You Won’t Believe These 13 Secrets to Having the Best Trip Ever in Marrakech
Marrakech is a vibrant imperial city in Morocco, famous for its labyrinthine medina, chaotic souks, snake charmers, and unique Berber-Arab culture. But navigating Marrakech as a first-time tourist can be incredibly challenging if you don’t know some insider tips.
As someone who has visited this magical city several times, I want to share my hard-earned secrets to having the ultimate Marrakech vacation. Read on for 13 tips to transform your trip from a tourist trap to an authentic Moroccan adventure.
With this guide, you’ll be immersed in cultural experiences, avoid scams, and come home with memories for a lifetime. Don’t tell all your friends though – some secrets are too good to share!
1. Visit in Spring or Fall to Enjoy Smaller Crowds and Comfortable Weather
Perhaps the most important decision you’ll make is when to visit Marrakech. Summer, especially July and August, is the worst time to go since it’s oppressively hot and crowded with European tourists. The peak season from December to February also draws huge crowds.
The best time to visit Marrakech is in spring (March-April) or fall (September-November). The daytime temperatures are very pleasant, in the 70s F/ low 20s C. There’s also less humidity compared to the summer swelter. Since it’s the shoulder season, hotels are cheaper and attractions are way less crowded.
Early morning and night are the most comfortable times to explore Marrakech. In the summer, escape the midday sun by ducking into the shaded medina streets or museums. Check the weather before your trip so you know what to expect.
2. Choose Where to Stay Based on the Experience You Want
Where you stay in Marrakech dramatically affects your experience. For an immersive cultural experience, stay in a traditional riad guesthouse in the winding alleys of the medina. Wake up to the call to prayer and haggle with vendors on your doorstep.
For nightlife and modern amenities, pick Gueliz or Hivernage. For a peaceful oasis, stay farther out in the posh suburbs. You can find good deals if your dates are flexible.
Spend at least 3 days in Marrakech to see the highlights at a relaxed pace. Make sure to book accommodations with air conditioning – it’s a must during the scorching summer months.
3. Use Handy Apps to Navigate the Labyrinthine Medina
Walking around the medina and souks is an essential Marrakech experience. But its mazelike alleys are disorienting, even with a map. I rely on apps like Marrakech Riad Travel Guide and Maps.me to navigate this labyrinth.
I also use Google Maps offline feature so I don’t get lost in dead zones. WiFi Map is great for finding free connections. For translating Arabic and French, I use Google Translate.
The best part? Most navigation apps work without cell service or data. Feel like a pro explorer while wandering the medina’s passageways.
4. Know What Currency You Need and Where to Get It
Morocco’s official currency is the dirham (MAD), which can only be obtained within the country. At the time of writing, $1 USD = approximately 10 MAD. Bring plenty of cash in small bills, as many vendors don’t accept cards or large notes.
Withdraw dirhams from ATMs around Jemaa El Fna square. Notify your bank beforehand to avoid blocked transactions. Exchange desks offer terrible rates, so use them only as a last resort.
Some higher-end shops and restaurants accept euros but have dirhams for everyday purchases. Keep an eagle eye out for counterfeit bills – be sure to check them closely.
5. Blend In By Packing The Right Clothes and Acting Respectfully
To avoid standing out as a tourist, dress modestly. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees. A scarf comes in handy for visits to religious sites.
Pack lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. At restaurants, pour drinks with your right hand only – the left is considered unclean.
Speak softly and don’t display public affection. While drinking alcohol is legal, avoid it in public. With these etiquette tips, you’ll blend right in with locals.
6. Dodge Annoying Scams with These Pro Tips
While Marrakech is safer than many cities, scams targeting tourists abound. Avoid the so-called “friendly local” scam by not engaging with strangers offering help. At restaurants, confirm prices ahead so you aren’t ripped off.
Only take licensed petit taxis with running meters and negotiate the fare for grand taxis beforehand. When shopping in souks, ignore touts and start bargaining at 30-40% of the initial price. Carry a photocopy of your passport instead of the original.
Most importantly, trust your instincts – if a situation feels fishy, walk away. You’ll still encounter frustrations, but won’t fall for the most common tricks.
7. Indulge in Authentic Foods and Drink Local Mint Tea
Forget bland hotel buffets! Marrakech’s street food scene can’t be beat. Graze on favorites like tagine stew, grilled kefta skewers, harira soup, and mouth-watering sweets. Sip refreshing mint tea poured expertly from tall brass pots.
Seek out hole-in-the-wall spots away from Jemaa El Fna and check for locals – the best sign of authentic cuisine. With dishes under $5, you can happily eat your fill without breaking the bank. Don’t miss the food tours offered by companies like Food Tours Morocco.
8. Lose Yourself in the Souks and Practice Your Haggling Skills
Entering Marrakech’s souks (markets) is like stepping into a maze teeming with exotic spices, hand-woven carpets, lanterns, and crafts. Be prepared to get lost in the best possible way. As you meander down the narrow paths, keep an eye out for souvenirs.
When you find that perfect rug or chess set, it’s time to haggle! Shopkeepers expect you to negotiate. Start at 30-40% of the initial quote. Always have cash and check the quality before buying. Wear your poker face and have fun with the bargaining banter.
9. Experience True Relaxation at a Traditional Hammam
After long days walking around Marrakech, unwind at a steamy hammam like locals do. These bathhouses offer thorough scrubbing with natural soaps to leave your skin glowing. Not only is it blissfully relaxing, but also lets you connect with Moroccan culture.
Splurge on a high-end, spa-like hammam or visit a neighborhood establishment used mainly by locals. Massages and other treatments are often available too. Don’t be shy – let go of inhibitions along with the day’s grime.
10. Marvel at Breathtaking Views from Rooftops and Terraces
Marrakech looks stunning under the golden morning and evening light. For epic panoramic vistas over the city’s red roofs, head up to a rooftop café or restaurant. Sip a cappuccino while the muezzin’s call to prayer echoes in the distance.
Other terrific viewpoints are Le Jardin Secret’s terrace peering over the medina and Jemaa El Fna square, the ramparts of the El Badi Palace, and Café Des Épices’ roof deck. Don’t forget your camera!
11. Beat the Crowds by Visiting Attractions Early/Mid-Week
Marrakech gets packed with tourists during peak times. Avoid the crowds by going early, ideally right at opening time. For sites like Bahia Palace, arrive 30 minutes before to be first in line. Similarly, schedule activities for Tuesday-Thursday when fewer visitors are around.
Check Google Maps’ popular times graph so you can plan your itinerary around fluctuation in foot traffic. By beating the hordes, you’ll enjoy a less hectic experience. Trust me, jostling through a sea of pushy tourists will ruin your fun.
12. Journey to the Coastal Town of Essaouira
Most visitors only see Marrakech, but a day trip to the coast opens up a different side of Morocco. The laidback town of Essaouira has a medieval seaside fortress, charming squares, and excellent seafood. It’s also renowned for surfing and windsurfing.
Spend the day exploring Essaouira’s winding pedestrian lanes, art galleries, boutiques, and port. Or ride a camel along the endless Atlantic beaches. Back in Marrakech, memories of the breezy coastal town will linger happily.
13. Packing the Right Travel Adapter Prevents Hassles
Nothing ruins a trip faster than your devices running out of juice. In Morocco, outlets follow the European Type C and E plug styles. I always travel with the Ceptics World Travel Adapter to keep phones, cameras, and laptops powered up.
Their adapters have dual USB ports to charge multiple devices efficiently. The modular design means you take only the plug attachments needed – super handy for carry-on bags. Find out the outlet type beforehand and get a quality adapter.
Key Takeaways
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is there to do in Marrakech?
A. Some top attractions are Jemaa El Fna Square, Bahia Palace, El Badi Palace, Majorelle Garden, souks, tanneries, museums, and historic sites. You can also ride a hot air balloon, quad bike through the desert, relax at a hammam, or take day trips.
Q. What is the best area to stay in Marrakech?
A. The medina puts you right in the action while Hivernage and Gueliz offer trendy bars and restaurants. For a calm oasis, stay in the suburbs. Pick based on your interests.
Q. What is the weather like in Marrakech?
A. Marrakech has a hot semi-arid climate. Summer (May-August) is very hot with temperatures of 95°F (35°C) or more. The best weather is in spring and fall when temperatures average 75-80°F (24-27°C).
Q. Is Marrakech safe for tourists?
A. Yes, Marrakech is generally safe but petty crime does happen. Avoid walking alone at night, keep valuables secure, and use common sense precautions. Beware of tourist-targeting scams.
Q. How much does a trip to Marrakech cost?
A. The cost depends heavily on your lodging and activities. Budget about $50-90 per day per person for a moderate trip. You can pay less by staying in hostels and eating street food or much more for luxury hotels.
Q. What is the currency used in Marrakech?
A. The official currency is the Moroccan dirham (MAD). $1 USD = 10 MAD approximately. US dollars and euros are rarely accepted so exchange currency when you arrive.
