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.
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.
The Kasbah is located in the southern part of Marrakech and is considered the jewel of the old city.
The Kasbah is a quieter part of Marrakech, with fewer tourists than the medina. Staying in the Kasbah, you feel totally immersed in the culture of Marrakech as you rub shoulders with the friendly locals. There are plenty of shops, including a large fixed price store called Dar Bouchaib, selling everything you will find in the souks.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The Kasbah is home to popular tourist attractions like the Saadian tombs and El Badi Palace.There are a number of good restaurants in the area, many with rooftop terraces to catch the sunset.
Zeitoune Cafe is a lovely restaurant for a spot of lunch. It’s in a strategic position and overlooks the mosque, making it a nice place to take a break from sightseeing in the area. The Kasbah mosque is the second largest mosque in Marrakech and is also referred to as ‘The Golden Apple Mosque’ it has a minaret reaching 80 metres tall. I enjoyed sitting on colourful cushions outside Zeitoune Cafe with the view of the mosque in front of me. It was a nice way to spend some time in the sunshine people watching.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The kasbah is a 20-minute leisurely walk from the main square with plenty to see along the way. There are plenty of shops selling all kinds of stuff, including spices, jewellery, clothing and perfumes.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
In the kasbah, there is a range of budget and high-end accommodation. I stayed at Riad Hikaya and had a really positive experience. The luxurious five-star hotel La Sultana is also in the Kasbah.
The Kasbah is a quieter neighbourhood than the medina. Parts of it are pedestrianised, and there is less traffic, making it feel less chaotic than the medina. The locals go about their daily business of buying bread, selling clothes,and feeding stray cats. It’s a typical scene of everyday life inside the ochre walls.
The Kasbah has a slower pace of life, and it’s a lot less stressful than the touristy side of Marrakech.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The Kasbah is the historical citadel in Marrakesh with fortified walls. The narrow, winding alleyways make it an exciting place to visit, with their signature red colour glowing in different hues at certain times of the day.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The famous Bab Agnaou gate provides entry into the Kasbah, and out of the 19 gates around the medina, it’s one of the most ornate. The King’s Palace is also situated inside the walls of the fortress. Therefore, the whole area is heavily guarded, making it a safe place for visiting with children.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The Kasbah is home to the Clock restaurant with its legendary camel burgers and storytelling evenings. Also, the Kasbah Cafe is a popular place for lunch and dinner. Krepchy does a fantastic breakfast, and the prices are very reasonable. I highly recommend the waffles. There are a few good coffee shops selling decent coffee, such as the popular Nos Nos.
To return from the medina, consider taking a tuk-tuk if the weather is hot. It’s quite an adventure as you rattle along the bumpy streets back into the Kasbah.
Tinsmiths Square and the Jewish quarter known as the Mellah are not far from the Kasbah, and there are plenty of things to see and great places to eat in both areas.
Taxis can pick you up from your accommodation but they may struggle in some of the narrower streets. There is also a taxi rank close to the roundabout near Tinsmiths Square.
Spending an hour or two in this historical area of Marrakech will add value to your visit. The locals are very friendly, and it’s a pleasure getting the opportunity to sit and chat with them.
I would recommend staying in the kasbah if you prefer a quieter, more authentic experience of Marrakech. It’s further out from the madness of the busy souks and a more relaxed environment.
Tinsmiths Square is located to the south of Jamaa El Fna. It is within the Mellah, the oldest Jewish quarter of Marrakech. This quieter area of Marrakech is often overlooked by tourists.
It is here that skilled artisans make their wares to sell using traditional methods passed down through generations. Beautifully crafted jewellery, lamps, and traditional daggers made from copper and tinplate are skillfully handcrafted in this fascinating area of the city.
Tinsmiths Square presents a calmer alternative to Jamaa El Fna with palm trees lining the pedestrian friendly walkway. It connects the old Jewish district with the Muslim quarter.
Tinsmiths Square is a vibrant area with lots of spice shops, cafes, and restaurants with rooftop terraces. Shops sell intricately carved items made in small workshops. There are several benches around the square to sit and take in the sights and sounds and a fountain in the centre. Fun games occasionally take place, and the square also hosts events.
Cats roam freely across the square and are a popular sight, lazing in the plant pots and flower beds. Sometimes, they are quite cheeky and make themselves comfortable on tourist’s laps.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Place des Ferblantiers is close to popular sightseeing spots like The Bahia Palace, El Badi Palace, and The Saadian Tombs. The Kasbah is just a short walk away.
I love Tinsmiths Square. There are some great cafes and restaurants and I have bought some interesting souvenirs here. There is a great vibe, and the pace is much more relaxed than in the densely packed medina.
Video by Freebird Tracey.
I was spoilt for choice with all the fragrant spice shops in the square selling everything from eucalyptus to argan oil. The friendly vendors happily educate you on what each remedy is used for and what the different types of tea are good for. Browsing leisurely around the spice shops is an explosion of colour and pungent aromas.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
If you want a slower, less touristic place to spend a few hours, don’t miss out on visiting Tinsmiths Square. There are a few budget restaurants, and Medina Mall, which is home to the popular Fluffys dessert cafe, is close to the square.
Tinsmiths Square is an exciting area of Marrakech, and you can get taxis from the taxi rank near the roundabout to get to other areas of the city from here.
The Spice Square, also known as Rahba Kedima, is a smaller market, less densely packed with tourists. It is located at the end of Souk Semmarine and a five minute walk from Jamaa El Fna.
It is here that you will find a wonderful selection of spices, including saffron, cumin, and turmeric. The spices are beautifully displayed in pyramids around the square, and the air is fragrant with the scent of incense. There are dried herbs, oils, potions, dried tea, and the traditional Moroccan lip stain.
The Spice Square is the traditional apothecary of Marrakech and a treasure trove of Moroccan culture.
In the Spice Square, you will also find hand woven baskets, straw hats, baby tortoises, and shops selling Amazigh jewellery ,Tuareg leather amulets and beautiful throws and wall hangings. It is a vibrant, colourful market with a less frantic pace than Jamaa El Fna.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The Spice Square is home to popular restaurants like Cafe Des Espices and Nomad, a well-known restaurant amongst tourists who flock to watch the setting sun from the rooftop terrace.
The Spice Square is not far from the Medersa Ben Youseff and Marrakech museum, so it’s ideal for making it part of your day when visiting both of these attractions.
Until the 20th century, Rahba Kedima was the cities grain market and the place where slaves were sold. It is now the epicentre of the medina where you can pick up the famous Moroccan spice blend ras el hanout and watch the spice sellers who come down from the mountain villages at 4.00 in the afternoon to sell their trade. The smells and colours are heady, as friendly vendors demonstrate the benefits of eucalyptus and other herbal remedies to the tourists.
The Spice Square is a photogenic place where you will be met with a glimpse of trading traditions from the past. It’s the perfect balance between a bustling market experience and a relaxed, more laid-back atmosphere.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
As you meander your way through the busy Semmarine souk, it suddenly opens up to this feast of exotic colours that seem to appear out of nowhere. You will be greeted by a display of tantalising and pungent aromas that have become the essence of Marrakech.
There are a few budget cafes around the spice square that are ideal spots for a pot of mint tea whilst sitting in the sunshine absorbing this sensual experience.
With over 200 different coffees to choose from, Bacha Coffee is a coffee lovers paradise.
From the flamboyant interior with tiled floors and exotic plants to the finely dressed waiters in their elegant uniforms, Bacha Coffee is an experience.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
A visit to Bacha Coffee is a treat. You have to wait for a table, but you can look around the museum whilst you wait. The gardens and architecture are lovely, and time passes quickly. You are given a bleeper to notify you when your table is ready.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Once seated inside, you can take your time to paw over the menu. There are over 200 coffees from all corners of the world. The menu is descriptive, and the hardest part is choosing.
I decided to try a Caribbean coffee from the Blue Mountains. It was smooth and aromatic with a subtly sweet flavour.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The coffee is accompanied by fresh cream, chocolate chips, and vanilla pods to enhance the taste. I had a slice of cake, which was delicately spiced and complimented the coffee perfectly. My tastebuds were in heaven.
I wish to try every coffee on the menu, so I’ve promised myself I will go back again until I have. That’s a lot of visits to Bacha Coffee.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The only downside to Bacha Coffee is that the queues are long. I suggest arriving at 9.30 before they open and joining the queue outside. It’s worth the wait. The breakfast is excellent.
Bacha Coffee is worth visiting to capture perfect Instagram photos regardless of the excellent food and coffee.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
There is a shop where you can purchase coffee and the cups and saucers used in the restaurant. They also sell the containers they use for condiments, amongst other things. These make the perfect gift for someone special.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The opening hours are Tuesday-Sunday 10.00am-6.00pm
The address is Dar el Bacha, Rte Sidi Abdelaziz Marrakech 40000 Morocco
Bacha Coffee is in a nice area of Marrakech surrounded by plenty of shops and good restaurants. I enjoyed my visits. The service is impeccable, and the coffee speaks for itself.
The perfect day in Marrakech begins watching the sunrise on a rooftop terrace in my riad. I can hear birds singing in the courtyard below. I hear the sound of the medina as it gradually wakes up and comes back to life. I watch cats prowl along the rooftops. Below me, I hear the clattering of plates as staff prepare breakfast.
A glass of freshly squeezed orange juice hits the spot perfectly. I enjoy a breakfast of msemen pancakes with homemade jam, amlou, and honey.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
After my shower, I head out into the medina for a glass of mint atay. I sit outside a cafe overlooking the main square. I observe the vendors setting up their stalls for the day. The street entertainers are ready to entice crowds of tourists. The local ladies pass by on their way to the market for fresh herbs and spices.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
My next destination is the souks before they get busy. Vendors are eager for their first sale of the day, and bargaining is easier early in the morning. The array of things on offer is a sight to behold.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Cats gather for a few morsels off the butcher, and locals toss titbits for them to eat. They vye with each other for the perfect spot to laze in the sunshine.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
I check out the Amazigh jewellery, the argan oil, and the beautiful ceramics on display. At the same time, I dodge motorcycles and donkey carts as they make their way through the narrow alleyways. I buy a few souvenirs and then decide it’s time for a light snack.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
A cafe with colourful outdoor seating looks inviting. I order a selection of Morroccan pastries and a pot of mint tea. I sit for a while people watching, enjoying the scenes that are unfolding around me. It’s fascinating watching daily life in the medina. Tourists look in awe at things for sale, and vendors call out to them with friendly banter.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
After recharging my batteries, it’s time to do some sightseeing. I head towards Madrasa Ben Youssef for an opportunity to get some photos of the stunning architecture. I learn the history of one of the most important koranic colleges in Morocco.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Afterwards, I make my way to the gardens of the Koutoubia Mosque. The medina is getting busy, and I want to sit somewhere less crowded.
I relax amongst the beautiful trees, admiring the most famous landmark in Marrakech. As I sit near the fountain, it feels cool and refreshing as it sprays into the air.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I treat myself to a sugarcane juice from a vendor. It goes down well, and the day is getting steadily warmer.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
By now, the heat is quite intense, so I return to my riad for a rest. I make my way onto the rooftop terrace to sunbathe and read a book. The call to prayer echos across the medina. It’s a familiar sound that can be heard in Marrakech five times a day.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Soon, it’s time to get ready for dinner.
I go to La Pergola rooftop bar for a couple of cocktails beforehand. It’s a lively atmosphere. There are people enjoying a drink and chatting with friends.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Next, it’s time to head towards Jamaa El Fna. The energy is electric. Food vendors are touting for business. There are dancers, drumming, and gambling games. Crowds of tourists gather to witness the spectacle. The smell of food cooking makes me hungry. I decide to find a nice place to dine.
I choose a place that has a rooftop terrace overlooking the square. It’s a perfect spot to watch the sunset. As the sun slowly disappears behind the Koutoubia Mosque, it’s a spectacular sight. Everywhere has a golden glow.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I order a traditional tagine, which is flavourful and aromatic. I’m tempted by the exotic fruit smoothies on the menu. I treat myself to one containing dried fruit, and it’s delicious.
The evening is still young, so I take a leisurely walk to the kasbah. I spend the rest of my evening at the famous Clock listening to some live music and traditional storytelling.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
After immersing myself in the culture of Morrocco, I head back to my riad. I sit in the peaceful courtyard reflecting on the day I’ve had.
I have learnt some history about the culture of Marrakech. I have tasted delicious food. I watched a beautiful sunset and chatted with friendly locals. I have successfully navigated my way through the souks without getting too lost. I also have some nice souvenirs to take home.
I fall asleep. It’s been a perfect day, and I’m ready to do it all again tomorrow.
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 