Marrakech
📍 Location of Marrakech
City History
Marrakech was founded in 1062 by the Almoravids. It quickly became a political and commercial capital. In the 13th century, the Almohads built the Koutoubia. The city experienced its golden age under the Saadians (16th century), who built the Saadian Tombs and El Badi Palace. In the 19th century, it attracted Orientalist painters. Today, it is Morocco's top tourist destination.
Historical monuments not to be missed
- Koutoubia Mosque (77m minaret)
- Jemaa el-Fna square (UNESCO)
- Majorelle Gardens
- Bahia Palace
- Saadian Tombs
- El Badi Palace
- Medina and souks
Climate and weather
Semi-arid climate. Hot summers (38°C), mild winters (18°C). Rare rainfall. Best period: March-May and September-October.
Practical information
How to get there: train (ONCF) from Casablanca (3h), bus (CTM), plane (RAK airport). Getting around: petit taxis (red), buses, horse carriages. Average budget: 50-100€/day (accommodation, meals, visits).
Cultural events
- Marrakech International Film Festival (Nov/Dec)
- Sacred Music Festival (April)
- Marrakech du Rire (June)
- Popular Arts Festival (July)
Recommended excursions from this city
Ouzoud Waterfalls
Located 150 km northeast of Marrakech, Ouzoud Waterfalls are the highest in Morocco (110 m). Departure at 8am, drive through the Tassaout plain. Arrival around 10:30am, walk down to the falls, boat ride, monkeys. Lunch by the water. Return around 5pm. Price: 50€. Includes: transport, guide, lunch.
High Atlas Trek – Toubkal Ascent
3 to 5-day trek to reach North Africa's highest peak (4167 m). Departure from Imlil. Day 1: hike to the refuge (3207 m). Day 2: summit ascent. Day 3: descent. Price: 250€. Includes: guide, refuge, meals.
Quad & Camel Ride in Agafay Desert
Half-day trip 30 min from Marrakech. Departure at 9am. Quad bike (2h), then camel ride (1h), Bedouin dinner. Price: 90€.
Hot Air Balloon over Marrakech
Fly over the palm grove and the Atlas. Departure 5:30am. 1-hour flight, breakfast, certificate. Price: 220€.
🏨 Accommodation
- Pickalbatros Golf Hotel – Rating: 4.4/5
🍽️ Restaurants
- Nouba – Rating: 4.7/5
🚗 Car rental
- Hertz Marrakech – Rating: 8.5/10