Marrakech

From Halal Explorer

Marrakesh banner.jpg Djemaa el Fna, evening - Djemaa el Fna in the evening

Marrakech (Arabic: مراكش, Berber: ⴰⵎⵓⵔⴰⴽⵓⵛ), also spelt Marrakesh, is one of the imperial cities of Morocco.

Marrakech Halal Explorer

The name Marrakech originates from the Amazigh (Berber) words mur (n) wakush, which means "Land of God". It is the third largest city in Morocco after Casablanca and Rabat, and lies near the foothills of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains and a few hours away from the foot of the Sahara Desert. Its location and contrasting landscape has made it an enviable destination in Morocco.

The city is divided into two parts: the Medina and the historical city, and the new European modern neighborhood called Gueliz or Ville Nouvelle. The Medina is full of intertwining narrow passageways and local shops full of character; it also contains the large square Djemaa el Fna, where many hotels are located and tourists, local residents and vendors congregate. In contrast, Gueliz plays host to modern restaurants, fast food chains and big brand stores.

Marrakech is the main tourist destination in Morocco and thus it is also a place where many Moroccans try to become rich fast by ripping off tourists. This mentality is so widespread that even Moroccans are now ripped off whenever feasible so that they call the city "Marrakech, Arnakech" - which rhymes in Arabic and translates to "Marrakech, Mafia". See the Marrakech#Scams|Scam section for more information.

For further information, you may also visit the

  • Marrakech Marrakech Tourism Board - 31.6355556, -8.01416666 at a small square at the intersection of Avenue Mohammed V and Rue de Yugoslavie

Travel as a Muslim to Marrakech

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Marrakech

  • Marrakech-Menara Airport IATA Flight Code: RAK 31.60113, -8.02670 ☎ +212 4444 7910 Marrakesh Menara Airport Airportmarrakech The airport has two terminals housed in one complex. Both terminals have money exchange offices, and there is an ATM in the arrivals hall of Terminal 2. On ATMs, check for the Maestro, Cirrus or Plus logos to be sure that the machine accepts foreign credit cards. Beware as some of the ATMs work only in French. If your card is taken at the ATM, tell airport security and they can help you get it back. There are no potable water dispensers after the security check and the small shops only see overpriced 0.5L water bottles. However the tap water from the WC tastes slightly of chlorine and is drinkable for tourists.

    For some airlines (e.g. Ryanair in 2023) can only use the smartphone or mobile app for check-in but have to arrive at the airport with a print-out of your ticket. You also need to queue at the check-in counter before entering the security check (even if you do not have drop-off luggage), to get your tickets stamped by the airline, so better arrive earlier than usual.

Marrakech has an international airport with direct scheduled Flights from many major European centres, including flights operated by a number of low cost Airlines. Connections via Casablanca (45-min flight) are also feasible.

Getting there

The airport is about 9 kilometers south-west of the downtown (Medina), and 6.6 kilometers from the Djemaa el Fna square.

The No 19 Airport express bus is 30 dirham for a single trip or 50 dirham for round trip (if the return trip is within 2 weeks of purchase). It serves all the major hotels and is a great way to go from the airport to the hotels. You can easily find its departure stop, to the left of the road immediately outside of the Arrivals Hall at Terminal 2, after the taxis. The bus leaves the airport every half an hour between 07:00 and 21:30. The bus has no particular stops except Jeema El Fna and can stop anywhere on the route. The driver has a small map to hand out and you can tell the driver your hotel you are heading to.

You can also catch No 11 city bus which runs from M'Hamid neighborhood to the long distance bus station at Bab Doukkala, stopping also at Jeema El Fna. It stops on Avenue Gnassa - primary street near airport, 500 m from terminal. This is an option only for people without large, heavy luggage, but it is the cheapest one - the bus costs 3.50 dirham.

The airport is about a 10-15 min ride by petit taxi from the downtown. Prices directly from the airport are fixed, insanely inflated and displayed prominently just outside the airport (just like at every airport in Morocco). Walking the 200 m across the parking lot to the road and hailing a taxi there will get you a much, much better price (about 20 dirham compared to the official 200 dirham).

Many hotels and riads offer a shuttle service for about €15. The advantage is that you avoid the hassle, pay slightly less than the official rate and they will lead you all the way to you lodging, even if the vehicle cannot drive there. However, you might have to wait a while for all your fellow passengers to get out of the airport.

Several international renting a car|rental vehicle companies are based at the airport as well.

If you do not have too much luggage then it is feasible to walk from the airport to the Medina even though it would take you from an hour and half to two hours. There is a footpath alongside the road all the way and the minaret of the Koutoubia mosque provides an excellent landmark to head towards. If you have enough time you can break the trip with a visit to the Menara gardens, which are between the airport and the city.

By Rail

Marrakesh Train Station (6858199801) - Marrakech train station

  • Train station Marrakesh Train Station (6858199801) - Avenue Hassan II 31.630507, -8.017482 Guéliz neighborhood ☎ +212 447768 - For train times and schedules, check out the Moroccan Railway website].

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Getting there: Some taxi drivers will offer their services in the train station or just in front of it. They usually don't use their meter and ask for at least 50 dirham to Djemaa el Fna. Ignore them and hail one on the primary street. The metered fair to Djemaa el Fna is about 12 dirham, if you want to avoid any discussions just offer 20 dirham upfront and take the first taxi that accepts this offer.

Trains from Casablanca (2nd class 84 dirham, 1st class 150 dirham, 3 hr), Rabat and Tangier connect with most domestic rail destinations in the nation, with Marrakech as the southernmost stop. Trains run regularly between Marrakech and Casablanca (including the International Airport). They arrive around every two hours and regularly from other destinations like Rabat. Every day there are 8 direct 7 hours trains to Fez via Casablanca Voyageurs station and another two direct connections to Tangier.

From Tangier it's about a 10-hr journey. You can travel either by day train or night train. During the daytime, you will need to change trains for a connection halfway through the journey creating a welcome break for about 30 min. The night trains which leaves for Marrakech from Tangier travels straight through to Marrakech without the need for a connection. The night trains do have sleeper cars on board, though you will need to pay extra for these if you want a bed (around 350 dirham). If you're planning to go affordable and take the night train on the regular seats in second class (and planning to sleep), you'll be interrupted by movement of passengers and a few times by the ticket conductors throughout the night. It's a great way to travel but don't plan on sleeping on the train, especially if you are travelling alone.

There is no train line further south than Marrakech in Morocco; if you want to head south, to the desert, Atlas Mountains, Agadir or Essaouira on the coast, you'll have to get a bus, rental vehicle or grand taxi.

Moroccan trains do not have restaurant cars. A snack trolley makes the rounds with sandwiches, soft drinks and Coffee, but bringing some food for the journey isn't a bad idea. Stops in Casablanca and Rabat usually are long enough to grab a bite in the station en route.

Travel on a Bus in Marrakech

There are many long distance bus companies operating within Morocco which serve Marrakech and other cities.

The recommended bus companies for Muslims are CTM], Pullman du sud and Supratours]. Other companies do exist, though these three companies are usually the safest options.

Most ALSA (local destination bus company) and private bus lines depart and arrive at the long distance bus station (gare routière) GPS 31.635669,-7.999205 near Bab Doukkala, a 20-min walk (15-20 dirham by petit taxi) from Djemaa El-Fna. Supratours and Eurolines buses operate from here. It's the place to take the buses from the small companies, that go directly to small destinations.

The long distance bus station, CTM and private bus companies travel to destinations such as Agadir, Safi, Casablanca, El Jadida, Essaouira, Fez, Meknes, Ouarzazate, Rabat, and Taroudant. Taxi agents will often gather in the bus station to convince you that a bus to your destination is 'full' and to steer you into a grand taxi, and will attempt to sell you goods as your taxi is prepared. This can be difficult if there is nobody manning the ticket desks, and the best option is to walk out of the station to the coaches - a ticket can usually be purchased from a conductor on board.

For trips to Meknes (6 hr, ~120 dirham), while seemingly shorter on the map and the mountain route via Beni Mellal takes at least 2 hours more than on the highway via Rabat and Casablanca​, going there by train (6½ hr, 174 dirham) is the most comfortable option, although buses might be slightly quicker.

CTM operates a bus station "Gare Voyageurs" GPS 31.626557,-8.020083 one block south from the Supratour station next to the train station. It's better to take the buses there, because you can buy the tickets in advance. Besides and the CTM's offices there are better and there's no people trying to push you to their bus company. The office and station on Zerktouni street does not exist anymore. CTM has also an office at the long distance bus station (see above) if you just want to buy your tickets in advance or check the schedule.

A taxi ride from the CTM station to the main square is, if metered, about 12 dirham. The taxis waiting in front of the station are operated by a gang of dishonest drivers who will charge up to 100 dirham. One can just ignore their pushy boss and loudly offer 20 dirham - usually someone will accept or walk 50 m up or down the road and hail in taxi.

How to get around in Marrakech

GPS 31.627|-7.999 align= }}

Once in the medina, everything can be seen on foot, though you'll be doing a lot of walking. Many tourist destinations are signposted by brown, red or green signs affixed to posts or to buildings. Bear in mind that many of these signs don't take the direct route, and some seem to deliberately send tourists via various markets or other places money may be spent.

Jemaaelfna-sign - The signs used on buildings

For exploring more of the city, buses and petits taxis are plentiful.

Travel on a Bus in Marrakech

Alsa run the city buses and have maps, fares and a frequency guide on their web page.

Almost all buses stop at Djemaa El-Fna (the bus stop for Djemaa El-Fna is called Terminus Arset El Bilk, and it is marked on Google Maps) and Place Youssef Ben Tachfine and fares range from 2–5 dirham depending on the distance. Important municipal bus lines are:

  • No 1 - Towards Gueliz
  • No 8 - Stops at the central train station, and bus station (Gare Routiere Voyageurs Marrakech)
  • No 10 - Stops at the long distance bus station
  • No 11 - Will drop you off at the gardens of Menara
  • No 18 - Outside of Airport to Djemaa el-Fna.
  • No 19 - Airport express to Djemaa el-Fna (one way 30 dirham/return for 50 dirham)

Bus No 19 leaves Djemaa el-Fna every half an hour, from 05:15 to 21:15. The trip to the airport takes about 25 minutes.

There is an open-topped City Sightseeing bus that will take you around the outskirts of the city, with commentary provided via headphones (supplied with your ticket) in any of 8 different languages. The best place to catch it is from the coach stops by Plaza de Foucauld. Tickets cost 145 dirham each and are valid for 24 hours from the time of issue, no matter how many times you get on or off. You can get a 48-hour ticket for very little extra and as there are two distinct tours, this can be a good deal. Check the timetable carefully, as the buses can stop running earlier than you might think.

By caleche

An alternative and romantic way to travel is by caleche, a small horse-drawn carriage. They can be hired at Plaza de Foucauld (the small park to the south of Djemaa El-Fna). It's wise to agree on a price before setting off. As a guide price, you should pay around 80 dirham per hour, per carriage.

Best way to travel in Marrakech by a Taxi

You should always ask to use the meter (compteur in French); otherwise, you are just contributing to a culture of ripping off people. However, in the vast majority of cases and the drivers will refuse to take you if you insist on using the meter. Even local residents often have troubles with drivers in Marrakesh, that's how it is. Even if you use the meter and the driver may try and charge extra for bags, or be lacking change in order to get a larger fare.

Your only option to completely avoid this is using the buses which serve most destinations of interest (see above). If you accept that you have to pay a small penalty fee for being a tourist, offer 50% more than the metered ride would cost upfront (see below).

For petit taxi and the maximum number of passengers is three (plus the driver), i.e. one fare applies to a single person, or a group two or three people.

  • The meter starts from 1.70 dirham before 20:00 and 2.40 dirham after 20:00; there's no need to negotiate the price. Basically they have to use the meter even if it is midnight.
  • The minimum charge is 7 dirham before 20:00 and after will be 10 dirham.
  • 20 dirham is a good price for a 10-minutes ride and if offered upfront will usually be accepted. If not, kindly refuse and simply take the next taxi.

For grand taxis (regular Mercedes taxis) there are no meters. Typically the set rate from Marrakech Airport to the Medina or Djemaa el Fna (Main square) is 150 dirham. There also appears to be no limit to the number of people they'll attempt to squeeze in! Outside of the airport if you are a group of more than three and the maximum for a petit taxi and then do negotiate you fee before you enter the grand taxi.

What to see in Marrakech

Koutoubia Mosque,Marrakech,Morocco - Koutoubia Mosque

There is much to see and do in Marrakech. An entire day can be dedicated to wandering around all the different souks, seeking out the best bargains. The city also offers several historical and architectural sites as well as some interesting museums. In late 2018 and the prices for most museums were raised from 10 dirham for foreigners to 70 dirham.

DarSiSaidWall2 - Wonderful detailed walls in the Dar Si Said Museum Sadiantombs2015 - Sadian Tombs MarrakechJewishCemetary - Yahudi cemetery in Marrakech

  • Djemaa El-Fna 31.62604, -7.98903 - Jemaa el-Fnaa MoroccoMarrakech DjemaaElFna. - The highlight of any Marrakech night. Musicians, dancers, and story tellers pack this square at the heart of the medina, filling it with a cacophony of drum beats and excited shouts. Scores of stalls sell a wide array of Moroccan fare (see the Eat section) and you will almost certainly be accosted by women wanting to give you a henna tattoo. Enjoy the various shows, but be prepared to give some dirham to watch. By day it is largely filled with snake charmers and people with monkeys, as well as some of the more common stalls.
  • The Souks - suuqs - 31.62710, -7.98727 - Markets of Marrakech, just adjacent to Place Djemaa El-Fna, are where you can buy almost anything, from spices to shoes, jellabas to kaftans, and tea pots to tagines. Undoubtedly, being a foreigner means you will end up paying higher prices than a local would, but be sure to bargain nonetheless. If you happen to run out of dirham, you will also find plenty of people in the souks who will eagerly exchange your dollars or euros (though a fair rate here is less likely than at an official exchange). All that said and the sellers here are much less aggressive than, say, Egypt, so have fun!

MarrakechMedinaMetal - Metal craft area

  • Koutoubia Mosque 31.6237, -7.9935 right besides Djemaa El-Fna - Koutoubia Mosque Koutoubia-marrakech Named after the booksellers market that used to be located here. It is said that the minaret of the Koutoubia mosque is to Marrakech as the Eiffel Tower is to Paris. The minaret is visible from Gueliz which is connected to the Medina by Avenue Mohammed V. At night and the mosque is beautifully lit. It was completed under the reign of the Berber Almohad Caliph Yaqub al-Mansur (1184 to 1199), and has inspired other buildings such as the Giralda of Seville and the Hassan Tower of Rabat. Non-Muslims are not allowed inside.
  • Tanneries 31.63367, -7.97862 - Visiting the tanneries can be an interesting experience. Even if some people tell you the area is only for local residents, it is feasible to visit the Tanneries without paying a youngster. After finding a tannery, ask one of the workers if you can visit it and take pictures
  • Saadian Tombs 31.617187, -7.988672 - 70 dirham Saadian Tombs Maroc Marrakech Saadiens Luc Viatour 1 The tombs were not discovered until the beginning of the 20th century. They have been preserved just like they were during the glory days of the Saadian rulers. Unlike the El Badi Palace and they were not destroyed, probably for superstitious reasons. The entrance was blocked so they remained untouched for hundreds of years. Inside you will find an overload of Zelij (Morrocan tiles) and some beautiful decoration. It does not take a lot of time to explore, but it is definitely worth the visit. While here, look for the tombs of Yahudi and Christians; they are noted by their different markings and direction of the tomb.

Jardin Majorelle - Majorelle Gardens

  • Majorelle Gardens - Jardin Majorelle - Rue Yves Saint Laurent 31.6415, -8.0029 In Gueliz ☎ +212 5 24 31 30 47 Opening Hours: October - Apr: 08:00-17:30, May-September: 08:00-18:00, Ramadan: 09:00-17:00 70 dirham, 30 dirham extra for the Berber Museum Majorelle Garden Le jardin des majorelle 16 It provides an excellent respite from the hustle and bustle of the city streets, if not crowded by tourists as it sometimes is. The park was designed by the artist Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s and 1930s. Since 1980 the garden has been owned by Yves Saint-Laurent and Pierre Bergé. It boasts a collection of plants from around the globe, including what seems like every cactus species on the planet. Get here early to avoid the crowds. Inside the gardens is also the Berber Museum, which shows a slightly bigger and more modern presentation than the Dar Si Saïd.
  • Yves Saint Laurent Museum | Rue Yves Street Laurent 31.6425, -8.0032 next door to Majorelle Gardens ☎ +212 5242-98686 Opening Hours: Thursday - Tuesday 10:00 - 18:00 100 dirham
  • Dar Si Saïd Museum 31.6234055, -7.9838624 on Rue Riad Zitoun Jdid, is a museum 5 mins away from Djemaa El-Fna. Opening Hours: 09:00–16:30 Locals: adults 10 dirham, children below 12 3 dirham; tourists: adults 70 dirham Museum set in an old palace with beautiful gardens. While somewhat run-down, it is worth seeing and houses many different artifacts from Morocco through the ages, such as wood carvings, musical instruments, and weapons. It is dedicated to the Moroccan craft industry of wood, gathering a very beautiful collection of popular art: carpets, clothing, pottery and ceramics. All these objects are regional, coming from Marrakech and all the south, especially from Tensift, High Atlas, Soussthe, Anti Atlas, Bani, and Tafilal.
  • Ben Youssef Madrasa - Closed for renovation until Jan 2020 - Kaat Benahid 31.63203, -7.98618 Opening Hours: 09:00-18:00, closed for religious holidays 40 dirham Ben Youssef Madrasa Medersa-Ben-Youssef-01 One of the largest madrassas in the North Africa. It is a school attached to the Ben Youssef Mosque and is home to beautiful art and architecture. Build ca 1570.

Marrakech medersa-ben-youssef - Ben Youssef Madrasa

  • El Bahia Palace - @ia.com 31.62089, -7.98414 Opening Hours: 08:00–17:00 Locals: adults 10 dirham, children below 12 3 dirham; tourists: adults 70 dirham Bahia Palace Bahia Palace Marrakech Back Courtyard LL An ornate and beautiful palace, build at the end of the 19th century for grand viziers of the sultan. Popular with guided tours and stray cats. The palace is well worth a visit and gives a great impression of what it must have been like to be a 19th-century nobleman in Morocco. There is a nice garden with banana flowers, tranquil courtyards, and other lovely plants.Attention must be given in finding the entrance. Google maps will bring tourists nowhere near the entrance. The entrance is located on Riad Zitoun el Jdid, at /maps/KMk1g6q6t7B2 31.62089,-7.98414]

}} MarrakechVizirHouseBahia - Courtyard in Bahia Palace, Marrakech

  • El Badi Palace - Ksibat Nhass 31.6187, -7.9853 Opening Hours: 08:30-11:45, 14:45-17:45 70 dirham admission to the palace, 10 dirham extra to see the old Kotoubia Mosque minbar El Badi Palace El Badi Palace Panorama 2 A palace in ruins and inhabited by storks and stray cats. There are some underground passageways to explore. The view from the terrace is majestic. The palace was built by Sultan Ahmed al Mansour to celebrate the victory of the Portuguese army in 1578 in the Battle of the three kings.
    This minbar dates back to the 12th century and on display in a single room with some explanations<. A minbar is a preaching chair.
    Also hosts the Marrakech Museum for Photography and Visual Arts (abbreviated MMP+), a small museum which however showcases great pieces of visual art. Entrance fee for this museum is included in the Palace entrance fee, it is open from 09:00-17:00.

El Baadi palace, Marrakech (2846741513) - El Badi Palace

  • The Menara gardens - 31.61302, -8.02146 west of the city in walking distance Opening Hours: 09:00-17:00 Free admission Menara gardens Jardins de la Ménara A mixture of orchards and olive groves surrounding the water reservoir with the central pavilion which is a popular sight on tourist postcards. Not a decorative garden, and now quite run down. The pavilion was built during the 16th-century Saadi dynasty, and renovated in 1869. It has a small cafe, but it is not open all hours. There are no toilets open when the cafe is closed.

Menara Garden,Morocco,Marrakech - Menara

  • Yahudi Cemetery Avenue Taoulat El Miara 31.62006, -7.98018 adjacent to the mellah, within the medina Opening Hours: Open til 17:00 10 dirham The largest Yahudi cemetery in Morocco, characterized by white-washed tombs and sandy graves. The men selling tickets are full of interesting information about the cemetery but you have to ask.
  • Slat Al Azama Synagogue 31.620167, -7.982385 Opening Hours: Open til 18:00 10 dirham Flag of Morocco.svg Synagogue which is not only a place of worship with a beautiful open courtyard, but also includes interesting displays about Judaism's varied history in Morocco, including photos of Yahudi in the Berber Mountains.
  • Marrakech Museum - 31.63158, -7.98633 ☎ +212 24 44 18 93 Opening Hours: 09:00-18:30 50 dirham Marrakech Museum Museo de Marrakech 06 It's housed in the Dar Menebhi Palace, constructed at the end of the 19th century.
  • Musée de la Palmeraie Dar Tounsi, Route de Fès 31.65054288, -7.94703841 in the south of the Palmeraie, it is quite off the main tourist paths, expect to travel at about an hour per direction; you must get a taxi or bus 17 towards Palmeraie (which does not run often); the route with the museum is off to the left side of the road and the crossroads just before the Atacadao supermarket; you have to head follow the road for about 500 m and there are also signs ☎ +212-661 09 53 52 Opening Hours: 09:00-18:00? 40 dirham In old agricultural buildings in the Palmeraie, made out of rammed earth. The architecture itself is interesting if you haven't seen it. It offers a small collection of contemporary art, with a room dedicated to Morrocan artists (also famous ones) and the international ones are rather not top-notch. The gardens are nicely made and are good place to relax in quit.
  • Musee Farid Belkahia Dar Tounsi, Route de Fès 31.6561111, -7.94805555 at the seat of the Fondation Farid Belkahia, which is off Route de Fès, Dar Tounsi, walking past Musée de la Palmeraie for further 500 m-1 kilometers Opening from Monday to Saturday A museum dedicated to the renowned contemporary artist Farid Belkahia, showcasing different periods of his work
  • Tiskiwin Museum - Derb El Bahia 8 31.6222731, -7.984071 between El Bahia and Museum Dar Si Said Opening Hours: 09:00-12:30 and 14:30-18:00 30 dirham About the people in the Sahara. Created by Dutchman Bert Flint.
  • Maison de la Photographie - 46, Rue souk Ahal Fès 31.63206, -7.98442 200 m behind Ben Youssef Medersa - Koranic School - 40 dirham A little photography museum, it has one of the highest roof terraces in the Medina.
  • Ali Ben Youssef Mosque 31.631925, -7.987161 - Ben Youssef Mosque The first mosque in Marrakesh was erected at this place by the Almoravid emir Yusuf ibn Tashfin in the 1070s. However, it was almost completely rebuilt in early 19th century by the Alaouite sultan Suleiman, with hardly any trace left of its original Amoravid or Almohad design. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter it.
  • Agdal Gardens 31.606111, -7.979722 - 70 dirham for foreign adults Agdal Gardens Marrakech, Agdal Gardens, 2007-08-01 retouched - It consists of groves of orange, lemon, fig, Apricots and pomegranate trees in rectangular plots, linked by olive-lined walkways. Together with the medina of Marrakech and the Menara Gardens and the Agdal Gardens were listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1985.

Day trips

  • Jbilets Geological Site - Explore the Berber village on a desert tour.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Marrakech

Lámparas, Djemaa el Fna -- 2014 -- Marrakech, Marruecos - Shop lamps at Djemaa El-Fna

  • Chez Ali Fantasia - La Palmeraie de Marrakech| Route de Casablanca 31.70305, -8.02099 10 kilometers north of Marrakech ☎ +212 5 24307730 €15 Horse show, acrobats on Arabian horses firing rifles in the air, horseback acrobatics, belly dancing, etc. It takes place at night in a huge imitation of an old castle.

The Medina

The historic neighborhood of the city.

The main square in the Medina is Djemaa El-Fna. It is surrounded by endless labyrinths of souks (bazaars) and alley ways covering all of the Medina. Djemma El-Fna is a must as there is always something to see there day and night whether it be snake charmers, acrobats, sooth-sayers,or the musicians and food stalls. At night the square really comes to life as people navigate toward the exotic aromas and the entertaining sights. As the evening darkens and the hustle & bustle of activity rages on. The exotic music appears louder and more hypnotic.

The Medina is also the place to stay in a Riad, a Moroccan house with an internal courtyard. Most windows are inward facing towards the central atrium. This design of property suits Islamic tradition as there is no obvious wealth statement being made externally, no windows to peer through. Entering a Riad is like discovering an Aladdin's Cave in comparison to its non-descript exterior. They are great places to stay and offer an intimate and relaxing retreat.

Directly south of the Djemaa El-Fna is Rue Bab Agnaou. A five-min walk takes you straight to the famous Bab Agnaou entrance to the Kasbah neighborhood of the Medina. The Bab Agnaou entrance, through the ramparts, is by far the most impressive entrance of all medina rampart entrances.

The Kasbah, in comparison to the Derbs (streets) surrounding the Djemaa El-Fna, portrays a calmer, less abrasive atmosphere. It is home to the Royal Palace, also the former El - Badi Palace and the Saadian Tombs. This naturally creates better security, cleaner streets and a hint of being a special place within the medina. The Kasbah has its own little bazaars (Souikas), food stalls, restaurants, hotels and riads for Muslim travellers to enjoy.

Hammams

Hammams are baths, often close to masjids to facilitate the performance of ablutions. In guidebooks and signs that call them "Moroccan Turkish Baths" the name "Turkish" is a misnomer, since Morocco (unlike Egypt or Syria) was never under Ottoman rule, but the historical role of the baths is authentic in Morocco.

  • Les Bains de Marrakech - 2 Derb Sedra, Bab Agnaou (same building as Riad Mehdi) 31.6172862, -7.9905097 inside Bab Agnaou ☎ +212 438 1428 Opening Hours: 09:00-19:30 170–1,400 dirham Tourists-oriented in good sense: couples can obtain hammam together in a superior Muslim friendly room. Extensive list of massages and spa treatments from 30 min to a full day. Reception and attendants are proficient in speaking English, however and the scrubbing and massage personnel speak only very basic vocabulary. You need to book two days in advance.
  • Hammam Dar el-Bacha - 20 Rue Fatima Zohra Opening Hours: men 12:00-13:00, women 13:00-21:00
  • Hammam Bab Doukkala - Rue Bab Doukkala southeast corner Bab Doukkala Mosque Opening Hours: women 07:00-19:00, men 20:00
  • (Thai) marrakech - Résidence Les Jasmins Apt N° 13 4ème étage Angle Av. Mohamed v et Rue Oum Errabia Guéliz ☎ +212 524 433 304 - Bann (Thai) institute is a beauty center based in the heart of Marrakech. His team is a graduate of the famous school of Wat Po in Bangkok. The center offers several (Thai) massage relaxation with a traditional Moroccan hammam natural products
  • Hamam Essalama (traditional Hamam) Rue Moulay Abdellah 31.6383, -8.0043 walking on Rue Moulay Abdellah, coming from Rue Bata or Rue Khalid Ben El Qualid, head towards Boulevard de Safi and the hamam is in the last block (just before Bvd Safi) at the near corner Opening Hours: till 17:00 12 dirham entrance, 50 dirham scrub Friendly staff, however, no English or French (other local residents helped without any problem)
  • Spa O'bain de lina for men (massage and hamam) - 84, avenue Hassan II Guéliz Res Faroukia n2 31.631942, -8.0102825 in the centre of Marrakech Gueliz, behind Café de la Poste near Hôtel Farouk ☎ +212 661939873 Opening Hours: Until 01:00 | Friendly staff, however, no English or French (other clients likely to help you out).

Desert trekking

Marrakesh is not in the desert: you will spend several hours to get to the desert and that day tours are therefore pretty stressful. If you have the time, spend at least one night in the desert or in a town close to your desert trekking destination. Beware of tours that don't include meals and water as they will drop you at 100 dirham restaurants far from any other option, because of this and the kickback from shops you will visit multi-day trips to Merzouga can cost as little as 600 dirham if you play agencies against each other.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Marrakech

Marrakesh spices - Spices at a Marrakech market.

Along with the major souk (Arabic for 'market') adjacent to the Djemaa El-Fna and there are a plethora of smaller souks throughout the city where any number of products can be had. In any of them, you generally need to bargain. Keep an eye out for a wide array of hand-crafted candle-holding lanterns, as well as spectacular displays of local spices.

Most shops sell the same handful of items. But if you wander a little off from El Fna, you can find small workshops with real craftsmen making handmade goods. You then get to talk to craftsmen that the item you bought. If you buy shoes or clothes that can also make alterations for you, and there a few places that make unique products that you will not see anywhere else.

Argan oil, produced only in Morocco, is used in Moroccan cooking and beauty treatments. If you enjoy its unique nutty flavor, be sure to pick some up in the souks. It will cost you about 70 dirham per 100 ml at local supermarket for cooking oil or 200 dirham for genuine cosmetic oil.

Argan Oil Making in Marrakech - Argan oil production at Herboriste De Marrakech

Marrakech is home to a large tanning industry, and leather goods of high quality can be purchased here cheaply. Check out camel leather items especially - jackets, round poufs (little ottomans), and handbags.

For the shoes, always check they have no paper inside sole because it is very common. Do not be fooled by demonstration of bending the shoe back and forth; try it yourself by feeling and hearing how the paper bends. For poor quality shoes you should not pay more than 40 dirham, and for a good pair no more than 90 dirham. Shop around and learn the difference in shoe quality.

Also of interest would be items made of the local cactus silk, which is really rayon, a natural fiber made of plant cellulose and produced in Morocco. Rayon holds the chemical dyes well which accounts for the vibrant range of true colors (natural dyes cannot produce a "true" color). On offer are scarves, handbags, tablecloths, bedspreads and throws in stunning colors. Some merchants try to charge a premium price for this "cactus silk". Check well because there are many fakes and sellers will usually tell you any lie to get you to pay a high price.

Be sure to wander around the potters' souk, and look for brightly colored platters and bowls, as well as tagines (large, lidded cookpots) in all sizes

Lovely cashmere shawls can also be had for less than a fiver with a little bargaining.

PlateMakerMarrakech - Plate maker in medina of Marrakech

If you cannot stand the bargaining and there are two government-run shops where you can buy handicrafts at fixed prices. Look for boutique d'artisans. One is near Djemaa El-Fna while the other one is in the ville nouvelle.

  • Les établissements Bouchaïb - 7, Derb Baïssi Kasbah Boutouil 31.61594, -7.98891 on Rue de La Kasbah ☎ +212 524381853 check out the prices on the webpage before you go to get and idea of the cost of the items you are interested in. Huge two-story store with fixed prices. Carpets, spices, argon oil, jewelry, ceramics, furniture, wood handcrafts, etc.

An option to explore the souks in a more tranquil way is to go during the Friday prayer. Although some shops will be closed, most stay open and are significantly less crowded than at other times.

The Apple and Samsung smartphones being sold on Djemaa El-Fna are Chinese-built fakes; they work fine but employ less storage and affordableer components than the originals. Bargain accordingly.

ElFnaaFruitBooths - Fruit and nut sale booths at Jemaa El Fnaa, Marrakech

  • Chez Monseur Michelin 83 Riad Zitoun 31.6252715, -7.9858668 - Handmade bags and fashion items made from recycled tires and inner tubes.
  • Bennouna Faissal Traditional Weaving 31.6318435, -7.984548 next to Maison la Photographie - Tiny workshop making beautiful and very elegant scarves in wool, cotton, and linen.

Prices

As a guide for prices, maximum and generous prices you should pay.

  • Djellaba, long coat with hood for men, made of cotton/wool. Low quality: 90 dirham. Good (thick) quality: 300 dirham.
  • Paintings, depends on the quality and size but no more than 50 dirham for a 70x50cm.
  • Shisha, 150 dirham for the smallest ones. Prices then vary with size and quality.
  • Tobacco for shisha, 20 dirham. There are many flavours and decent prices at the duty-free store at the airport in Marrakech.
  • Shoes, for home, no more than 50 dirham for a good one, for the street no more than 90 dirham for a good quality one.
  • Lamp, no more than 60 dirham for a medium size lamp.
  • Woven beanie, 15 dirham.
  • T-shirt, no more than 50 dirham for a large.
  • Small wooden snake toys, 5 dirham.
  • Small teapot (2-3 cups), 90-100 dirham.
  • Medium size cooking tagine 40 dirham. (Choose carefully, glazed tagines have a risk of releasing unsafe levels of lead.)
  • Dress for women, poor quality, not wool, 30 dirham.
  • Carpets: 1,000 dirham for a white wool carpet that is 8 ft x 12 ft
  • Dates, almonds, nuts: 80-120 dirham per kg, depending on the quality.
  • Henna tattoo: medium-sized design should cost no more than 50 dirham (Ask for brown henna if you are allergic to PPP black henna and the brown henna is natural and safe)
  • You can order special Gold jewellery items like a chain with your name on it or using a customised design but ensure you have agreed on the price beforehand.
  • Bananas, 8 dirham per kilogram, in season.
  • 250 g of gunpowder tea, 30 dirham. Although best bought at a supermarket.
  • Round piece of bread, 1.5 dirham.
  • Spice mixes, 80 dirham/kg. Cumin, Curcuma, Cinnamon, Ground Ginger etc. 40-60 dirham/kg

Do not offer a price that you are not willing to pay.

Even hostel prices can be haggled.

Remember, sellers are just the middle man and they do not produce it, except maybe for some kinds of lamps, and they pay very little to the people who actually make it. Please also never pay in advance. And never let anyone write you an invoice. It is a bad idea and in most of the cases you will never see your goods or money back.

Most major banks and a slew of cash exchange shops can be found in a cluster around Arset el bilk (next to the main square). Most banks don't accept Unionpay and many ATMs displaying the Unionpay logo actually don't support the cards regardless of what Unionpay or the bank's website will tell you. Apparently the Socite Generale banks can do withdrawals from 16:00-21:00.

Be aware that if you are shopping at western stores like Zara, that the return policies are different. Contrary to many other countries, purchases by credit card can only be exchanged, not returned. Cash purchases at these stores can be returned for a refund however.

Halal Food

  • Café Restaurant Argana 31.6266252, -7.9889459 on the edge of Djemaa El-Fna ☎ +212 5244-45350 Opening Hours: Daily 06:00-23:00 A tourist hot-spot overlooking the square with excellent Moroccan dishes and ice creams.
  • 16 café - 31.6327667, -8.0075034 - Moroccan kitchen. 16 café is caterer of events and weddings.
  • Cafe Alhamra 31.62673, -7.98772 ☎ +212 6504 7411 - Place Djemaa El-Fna, opposite Café de France. On the edge of the square, it serves up salads, Pizzas, and Pastas as well as a tagine of the day. Their rooftop is a good place to have a late night coffee and pastry while watching the events in the square below.
  • Cafe Arabe - 184 mouassine 31.6307567, -7.9892707 medina near dar el bacha ☎ +212 2442 9728 - They have a Moroccan and an Italian cook, so there are two menus to choose from. There are three floors including the downstairs courtyard which is lovely for lunch. The top floor terrace has fantastic views, you can lounge on their sofas sipping a cocktail and watching the sun go down over the medina.
  • Cafe Mabrouk 31.6236709, -7.9894904 off Djemaa El-Fna - Serves the same standard fare as everywhere else in a little courtyard or terrace.
  • Chez Chegrouni 31.6266752, -7.98706 near the main entrance to the market. - 30 dirham Their Vegetarian couscous is supposedly the only true Vegetarian couscous in town; it's also bland but they give you plenty of it. Prices go up if you sit on the terrace. Usually packed full of good-time tourists.
  • Chez El Bahia 206 Rue Riad Zitoune 31.62115, -7.98403 50m Southeast from Djemaa El-Fna on Rue Riad Zitoune (that starts at Wafa Restaurant) about 100 dirham It is a quiet place. Try the Chicken and olives tajine as well as the prune, almonds, and mutton tajine. Also try the Moroccan salad while they cook the rest of the food.
  • Chez Yassine 70 Avenue Fatima Zohra 31.6288349, -7.9941124 5 min north from the Koutoubia mosque, 70 Rue Fatima Zohra Rmila (next to the Bacha hamam) - 30 dirham tagines Not much choice but served by very friendly people. Tajines and Pizzas are great and you can also order skewers that are not on the menu.
  • Earth Cafe Number 2, Derb Zawak, Riad Zitoun Kedim 31.6234505, -7.9871211 in the Medina ☎ +212 6054 4992, +212 6128 9402 - Vegetarian-friendly. Also available are vegan alternatives and plenty of options for fruit and vegetable-based drinks.
  • Henna Cafe - 93 Arset Aouzal Souikat, bab Doukala 31.6315475, -7.9943079 go to the taxi rank at Dar El Basha and walk 100 m up towards Bab Doukala. Henna Café is on the right side ☎ +212 656566374 Opening Hours: 11:00-20:00 40 dirham mains If you want to travel ethically then this is your place. A pretty little cafe on 3 floors with an orange sign on the berber hand-carved wooden facade opened in November 2011. You can obtain a cup of tea or coffee or simple lunch with dessert or just a sandwiches. The Henna Café offers safe henna body adornment as well-ranging from a 50 dirham small motif on your hand to a full arm complex design for a wedding from 500 dirham. All profits go to local causes. Henna cafe was set up by the owners of Riad Cinnamon and Riad Papillon and Vivid Trading in order to start to 'give back' to Marrakech and offer support to those who might want it. The café offers free English lessons to Moroccan women so that they can find employment out of the home.
  • Maison de la Photographie - 46, Rue souk Ahal Fès 31.63206, -7.98442 200 m behind Ben Youssef Medersa - Koranic School - A little photography museum, it has one of the highest roof terraces in the Medina. Over lunch of a fixed-price menu (at 75 dirham as of 2012) you get panoramic views over the city and the High Atlas mountains.
  • Le Marrakchi 31.6265455, -7.9871162 opposite the market and adjacent to the newspaper stand. - With two main courses and running at around 300 dirham, this is one of the poshest restaurants in the square. The food is not necessarily better than elsewhere, but it is one of the few restaurants that serves fruit cocktails. It also has a completely enclosed upstairs terrace, which is ideal for views of the square when the weather is bad.
  • Diaffa - Rue Jbel El Akhdar 31.6271592, -7.9938419 just off Av. Mohammed V, across from Club Med ☎ +212 44 38 68 98 - An upscale restaurant in one of the oldest buildings in the Medina, and offers Moroccan cuisine in an ambiance that recalls the Orient at the height of its magic and glory. The food, building (whether the tables around the central courtyard and fountain or the second-level balcony), and tactful and tasteful entertainment.

For more upscale eateries (and especially for non-Moroccan cuisine) you generally must go outside the Medina to Ville Nouvelle.

  • Dar Najat's Kitchen - Douar Groua, derb lalla chacha, N.18 31.6238915, -7.9834583 5 min walk from Jema el Fna ☎ +212 524375085 Opening Hours: 20/23 23 euro/pax Daily fresh food in a Boutique Riad.
  • Cafe Kabash - 47 Boutouil, Kasbah 31.6171249, -7.9895077 on Rue Kashbah near Bab Agnaou ☎ +212 524 382 625 - Have a roof terrace with a good view. Daily moroccan menus with tea and juice.
  • Riad des Mers - 413 Derb Sidi Massoud 31.6376136, -7.9953947 inside Bab Yacout ☎ +212 662265030 - 300 dirham menu Seafood restaurant. No alcohol served.
  • Al Fassia - 55, boulevard Zerktouni 31.6360106, -8.0133071 ☎ +212 524 43 40 60 Opening Hours: W-M Tradional Moroccan food in cozy restaurant run by women (except the doorman). Wine served by the bottle.
  • Le Bistrot Loft - 18 Rue de la Liberté 31.6357555, -8.0111673 ☎ +212 524 434 216 200 dirham Steaks, bistro food and good fruit cocktails. Cafe with aperitifs and cocktails.
  • Pepe Nero - 17, Derb Cherkaoui, Douar Graoua 31.6251646, -7.9840167 follow the signs from Rue Zitoun El Jedid; note the metal arrows ☎ +212 524 389067 Opening Hours: Tuesday - Sunday 12:00-14:30, 19:30-23:00 400 dirham for 3-4 course dinner, for 200 dirham Fine Italian and Moroccan dining in gorgeous Riad. Often full so make a reservation.

Guéliz

  • Café du Livre 44 Rue Tariq Bnou Ziad, Guéliz 31.6351345, -8.0105254 located near Place du 16 Novembre, Rue Tariq Bnou Ziad is more or less parallel to Ave Mohamed V (to the East) and the Hotel is located between the crossroads with Rue de la Liberté and Rue Sourya ☎ +212 5244-46921 Opening Hours: 09:30-21:00 medium priced, sandwiches ~ 40–60 dirham A western style bookshop-café in the villa nouvelle
  • Associacion Amal | 31.6388889, -8.01361111 situated at the intersection of Rue Ibn Sibna and Rue Allal Ben Ahmed ☎ +212-5-24-44-68-96 Opening Hours: Lunch: daily 12:00-16:00, dinner: groups of min. 10 people by reservation only Here you can experience lunch similar to what Moroccons eat at home: this women's aid association provides women with education in exchange for food which is then sold for financing the model.
  • La Villa des Orangers - Rue Sidi Mimoune 6 31.6203675, -7.9917963 ☎ +212 524 384638 Opening Hours: 19:30-late 700 dirham for three course menu. 500 dirham for a bottle of soft drinks. French gastronomic cuisine in a very calm and pleasant atmosphere. Enjoy your dinner in soft chairs, among dark woodpanels, bookcases and artwork. In the winter start with a drink at the fireplace.
  • Le Grand Café de la Poste | @marrakech.com Boulevard El mansour Eddahbi and Avenue Imam Malik 31.6331502, -8.010044 ☎ +212 24 43 30 38 - 300 dirham for three courses. French brasserie with Moroccan influence in the former post office.
  • Le Grand Salon - Djnan Abiad, La Palmeraie B.P. 12478 31.6720075, -7.9288065 in the Ksar Char-Bagh outside of the city ☎ +212 524 32 92 44 600 dirham for three courses Upscale restaurant with french cuisine. Serve organic vegetables and Olive oil from its own gardens.
  • Dar Yacout - 79, derb Sidi Ahmed Soussi, Bab Doukkala 31.6365673, -7.9934804 ☎ +212 5 24 38 29 29 700 dirham menu Traditional Moroccan gastronomic cuisine. Has a terrace overlooking the Medina.
  • Le Foundouk - Rue Souk Hal Fassi 31.6320813, -7.9852877 ☎ +212 5 24 37 81 76 Opening Hours: Tuesday - Sunday 300 dirham for a three-course dinner Maroccan end European cuisine. Roof terrace and café.
  • Les Jardins de la Medina - restaurant 21 Derb Chtouka 31.6126108, -7.9874039 in the hotel of the same name ☎ +212 5 24 381 851 Opening Hours: 19:30-late 450 dirham menu Traditional and modern Moroccan cuisine. Moroccan served by bottle and glass. Stylish restaurant with tall white columns.

How to eat (well) in the Djemaa El-Fna

Djemaa El Fna at sunset (2362267954) - Djemaa El-Fna in full swing

Each night in the Djemaa El-Fna rows of street stalls are set up under giant white tents. The huts targeting tourists serve similar fare and have menus printed in French, Arabic and usually English. Everyone has tajine, couscous, brochette and some variety of soups. Some have specialities like offal, egg sandwiches or special tajines. Be aware that most restaurants employ rather insistent "greeters," who are very aggressive in trying to clients for their stall. The line 'we already ate' seems to work well to get them to stop. As of 2022 and the "greeters" mentioned above have changed strategies to one of harassment and insults. They try to separate couples and corner women while hurling insults.

If you want to eat well in Marrakech, do what the local residents do and eat at the food stalls in the square. It is a common misconception that these stalls are only here for the tourists. Actually and they have been in existence long before Marrakech became a tourist destination. All of the stalls can be regarded as perfectly safe to eat at. They are strictly licensed and controlled by the government, especially now as it is a popular destination for tourists. The local residents eat at the cheaper stalls that don't employ greeters and serve the more interesting food: snails, sheep head, lentils and beans.

Some tips:

  • Prices tend to vary a little. Depending upon how hungry you are, you can pay anything from 10 dirham for a bread filled with freshly grilled Sausages,or perhaps a bowl of harira soup to 100 dirham for a full three-course meal with salad, bread, starter, main course, and tea.
  • Try harira (great soup, of lamb/beef, red lentils and vegetables) and the fried aubergines. Don't be afraid-try the lamb head: it's really tasty. The "bull stew" ( beef stew) should also be given a chance in the same stalls.
  • Don't miss the tea! There is a row of tea sellers along the front of the food stalls who each sell tea for 3 dirham each (as of 2022). Most of the tea at these stalls is actually ginseng tea with cinnamon and ginger... most delicious and welcoming. They also have cake, made of basically the same spices, which can be a bit overpowering.
  • All food stalls at Djemaa El-Fna display the price on the menus, making it less likely you'll be overcharged, but many will bring starters to you without asking and then charge for them at the end.
  • Drinks are rarely on the menu so it is better to ask the price of them before ordering, as they can often be comparatively high. On the other hand, some stalls offer free mint tea to encourage you to choose them.
  • Early mornings, look for people frying riifa in the covered part opposite the Koutoubia. Riifa is dough stretched and flattened and folded over and then cooked in a frying pan, and is best described as a Moroccan version of a pancake or crepe.

Street vendors offer fresh orange juice (jus d'Orange) by the glass for 4 dirham. Try it with a dash of salt like the local residents, but be wary of vendors who try and water the juice down with tap water. Also, pay attention when you buy as they offer 2 types of orange... the blood orange juice costs 10 dirham per glass and a misunderstanding on what you want to drink could occur.

Confirm the price of your orange juice and pay for it before you drink. Unscrupulous vendors will sometimes try to charge you 10 dirham for a 4-dirham glass of jus d'Orange, so don't accept your drink until you've paid the correct amount.

Be wary also, that they do not always clean the glasses very well so it is feasible to get an upset stomach from the juice.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Marrakech

Marrakech - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Marrakech, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Marrakech. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Marrakech and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Marrakech. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Marrakech. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inMarrakech: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Marrakech.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Marrakech: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Marrakech, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Marrakech.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Marrakech, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Marrakech, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Marrakech and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Marrakech, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Marrakech, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Marrakech without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Marrakech is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Marrakech.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Marrakech is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Marrakech, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Marrakech Media: info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Marrakech has an amazing choice of places to stay ranging from tented camps outside Marrakech to affordable Muslim friendly hotels and resorts that can be charming or seedy to luxurious kasbahs in luxurious gardens or the traditional riad (garden courtyard) hotels. Wherever you choose ( or can afford) to stay it really is a must to visit one of the riad hotels to see this amazing style of architecture. Most riad managers will be happy to show you around provided that they are not too busy and in some riads you can even book a lunch or dinner without being a resident provided that the riad is not privately rented. For example, see Riad Cinnamon, Riad Laksiba and Riad Papillon.

There are three main zones to sleep: Medina, Guéliz (commonly called Ville Nouvelle), and the surroundings of the city. The Medina has the highest concentration of very affordable hotels and riads (small palaces), while Guéliz is much more quiet and most of the hotels are mid price (including showers in the room, breakfast service), but going to the medina from the Guéliz by taxi costs about 10-15 dirham and can take a long time at busy periods (evenings and weekends).

The surroundings have all the huge tourist hotels and the ones that usually come with what the travel agencies offer. They can be further away from the medina and the rest of the city, but have big swimming pools, restaurants, and many services.

Dars

The Medina is packed with Riads and Dars (old grand houses converted into hotels and inns). Traditionally, riads should have gardens; with smaller dars having open courtyards. However the term riad is now used loosely to describe any house with an internal open-air center. These are wonderful places to stay to get a feel for life in Marrakech.

Jardins de Koutobia - Pool at Jardins de Koutobia Hotel

  • Dar Attajmil - Marrakech-Medina, 23 Rue Laksour, Bab Laksour 31.6275282, -7.9921057 Once entered Bab Laksour, take the second alley right, keep on until no. 23. ☎ +212 524 426966 Check-in: 14:00 / Check-out: 12:30 €80-110/night in B&B Centrally located and easy to reach, Dar Attajmil has a sand colored courtyard shaded by a tall banana tree; 4 double rooms with bathroom, 1 family suite with private courtyard, several cozy sitting areas, fireplace and library, a large terrace garden where breakfast and meals are served and a devoted team of 5 lovely persons; hammam, private massages, cooking class available. Owner organic farm near Essaouira provides daily fresh products, olive and argan oil and the opportunity to spend one or more days in this old restored property, among the argan trees.
  • Dar Jaguar | 7-8 Derb El Mesfioui, Rahba Kedima, Medina 31.6284243 , -7.9859600 ☎ +212 524 445 606 From €99, breakfast included. Dar Jaguar is an ancient riad that has been restored as a beautiful private guesthouse. It is situated in the heart of the old medina, neighbouring the exotic Place des Epices (spice market).

Riads

Laksiba Courtyard - The Cooling effect of a Riad's courtyard is no accident. Design: A water feature at the base of a Riad courtyard serves two purposes. Firstly and the obvious focal point but more importantly and the courtyards open-air aperture channels warm air entering into the Riad which in turn passes over the water feature, cools down, thus assisting in the convection of heat to exit back through the Riad's open-air aperture. This style of natural air-conditioning has been prevalent in Morocco for millennia and is remarkably successful.

The Medina is packed with Riads and Dars (old grand houses converted into hotels and inns). Riads should have gardens; with smaller Dars having open courtyards. However the term Riad is used very loosely today to describe a house with an internal open-air centre. These are wonderful places to stay to get a feel for life in Marrakech.

If you arrive by car, ask the hosts to help you find your way from the parking lot, especially if you never experienced orientation in a real medina before. Here are a sample of some of the riads (in alphabetical order) where you can experience Marrakech's unique style of living:

  • Riad Abaka 21 Derb Roukni Laksour 31.6275799 , -7.9919891 ☎ +212 6 6697 8703 A spacious riad with seven beautifully furnished bedrooms and ensuite bathrooms. Located in the heart of the Medina, less than two minutes walk from Jemaa El Fna.
  • Riad Amazigh - Equity Point Marrakech - @point.com 80, Derb El Hammam Mouassine Nearby Djemaa el-Fna ☎ +212 524-440-793 Check-in: 14:00 / Check-out: 10:00 from €9 for bed in dorm A former luxury riad now a beautiful hostel. Doubles, singles, and dorms which house up to 8 people. Roof top terrace with nice views, unheated pool, restaurant. WiFi in communal areas, breakfast included. Open 24 hours, can book activities and excursions.
  • Riad Basma Marrakech-Medina, 22 Derb Jamaa, Riad Basma 31.625691, -7.984995 From square Jamaa el Fnaa walk up to derb Dabachi and count 3 small streets (derbs) on the right turn right and keep on until nr. 22. ☎ +212 6 5051 7223 Check-in: 12:00 / Check-out: 12:00 from €35 5 double rooms with bathroom.
  • Riad Chennaoui - Riad Zitoune Jdid, Derb Sidi Fares N°01 31.6275799 , -7.9919891 ☎ +212 5 2437 6140 Dorm beds around 100 dirham Simple and basic riad in the Medina. The staff are friendly and happy to discuss Moroccan life and culture over a shisha in the evening. This place can be difficult to find - you may have to pay a local to take you there (10-20 dirham should do it, although they will ask for more).
  • Riad Cinnamon - @riad.co.uk 9 Derb El Hadjra 31.6321713, -7.9880259 ☎ +44 7584 327625 from £112 per room Designed and rebuilt to a very high standard with amazing attention to detail and lots of unexpected extras such as the loan of a local mobile phone and ipad loan. Dinners served on roof terrace with incredible views, pools on patio and roof garden terrace. 5 rooms that can accommodate 3 to 4 people each, with an overall maximum of 16.
  • Riad Dar Eliane - 39 Derb Maada,Azbezt,Medina 31.6299412 , -7.9852350 ☎ +212 5 2437 5710 Four spacious double bedrooms and bathrooms with A/C. Accommodation is on two floors of a restored 300 year old riad in an older and authentic quarter of Marrakesh. Ten minutes walk to Jamaa el Fna.
  • Riad Iaazane 57 Derb el Gnayz , El Mouassine ☎ +212 5 2438 3205 Single €20, double €18, dorm €10 per person A restored riad with extensive use of traditional styling and ceramics, includes a roof terrace with views. Shower, internet with wifi access, washing, shisha (hooka), free mint tea, city map. An authentic local style breakfast included (08:30-11:30). The owners also operate a tour company that offers guided and structured tours of 1 to 3 days duration.
  • Riad LakLak - @laklak-marrakech.com Marrakech Medina 31.6191645 , -7.9833976 from €180 A riad built in the 17th century, which sleeps 12 in 2 suites and 3 bedrooms, that can be rented as a whole. It is between the "Palais Bahia" and the "Palais Badii", close to Jemaa El Fna Plaza.
  • Riad Melhoun - @melhoun.com 99 Derb Sidi Moussa, Quartier de la Bahia, 40007 Marrakech Médina ☎ +212 524 386 252, +212 678 734 373 (Mobile) Located in central Marrakech, a 3-minutes walk from the El Badi and El Bahia Palaces, it features an interior courtyard with a swimming swimmingpool and a furnished rooftop terrace with views of the medina. Each room has traditional Moroccan decoration and en-suite shower. Guests also have access to a traditional living room with a fireplace and a lounge area with books. Free Wi-Fi is available in common areas, hammam, private massages and authentic meals are provided on request.
  • Riad Dar Najat - @najat.com Douar Graoua, Derb Lalla Chacha, No.18 31.6238891, -7.9834947 Riad in the heart of Marrakech 5 min walk from Jemaa el Fna ☎ +212 6 6143 9221 Jacuzzi on the roof terrace, wifi throughout the riad, 7 ensuite shower and A/C accommodation with great gastronomy. French owner, friendly team and atmosphere.
  • Riad Laksiba - @Laksiba.com 16 (bis5)Derb Kadi, Kasbah, Medina ☎ +44 7850 39 01 07 (UK), +212 524 38 37 04 (Morocco) £25-30 per person depending on season. A very popular Riad with UK visitors. Five bedrooms all with bespoke hand carved beds designed to be split to make twin bedrooms. From Bab Ksiba, an entrance into the Royal Kasbah quarter of the Medina, 1st right is Derb Kadi and Riad Laksiba is the last house in this little cul-de-sac. Ten minutes walk to the Djemaa el-Fna main square.
  • Riad Lotus Perle - 54, Derb Zemrane,Bab Doukkala. ☎ +212 524431537 Riad Lotus Perle is in the Medina, in the heart of an old neighborhood near the lively souks and Djemaa El-Fna square, this is a wonderful riad composed of rooms and suites combining authenticity and modernity.
  • Riad Magellan - Derb El Hamman No.62, Mouassine ☎ +212 6 6108 2042 An elegant six-bedroom riad which offers a restful and relaxing atmosphere, in the heart of the Mouassine neighborhood. Traditional Moroccan meals are available as well as complementary Wi-Fi internet. Airport transfer service available on request.
  • Riad Naila - @naila.com Marrakech Medina, Mosquée Sidi Ben Slimane Riad Naila Marrakech is a private rental home. Prices range from €100-140 per day depending on the season for the entire house (sleeps 7 persons) Riad Naila Marrakech is a gorgeous private rental home in the Medina of Marrakech built around a patio with a large roof terrace. It is in the Medina of Marrakech in a calm area a fifteen-minutes walk away from the Djemaa El-Fna square. It has four bedrooms which sleep seven persons. Each bedroom has its own bath room. Additionally are available a fully equipped kitchen, a Moroccan lounge and a library.
  • Riad Papillon - @riad.co.uk 15, Derb Tizougarine, Dar El Basha 31.6319605, -7.9909184 near taxi rank. Go to Dar El Basha then walk towards the centre, take the 2nd road on the left Derb Tizougarine, bear right and go to the end of the cul de sac, has a bright blue door and brass hand of fatima knocker ☎ +212 6678451893 Check-in: 3 / Check-out: 11 Rooms range from £50-100 according to the season. Ask about any special offers and last minutes deals. A riad with five beautiful rooms: Rose, Jasmin, Bougainvillea, Hibiscus and Geranium. It is located in the heart of the Dar el Basha antique neighborhood which is very safe. Cuisine is exceptional, service is warm and attentive but discrete. Papillon offers loan of local phone/ipad, Iphone charger, bathrobes. Breakfast and Wi-Fi internet are included. Very romantic and wonderful atmosphere with welcoming dipping swimmingpool and tent on rooof terrace. Airport pickups available.
  • Hotel Riad Primavera - @marrakech.com Just off of Allal Fassi Avenue and near the Marjane department store ☎ +212 2433 2570, +212 2433 2572, +212 2433 2573 The only kosher hotel in all of Morocco. The kosher certification is in the lobby and is issued by the Beth Din of Marrakech. 22 rooms with personal A/C units, TVs, bathrooms with showers, decorated in typical Moroccan style. Prices tend to rise during major Yahudi holidays and festivals.

Riad Leila - Marrakech - Maroc - Mai 2005 - A Riad Courtyard

  • Riad Dar Zaman - 29, Derb Bouelilou, Sidi Ben Slimane 31.6358281 , -7.9910104 near taxi rank. Go to Sidi Ben Slimane then walk past the mosque towards the small square, take the 1st street on the right (just before the hammam), and turn immediately right into Derb Bouelilou, bear left and go to the end of the cul de sac, Dar Zaman has palm trees leading to the black studded door ☎ +212 611266998 Check-in: 2 / Check-out: 11 Rooms range from £50-100 according to the season. Askfor special offers and last minutes deals. A gorgeous old riad with four en suite rooms, in the heart of the historic Sidi Ben Slimane neighborhood. Very safe and close to popular cafés and restaurants. Cuisine is exquisite, service is warm and attentive, price includes breakfast, designer toiletries, mint tea and pastries and Wi-Fi internet. Fantastic views of Atlas Mountains from roof terrace, deliciously refreshing dipping pool, wonderful dreamy atmosphere.
  • Riad Zara - 294 Derb Ben Salek ☎ +212 2444 2940, +212 6281 7000 (mobile) Run by the friendly and helpful owner Monique and her assistant Hassan. Features a rooftop terrace with nice views of Medina and cozy cane chairs, and a small swimmingpool in the center of the Riad. Traditional meals such as Tajines can be served any time of the day. Breakfast includes an array of jams, amlou, pancakes, and mint tea and can be served at flexible times. In the evening, candles are lit and guests gather around the pool, enjoying and if you're lucky Hassan might give a live music performance.
  • Riad Zolah - 116 Derb El Hammam, Mouassine ☎ +212 2438 7535 Chic while cozy and informal riad run by Ismail and his team. The house cook, Fadila, makes fabulous fresh baked breads at breakfast. Gorgeous roof terrace and two candle-lit/petal-strewn courtyard patios (one with plunge pool).
  • Ryad Dyor - 1, Driba Jdida, Sidi Ben Slimane ☎ +212 524 375 980 Riad hotel with 7 luxury suites.
  • Riad Al Loune - 77 Derb el Kadi, Azbezt ☎ +212 5243 80225 Charming Riad with swimmingpool and hammam. The Riad is located in Azbezt's area, Marrakech Medina's heart.

Discount hotels

The budget conscious will have more luck in the streets and alleyways south of Djemaa El-Fna, which are packed with discount hotels offering singles from 50 dirham. Derb Sidi Bouloukat is a good place to look, a quiet but safe alleyway packed with traditional-style hotels just a min from Djemaa El-Fna. Its entrance is easy to find, just a few steps away from Djemaa El-Fna. Take Riad Zatoune (unmarked) which starts right of the Moroccan Red Crescent (with your back towards the Koutoubia) and it's the first alley on the right (marked in Arabic only). On your way in Riad Zitoune you will also come across the public hammam (10 dirham, left entrance for women, right entrance for men and the soap, glove and small bucket can be purchased at many shops across the street) and a small restaurant serving bissara and mint tea for less than 5 dirham.

Popular options with backpackers include:

  • Hotel Ali - 31.6246054, -7.9897724 Rue Moulay Ismail. Beds in en suite, dorms, and rooftop terrace mattresses for 60 dirham per person per day, including cooked breakfasts served with orange juice and fresh Coffee. Dorm guests can use the internet cafe for 5 dirham per hour. They have a laundry service and free internet access for superior Muslim friendly room guests, money exchange, a terrace restaurant with views of Djemaa El-Fna, and a downstairs hammam. Private rooms are available with a maximum per person price of 250 dirham per day including breakfast, free internet, and a daily traditional Hammam.
  • Hotel Salam (laksor) bab ftouh Rue haram chikh n.14, laksor, marrakech ☎ +212 5 24443861 100 mad for double room, no bathroom Cheap and clean hotels, doesn't seem to have showers.
  • Hotel Atlas - hotel-@ - ☎ +212 5 2439 1051 50 Derb Sidi Bouloukat. A 2-min walk to the famous square of Djemaa El-Fna. Clean and friendly with nice rooms with shared bathrooms. Singles from 90 dirham, doubles from 170 dirham, for 3 people 250 dirham, for 4 people 280 dirham, for 5 people 320 dirham. There are some rooms with AC for an additional 50 dirham. The hotel is charming and all arranged in the traditional way.
  • Hotel Central Palace - 59, Sidi Bouloukate near Djemaa El-Fna Rooms are around a noisy and echoey central courtyard. Rooms are clean, but the shared toilets can be another story. Indifferent staff and housekeepers. Nice terrace with a great view, and rooms starting at 150 dirham for a double room with shared showers and toilet. You get what you pay for, but all in all it's a good value considering that Marrakech is more expensive that most other places in Morocco. Car rentals can be arranged (around 350 dirham per day for a small but fairly new car).
  • Hotel el-Ward 65 derb Sidi Bouloukat ☎ +212 5 2444 3354 Clean, quite comfortable, and the owners are very friendly whenever they feel like it. The rooftop terrace isn't lavish, but being one of the highest it does have a great view. 60/120/170/220 dirham for single/double/triple/quadruple.
  • Hotel Essaouira - 3 Derb Sidi Bouloukat 31.6240758, -7.9877901 ☎ +212 5 2444 3805 The hotel has singles with a shared bath from 50 dirham and doubles from 90 dirham. It is more or less like the others, but it's all painted in the traditional way, which gives it charm. Toilets and showers are bare-bones, a norm at this price range. Hot water does not stay hot for long. Overall a very good value and comfortable place from which to explore the old town.
  • Hotel Imouzzer - hotel@ 74 Derb Sidi Bouloukate ☎ +212 5 2444 5336 One of the cheapest and best-value hotels with rooms starting at 65 dirham for singles and 120 dirham for doubles (slightly higher in high season), all with shared bathrooms. Rooms are arranged around a traditional courtyard, and both rooms and shared bathrooms are clean with hot water. The hotel also has a comfortable terrace where you can eat breakfast for 20 dirham.
  • Hotel Sindi - ☎ +212 4444 3337 Sud 109, Derb Sidi Bouloukat, Riad Zitoun El Kidim,
  • Hotel Smara 77 sidi Bouloukat. Near Djemaa El-Fna ☎ +212 5 2444 5568 Very clean, friendly people, nice rooms. 50 dirham and doubles 80 dirham.
  • Hotel Cecil - At the Djemaa El-Fna, Bouloukate. Offers doorms, rooms with shared bathroom (from US$13 per person), and ensuite rooms with AC (from US$18 per person). Rooftop breakfast and Wi-Fi included.
  • Palm Plaza Hotel and Spa - Avenue du 7ieme Art Zone Touristique Agdal 31.594779, -7.989655 located in Agdal, a new residential neighborhood, 10 mins from the airport ☎ +212 524 388 700 . Luxurious and comfortable providing 230 rooms, including 151 twin, 52 double, 2 rooms for disabled persons, 6 junior suites, 20 senior suites and a royal suite. The hotel has a piano bar, night club and a restaurant. Snacks are available at the swimmingpool café. The spa features a heated indoor swimming pool, a sauna, a hammam and a gym.
  • Riad Lyla - 4-5 Rue ouartani I Mouassani In Laksour neighborhood, 2 min from Djemaa El-Fna, Lyla Riad Marrakech opens its doors. Gérard is the riad's passionate owner.
  • Riad Rahba - Offers private, en suite rooms and is a minutes from Djemaa El-Fna, at the entrance to the Souks. The Riad combines the traditional Moroccan atmosphere with the comforts of a modern hostel and hotel. The rates include breakfast and wifi. From €18 per single en suite room per day.
  • Aqua Mirage Marrakech | Km 5 - Route De Tahanaout 31.53479, -7.993166 ☎ +212 5 25 07 80 13
  • Le Vizir Center Park Resort | Route de Casablanca, Ouled ben Rahmoun 31.703848, -7.973111 ☎ +212 05243-54141 Suites decorated in 3 different styles of architecture

}} In the little streets between Rue Bab Agnaou and Rue Riad Zitoune (where the Smara and the Essaouira, and the Imouzzer are) there are a lot of other small hostels. It is difficult to get lost as they are surrounded by these two big streets and Djemaa El-Fna. It could be a good idea to arrive during the day (best in the morning) and wander around comparing many hostels in a short time.

Hostels

  • Marrakech Rose - 13 Derb Laadam, Kenaria, Place Jemaa el Fna In a small alleyway near the Cafe de France, directly to the east of the main square in Marrakech. A bit difficult to find. The hostel staff will email you a map with directions once you have made a booking. ☎ +212 618444328 Check-in: 12:00 / Check-out: 11:00 Dorm beds from US$10 Charming little hostel right in the center of town, with small dorms and super-friendly staff. Great Muslim Friendly place to meet other travellers and socialize - mostly a younger crowd. Not the best choice if you want an early night's sleep.
  • Massine II - 107 Derb Snan, Mouassine ☎ +212 6 6815 6412 from €6 in dorm 2nd backpackers in Marrakech in the old Medina. Originally a 16th century house. Central garden, and rooftop. Shower, internet, washing facilities. Breakfast is available, book early, this is a popular establishment. Some travellers complain the sheets are not changed regularly. Also, Muslim travellers aren't always registered properly.
  • The Heart of the Medina backpackers hostel - @ostel.com 47 Derb Ben Aissa, Dabachi 31.62702041, -7.98530101 1st backpackers hostel to be located in the Medina. 1 minutes walk from Place Djemaa El-Fna. Rooftop terrace, hot showers, comfortable surroundings. No more than 6 beds to a room. Breakfast included as are bed linens, towels, and free Wi-Fi. You can expect to pay €8/person all year round per day if booked in advance via email or website. No lockouts, no curfews, and is open 24/7, 365 days/ year.
  • Rue Mohammed el-Hansali - Near the train station ☎ +212 524 447713 Dorm beds from 70 dirham A clean hostel with an 23:30 curfew and obligatory wake up call at 08:00. Daily daytime lockout. It is a fair distance from the action in the heart of the Medina. A taxi can cost 15-20 dirham.
  • Sirayane boutique hotel & spa | Km 8 Route D'Amezmiz 31.559183, -8.045544 ☎ +212 525 118880 +212 5 25 11 88 81 Spread across nearly 5 acres of gardens, this boutique hotel faces the Atlas Mountains.

Guéliz (commonly called Ville Nouvelle)

  • Hotel Toulousain - 44 Rue Tariq Bnou Ziad, Guéliz 31.6351345, -8.0105254 located near Place du 16 Novembre, Rue Tariq Bnou Ziad is more or less parallel to Ave Mohamed V (to the East) and the Hotel is located between the crossroads with Rue de la Liberté and Rue Sourya ☎ +212 524-430-033 +212-524-431-446 150 dirham per day for a single room without bathroom up to 600 dirham double room 'Suite Hotel', breakfast included A budget-friendly hotel with rooms going off two nice courtyards, located in a rear building and therefore quiet, no luxury equipment but clean, tidy and friendly and helpful staff
  • Hotel al Kabir - Corner of bd. Zerktouni and Rue Loubnane ☎ +212 2443 9540, +212 2443 4150 single/double 291/382 dirham This modern, airy hotel is one of a group of similar standard hotels in this area of Guéliz. Mainly used by tour groups and reservation agencies and the Hotel al Kabir's rooms, accessible from three elevators, are all clean, modern, and well appointed, if a tad sterile, and the bathrooms are a reasonable size with shower/tub combos.
  • Hotel Ibis - 31.6299523, -8.018048 Near the train station ☎ +212 5 2443 5929 A more impersonal European chain hotel, but very clean and peaceful. It is within a short taxi ride of all the action. If you want to be able to escape the hustle and bustle during the heat of the day and chill out by a swimming pool, this place is perfect. Decent value for the money as well, with lovely rooms and showers. Free internet with wifi is provided in the lobby.
  • Moroccan House Hotel - 3 Rue Loubnane 31.6369825 , -8.0103572 ☎ +212 4442 0305, +212 4442 0306 3-star rooms start at 405 dirham single, 484 dirham double; 4-star Pacha suites: 455 dirham single, 624 dirham double; 5-star Prince suites: 527 dirham single, 764 dirham double. A colorful and personable hotel. As the name suggests, this is more like a house than a standard block hotel. The extravagantly painted and decorated interior is entered through bright blue heavy wood studded doors. Choice of various brightly colored interiors furnished with faux-antiques and lace-draped four-poster beds. Each bathroom has its own water heater and bath/shower combo, and comes supplied with a range of toiletries. Close to many of Guéliz's better restaurants and retail outlets.
  • Oudaya Hotel - 147 Rue Mohamed El Baqal 31.6359225, -8.0159162 ☎ +212 4444 8512 Situated close to the train station and the Oudaya is a good alternative for Muslim travellers looking for a medium prized hotel in the Ville Nouvelle. The rooms are clean and well-kept with good size bathrooms, air-condition and TV. Breakfast is served from early in the morning and consists of a well stocked buffet and the restaurant is however mediocre and much better meals can be had just around the junction. The courtyard has a large swimmingpool (open 09:00-18:00) lined with a massive bougainvilla. The hotel does have a policy of no outside food, which includes bottled water, so make sure to keep any purchases hidden when entering.
  • Villa Dar El Kanoun - ☎ +212 2449 2010 +212 2434 0635 Route de Targa. Luxury B&B villa with swimming swimmingpool and garden. It offers five comfortable double rooms in a quiet residential area nearby Marrakech downtown. Breakfast is included. Rates begin at 1,000 dirham for a double room.

Cope in Marrakech

There are many dry cleaning shops inside and outside of the Medina. It takes only one day to clean and will cost from 10-30 dirham per piece. If you stay at hotel, you can hand out your dirty clothes to a housekeeper. Usually they wash it by hand. They do not have a price list and usually say "up to you". You should not pay more than 50-100 dirham per plastic bag.

  • Lost in Marrakech Laundry Service - 156 Derb Snane, Mouassine, Medina ☎ +212 5 2438 4121 Opening from Monday to Saturday 09:00-16:00 Laundromat with used books, wifi, coffee and smoothies. Finish in same day or in next day. 20 dirham for 2 kg.

Embassies & Consulates in Marrakech

Be sure to report any crime to both the local police and your embassy.

  • British Honorary Consulate in Marrakech - Résidence Taib 55, Boulevard Zerktouni, Gueliz ☎ +212 5 2442 0846 +212 5 2443 5276 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 08:00-13:00

}}

Most other foreign embassies and consulates in Morocco are in Rabat, with a few more in Casablanca.

Stay Safe

Marrakech is a generally safe city, with a solid police presence. However, staying alert about your surroundings and taking general safety precautions is always a good idea like everywhere. Here are some tips:

  • Violent crime is normally not a major problem, but thefts are known to happen. Keep your money close and hidden, and avoid poorly lit streets or alleys at night.
  • Guides offering their services should display an official badge from the local tourist authorities.
  • Morocco is under an increased threat from international terrorism. Be vigilant when you're out and contact authorities if you notice anything suspicious.
  • Be especially careful about being drugged, especially as a solo traveller. The common and easy-to-make drug GHB only lasts three hours and is undetectable in the body after 7 hours, so if you are attacked, take action immediately.
  • Be careful ordering room service if you are a solo traveller, as even older women can be targets for robbery. Don't ask the waiter to enter your room.
  • Get one of the shopkeepers to dress you up with a berber style scarf, for men and women, it will cover your face (leaving only space for your eyes) and you can remain undetected and will definitely not be harassed by the shopkeepers, one or two beggars may catch on that you are still a tourist from the way you are dressed though, so bear that in mind.

Emergency phone numbers

  • Police ☎ 19
  • Ambulance/ Fire ☎ 15

Muslim Friendly Hospitals

  • Inb Tofail Hospital - Rue Abdelouahab Derraq ☎ +212 4444 8011
  • Polyclinique du Sud - 2 Rue Yougoslavie, Gueliz ☎ +212 4444 7999, +212 4444 8372 +212 4443 2424 - In case of a medical emergency, it's always a good idea to know where to find the local physicians who speak your language. According to the U.S. Consulate website, Dr. Taarji Bel Abbass at the Polyclinique du Sud speaks "fair to good English".

Drinking water

The tap water in Marrakech is suitable for bathing. While local residents drink it with no problems, visitors often find it hard to digest. To be safe, opt for bottled mineral water, available at the numerous marketplace kiosks and food stalls. Make sure that the cap seal has not been broken, since vendors have been known to save money by refilling plastic bottles from the tap. At restaurants, ask for your drinks without ice, which are usually made with tap water.

Agents and scams

A Moroccan idiom is "Marrakech, Arnakech" ("Marrakech is Mafia"): Marrakech is the city with the most inflated prices and the most persistent agents and the most cunning scammers. Even Moroccans who visit Marrakech complain. So all the warnings listed on main page about Morocco should be taken extra seriously. On the plus side, at least since September 2016 (and still valid in April 2017), police has been cleaning up a lot; so take these items with a grain of salt and keep an open mind:

  • "It's closed": This is a common technique by scammers pretending to be tourist guides. Some will even have printed badges with photos and documents pretending to be from the Ministry of Tourism. They will ask you or guess where you are going and say that it's closed. Immediately after or later in the conversation and they will lure you to the location they want you to go, usually some sort of commerce with inflated prices. If a random stranger approaches you and claims a location of interest is closed, it is very likely a scam.
  • "Only every 15 days":Another technique is to say a group of Berber only comes every 15 days to do commerce. Buy now, or miss the opportunity!
  • Directions then pay: If strangers are showing you the way and following you and they may ask you for money at the end of showing directions.
  • Snake charmers: Stay at a distance unless willing to pay 20 dirham. They will put a snake around your neck for picture and expect payment.
  • Taxi drivers in the "tourist locations" (train station, gare routiere, agence CTM, Djeema el Fna), by default, do not use the meter, though they have to by law, and they overcharge a lot: Either insist on the meter (good luck with that) or agree on a flat price up front. By meter and the trip from the train station to Djeema el Fna is 13 dirham during daytime, a flat price of 20 dirham is a good deal for a tourist, regular asking price is 50 to 70 dirham! If your luggage permits, just walking 100 m down the street, away from the "tourist hot spot", and hailing a taxi will get you a much saner deal (or even a metered fare).
  • Djeema el Fna is now heavily patrolled by tourist police and one can actually walk there pretty much hassle free, except for: At night time and the food stalls can be pretty "aggressive" when trying to convince you to eat there. "Aggressive" as in shoving the menu into your face, while blocking your path or grabbing your hand because they are sure you are an "old friend", starting a lengthy, friendly conversation. And they still try the "complimentary XY" trick where they'll serve you spoonfuls of fries, salads or other items while you are already eating - each tiny plate shows up as 5 dirham on the bill. The latter can be easily avoided by insisting on paying immediately when your food arrives and then just walking away after you finished your meal. On the plus side: With all the tourist police present (April 2017) simply raising your voice when telling the same guy "la, shokran!" (no, thank you!) for the 3rd time or when debating a bill that lists items you did not order will probably make them stop for fear of police intervention.
  • When ignoring agents, you might get dismissive remarks shouted after you, usually tailored to your (guessed) nationality: Unless you know at least French really well, just keep on ignoring them.
  • When you get lost in the medina, you should never have to pay more than 20 dirham to a random person to get you at least out of the medina to a taxi that can drop you of someplace from which you can navigate. Again, agree on a price upfront and have the exact amount ready (or change en route in some shop).
  • Henna tattoos are popular with local residents and tourists alike. But among the many genuine traders are some scam artists who offer a free henna tattoo only to charge ridiculous prices afterwards (up to 10 times as much as local residents would have to pay). Simply refuse any "free" henna tattoos. And, in Marrakech more than in other places, be wary of overly good henna: It is probably regular, affordable henna, mixed with chemicals like PPD to make it appear darker (i.e. of higher quality). This is not only questionable from an overall health perspective but it can lead to serious allergic reactions.

Always remember: Most Moroccans are incredibly friendly, honest people, so sometimes making a fuss in public can generate unwanted attention for a scam artist and shame them into backing off.

News & References Marrakech


Travel Next

Ourika Valley - Ourika Valley Cascades d'Ouzoud 014 - Cascade d'Ouzoud waterfalls

Marrakech can make a good base for adventuring the High Atlas or for organizing one to four day Sahara treks. The following are towns in the High Atlas that can be seen as part of a day trip:

  • Amizmiz 31.2171012, -8.2332754 - With one of the largest Berber souks in the High Atlas Mountains every Tuesday, Amizmiz is well-worth a trip. This is especially true for those travellers wishing to experience the less urban, less tourist mountain towns of the High Atlas. The souk itself deals mostly in the ordinary household goods that any Walmart does; plan your souvenir shopping elsewhere.
  • Asni 31.2500377, -7.9813423 - A lovely rural village in the Atlas mountains.
  • Essaouira 31.51269, -9.76996 2½ hours west by car.
~250 dirham for transport only. Charming coastal city. You will pass the goats in the Argan trees on the way there.
  • Oukaimeden 31.2061618, -7.8609276 - Ski lift at 3268 meters. The snow falls in the mountains just south of Marrakech every winter. And it stays. Wealthy people from all over southern Morocco have since long learned to enjoy skiing in their own country. This has given the ski resort, Oukaïmeden, a distinct Moroccan touch, too. You do not need to bring your ski equipment all the way from home, all you need can be rented. You should only pay around 250 dirham for a full day here (including a lift pass). Oukaïmeden and the areas around are some of the greatest in Morocco, with four seasons, and ever changing nature. In summer, few people enter this area — it is probably too well known for winter sports. But staying here a day or two is a real treat.
  • Ourika Valley 31.22306, -7.68422 in the Atlas Mountains.
tours ~ 350 dirham Tours involve stopping several times en route to the valley to look in tourist shops, a Berber house, and a collective run for women who make products out of Argan oil. Tours will also include a walk to visit the various different waterfalls. The journey can become difficult, so wear good walking and/or climbing shoes - suitable footwear is imperative. Think of clambering up rocks at the side of the river, and eventually criss-crossing over wet rocks to travel up the mountain.
  • Setti Fatma 31.22551, -7.67456A village at the end of the proper motor road up the Ourika Valley. - The residential part is situated above the road and is not visited too much. The attractions are the lovely valley scenery and a walk to seven waterfalls - or for most day visitors one waterfall from which others can be seen.
  • Cascade d'Ouzoud - Impressive three stage waterfalls between green and pink rock slopes has almost 100 m height and highest in Morocco. Ride by taxi or minivan of local tourist company may be ordered near Djemaa El-Fna or in the streets in Medina. At least half of day need for journey but full day it is better. The way goes through picturesque valleys and takes some more than two hours on one direction. Waterfalls accessible on top and by closest downstairs till bottom where pontone boats offers to hiking just to place of water falling. Small cafes and food/souvenir shops available before the entrance and just on downstairs. Makakus monkeys meet mostly before sunset and walk just amongst the visitors or seat on trees and rocks. The waterfalls have full power on spring and beginning of summer and may almost dry later. Sunday rays sparkly highlights the water stream before sunset.


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