"Marrakech - مراكش" Marrakesh by MM212

Marrakesh Travel Guide: 2,159 reviews and 5,867 photos

Strategically situated at the converging point of caravan routes, Marrakech has been been an important merchant town since its founding. It is the meeting point of the dominantly Berber south and the mostly Arab north, with a French colonial overlay, which together provide the city with a unique mix of cultures. The majestic Atlas Mountains nearby not only offer a scenic backdrop, but also naturally irrigate the plains around Marrakech, thus bestowing the land with a lush oasis and the great contrast to the Sahara behind the mountains.

For sometime now, Marrakech has captured the imagination of many with its unusual sounds, vivid colours, spicy scents and intriguing people. The Pink City, as it is known for its pink architecture, is one of the most animated, colourful and exotic destinations in this world, where turning every corner brings a new experience. La Médina, the old half of the city, is stuck in time and still functions as it has for centuries. Its souk, the largest in Morocco, offers an unforgettable experience with its fascinating merchandise, covered alleys, and aggressive sellers. Over the high walls of the Médina, beyond imposing doors, and away from the frenzy of its narrow streets, exists the other world of riads, the old palaces now converted into private residences, charming hotels or exquisite restaurants. For an even greater contrast, yet another world exists in the second half of Marrakech. Known as Le Guéliz or Ville Nouvelle, the new city was built by the French during the colonial period. It is as modern as many European towns and has many of the city's bars and restaurants, as well as some of its famous gardens.

Marrakech & The Atlas From The Air

Beyond the city, the Atlas Mountains and la Palmeraie oasis both offer many outdoor experiences and breathtaking scenery. If you are staying more than three days in Marrakech, then a trip outside the city is highly recommended.

I spent 4 days in Marrakech at the end of November/early December 2006, which were sufficient to see the major sites in the city, plus a daytrip into Vallée d'Ourika in the Atlas Mountains. Another day or two would have been better for some hiking or a trip to the Atlantic Ocean.

Pros and Cons

Pros:There is nothing like it on Earth
Cons:Pushy sellers everywhere!
In a nutshell:The most exotic and colourful destination!

Last visit to Marrakesh: Dec 2006
Intro Updated Nov 15, 2010
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Reviews (30)

Good-Luck Storks Local Customs (3)

One of the more interesting sights in Marrakech is the number of Storks around the city. They are particularly... more travel advice

Mosquée Quessabine at Djemaa el Fna - Marrakesh

Mosques & Call To Prayer Local Customs (3)

Marrakech is a predominantly Moslem city with mosques in every neighbourhood. In addition to the large and historic... more travel advice

Snow-Covered Atlas Mountains - Marrakesh

Oukaïmeden Ski Resort Sports & Outdoors (1)

Oukaïmeden is a ski resort in the Atlas Mountains. It is located about an hour south of Marrakech off the road through... more travel advice

Vallée d'Ourika Off The Beaten Path (2)

Vallée d'Ourika is a narrow valley that cuts through the Atlas Mountains. Like most of the land south of Marrakech, it... more travel advice

Things to Do (19)
See All Les Jardins Majorelle
Favorites (3)
See All Morrocan Dirhams

Travelogues (5)

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Comments (12)

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Tijavi Sep 19, 2008 at 2:35 AM

Great stuff Momo. Maroc looks more likely as I'm planning to take a shorter break in Nov. Grrrr....
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call_me_rhia Jan 7, 2008 at 4:14 AM

we were headed to catanzaro on our last night... just to walk by another restaurant called portofino which caught our fancy (and saved us from the pouring rain). catanzaro: next time, I guess
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marcbrazil Nov 18, 2007 at 5:44 AM

Marrakesh...I would love to get lost in these ancient old and narrow streets!! So many colors and sounds, I would love to experience Maroc one day!
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JessH May 22, 2007 at 4:35 AM

Hello! Gorgeous page here with really interesting insights and information. Marrakesh is a place to be visited at least once, that's for sure! Greetings from Dubai :-) Jess
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sue_stone Feb 23, 2007 at 1:01 AM

LOL - that cat MUST have a sore neck by now!!
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mvtouring Feb 14, 2007 at 2:10 AM

Fantastic page, brought back fond memories ;-)
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barryg23 Jan 3, 2007 at 2:11 PM

Excellent page on Marrakech. I must visit the Hideous Kinky fondouk when I go back as I've just seen the movie recently.
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KiKitC Dec 13, 2006 at 3:57 AM

Enjoyed the tour...beautiful photos and great tips! Hope your birthday is magical!
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rubbersoul75 Dec 12, 2006 at 2:11 AM

Glad you snapped quickly in the Koutoubia Mosque, and thanks for sharing the results. Good work on this page, enjoyed reading. I've a peaked interest in Marrakesh as my friend (Mo also) has just returned and shared stories. Buon compleanno presto!
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norain Dec 11, 2006 at 7:24 PM

wow wow!!! very nice page of Morocco.