Marrakech

Marrakech is a sensory explosion: the medieval medina with its labyrinthine souks, the vast Djemaa El-Fna square filled with performers and food stalls at night, and the modern Gueliz district with its cafes and shops. It's a gateway to the High Atlas and Sahara, and a city where you can haggle for leather goods, sip fresh orange juice for 4 dirham, and stay in a traditional riad. However, be prepared for persistent touts and scams – the city's nickname 'Marrakech, Arnakech' (scam) is well-earned.

Marrakech-Menara Airport (RAK) receives international flights; bus 19 runs to the city centre. The train station in Gueliz connects to Casablanca and other cities. Long-distance buses (CTM, Supratours, ALSA) arrive at Gare Routière near Bab Doukkala or at dedicated terminals near the train station. Minibuses to the High Atlas depart from Jardin Sidi Mimoun.

The medina is best explored on foot, though streets are narrow and crowded. Petit taxis (metered) are cheap within the city – from Gueliz to the medina about 10–15 dirham. Buses serve wider areas. For longer trips, ride-hailing apps Uber and Indrive operate (Uber minimum 50 dirham).

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer pleasant temperatures, ideal for walking. Summers are very hot (often above 37°C), while winters are mild with occasional rain. The city can be crowded during holidays and festivals.

Street food dominates Djemaa El-Fna: grilled meats, snails, and fresh orange juice (4 dirham per glass – confirm price first). Tagines and couscous in small restaurants cost as little as 30 dirham. For a sit-down meal, try Chez Chegrouni or Henna Cafe. Alcohol is available in a few medina bars and in Gueliz restaurants.

Explore the medina's souks for handicrafts, visit the Koutoubia Mosque (non-Muslims cannot enter), the Saadian Tombs (70 dirham), and the Ben Youssef Madrasa (50 dirham). The Majorelle Gardens (170 dirham) offer a peaceful retreat. Don't miss a hammam experience – traditional ones like Hamam Essalama cost 12 dirham entry plus 50 dirham for a scrub.

A backpacker can get by on around 300–400 dirham per day: dorm bed 100 dirham, street food meals 30–40 dirham each, local transport 20 dirham, and a few sightseeing fees. Budget riads and hostels offer good value.

Marrakech is generally safe but petty crime and scams are common. Keep valuables hidden, avoid poorly lit alleys at night, and ignore anyone telling you a street is closed – it's a scam. Be cautious about accepting drinks from strangers to avoid drugging. Official guides wear a badge.

Wi-Fi is widely available in riads, hostels, and cafes. Local SIM cards (Maroc Telecom, Orange, Inwi) can be purchased at the airport or in town. Power sockets are Types C and E, 220V.

Marrakech is a great base for day trips: the Ourika Valley, Setti Fatma's waterfalls, the ski resort Oukaimeden, and the coastal town Essaouira. The High Atlas offers trekking, and Sahara desert tours (2–4 days) can be arranged. Ouzoud waterfalls (2-hour drive) are spectacular in spring.