3 perfect days in Marrakech

Three days in Marrakech is the perfect amount of time to see all this African city has to offer without being overwhelmed. It can be an intense place with its vibrant colors, its exotic smells and, of course, its persistent touts (or sales people). Many tours of Morocco start and end in Marrakech and it’s best to have a few days before or after a tour to see this one of a kind city.

Day 1: Explore the souks of Marrakech

The busy souks of Marrakech – Photo by Author

Life in Marrakech centers around the souks, or markets, and so should your first day in the city. Wander the endless alleyways filled with everything from food to fine leather goods for sale. By the end of the day, if you don’t get completely lost, you are doing it wrong. The souks are a great place to get a sense of Moroccan culture and an amazing way to spend a day. However, the markets can be intense and overwhelming for a first time visitor.

A few tips to make your visit to the souks most enjoyable. First, avoid the snake charmers and the money handlers. The way they treat their animals is generally not something that should be supported and they are among themost aggressive touts in the market. Don’t try and sneak a photo when you think they aren’t looking. They have people watching and you’ll have several people in your face demanding money in a matter of seconds. Secondly, work on your bartering skills. All prices in the market are negotiable and it’s expected that you barter for just about everything in the souks. Start at half of their initial price and work from there, be firm and it’s ok to walk away if they don’t come down to a price that makes you happy.

Nighttime at the Jemma el-Fna Market – Photo by Author

After an intense day exploring the souks of Marrakech head to Le Grand Balcon du Cafe Glacier for a cup of mint tea and a great view. This cafe and a few others around the square are set on a rooftop overlooking the busy market. From here, watch the hundreds of food carts set up for the evening service. Grab another cup of tea and wait for the sun to set and the sky to darken as the lights of the market come on. As busy as the market is during the day, at night is when it truly feels alive.

Day 2: See all that Marrakech has to offer

The beautiful architecture and detailed tile work of Bahia Palace – Photo by Author

On day two in Marrakech, trade the chaos of the souks for some history within the old city walls. Make your way to the Bahia Palace early in the morning to get a head start on the other tourists. Walk around the beautiful gardens and admire the traditional Moroccan architecture. Don’t miss the intricate tile work that seems to cover every surface in the palace with bright greens, blues, whites and yellows.

Koutoubia Mosque near the main market in Marrakech – Photo by Author

Continue your tour of the history and architecture in Marrakech with a visit to the Koutoubia Mosque, located right on the edge of the Jemaa el-Fna market and notice its minaret standing tall amongst the palm trees. This large minaret serves as the call to prayer for many of the market workers and patrons when it makes its call five times daily. Originally built in the 12th century, the mosque has been damaged and rebuilt several times over the centuries.

The next stop is outside the medina (or quarter), but first make time for a quick lunch break with a local specialty you will find only in Morocco. If you dare, you can find a shop selling a pita stuffed with small pieces of camel kebab that Moroccans call a camel burger.

The Tanneries of Marrakech – Photo by Author

Just outside the old city walls of the medina you’ll find another famously colorful place, the Marrakech Tanneries. Although smaller and less renowned than the tanneries in Fez, the Marrakech Tanneries are still worth a visit. However, be prepared for the smells and sights inside. As colorful as they are, the smell is just as potent but less pleasant. The process is fascinating that it’s all still done by hand including dyeing the hides a rainbow of colors.

Day 3: Explore further and relax

Hot air balloon over the Atlas Mountains – Photo by Author

Escape the city and wake up early on your final day in Marrakech to jump aboard a hot air balloon in the foothills of the Atlas mountains. If you can stand an early wake-up call while on vacation the views from the hot air balloon are nothing short of amazing. Glide along in silence across the desert with views of the High Atlas Mountains.

Another activity that seems almost obligatory while in Marrakech is to take a camel ride. On the outskirts of town, you can ride through stretches of desert on with your legs wrapped around a camel’s hump. Hold on tight as the camel lunges forward and back to both start and finish theride through the desert.

The last stop on atour of Marrakech is a visit to a traditional hammer bath where you can scrub off an intense couple of days in the city. This ancient tradition involves a rigorous scrub followed by a therapeutic massage in the confines of a warm steam room. If you can let go of your reservations, it can be a great way to finish a trip to Marrakech.

Tagged: Africa, Uncategorized