Insider’s Guide to Marrakech Morocco

For many travelers, the ancient, bustling city of Marrakech (Marrakesh) is the first stop on a journey through Morocco and a “must see” destination. Marrakesh is a metropolitan oasis pieced together with ancients souks combined with an endless array of shops, cafes, and museum. Even the scooters and motorcycles weaving past pedestrians and donkeys is a sight to behold. Unlike much of the rest of the country, tourism is nothing new in Morocco (or in Marrakech for that matter). For centuries, Moroccans, foreigners and traders from around the world have been coming here for business, pleasure and a taste of the exotic.

Like most cities in Morocco, Marrakech is divided into two parts: the ancient medina (“old city”) and the new city (“ville nouvelle” – often referred to as “Gueliz” after the name of one of the more popular neighborhoods). In the last few decades, the city has become a tourist hotspot and a top destination for many Europeans; many who have purchased vacation and retirement homes here. Even the famous designer Yves Saint-Laurent spent the latter half of his life in Marrakech. And, recently, former French President Nicolas Sarkozy purchased a home here. In Marrakech, expats wander alongside the locals through the medina streets of the famed “Red City.”

The storyteller of Marrakech

Storytelling in Marrakech is a practice with ancient roots, thought to date back to the 11th Century. But has it been superseded by modern life? The Cafe de France in Marrakech is something of an institution. It is the oldest and most famous of the slightly louche establishments that surround the main square, the Jemaa el Fna. Dating back to the days of the French protectorate, it sometimes feels as if its decor and staff haven't changed since then either. 

Casino de Marrakech

Opened in 1952 with a full revue show imported from Paris, the Casino has seen the likes of Josephine Baker grace its stage. It now features 14 gaming tables and a cabaret show. Casino de Marrakech has become a legendary stop for international travellers and local players.

Marrakech or Marrakesh? Riad, Ryad, Riyad or Riyadh?

Marrakech or Marrakesh? Riad, Ryad, Riyad or Riyadh?The city is spelled “Marrakech” in French and commonly use by foreigners except English thats will say ‘Marrakesh’ and Germans say “Marrakesch”. 

Marrakech Quad Tours

There are many places where you can go quad biking starting from 1 hour to a full day however don’t expect the desert in Marrakech. The best you can hope for is rough terrain, river and scenic berber villages however if you willing to travel 600 Km in the direction to Merzouga South of Marrakech you will find a true desert.

Let’s stay in Marrakech!!! – Even not the same there’s a fantastic quad bike track in the Palmeraie, 15 mins by taxi from the medina. It’s run by Nomade Quad. They organizes hiking tours, camel raids and Quad biking.

Nikki Beach – Marrakech

Set in the heart of the Palmeraie, Nikki Beach is a charming oasis with a relaxed and sophisticated ambience. It’s a place of excellence in the “Red City” where you can spend quality time in a convivial glamorous atmosphere.

Make friends while tanning under the pleasant sun surrounded exotic perfumes and beautiful palm trees.

Marrakech Kenzi Oasis Hotel

Kenzi Club Oasis
Commune Rurale Ouahat – Sidi Brahim, 40000 Marrakech

This hotel is located in a palm plantation set in lush tropical gardens with fountains is the inviting location for the Kenzi Club Oasis Hotel, 12 Km to the North of Marrakech, Morocco. 

This attractive and distinctive hotel is a house of Moorish style, offers a variety of activities for leisure and fun. Offering an All Inclusive package, the hotel offers a good mix of relaxation and action.

Marrakech Restaurants

At lunchtime, you have many choices in Marrakech. You can eat at local restaurants, frequented by locals, which we recommend, or you can eat at restaurants that are more “touristy”, where they make pizzas, pasta and other basics. For a Morrocan atmosphere go to eat among the bustle and  noise of the Jemaa el Fna, where there are several bars and cafes that offer  delicious cheap meals.

Local Restaurants

My advice is to go to one of the local restaurants at least once, because it is a good way to discover the essence of the Moroccan food and to  know what, and how, people eat in Marrakech.

Pacha Marrakech

Pacha established as the worlds first superclub, originally opening it’s doors in Barcelona in 1966, before moving to Ibiza in 73 where it gained international notoriety. As the house explosion took the world by storm, Pacha Ibiza was caught up in the middle – inspiring clubbers year after year from every corner of the globe.
By the late 90s things started to expand at a phenomenal rate, sister venues opened with Pacha London, Pacha Portugal, Barcelona, Munich and Hamburg to name but a few…
The new ideal setting for Pacha since 2005 is Marrakech – for more information, please visit their website below.
http://www.pachamarrakech.com/
 

Cheap Hotels in Marrakech

The price of some Marrakech hotels can break nearly any budget, however Marrakech still has many clean hotels with a variety of amenities, and friendly service, still under £30 per night in the low season. As all budget hotels are often fully booked, especially during the summer, before Christmas and spring, our advice would be to make your reservations in good time before your trip.

This list of cheap Marrakech hotels offers visitors an alternative to some high prices that you may come across when looking for accommodation.