you can still watch local artisans at work plying their trade. Buying gold and silver from the makers themselves avoids any middlemen. This makes it a sustainable source of income for them.
The small souk is home to a number of outlets, including Bijouterie EL Wady, a highly regarded jeweller in Marrakech specializing in authentic, traditional Moroccan and Berber pieces. The inside of the jewellery arcade is decorated in traditional zellige tiles with a fountain in the centre. The address is Rue Bab Mellah, in the Jewish quarter south of the medina. It is next to Tinsmiths Square. Opening hours are 9.00am until 9.30pm, occasionally closed on Thursdays.
When buying any precious metals, be sure to check that they come with a certification of authenticity.
There is nothing better than taking the fragrance of Marrakech home with you. For me, it’s a way to relive the happy experiences of my time there.
You can find plenty of places in the souks that sell argan oil, perfumes, shampoos, and body wash. The heady fragrance of orange blossom, oud, and jasmine oil entices you to buy something. It’s a constant reminder of your fragrant riad. However, not all argan oil for sale in the souks will be genuine. There are inferior quality products sold at high prices, so you need to be mindful.
Argan oil cooperatives are the best places for buying genuine products. However, if you don’t get an opportunity to visit them, where should you go?
Herboristerie Reda stocks everything, including Argan oil, and the quality of their products is very good. I have purchased many of their perfumed body oils. The products are genuine and reasonably priced.
The address is 48.Derb Sidi, Boulfdail.Marrakech 40000.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I spent a lot of time testing the oils to see which ones I liked, and I didn’t feel pressured into buying anything. The woman in the shop was called Hanane, and she was helpful and kind. She speaks several languages, and it was a lovely human experience meeting her.
They stock a large selection of products, including soap, fragrant body creams, perfumed oils, and products for use in a hammam. You can also purchase herbs and spices, including Saffron. They have herbal teas and medicinal ointments. It’s a little apothecary in the souks.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The shop front is used to advertise an annual Gourd Festival. It’s decorated in striking colours with gourds and garlands hanging in the entrance.
I have bought oils from other retailers in the souks, but it’s not long before the fragrance wears off. The oils from Herboristerie Reda last ages on the skin and smell amazing.
Herboristerie Reda is open from 9.00 am until 10.00pm every day.
This will be my go-to shop for fragrant gardenia and other essential oils from now on. It’s a treasure trove of magic potions in the medina.
Are you fed up with haggling each time you want to buy something? If so, there is a fixed price store in the Kasbah district where you won’t have to bargain. Here, you will find everything that’s for sale in the souks at a fixed price.
On the ground floor, there are ceramics, jewellery, clothing, footwear, bags, souvenirs, and much more.
The perfumed oils are of a high quality, and you can create your own signature fragrance by blending several together.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
On the first floor, there is handmade furniture, mirrors, vases, and other large items for the home. There is a huge selection of Berber rugs for sale, which can be shipped worldwide. The store is huge. It’s worth visiting just to see the craftsmanship that’s gone into creating everything on the upper floor.
The staff at Dar Bouchaib are helpful. You can wander around the shop without any pressure to buy.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The Kasbah is an easy 15-minute walk from the main square. There are plenty of shops and restaurants along the way. There are popular sightseeing places in this part of the city, including Saadian tombs and El Badi Palace.
Dar Bouchaib can be found on Rue de La Kasbah Marrakech 40000. It’s open daily from 9.00 am until 8.30 pm. Bank holiday hours may differ, so check first before arriving.
Although a big part of visiting Marrakech is shopping in the souks, sometimes haggling can be stressful. Not knowing how much you should be paying gives vendors the upper hand. Tourists often get overcharged. In contrast, Dar Bouchaib is a relaxed shopping experience with everything under one roof. The prices are fixed and reflect what you should be paying for each item.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Dar Bouchaib is a few steps away from the popular restaurant Krepchy. Cafe Zeitoune is also close by and a great place for lunch. It’s pedestrianised around the mosque, and there are plenty of benches.
Marrakech is a big city with lots going on. A little organisation before arriving will help you get the most out of your trip. Having an itinerary before visiting Marrakech is useful. A list of places, including the opening times and addresses, will help you plan a stressfree visit.
There are a number of places to keep you entertained. There are tourist attractions showcasing the historical significance of the city. Excellent day trips to fascinating places, including the Atlantic coast. You can visit interesting museums and learn ancient techniques passed down through generations. There are fun shopping experiences that offer demonstrations on how to make traditional Morroccan rugs and babouches.
The next few posts are designed to help you choose sightseeing activities. I have included all the places I have visited. I want to give readers an idea of what to expect, including journey times, reviews, and when to visit.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The first time I visited Marrakech, I was unaware of what to expect. I spent 3 days in the main square and shopping in the souks. The time passed quickly, and I went home feeling as though I’d barely scratched the surface. The next time I visited, I had already done some research. I spent 3 days sightseeing, I went on a day trip and spent an evening watching the sunset in Agafay desert. I still had time for shopping in the souks and ate in some excellent restaurants. I returned home happy and satisfied. I realised that Marrakech is so much more than I ever expected. If I had known about the amount of things to do, I would have had a much better experience the first time.
Read about the activities I have experienced and use the information to create an interesting itinerary. I continually update my blog to include more adventures. I include places to visit for budget conscious travellers, and most activities can be done without taking an official tour. My own experiences have been booked through Get Your Guide or the riad where I’m staying. This gives me peace of mind as a solo female traveller. If I were travelling as a group of friends, I would plan excursions outside of the city independently. I don’t use guides for sightseeing around the medina. However, they are available if you want one.
Take note of places that may be of interest to you. Decide the most cost-effective way to experience them and plan accordingly. When choosing a tour, check the reviews on Get Your Guide to make sure you’re getting value for money. There are tour operators around the city, but I have never booked through them.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Lastly, Marrakech has a lot to offer, and you will not fit everything into your first visit. Plan a varied trip that includes places of historical interest such as Bahia Palace or Ben Youssef Madrasa. Visit a couple of museums and at least one excursion out of the city. I also recommend making use of the parks around the city to enjoy some peace and tranquillity. The Souks are dynamic and exciting but limit your time to early morning or later in the evening. The main square comes alive at dusk, leaving the daytime free for other activities.
Of course, you can always come back to this fascinating city if you don’t manage to see everything.
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 is a ritualistic cleansing that people do before prayer. This is the reason many hammams can be found near a mosque.
Before homes had plumbing, a communal hammam was the place where Moroccan people went to bathe. They were a sacred space where people gathered to socialise and relax, separated by gender.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Hammams are still widely used in Morocco today. They’ve become increasingly popular with tourists who wish to learn more about the country’s fascinating culture.
The treatment always begins in a dry steam room. Heat opens up your pores and prepares your body for scrubbing. Morroccan black soap is used to scrub your body vigorously. It is a grainy soap made from olive oil and macerated olives, perfect for exfoliating and removing dead skin cells.
Traditionally, scrubbing is followed by throwing buckets of water over you to wash off the black soap. In a public hammam, buckets of cold and hot water are thrown simultaneously, which can be very invigorating.
In some of the luxurious private hammams, Rassoul clay from the high Atlas mountains is used to cover your body. It contains rich minerals such as silica, magnesium, and calcium, which is good for the skin. Next, your body and hair are lathered with a gentle soap or gel to wash off any residue. This is the final part of the cleansing ritual.
Once your body and hair are thoroughly exfoliated and clean, you receive a massage using fragrant oils such as rose or argan oil. This is an intensely relaxing experience.
Once the treatment is over, you are encouraged to relax with a pot of mint tea and morroccan pastries. The fragrant incense filling the room induces a calm and relaxing ambience.
There are two options for experiencing a hammam in Marrakech. One is a public hammam, and the other is a private one.
A public hammam is a true taste of Morroccan life, where local people bathe together chatting in darija,the Arabic dialect spoken in Morocco. Sometimes, women take their children in, and the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming. When you use a public hammam, you have to purchase your own soap and oils to take in. Using a public hammam is less expensive and one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the life of local people in Marrakesh. Public hammams are perfect for travellers on a budget, but don’t expect any frills. However, they are up close and personal to the customs and traditions of Moroccan people.
On the other hand, private hammams provide you with everything you need. This includes soaps, massage oils, disposable underwear, a bathrobe, and sandals. Treatment options will vary, from the length of treatment to which kind of massage you prefer. You also get to choose which oils you would like. Interior decor can be quite luxurious, including exotic plants and comfortable couches to relax on. You are welcome to stay for as long as you want once the treatment is finished and some hammams serve food. Les Bains Kenaria is a prime example of a hammam with tranquil surroundings and good food.
It’s worth pointing out that the underwear given to women is very flimsy. Some women ask for the male underwear instead. Nubies sometimes feel vulnerable in front of strangers with only a thong hiding their modesty. However, the rooms inside the hammam are dimly lit, and the Kassalas working there are very discreet. Most women soon get over their initial shyness.
Hammam Mouassine is the oldest hammam in the city of Marrakesh. It opened in 1562 and can be found by the Mouassine fountain, close to the secret garden. Many riads also have a hammam, and this service is available for guests to book.
Here are a few hammams in Marrakech you might wish to visit,
. Hammam de la rose.
. Mamounia Hamman..
. Les Bains Ziani.
. Les Bains Kenaria.
Palm oil is sometimes used when washing hair, so if you don’t agree with the use of it, check beforehand.
Visiting a hammam has been an ancient ritual that has been part of Morroccan culture for centuries. Experiencing a traditional hammam is a break from the chaotic souks and Jamaa El Fna. It can be a relief from the baking heat in Marrakech and a chance to slow down from the manic pace. Tourists who visit a hammam come away feeling refreshed, invigorated, and relaxed. Some tourists even become hooked, expressing it’s an unusual experience,difficult to describe in words, but they feel amazing afterwards and can not wait to go again.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
If possible, I recommend paying a bit more for a private hammam, especially if it’s your first time. You feel less self-conscious because they’re similar to spa treatments in the West. It’s possible to book this kind of hammam through Get Your Guide, and they can come and collect you so you know where to go.
If you want a taste of true Marrakchi life head for a public hammam. They’re budget friendly, and you can buy Morroccan black soap and other items you’ll need in the souks or the spice square. Don’t forget to take a towel, bathrobe and some fresh underwear in with you.
Marrakech is a smoothie lover’s dream come true. Smoothies can be found everywhere. They are one of the most vibrant and refreshing drinks in the medina.Using the freshest fruit from the local market and packed with nutritional goodness, smoothies are the perfect start to the day. I regularly enjoy a detoxifying smoothie for its positive health benefits or as a pick me up during the day. There is no shortage of exotic fruits and vegetables in Marrakech. The markets are alive with colour.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Literally, everything goes into making a delicious smoothie, and in Marrakech, they seem to have perfected the art. Fresh fruit, dried nuts, spiralina, cucumber, avocado, berries, banana, and spinach are just some of the healthy ingredients blended together to make a smoothie. There is an abundance of fruit around the medina, so you can expect colourful, fresh ingredients every time.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Fresh juice is also popular amongst tourists who need something to quench their thirst in the hot African sun. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is tangy and exhilarating. Served with fresh mint, it’s a combination that is both aromatic and refreshing. It’s a taste sensation.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Orange juice made using freshly picked oranges off trees around the medina is a breakfast staple.It is sunshine in a glass.
Mixed fruit juice is another favourite and sold in the main square. Vendors encourage business with friendly banter. They call tourists over to sample their mango and pineapple juice, and it can be fun to watch them competing for business. On the stalls, they display a selection of exotic fruits. It’s exciting watching them make the juice for you.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
My absolute favourite is freshly squeezed pomegranate juice. It is a refreshing tonic and gives me a boost of energy.
I was flagging in the heat hiking around Ouzoud Waterfall. Freshly squeezed pomegranate juice instantly hit the spot. I soon felt revitalised again.
Sugarcane juice is widely available around the medina, also. You can find vendors near Koutoubia Mosque.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Here are a few places I recommend to enjoy a refreshing juice or a healthy smoothie..
Le Ferme Medina.
Henna Art Cafe.
La Famille.
Pikala Cafe.
They each have attractive, comfortable surroundings for a break from sightseeing. There are also plenty of rooftop terraces around the medina. These are great places to enjoy sipping a fruit juice or smoothie, watching all the action below. It’s a pleasant way to get some vitamin C.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
It is important to stay hydrated in Marrakech. The temperature can be hot and humid. I can not underestimate the power of a bottle of water, and you should always carry one with you.
For a healthy treat, consider trying a few of the wonderful juices and smoothies available also. The vitamins and minerals are necessary to function during a hectic schedule.Just remember, there may still be high sugar content, so moderation is key. It’s all about balance.
Shopping in the medina is a fascinating experience, but it can be overwhelming at times. I soon realised that taking a regular break and pacing myself was the best way to enjoy the experience.
Navigating the maze of alleyways in the souks is exciting. There is so much more to them than beautiful leather goods and Moroccan lamps, though.
There are delicious sweets and pastries waiting to be sampled. These compliment the taste of traditional mint tea known as atay perfectly.
There are so many different pastries to choose from. I decided to treat myself to a selection to find out which ones are my favourite. I enjoyed the taste of the almond pastries most of all.
Traditional mint tea is very hydrating. Sitting in a colourful, boho nook drinking mint tea is a perfect way to take time out from the hectic rhythm of the souks.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
If you are shopping in the souks, I recommend that you pace yourselves and take some time to enjoy the experience. Sitting outside a cute little tea shop is the perfect way to do that.
There are plenty of places around the medina selling mint tea with traditional sweets and pastries. Part of the pleasure of exploring is finding these hidden gems.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
A few places I recommend are,
Medina Kawa Marrakech.
La Patisserie de la Terracce Spices
Boughaz Coffee in the Kasbah.
Marrakech has an abundant supply of sweets and pastries, and I suggest trying Baclava. It’s a sweet pastry made of layers of flaky phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts like walnuts, pistachios, or almonds. It’s sweetened with honey and flavoured with spices like cinnamon and lemon juice. This was one of my many favourites.
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. Visitors may find Marrakech to be an assault on the senses. The sights, sounds, and smells of Jamaa El Fna can be overly stimulating for the most seasoned of travellers. However, it’s part of the charm of the city, and it’s just as exciting as it is chaotic.
Although I love visiting Marrakech, there are things that frustrate me. I have to give a realistic, balanced opinion. Like anywhere else in the world, things can not be all perfect. Therefore, I have decided to share some of the things that I have struggled with versus the things I adore about the city of Marrakech. I have made a list of 5 things that I love and 5 things I don’t like.
Here are the 5 things I don’t like about Marrakech.
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 encouraging you to have your photo taken with them were hard for me to see. The monkeys have been brought down from their natural habitat in the Atlas mountains. I accept that local people need to make a living, but they clearly don’t look happy chained up all day. They are dressed in tutus and nappies, and it just feels wrong to me.
There are horse-drawn carriages taking tourists through the chaotic traffic into the newer part of the city. The donkeys pulling heavey laden carts through narrow alleyways full of motorbikes and tourists. I’ve witnessed accidents where they’ve been clipped by passing motorists. The donkeys look as though they’re overworked and appear neglected.
I appreciate it’s the culture of Marrakech, and I have no right to criticise anyone’s way of life or impose my own beliefs onto another culture. However, 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. I would feel happier if a separate lane was implemented just for the horse-drawn carriages to use. For now, they are taken through some of the worst traffic I’ve ever seen, and I found that difficult to watch.
There are also a lot of stray dogs and cats in Marrakech. They are looked after by the locals, and many of the cats have been rehomed by owners of the riads. They are regularly fed, and the local people try their best to look after them. However, I found it difficult to see the sheer volume of strays to begin with.
Finally, there are chickens in tiny cages and caged tortoises, If you are an animal lover like me, you may find all the above a bit shocking.
2.
Queueing at the airport.
Be prepared to stand in line for up to 2 hours on arrival. The process is slow, and all you can do is accept it. Take a snack and keep a drink with you. It is possible to 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 aircraft lands and consider choosing a seat near the entrance and exit. This way, you can get to the front of the queue quickly.
3.
Marrakech is touristy.
The narrow alleyways in the Souks can be very crowded. You and hundreds of other tourists will be browsing around the shops at the same time. Marrakech is one of the most visited destinations, and it may feel as though everyone is there at the same time as you.
Tip: Plan to visit in January or November when it’s quieter. There are fewer people around the main attractions, so you will get the perfect photo opportunity. Queues will be shorter also. Consider sightseeing and shopping early in the morning. It’s less crowded, and bargaining is easier.
4.
The smell of fumes in the souks.
The souks are full of motorcycles and tuk-tuks, giving off clouds of fumes as they hurtle past. The fumes can get stuck in the back of your throat, making you feel nauseous. Unfortunately, there is little you can do to change this. There are a lot of vehicles on the main roads around Marrakech, and they can be chaotic at times. Pollution can be bad in Marrakech. Just be aware of this if you struggle with asthma or other breathing issues.
5.
The vendors in the main square can be persistent.
During the evening, the main square opens up becoming a meeting place for thousands of people. The food stalls are all in competition with each other. Vendors will try to shove a menu in your face to get your custom. Some of them can be very persuasive, occasionally pushing the boundaries. It can become overwhelming, and it’s often difficult to remain calm in those 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, telling you that it’s a gift. After they’ve finished, they’ll ask for money from you, and it can get quite heated if you refuse.
Tip: If you’re not interested, try not to show interest by avoiding eye contact. Politely saying “La Shukran” meaning no thank you in darija, is a good way to discourage unwanted harassment.
Marrakech was badly affected by the devastating earthquake in 2023, and many people lost their livelihoods and homes. Whilst it was sometimes difficult to cope with the constant barage of vendors. I had to remind myself that their struggle to survive is very real.
Marrakech is certainly a culture shock to many first-time visitors, and I was no exception.
I’ve shared 5 of the things I find challenging about Marrakech. I would now like to tell you about what it is that keeps me going back time and time again.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Here are 5 things I love about Marrakech.
1.
The people.
You can expect to meet the friendliest, most welcoming people you have ever met in Marrakech. They are constantly smiling and can’t wait to tell you all about their fascinating 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 identify as Amazigh, and the history of their culture is really interesting. Moroccans are some of the most hospitable people in the world, and I always feel welcome.
2.
The vibrant colours and craftsmanship in Marrakech.
If, like me, you are drawn to colourful things, you will be in your element in the Souks. You will find jewellery, Berber rugs, wood carvings, and an array of other handcrafted items. Wherever you look, you will notice something that catches your eye. You will see skilled artisans creating Moroccan lamps and women demonstrating carpet weaving. The souks are a cacophony of colours. Lively and energetic. It’s a sight to behold.
3.
The food is delicious.
There are plenty of great restaurants in Marrakech, and the food is excellent. There are vegetarian and vegan restaurants, and many cater for people with gluten intolerance. The food is diverse, and you can find dishes to suit everyone’s palate. I would need years to work my way through all the exciting menus in Marrakech.
I enjoyed every meal I ordered, especially tagine and couscous. The deserts in Marrakesh are incredible. My favourite was the Japanese souffle pancakes in Fluffys.
4.
The Islamic architecture.
Islamic architecture, with its symmetry and attention to detail, is beautiful and had me spellbound. I recommend visiting the places below to see some of the finest examples of Islamic architecture and craftsmanship.
. Bahia Palace.
. Madrasa Ben Youssef.
. The saadian Tombs.
. The Koutoubia Mosque.
. Bacha Museum.
. Marrakech Museum
I loved the large wooden doors around the medina. The intricately carved cedarwood was a pleasure to see.
5.
Marrakech is central for visiting other places
I took a trip out to Agafay desert, and it was magical. There are trips to Ouzoud to see the second largest waterfall in North Africa. You can take a train to Casablanca or visit Essaouira on the coast for the day. There are shared taxis to Imlil in the Atlas mountains and domestic flights to Tangier. If you have three days to spare, you can venture further into the Sahara desert. If not, you can take a camel ride at sunset in the Palmerai. There are plenty of excursions that are accessible from the city, and the transport system is developing rapidly. Supratours and CTM buses can take you to many places, including Essaouira, in three hours.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
There are so many reasons why I love Marrakech. I have featured only a few.
If you’re looking for a place that combines ancient and modern. A place that is diverse. Somewhere that can sometimes feel like organised chaos yet functions perfectly. A place that will transport you to the tales from Arabian Nights, Marrakech, is all of those things and more. However, do not be under any illusion that you won’t see things you find difficult. Go with an open mind and compassion. That way, you will be prepared for the things you find different from what you’re used to.
The Sound Of The Souks 