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Things to Do in Marrakesh

Things to Do in Marrakesh

Marrakesh Marrakesh-safi, Morocco Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

The natural views surrounding Marrakech offer exciting opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Hiking & Trekking Routes

Atlas Mountains Hikes

Numerous routes from easy day hikes in Ourika Valley (Setti Fatma) to multi-day treks ascending Jebel Toubkal (North Africa's highest peak).

Difficulty Levels

Options include easy (Ourika, short village walks), moderate (around Imlil), and strenuous (Toubkal ascent, requires a guide).

Guided Treks

For protection and navigation, engaging a local guide is highly recommended for mountain treks.

Adventure Sports & Activities

  • Quad Biking/Buggy Rides: Experience in Agafay Desert or Palm Grove. Book here.
  • Hot Air Ballooning: Sunrise flights over the Palm Grove for aerial views. Find flights.
  • Camel Rides: Available in the Palm Grove or as part of desert excursions.
  • Cycling/Mountain Biking: Palm Grove for cycling, Atlas Mountains for mountain biking tours.

Water Sports

  • Direct water sports are limited in Marrakech.
  • Some resorts feature elaborate pool complexes.
  • Oasiria Water Park offers aquatic fun.
  • Day trips to Ouzoud Falls for natural designated swimming spots.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Marrakech city does not offer direct wildlife encounters.
  • This thing to do forms part of desert excursions.
  • Look for specific bird-watching tours in certain regions.
  • Avoid attractions involving chained animals.

Cycling & Biking

  • Palm Grove: This area is relatively flat, good for cycling.
  • Atlas Mountains: Mountain biking tours available.
  • Trails range from easy to challenging descents.
  • Rentals and guided tours are offered locally.

Safety Advisory for Outdoor Activities

Always ensure you book outdoor adventures with reputable, licensed operators. Verify safety equipment standards and guide qualifications. Inform someone of your itinerary for longer treks. Stay hydrated.

Cultural Immersion

Deepen your understanding of Moroccan culture through interactive workshops and classic shows.

Workshops & Classes

  • Cooking Classes: Popular, often include market visits. Find options.
  • Artisan Workshops: Explore pottery, leather, metalwork in the souks.
  • Language Lessons: Learn Moroccan Arabic (Darija) from local tutors.
  • Calligraphy Workshops: Practice traditional Arabic script.

Cultural Performances

Jemaa el-Fna Square

Experience storytellers, musicians (Gnawa, Berber), and acrobats.

Fantasia Show Chez Ali

A dinner show with horsemen, belly dancers, and traditional music.

Traditional Music

Find live Gnawa or Berber music performances in some riads and restaurants.

Community Tourism

Opportunities exist in the Atlas Mountains, like staying in guesthouses in Berber villages or supporting local cooperatives.

Language Learning

Private tutors or language schools offer Darija (Moroccan Arabic) or standard Arabic classes for complete absorption.

Cultural Festivals

Marrakech Popular Arts Festival (biannual) and the International Film Festival of Marrakech (annual) feature local and international talent.

Relaxation & Wellness

Unwind and rejuvenate with Marrakech's traditional wellness practices along with current spas.

Spa & Wellness Center Recommendations

  • Hammam: Experience a traditional Moroccan public bath for cleansing and relaxation.
  • Luxury Spas: Many high-end hotels and vacation spots offer full spa services.
  • Treatments: Include massages, facials, and argan oil treatments.
  • Local Hammams: Offer an authentic experience.

Hot Springs & Natural Therapy

Hot Springs

Marrakech does not have hot springs directly within its vicinity. Some are found in more remote Atlas Mountain locations, requiring travel.

Traditional Healing

Herbalists in the souks provide traditional remedies and natural products.

Yoga & Meditation

Several riads and wellness centers offer yoga classes or retreats, sometimes combined with other activities.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Luxury Hotel Pools

Many luxury hotels feature large, expansive pools with lounge areas and service.

External Pool Clubs

Some external pool clubs offer day passes, like Nikki Beach or The Source.

Aquatic Parks

Oasiria Water Park outside the city provides a family-friendly aquatic escape.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Marrakech offers varied nightlife, from traditional performances to modern clubs.

Live Music Venues

  • Jazz Clubs: Some venues in Gueliz offer live jazz performances.
  • Traditional Moroccan Music: Many restaurants and riads feature live Gnawa or Berber music.
  • Comptoir Darna: Known for its restaurant, bar, and nightly belly dancing or Gnawa shows.
  • Jemaa el-Fna: Continues with a soundtrackians and performers until late evening.

Theater & Performance Spaces

Théâtre Royal

Hosts plays, concerts, and various cultural events throughout the year.

Dar Attaqa

A cultural center that sometimes hosts traditional music and dance performances.

Other Venues

Check local listings for smaller venues and pop-up events offering diverse entertainment.

Nightclubs & Dancing

Mainly located in Gueliz and Hivernage. Popular options include Pacha Marrakech, Theatro, and 555 Famous Club.

Bar Districts

The Gueliz and Hivernage districts feature a concentration of bars and waiting areas offering varied atmospheres.

Late-Night Options

Jemaa el-Fna remains lively with food stalls and performers until late. Nightclubs typically open late and close in the early morning.

Entertainment Tips

Safety Measures
  • Always use licensed taxis or pre-arranged transport for late-night travel.
  • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas and nightclubs.
  • Travel in groups if you can, especially in the evening.
Cultural Respect
  • While modern, some venues expect smart casual dress.
  • Consumption of alcohol is limited to licensed establishments.
  • Maintain a respectful demeanor, especially if interacting with locals.

Important Notes for Nightlife

Alcohol is not consumed widely by locals, but it is available in many tourist-oriented restaurants and hotels. Be aware that most nightclubs and taverns are concentrated in the new city (Gueliz and Hivernage).

Shopping & Markets

Marrakech is a shopper's paradise, offering everything from traditional crafts to modern boutiques.

Traditional Markets & Bazaars

  • Souks of Marrakech: Vast, labyrinthine network north of Jemaa el-Fna.
  • Specialties: Spices, leather, textiles, metalwork, ceramics, slippers, more.
  • Jemaa el-Fna: Daytime market for goods, food market at night.
  • Bab El Khemis: Weekly flea and againstque market taking place on Thursdays.

Artisan Workshops & Crafts

On-Site Work:

Find workshops throughout the souks where artisans work on-site, showing their skills.

Craftsmanship:

Observe metalworkers at Place des Ferblantiers and dyers in the dyers' souk.

Argan Oil:

Many shops sell argan oil products, often sourced from women's cooperatives.

Souvenir Recommendations

  • Items made of leather (babouches/slippers, bags)
  • Textiles (rugs, scarves, kaftans)
  • Pottery, ceramics, spices
  • Argan oil, traditional jewelry, lanterns

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

  • Gueliz: Offers modern boutiques and international brands.
  • High-end riads and hotels: Feature their own exclusive boutiques.
  • Designers: Explore local designers creating modern Moroccan fashion.
  • Art Galleries: Find unique art pieces for home decor.

Ethical Shopping Guidelines

  • Bargain respectfully.
  • Buy directly from artisans when possible.
  • Be wary of animal products (e.g., snake charmers' animals).
  • Support women's cooperatives for argan oil.

Shipping & Customs Information

International Shipping
  • Most larger shops can arrange international shipping for goods.
  • Keep all receipts and shipping documentation for customs.
  • Confirm shipping costs and delivery times beforehand.
Customs Regulations
  • Be aware of your home country''s import rules for imported goods.
  • Limits apply to textiles, spices, or certain items of animal origin.
  • Consult your country's customs website before purchasing large items.

Bargaining Tip

Bargaining is a common practice in Moroccan souks. Approach it with good humor and respect. Start with about half the asking price and negotiate towards a mutually agreeable amount. Never begin bargaining if you do not intend to purchase.

Activity Planning Summary

Must-Do Experiences

  • Explore the food stalls of Jemaa el-Fna once the sun has set.
  • Join a traditional Moroccan cooking class.
  • Take a hot air balloon ride over the Palm Grove at sunrise.
  • Immerse yourself in the bustling souks for unique souvenirs.

Traveler's Checklist

  • Ensure your passport and visa are in order.
  • Carry local currency (Moroccan Dirham) for markets and small purchases.
  • Pack comfortable walking shoes and modest attire.
  • Bring a camera to capture the colors and landscapes.