Check Bismillah Sand Coffee is a hidden gem inside Souk El Kebir.
Rich, aromatic coffee is brewed using hot saharan sand and gently spiced with a touch of Cardamom, Turmeric, or Cinnamon to give it a distinct flavour.
To make it, the coffee is added to iced water inside small brass pots and then heated by moving it around by hand in hot sand.
The coffee has a rich, dense, creamy flavour unlike any other coffee found in the medina.
This charming spot is humble in appearance, cosy and inviting.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
There is also a rooftop where you can sit to enjoy your coffee in peace, a moment of self-indulgence
Chez Bismillah offers you a serene refuge where you can sit watching the medina come to life tucked away in a quiet space away from the crowds.
It’s an experience seeing the coffee gently warmed by hot Merzouga desert sand and savouring its unique taste.
I was surprised how quickly the coffee became hot. I sat watching it being made from arabica and fragrant spices, which filled the air around me.
Chez Bismillah is a unique experience firmly rooted in place and tradition.
The friendly, welcoming proprietor gives you a glimpse into a past that conjures up images of camel traders selling cloth in the fondouk and stretches of vast desert terrain.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
It’s not just a cup of coffee.
It’s an escape from reality, a moment of peace from the hectic rhythm of the busy alleyways of the souks.
Chez Bismillah Sand Coffee can be found at 193 Souk El Kabir, it is open daily from 9.00am until 9.00pm with the exception of Saturday and Sunday when it closes at 7.00pm.
A fixed price store in the Kasbah selling everything.
If you are fed up with haggling every time you want to buy something, there is a fixed price store in the Kasbah called Dar Bouchaib.
Here, you will find everything that’s for sale in the souks but at a fixed price.
The perfumed oils are of a very high quality, and you can create your own signature fragrance by blending several oils together.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
On the ground floor, there are ceramics, jewellery, clothing, footwear, bags, souvenirs, and much more.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
On the first floor, exquisite furniture, mirrors, Berber rugs, and other beautiful handmade pieces to furnish your home with.
They also ship worldwide.
The staff are incredibly helpful, and you can wander around the shop leisurely without any pressure to buy.
The store is huge and worth visiting just to see the craftsmanship and detail that’s gone into creating the furniture and mirrors on the upper floor.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The Kasbah is a 15 – to 20-minute walk from the main square with plenty of interesting shops and good restaurants along the way.
Here, you will find the Saadian tombs and El Badi Palace.
Dar Bouchaib can be found on;
Rue de La Kasbah,
Marrakech 40000.
Opening times are;
Daily from 9.00 am until 8.30 pm.
Bank holiday hours may differ.
Although part of visiting Marrakech is to enjoy shopping in the souks, sometimes haggling and knowing how much you should be paying for something can become slightly stressful.
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.
There is also a massive selection of wonderful Berber rugs for sale in the store.
Make it part of your visit to the Kasbah area.
You won’t be disappointed.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Dar Bouchaib is a few steps away from Krepchy.
If you’re sightseeing in the kasbah, I would recommend taking a look around this impressive store.
You may find something interesting to take home with you.
Marrakech is a culinary delight for all foodies out there.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The streets of Marrakech are abundant with fresh, seasonal vegetables and fruit.
There are herbs and spices galore everywhere you look.
The aromatic fragrance of street food fills the air, tempting the tastebuds.
Fine restaurants with impeccable service, in beautiful surroundings, call out to you to come inside and sample their cuisine.
But where do you start?
What do you order?
If you’re anything like me, you may want to fully immerse yourself in the culture of places you’re visiting.
I particularly enjoy sampling the signature dishes of places I visit and eating the same food that the locals do.
It’s a way to get to know the culture, and food is a big part of life in Morrocco.
The locals are very hospitable people and often invite tourists home for a meal with their family.
If you get the chance, go it’s the best way to gain understanding of the people and their hospitality.
So,with an overwhelming choice of food to choose from, you may need a little help to decide what to try..
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The two most popular dishes in Marrakesh are tagine and couscous.
Tagine is the name of the clay or ceramic pot that the dish is cooked in.
It consists of layers of fresh vegetables,with meat in the centre.
Chicken or lamb is the most popular.
Often, dates, olives, fresh lemon, and spices are added for flavour, and everyone has their own personal recipe for making a tagine.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Couscous is a grain made from semolina and served with meat and vegetables.
It is eaten religiously on Fridays.
In Jamaa El Fna, you will find sheeps head and snails for sale.
Tourists are targeted by street food vendors to try snails, and those who actually do say that they quite enjoyed the experience.
Apparently, the broth that they’re cooked in is quite tasty, and although it’s an unusual tasting dish, it’s not inedible.
Sheeps head is for the brave amongst us, but it appears to be popular in the main square and a regular sight on display during the evening.
The locals sit at street stalls eagerly munching on the spit roasted mutton, enjoying every morsel.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Every dish is served with traditional bread in Marrakech. It is freshly baked each morning and delicious served warm.
Tangier is also a popular dish.
It is meat (usually lamb), cooked very slowly in the embers of the local hammam.
Traditionally, the tangier is taken to the hammam early in the morning and left to cook throughout the day.
It is then collected and served for dinner with vegetables or bread.
The meat is incredibly tender and simply falls off the bone.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
There are plenty of street food vendors in the medina, tucked away in the souks.
They serve really good quality food and it’s cheap.
Ideal for travellers on a tighter budget.
There is a row of street food vendors who only sell tangiers, and this is very popular with locals and tourists alike.
The area gets busy as people queue for a vessel of succulent lamb tipped out onto a plate ready for devouring.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Taking a street food tour is a great way to get to try the best places.
There are several tours available during the daytime or evening, and tourists get the chance to sample authentic Moroccan cuisine with a registered guide.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Marrakech caters to vegetarians and vegans also, with a good choice of quality food including excellent salads, delicious vegetable tagine, pastilla, and couscous.
Pigeon is also widely eaten in Marrakech and traditionally used as a filling in pastilla.
Then there are the camel burgers, popular at The Clock restaurant in the kasbah.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Several Italian restaurants in the medina offer excellent pizzas and pasta dishes if you fancy a change from morroccan food.
Olives are served with tea and other beverages as a complimentary side dish.
They can be spicy or plain, always fresh, and the perfect aperitif.
They are deliciously fresh when bought straight from the vendors themselves.
Don’t hesitate to try some. They are truly amazing.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The sweets and pastries in Marrakech are incredibly good, and the desserts served after the main course of a meal are beautiful.
Moroccans have a sweet tooth as you will probably gather from the breakfasts.
The choice on most menus is really good and varied.
There’s no point watching your waistline here..
Dates are hugely popular, and medjool dates are known as ‘ fruits of the King’, so make sure to try some.
You won’t be disappointed.
Fresh fruit is for sale everywhere around the medina and incorporated into tantalising sweet dishes that make your mouth water.
NB: I have written a separate article about smoothies and juices in Marrakesh.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Marrakech is a dream come true for people who love their food.
With so much to choose from and so many different dishes and flavours to try, you would need months to eat your way through it all.
Not only is there a great variety of interesting and tasty food, but it’s beautifully presented too.
Imagine sitting in a tranquil, setting, next to exotic plants, and trickling fountains.
That’s my experience of eating in Marrakesh..
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The way to get to know people and their culture is through their food.
Marrakech is no exception.
Be open to getting out of your comfort zone and give some of the traditional Moroccan dishes a go..
What every female should know before arriving in the red city.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I would say that Marrakech is perfectly safe for women who travel alone..
The overall crime rate is relatively low, and most female travellers have a wonderful experience.
However, there are certain things to consider to help you feel confident and fit into Moroccan society.
Women in Marrakech dress modestly.
How you want to be treated will depend on how you present yourself.
Although Marrakech is a Muslim city, it is quite liberal and used to tourists, but showing too much flesh would be considered inappropriate.
Whilst you’re not expecting to adopt the hijab, you will certainly be regarded favourably if you dress slightly more conservatively.
Long, silk, or cotton dresses are perfect and keep you cool at the same time.
Palazzo trousers are comfortable and elegant.
I wore turbans, and I loved that my hair was tucked away, keeping me from feeling too hot whilst feeling sophisticated.
Many tourists wear the same style of clothing that they would back at home, so it’s really a matter of choice.
I would certainly encourage dressing appropriately if you’re visiting religious sites, though.
It’s a matter of respect.
You’ll notice how happy a small gesture like this makes the locals happy.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The people in Marrakesh are friendly and hospitable.
There may be situations where you will be asked if you need help to find your riad or the main square.
Simply decline the offer politely and go about your business.
Stand your ground when negotiating a price for something. Show you are confident and don’t be afraid to walk away if you’re not happy.
Some men may cat call or make comments, which may feel slightly intrusive.
Ignore them and move away. If anyone follows you, find a shop vendor or restaurant to sit in or threaten to find a police officer.
It’s rare that this happens, though, and police are everywhere around Marrakech, making sure that tourists are not hassled.
Knowing a few words in Arabic or French is always useful.
‘Non merci’ or ‘La Shukran’ for ‘no thank you’ will automatically bring a smile to the locals’ faces.
On the whole, I have never felt uncomfortable as a solo female traveller in Marrakech.
There are plenty of us about wandering through the souks and enjoying the tourist hot-spots.
Consider using a tour guide or joining a guided tour of the medina if you’re slightly anxious about exploring by yourself or if it’s your first time.
There are night tours, street food tours, and registered guides for visiting the local attractions.
Marrakech is a great place to visit as a solo female traveller if you treat it the same way as you would any other country wandering around by yourself.
In some ways, I would consider it safer than some European countries.
Most local people can’t wait to tell you all about their fascinating city.
Educate yourself on the cultural norms and differences and respect the local customs and traditions, and you will be perfectly safe.
You could carry a personal alarm with you if it helps you to feel less vulnerable.
Overall, you will feel perfectly safe.
Marrakech is very touristic, and there’s always crowds of people around.
Just be extra vigilant in busy, congested areas with your belongings.
The same way you would be anywhere else in the world.
Relax and trust that the people of Marrakech are friendly, kind, and caring.
A look at how you can spend a typical day in the red city.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The perfect day in Marrakech begins by waking up early to watch the sunrise from the rooftop of my riad.
I listen to the birds singing in the courtyard and hear the sound of the medina as it gradually comes to life.
I watch cats prowl along the rooftops, and below me, I can hear the clattering of plates as staff prepare a delicious breakfast.
The first glass of freshly squeezed orange juice hits the spot perfectly.
I enjoy a breakfast of msemen pancakes with homemade jam, amlou, and honey.
Fresh fruit, yoghurt, and eggs.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
After a refreshing shower, I head out into the medina for a glass of atay in a cafe overlooking the main square.
Sat outside, I observe the vendors setting up for the day.
The entertainers are getting ready to entice the crowds of tourists, and the local ladies are on their way to the market for fresh herbs and spices.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
My next destination is the souks before they get too busy.
Vendors are eager for their first sale of the day, and bargaining is much easier early in the morning.
The colourful 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 a few titbits for them to eat.
They vye with each other for the perfect spot in which to laze around in the sunshine.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I check out the wonderful Amazigh jewellery, the argan oil, and the beautiful ceramics and mirrors on display in the narrow alleyways.
At the same time, I dodge motorcycles and donkey carts as they make their way to wherever they’re going.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
I buy one or two souvenirs, promise to go back for other things, and then decide it’s time for a light snack.
A cafe with colourful outdoor seating calls out to me, and I choose a selection of delicious pastries with a pot of mint tea.
I sit for a while people watching and enjoy the scenes as they unfold around me.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
It’s fascinating watching daily life go by in the medina.
Tourists look in awe at the beautiful things for sale, and vendors call out to them with their friendly banter.
After recharging my batteries, it’s time to do some sightseeing.
I head towards Madrasa Ben Youssef and take the opportunity to get some photos of the stunning architecture.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The medina is beginning to get very busy, so I make my way to the gardens of the Koutoubia Mosque to sit quietly for a while.
I take in the beautiful surroundings and relax amongst the beautiful trees and plants.
I watch the fountain.
It feels cool and refreshing as it sprays up into the air beside me.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Afterwards, I treat myself to a sugarcane juice from a vendor outside.
It’s an acquired taste but goes down well as the day is steadily getting warmer.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The heat is becoming quite intense, so I return to my riad for a rest.
I make my way up onto the rooftop for a spot of sunbathing.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The call to prayer echos across the medina.
A familiar sound that echos across Marrakech five times a day.
I read a book and order myself a cold drink which arrives with olives.
Soon, it’s time to get ready for the evening.
I decide to go to La Pergola rooftop bar for a couple of cocktails.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
It’s a lively atmosphere, and there are lots of people enjoying a drink and chatting.
Afterwards, I head towards Jamaa El Fna.
The energy is electric.
Food vendors touting for business, dancing, drumming, and crowds of tourists gather to witness the spectacle.
The smell of food cooking makes me feel hungry, so I decide to find a nice place to dine.
I choose a place that has a rooftop overlooking the square to watch the sunset.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I enjoy a traditional tagine, which is flavourful and aromatic.
I’m tempted by the exotic sounding smoothies on the menu and treat myself to one containing dried fruit.
I watch the beautiful sunset and everywhere has a golden glow.
I am satisfied and content, but the evening is still young.
I take a leisurely walk to The Clock, situated in the kasbah to listen to some traditional storytelling.
After an interesting time immersing myself in the culture of Morrocco, I decide to head back to my riad.
I pick up a few more souvenirs along the way.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Back at the riad, I sit in the courtyard reflecting on my day.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I ask the staff for suggestions for the next day.
We chat about possibilities, and they help me put together a few ideas.
I have had a perfect day..
I have experienced a different culture, tasted delicious food, watched a magnificent sunset, chatted with friendly locals, and navigated my way through the maze of souks without getting too lost.
I fall asleep.
I am tired but happy and ready to do it all again tomorrow.
A useful guide for choosing the correct clothing for your trip.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Marrakech can get very hot in summer, and temperatures can exeed 40° Celsius.
Even the cooler months can feel warm and humid, especially walking around the busy souks and popular points of interest.
Marrakech is also a conservative city with a majority Muslim population.
The locals are extremely hospitable, but respect is a big thing in Marrakech.
So, what should you wear to feel comfortable yet still appear respectable?
For female visitors, I would suggest palazzo trousers.
These are flowing and elegant, keeping you nice and cool.
They pair well with smart cotton blouses and can be worn underneath a silk kimono, adding a touch of glamour.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Lightweight cotton or linen trousers also look smart, and neutral colours give a sophisticated, modest appearance.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Silk (including recycled sari silk) maxi dresses are very versatile and keep you cool. They can be worn with a drawstring sari petticoat underneath for modesty if the dress is sheer.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Linen is perfect and always looks polished.
It may get slightly creased, so I would suggest bringing along a portable steamer. They’re a life-saver and take up very little space in your suitcase.
However, most accommodations have an ironing and laundry service at your disposal.
Cotton tee-shirts and blouses are ideal and can look very flattering with the right accessories.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Yoga pants are also perfect for a day exploring.
They are loose fitting and comfortable.
Headscarves are fashionable and can be used as a head covering whilst visiting some of the religious sights or as a convenient wrap around for covering your shoulders.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I like to wear turbans to cover my locs.
They keep my head and neck cool, and at the same time, I feel well put together.
Silk scarves roll up really small and fit perfectly in your bag.
They are versatile and can be used as a hair tie, head covering, or pretty accessory.
Marrakech is definitely more liberal than other morroccan cities. However, exposing too much flesh is definitely frowned upon.
You may attract unwanted attention from both males and females, spoiling your overall experience by making you feel self-conscious.
How you present yourself will determine the kind of experience you have in Marrakesh.
In your hotel or riad, it’s perfectly acceptable to wear shorts and swimwear for sunbathing, so pack those items of clothing also.
Males can wear knee-length shorts with linen or cotton short-sleeved shirts to look smart yet casual.
Many high-end restaurants won’t accept men wearing sandals, but smart leather sliders are deemed acceptable.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Linen or cotton long trousers for men are ideal and keep the body cool.
Men’s clothing is definitely more liberal than females.
They don’t invite the same attention but are still expected to dress for the occasion when visiting certain establishments.
I wouldn’t advise a male to walk around without a shirt on.
That is best left for beach holidays..
So, to summarise, staying smartly dressed whilst comfortable is the only thing men need to consider.
On the other hand, women are expected to respect the cultural norms of the country unless they’re going to the clubs in the Gueliz or Hivenage part of Marrakech.
It’s acceptable to dress more provocatively if you’re having a night out there.
You can still look and feel good in appropriate clothing.
It’s about choosing nice accessories to elevate your outfit.
Marrakech has no shortage of beautiful jewellery and handbags.
Regarding footwear, there is a lot of walking around the medina, so comfortable footwear is certainly essential.
Trainers, pumps, or sandals are all acceptable.
A little tip I found useful is to take a couple of outfits in my travel bag, and once I arrived, I bought the rest of my clothing in the souks.
It wasn’t too expensive, and I felt as if I blended in with the locals better.
I enjoyed wearing the traditional Moroccan dresses, kaftans, and djellabas.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Finally, I have never needed to take a warm coat to Marrakech.
Depending on the season and whether you plan a trip into the Atlas mountains or not, a lightweight weatherproof jacket is enough
I usually take a shawl or cardigan, and it’s always been sufficient for cooler evenings.
Winter in Marrakech is better suited to layers.
A trip to Agafay desert can get very blustery whilst watching the sunset in the open air.
A thin thermal skin worn underneath a long dress or trousers is usually enough to protect from the drop in temperature.
I wore long sleeved tee-shirts underneath my dresses during the evenings.
A comfortable hoodie can also be useful.
Keeping your eyes on the weather forecast before travelling will also help you to plan accordingly for your trip.
So, to summarise,
Wearing comfortable clothing suitable for a day exploring the medina and tourist hot spots is the most important thing to consider.
You will walk a lot, and it can get humid.
To discourage unwanted attention and negative vibes from the locals, female travellers should refrain from dressing too provocatively.
Unless they’re in the bars and clubs, which are more liberally minded.
Choosing natural fibres is the best way to stay cool, and long, loose-fitting garments are ideal because they look modest and feminine.
Lastly, don’t forget to bring the sunscreen.
You don’t want to walk around looking like a lobster.
There is everything that you could possibly dream of buying in the wonderful souks of Marrakech.
As you meander through the maze of colourful alleyways, be prepared for a complete assault on the senses.
From beautiful jewellery to exotic spices, leather shoes and bags, to Morroccan lamps and ceramics.
It’s all here crammed into narrow alleyways and calling out to be bought and taken back home with you.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The skilled craftsmanship is astonishing, and you can find areas dedicated to making and selling different things.
There is a separate place for leather goods, a place where metal workers make beautiful Moroccan lamps and metal sculptures.
An area where wooden things are handmade and rug weaving is demonstrated.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
It’s a lovely experience watching the locals make their goods to sell, and there is also the opportunity to have a go at making things yourself, such as a pair of babouche shoes.
Berber rugs hang proudly around the medina. Each colour and pattern is a feast for the eyes.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Argan oil and morroccan black soap, orange blossom oil, and gardenia float on the gentle breeze.
The smell is so fragrant in the souks.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Wooden boxes ornately decorated with mother of pearl, chess sets, and traditional toys tempt you for the perfect souvenir to take back for your family and friends.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The soft furnishings such as cushion covers made from cactus silk are eye-catching and colourful.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Then there’s the nuts, sweets, and pastries for sale.
Moroccan sweets are a delicacy, and you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The medicinal herbs and spices are a cacophony of colours and fragrances.
Fresh olives with a hint of spice pop with colour.
Paintings and prints of traditional Morroccan doors, Amazigh people and camels crossing the Sahara desert.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
For people who love to shop until they drop like I do, Marrakech is an absolute delight.
It’s not all fun and laughs, though.
The souks are incredibly busy with tourists.
You also have to dodge motorcycles, donkeys, and vendors with carts.
You can expect to get lost, but that’s all part of the experience.
No one went into the souks and was never heard from again…
So, fully immerse yourself in the experience and enjoy every minute.
It’s unforgettable.
It will invoke the spirit of camel caravans and ancient trade routes from centuries ago in you.
A way to fully delve into the wonderful culture of Marrakech.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Here are a few helpful tips to help you enjoy the souks.
First of all, pace yourself.
The souks are very busy and can feel slightly chaotic at times, especially in the heat.
Stop for a drink and rehydrate.
Rest for a while, and try a spot of lunch on a rooftop cafe. 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.
Stay vigilant, and keep your wits about you.
Marrakech is a safe city, but pick pocketing can happen just like anywhere else in the world.
In crowded, narrow streets, keep your possessions safe in a closed bag at the front of your body.
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 usually more than happy to help you.
Don’t be tempted to accept directions from locals who may lead you to a friend or family members’ shop so that they can get commission if you buy something.
You may struggle to get away, and you may find yourself seated and drinking mint tea before you know it.
Take time to shop around and walk away if you don’t think you’re being offered a fair price.
You will usually find yourself being called back, and a realistic price can often be reached.
If not, the same items will most likely be found on sale elsewhere in the souks.
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.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Although the souks can often feel overwhelming, they are an unforgettable shopping experience.
You will be dazzled by the number of weird and wonderful items on display.
The sights, sounds, and smells will stay with you a long time after you leave this fascinating city.
Sounds Of The Souks 