Marrakesh. A city that smells like mint tea, tajine smoke, and a little bit of beautiful chaos. I haven’t been there myself (yet!), but the more I learn about it, the more I feel pulled in. And if you’re wondering what to actually do once you get there, this list of top-rated experiences will save you hours of research.
From camel rides at sunset to hot air balloon flights with views of the Atlas Mountains – Marrakesh is full of magic. Whether you’re craving adventure, culture, relaxation, or a gourmet moment, you’ll find it here. Let’s dive right in.
1. Ouzoud Waterfalls: A Day Trip That’ll Upgrade Your Feed
If I had to pick just one trip outside the city, it would be this one. Sure, it’s about 150 kilometers from Marrakesh, but what you get in return is pure wow. Ouzoud isn’t just any waterfall – it plunges over 100 meters into emerald pools and is surrounded by olive groves and dramatic red cliffs.
Besides snapping iconic photos, you can take a boat ride close to the falls, walk through olive forests with a local guide, and see how real argan oil is made (spoiler: it’s not like in airport shops). The day ends with a hearty lunch overlooking the waterfalls. Bonus? Free cancellation if plans change.
2. Agafay Desert: Camel, Quad Bike & Berber Dinner All-In-One
Who says you need to travel all the way to the Sahara to experience the desert? Agafay is rocky, dramatic, and just 40 minutes from the city. The most tempting tour? A sunset camel ride, followed by an adrenaline-fueled quad bike session and a Berber-style dinner under the stars.
The evening includes a traditional camp, tajine and couscous served in cozy tents, live music, and even a fire show. Transport, food, gear – everything is included. If you’re looking for a core memory, this one’s it.
3. Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Marrakesh
Yes, you have to get up early. But a sunrise flight over olive groves and the foothills of the Atlas Mountains? Worth it. The trip starts with a light Moroccan breakfast – tea, pastries, juice – while you watch the crew prep the balloon.
You’ll float in the sky for about 40-50 minutes, then land near a Berber tent for a full breakfast and even receive a flight certificate. Dreamy, right?
4. Majorelle Garden & YSL Museum: For the Design-Lovers
This isn’t just a garden. It’s an explosion of color, symmetry, and calm designed by painter Jacques Majorelle and adored by Yves Saint Laurent. Think cobalt blue villas, sculptural plants from around the world, and dreamy water features.
Add to that the YSL fashion museum next door and the Berber Museum (with jewelry and cultural treasures), and you’ve got the perfect half-day of slow beauty and culture.
5. Palm Oasis & Jbilat Desert by Quad Bike
Ready to get a little dusty? This two-hour guided quad tour takes you through both a palm grove and the stony Jbilat desert. It’s beginner-friendly but exciting enough for experienced riders too.
What I love: two authentic stops. One for traditional mint tea with Moroccan bread, and one just for the “Instagram it now” photo op among palm trees.
6. Ourika Valley: Waterfalls, Berber Villages & Mountain Vibes
Just an hour from Marrakesh lies a whole different world – green, hilly, and peaceful. The Ourika Valley is great for escaping the city. Expect to visit an argan oil cooperative, go on a light trek to cascading waterfalls, and enjoy lunch with a view.
Perfect if you want a bit of nature, a bit of culture, and a whole lot of pretty.
7. Essaouira: Sea Breeze, Art, and Fresh Fish
This coastal town is one of Morocco’s underrated gems. With blue-and-white buildings, sea forts, and a relaxed vibe, it’s a day trip worth the 2.5-hour drive from Marrakesh.
Explore the port, watch local artists, and treat yourself to grilled fish straight from the dock. Bonus: fewer pushy vendors than Marrakesh and better souvenir shopping.
8. Oasiria Water Park: Your Poolside Break from the Heat
Marrakesh summers can be intense, and Oasiria is the perfect oasis. Think slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and loads of shade. Whether you’re traveling with kids or just need a break from sightseeing, this is where you chill.
Pro tip: grab a lounger near the wave pool and hit the smoothie bar (the mango-mint combo is next level).
9. Moroccan Cooking Class + Market Visit
If your idea of a perfect souvenir is a recipe you can recreate at home, this one’s for you. You’ll start by shopping at a local market, then learn to prepare classic dishes like tajine, couscous, and mint tea from a local chef.
Expect lots of flavor, a laid-back vibe, and recipes to bring back home. Culinary therapy, Moroccan style.
10. Combo Ticket: Majorelle + YSL + Berber Museum
This bundle is ideal if you want to dive into the city’s artistic soul without the hassle. All three spots are close together, and the ticket saves time and money.
It’s a chilled-out day of fashion, colors, and culture. Plus, the photo ops? Chef’s kiss.
11. Dinner in the Desert with Traditional Show
Some experiences just can’t be captured in a photo – and this is one of them. Picture this: a camel caravan at sunset, heading into a desert camp, welcomed with mint tea… and an evening of starlit dining, live Berber music, and a fire show.
The full experience includes camel ride, local sweets, tajine dinner, and traditional entertainment. For travelers who love a bit of magic, this one’s unforgettable.
12. Sunrise Hot Air Balloon + Berber Breakfast
A slightly more budget-friendly version of the balloon ride, but just as spectacular. Early morning start, welcome tea and croissants, 40-minute flight over Marrakesh’s northern edge, and a full Berber breakfast after landing. Less touristy, but all the charm.
13. Medina, Souks, Palaces & Hidden Tombs
You can’t visit Marrakesh without diving into its Medina. Join a walking tour to explore Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, Koutoubia Mosque (from the outside), Secret Garden, and the chaotic, colorful souks.
With a guide, you’ll not only find your way, but understand the history, stories, and soul of the city.
Practical Tips
Best Time to Visit: October to April. Summers are scorching!
Getting Around:
- Walk in the Medina
- Taxis – agree on price first
- Buses – cheap but unpredictable
- Book transfers in advance online
What to Pack:
- Lightweight clothes that respect local customs
- Sunglasses & sunscreen (even in winter)
- Some local currency (dirhams)
- Offline maps (internet isn’t always reliable)
- VPN for unblocking streams, calls and safety internet
My Top 3 VPN Picks for Marrakesh:
If you’re heading to Marrakesh and plan to stay connected, a VPN is a must. My go-to is NordVPN – it’s super fast, reliable, and has a huge network of servers, including nearby regions. Surfshark is perfect if you’re traveling as a couple or with family since it lets you connect unlimited devices.
And ExpressVPN is ideal for those who want blazing speeds, strong security, and easy access to streaming platforms. All three work flawlessly in Morocco and will keep you safe and unrestricted online.
Why Marrakesh is Calling
Marrakesh isn’t just a place. It’s a feeling. A mix of smells, colors, flavors, sounds, and stories that linger. Even though I haven’t visited yet, it already feels like a city I’ll fall in love with.
If you’re craving sunsets, spices, culture, and chaos in the best way possible – Marrakesh is your sign. Book the flight, pack that linen shirt, and let the adventure begin.
FAQs
Must-see attractions?
Majorelle Garden, Ourika Valley, Bahia Palace, Medina, and Ouzoud Falls.
Can tours be canceled for free?
Yes – many on GetYourGuide allow free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
What to do when it rains?
Cooking classes, hammams, museums, or pottery workshops.
Is Marrakesh family-friendly?
Definitely. Water parks, camel rides, balloon tours – kids love it.
