Travel to Marrakesh: A Glimpse into the Soul of Morocco

When you travel to Marrakesh, you’re embarking on a voyage back in time, tracing the footsteps of ancient empires and discovering tales of grandeur etched in the very stones of the city. Marrakesh, a city bathed in history and culture, offers its visitors a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and experiences that are unparalleled.

Founded in 1062 under the banner of the Almoravids, Marrakesh soon blossomed into a formidable empire, its influence stretching from the depths of Algiers to the far reaches of Spain. Such was the prowess and ambition of these great warriors that their legacy has withstood the test of time, and the city’s majestic architecture is a testament to that.

By 1106, the city underwent significant architectural advancements. The vision of Ali Ben Youssef saw the rise of a splendid palace, a majestic mosque, and robust ramparts. These were the masterpieces of Andalusian craftsmen of the time, renowned for their intricate artistry. Not just a patron of architecture, Youssef was also an innovator. His ingenious system of underground canals was designed to nourish the vast palm groves of Marrakesh, an oasis that stands as a testament to man’s triumph over nature.

As centuries unfurled, the city witnessed numerous dynastic changes. The Almohads ascended to power in 1147, introducing iconic landmarks like the Koutoubia and the Kasbah. However, the ebb and flow of power saw the Merinids of Fez and the Saadians take their turns in shaping the city’s destiny. The latter’s reign, marked by the affluence of Ahmed El Mansour in the 16th century, heralded a golden era for Marrakesh. This was an age of architectural marvels – from the hauntingly beautiful Saadian tombs and the remnants of the majestic El Badii palace to the intellectual hub of the Ben Youssef madrasa. But as history has shown, empires rise and fall, and by 1668, the Alaouites were the new custodians of Marrakesh.

Fast forward to today, and Marrakesh holds the title of Morocco’s premier tourist destination. As you travel to Marrakesh, it becomes evident that its allure isn’t just its historic sites, though they are numerous and grand. The city is a symphony of experiences. The sprawling palm groves offer a tranquil escape, while the pulsating heart of Jamaa El Fna square entices with its chaotic charm. Snake charmers, street food vendors, and traditional storytellers blend seamlessly with the rhythms of modern life.

In conclusion, to travel to Marrakesh is to immerse oneself in a tapestry woven with threads of history, culture, and unending adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, a cultural enthusiast, or simply a traveler seeking unique experiences, Marrakesh beckons with promises of memories that will last a lifetime.

Best Time to Travel to Marrakesh

Marrakesh enjoys a semi-arid climate, which means that while the summers can get quite hot, the winters are mild and pleasant. Therefore, the ideal times to travel to Marrakesh are during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these periods, the daytime temperatures are comfortable, and the evenings have a cool breeze, making it perfect for exploring the city’s countless wonders and wandering its bustling markets.

Spring sees the city bloom in a riot of colors, with flowers adorning gardens and the Atlas Mountains still capped with snow, providing a picturesque backdrop. Fall, on the other hand, offers a mellow warmth, with the city’s architecture basking in a golden hue as the sun sets.

While the summer months (June to August) are hot with temperatures often soaring above 37°C (98°F), the evenings can be surprisingly cool and pleasant. If you’re considering traveling during this time, it’s best to schedule outdoor activities during the early morning or late afternoon.

Winter (December to February) is mild, but temperatures can drop considerably during the evenings and nights. While this season offers a different, more tranquil charm to the city, it’s advisable to pack some warm clothing if you plan to venture out after sunset.

Regardless of when you choose to travel to Marrakesh, the city’s enchantment remains constant, promising an unforgettable experience for every visitor.

In the west of the country, bordered by the waves of the Atlantic, Agadir is one of the pearls of Morocco. Whatever the season, the sun pours its rays and the city enjoys a pleasant climate that the trade winds still soften. Above all, its 10-kilometer-long seafront offers tourists magnificent views of the blue ocean and the opportunity to laze around in the best conditions.

The main seaside resort of the country, the city with 300 days of sunshine per year, is full of activities. At the water’s edge, cafés and restaurants open their doors to you, introduce you to the local gastronomy and submit their specialities to the enlightened judgements of your taste buds!

Further on in the city, the El Had souk spreads out through the streets, deploys its stalls: more than 6,000 shops offer themselves to your curiosity and you will enjoy strolling in this atmosphere animated by the negotiations of the merchants. Never sleepy, the city welcomes every summer the Timitar festival dedicated to world music and more specifically to Amazigh music.

Open to the ocean and the world, Agadir is an active city where it is good to relax.

The city was during the Middle Ages the seat of the emirate of Nokour, and has long been a source of disputes between European traders. It was founded in 1926 by the Lieutenant General of the Spanish Army José Sanjurjo, at the place where his troops landed, it was originally known as Villa Sanjurjo.

Al Hoceima enjoys an ideal location, it is located along the Mediterranean coast. It has pretty whitewashed houses along the bay, an almost perfect semicircle between two hilly headlands.

An impressive view, the best of the entire bay is offered from the east of the coast, in front of a small Spanish island named Peñon de Alhucemas. You will also see some trawlers moored at the small port of Al Hoceima, and in the evening lit lamparos for a good night’s fishing. 

Quemado Beach, located directly in front of the town is the best of all the nearby beaches.

 

Asilah is a city that was founded by the Phoenicians, it dates from pre-Roman and Roman times. In 1471, the city was taken by the Portuguese and thus became a busy trading center.

Asilah obtained Moroccan nationality in 1691 under the command of Moulay Ismail.

Nowadays, it has become a city where there is a relaxed atmosphere in a jovial environment, namely that its medina has been well maintained over time and even today. Its narrow cobbled streets are lined with houses.

Several painters have frequented this city, and have even left signs of their passages that you can find on the walls of the city.

Extend your stay in Morocco and visit the attractive town, Azilal. Located in the center of the Atlas Mountains, this city is teeming with charming landscapes. Its unique vivid culture, crafts and architecture, has contributed to develop a responsible and supportive ecotourism that attracts more and more tourists.

Come and enjoy a rich and varied gastronomy : from Amazigh couscous, to fish tagine, to olive tagine with argan oil.

You’ll be seduced by the many natural wonders in front of you ! Contemplate the splendid waterfalls of Ouzoud, and let yourself be surprised by the amazing natural bridge of Imi N’Ifri, near Demnate. Admire the azure blue water of the lake of Bin El Widane, and refresh yourself in the gorges of the Ahansal wadi or to take a walk in the very beautiful natural reserve of Tamga.

Last stopover, the Aït Bouguemez valley that bears its nickname « valley of happy people ». Surrounded by the majestic M’goun mountain, the valley culminates at more than 4,071 meters.

Meet the local inhabitants over a traditional mint tea and succulent Moroccan pastries. 

Casablanca represented nothing more than a simple Berber colony attached to the foot of the Anfa hills at the time of the 7th century. However, for strategic and commercial reasons it was still in the sights of foreign powers. Until the day it was sacked in 1468 by the Portuguese, having destroyed the privateer ships of the city.

Thus the Sultanate of Sidi Mohamed ben dar el baïda (White House) in the 18th century, allowed the city to acquire a new meaning. Especially thanks to its port which played a major role in the markets of sugar, tea, wool and corn of the western lands.

In the 20th century, Casablanca experienced its most important change under the French protectorate. Marshal Lyautey, the first resident governor, did everything to make Casablanca the center of Morocco’s economy. He hired urban planners and took care of the modernization of the port. For about 40 years, the best architects have been involved in this project.

Even after its independence, Casablanca continued its expansion and today presents beautiful buildings quite futuristic and a magnificent mosque (Hassan 2) unmissable and one of the few accessible to non-Muslims.

Chefchaouen was founded in 1471, it is located in the hollow of 2 mountains, Ech – Chaoua. The Idrissides shorfa (descendants of the Prophet Muhammad) founded it as a stronghold against the Portuguese.

The city has narrow alleys and bright blue buildings. It has pretty little squares, beautifully decorated fountains and decorative doors.

Its blue walls, narrow paths and red roof tiles make this city charming.

Located in the south of Morocco, Dakhla is a small part of paradise, lost between the waters of the Atlantic and the sands of the Sahara. It gives you a complete change of scenery. Kilometers of beaches expand from one side of the town to the other : an opportunity to relax, and indulge in all kinds of water activities.

These shores are one of the most beautiful ones in Morocco. These pearls are an absolute haven of peace ; an ideal place to bask in the 25-degree sun all year round.

In the surroundings, the PK25 and Foum El Bouir beaches are particularly famous. While PK25 is a perfect place for relaxation, where you can swim quietly in the calm and crystalline waters of the lagoon, the atmosphere of Foum El Bouir is more lively.

Being the perfect places for sliding sports : Surfers, kitesurfers and windsurfers, whether amateurs or professionals, meet here to experience thrilling challenges with waves and winds. « Pointe de Dragon » is another internationally renowned spot : waves are impressive and the most famous surfers have come in droves to these spectacular tubes that run for hundreds of meters.

Leading to sub-Saharan Africa, Dakhla is a gateway to a never-ending array of thrilling and exciting activities ! 

The Portuguese settled there in 1502, and undertook the construction of a fort whose name would later become famous in Morocco: Mazagan. The city became over time a center of trade, and also a place where ships from Europe and the East moored to fill stocks of provisions.

In 1769, Sultan Sidi Mohamed took charge of expelling the Portuguese, who destroyed the fort with explosives as they fled. It was rebuilt by local Arabs and a large Jewish community of Azemmour in the early 19th century.

Today, El Jadida is a small coastal town located between Casablanca and Essaouira. It is a beautiful mix between a medina rich in history and fortified walls overlooking the sea, pretty beaches and excellent seafood.

The city is less touristy than nearby towns, it holds some historical sites and makes a perfect place to relax for a few days.