Marrakech: 10 Epic & Exciting Things to Do

Our Top 10 Must-Do Activities in Marrakech

Are you planning a trip to Marrakech and wondering what to do while you’re there? Look no further! We've selected some of the best activities to do in Marrakech, all reasonably priced and rated highly. 

What is There to do in Marrakech?

From shopping the souks and visiting historical sites, to adrenaline fuelled activities, there is something for everyone in Marrakech and definitely more available that you could ever possibly tick off in one short visit. 

Our selection is made in association with 'Get Your Guide' who provide top quality experiences, many with nothing to pay on booking and free cancellation right up until 72hrs before the activity commences.

The 10 Best Things to do in Marrakech

Please note that we many be paid a small commission if you chose to book an activity featured on this page, this helps us to continue to provide quality guides and keep the site going, for which we are very grateful. It in no way effects the price you pay. 

 

How Many Days in Marrakech is Enough?

We recommend a stay of 3-4 days in Marrakech. With the help of this guide, you'll find lots of activities to enhance your time there and give you a taste of the local area and culture. 

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Marrakech: Activities to do

 

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Here are the top 10 things to do in Marrakech that you absolutely can’t miss out on!

 

1. See Sunrise with an Early Morning Hot Air Balloon Flight

Kickstart your day in Marrakech with a hot air balloon flight and discover Marrakech from a different perspective. Watch the sun rise over the majestic desert as you float peacefully in the sky. It’s an experience you’ll never forget!

Things to do in Marrakech- Hot Air Ballooning

Embark on this thrilling ride above the Palm Grove of Marrakech and its surrounding landscape to see a bird's eye view of the area. Round off your experience with a cup of fresh mint tea and visit to a local Berber house.

After an early morning pickup from your hotel in Marrakech, sit back and relax on the 45-minute drive out of the city to the balloon launch site. Here, receive a full pre-flight safety briefing and have a chance to watch the launch team prepare the balloon for departure.

Once in the air, cover a distance between 9 and 15 miles (15 to 25 kilometres), depending on the wind speed, taking you over a local village and the picturesque surrounding areas.

Activities to try in Marrakech

The flight will last one hour, and after a gradual descent back to land, head to a local village for mint tea and home-baked bread in a local Berber household. Following tea and bread, head back to Marrakech.

 

2. Take a Moroccan Cookery Class

Immerse yourself in the rich flavours of Moroccan cuisine by taking a traditional cookery class. Learn how to prepare authentic dishes using local ingredients and spices. A delicious and educational experience!

Things to do in Marrakech- Take a Cooking Class

From market to plate, learn how to whip up a tagine from scratch with an expert-led cooking class in Marrakech. Enrich your home cooking with a lesson on Moroccan cuisine, pick out fresh ingredients at a local souk, and chow down on the fruits of your labour.

Begin with a stroll among the locals as you select the meat, vegetables, herbs, and spices that form the basis of Moroccan cuisine.

Activities to try in Marrakech. Take a Cooking Class

Learn how spices are used, and about their historic significance to Morocco over thousands of years. Discover homegrown ingredients, such as saffron from Taliouine, mint and olives from Meknes, and oranges and lemons from Fez.

Then, during your hands-on cookery class, an expert chef will teach you how to make traditional dishes central to Moroccan meals. Among the most famous Moroccan dishes are couscous, pastila, tagine, tanjia, and harira.

Although the last is a soup, it is considered a dish in itself, especially during Ramadan, and is often served with delicious local dates. Once you have prepared your tagine meal, sit down to savour the delights of your cookery class in the delightful surroundings of a typical riad.

Afterwards you will be transferred back to your hotel, armed with your own exclusive Moroccan recipes to try at home.

 

3. Stay Overnight in the Agafay Desert

For the ultimate desert experience, spend a night under the starry skies of Agafay. Enjoy the tranquillity of the desert, savour a traditional dinner, and relax around a cosy campfire. Unwind in luxury tents for a magical night.

Things to do in Marrakech- stay in the Agafay Desert

Embark on an extraordinary excursion to the seductive Agafay Desert. Get picked up by your driver from your accommodation or the nearest meeting point in Marrakech.
 
Head to the beautiful desert of Agafay, less than an hour from the city and tucked just behind the Atlas Mountains.
 
 
It is one of the world's most mysterious landscapes, composed of rocky terrain and Saharan dunes.  Arrive at the camp and check in to your tent for a warm welcome of tea.
 
Take time to relax and marvel at the magnificent desert landscapes. If you have selected one of the add-on activities — a camel, quad, or buggy ride — they will start in time to experience the sunset during them. 
 
 
If not, enjoy free time to take in the calm of the desert, and enjoy relaxing time in our beautiful pool. After sunset, a magical and unforgettable private dinner will be served.
 
 
The menu will include Moroccan soup (Harira), three hot dishes, different kinds of Moroccan tajines, and a dessert consisting of seasonal fruits. Spend the rest of the evening by the charming campfire, gazing at the beautiful stars in the sky. The following morning, wake up for a hearty breakfast at the camp before heading back to Marrakech at 10:00am.
 
 
 

 

4. Take a Tour of Ben Youssef Madrasa and The Secret Garden

Step back in time at the historic Ben Youssef Madrasa, a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture. Marvel at the intricate tile work, ornate carvings, and serene courtyards of this ancient Islamic college.

Things to do in Marrakech- Ben Youssef

Take a walking tour through Marrakech, exploring the cultural wonders of Ben Youssef Medersa, the Secret Garden, and the bustling souks. Experience a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds, weaving together the rich tapestry of Marrakech's past and present. 

Let your guide transport you to a bygone era, providing insights into the madrasa’s significance and its role in shaping Morocco's cultural heritage. Continue to the Secret Garden, a hidden oasis nestled within the heart of the city. Stroll through lush greenery, admire vibrant blooms, and listen to the soothing sounds of fountains.

Relax in a sanctuary that provides a peaceful retreat, offering a moment of tranquillity amidst the urban hustle. End the walk in the souks, where the heart of Marrakech beats most vividly. Follow your guide through a maze of streets, where each corner reveals a new sensory delight. Enjoy the aroma of spices, the colours of textiles, and the banter of traders. Meet artisans and test your bargaining skills.

 

5. Take a Street Food Tour of the Souks with an Experienced Guide

Navigate the bustling souks of Marrakech at night with a knowledgeable guide and indulge in a culinary adventure. Taste a variety of delectable street foods, from savoury tagines to sweet pastries, as you soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the markets.

Things to do in Marrakech Visit the Souks

Meet your guide in the heart of the city, at Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. Head to the Mellah and stroll through the city's main market where stalls groan under the weight of fresh fruit, meat, poultry, and vegetables. Watch artisans make a local pastry and get a glimpse of how the locals haggle.

thinsg to do in marrakech- take a street food tour

Discover the flavours of Moroccan cuisine as you enjoy tastings of local foods such as sweet pastries or the traditional charcoal-baked tagine.

Ask your local guide about the different types of tagines and the learn secrets of cooking this traditional Moroccan dish. You will receive a local recipe as a unique souvenir for you to take home.

Try some of the wares on offer including juicy olives and sweet dates.  Walk through the maze-like streets of the Medina and see how a méchoui maker prepares a roasted whole lamb or sheep in a traditional pit oven.

Visit a hidden restaurant to try even more delicious foods such as tangia and kofte, served with freshly baked bread. Take in the smells of saffron, cumin, and typical fresh herbs which are abundant in a variety of Moroccan dishes.

Sample three different types of salads made from the freshest local ingredients. Finish the tour in truly Moroccan style and sip a glass of mint tea from the rooftop of a cozy cafe. Relax a while and admire the beautiful courtyard and interior decorations such as rugs, mosaic lamps, and fountains.

 

6. Take a Tour of Majorelle Garden, YSL Musueum, and the Berber Museum 

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at the serene Majorelle Gardens. Admire the exotic plants, vibrant colours, and iconic Majorelle Blue villa that once belonged to fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. 

Save time and money as you embark on a visit to three of Marrakech's best museums with this combo ticket. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere for the Majorelle, be awed by the fashion of Yves Saint Laurent, and uncover Berber heritage at the Pierre Bergé Museum.

 

 

7. Go Quad Biking in Palmeraie

Get your adrenaline pumping with a thrilling quad biking adventure in the Palmeraie oasis. Zip through palm groves, desert terrain, and rocky trails for an exciting off-road experience in the stunning Moroccan landscape.

Things to do in Marrakech- quad biking

Explore Marrakech's palm groves on a thrilling half-day quad biking adventure. Enjoy two hours of excitement riding quad bikes through the palm trees.

With pick-up from your Marrakech hotel, you'll discover the picturesque landscapes of the Palmeraie, feel the adrenaline rush of quad biking, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of the region. It's an unforgettable experience that allows you to discover the natural beauty of Marrakech.

Includes: - Hotel or Riad pick-up and drop-off - Helmet and protective goggles - Tea with locals - 2 hours of quad biking

 

8. Watch a Sunset Dinner Show in the Desert

Embark on a magical evening in the desert with a captivating sunset dinner show. Enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine, live music, and mesmerising performances under the starlit sky. An enchanting and unforgettable experience!

Relax in the vast beauty of the Agafay Desert on this trip from Marrakech. Eat a -dish dinner in a traditional Bedouin tent, listen to the silence of the desert, and ride a camel.

 

9. Take a Guided Walking Hike of the Ouzoud Waterfalls with a Boat Trip

Escape the city and journey to the stunning Ouzoud Waterfalls for a nature-filled day trip. Hike through lush greenery, swim in refreshing natural pools, and marvel at the cascading waterfalls surrounded by breath taking scenery.

Things to do in Marrakech- Visit the ouzoud waterfalls

Embark on a full-day tour to the Ouzoud Waterfalls from Marrakech. Learn about Berber culture as you explore the land. Descend winding trails and admire stunning views of the falls on a boat ride.

Begin with pickup from your hotel or riad, before departing for one of the most spectacular waterfalls in North Africa, located 93 miles (150 km) north of Marrakech.

As you arrive in the village of Ouzoud, admire views of the cascades that plunge 360 feet (110 meters) into the pool below. Follow your local guide through olive groves to an argan oil co-operative and learn about Berber culture. Make the most of the opportunity to admire the views and take photos.

Continue down a network of trails to a viewpoint where you can buy fresh orange juice. Board a traditional boat for a short ride on the pool at the bottom of the waterfalls. Then, enjoy a late, Berber lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the falls.

In the mid-afternoon, climb a series of stairs out of the valley for your transfer back to Marrakech.

 

10. Take a Traditional Black Soap Hammam Spa

Enhance your trip by combining a Hammam Spa which includes a  pick-up service from your hotel or riad in Marrakech, ensuring your utmost comfort and convenience.

Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed into a spa and hammam, where an ambiance of serenity and tranquillity awaits you.

Immerse yourself in a sanctuary of relaxation, designed to evoke a profound sense of well-being. The spa's serene and peaceful setting offers the perfect environment for you to unwind and escape the pressures of everyday life.

Things to do in Marrakech- Take a Hammam Spa

The expert therapists are dedicated to providing you with an unforgettable experience of rejuvenation and renewal. Surrender to the aromatic oils, skilfully applied during a traditional massage, as tension and stress melt away, leaving you in a state of blissful relaxation.

As part of this indulgent package, you will also have the opportunity to experience the hammam.

Things to do in Marrakech- take a hammam massage

Delight in the purifying benefits of a black soap and eucalyptus scrub, revitalizing your body and leaving your skin feeling refreshed and invigorated.

After this blissful journey of pampering and self-care, you will be transferred back to your accommodation, ensuring a seamless end to your spa experience.

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Make the most of your time in Marrakech by exploring these top 10 activities that promise adventure, culture, and unforgettable moments. Your Moroccan adventure awaits!

Where to eat in Marrakech