A Week in Marrakesh: November's Charm in the Red City

Marrakesh, often referred to as the "Red City," is a captivating destination that weaves together history, culture, and adventure. Visiting this Moroccan gem in November added a unique charm, as the bustling streets and vibrant markets are complemented by more pleasant temperatures.

I had a beautiful week in Marrakesh, exploring its rich culture, tourism highlights, and the enchanting experiences it offers, here’s a round up of my week in the red city!

Immersed in the Heart of the Medina

Before arriving in Marrakesh, the first decision is where to stay. Opting for a riad within the labyrinthine of alleys in the medina is an immersive experience in itself; we chose to stay in Riad Amena with a central location and friendly welcoming staff we were immediately at ease.

These traditional Moroccan houses turned boutique hotels provide an authentic stay, with intricately designed interiors and tranquil courtyards and rooftop gardens.

Stepping out from our riad and navigating the narrow lanes, the bustling souks of the medina come to life.

The city is filled with the aromas of exotic spices, vibrant textiles, and the lively chatter of merchants, creating an atmosphere unique to Marrakesh.

We had fun engaging with locals, haggling for treasures, captivated by the ancient art of snake charming and savouring traditional Moroccan dishes.

Ben Youssef Madrasa - A Glimpse into History

One of the highlights of the week, was a trip to the Ben Youssef Madrasa... it's a great way to dive into Marrakesh's rich history!

This ancient Islamic college, adorned with stunning mosaic work and intricate carvings, offers a glimpse into Morocco's intellectual and architectural heritage.

I enjoyed taking it in and strolling through its serene courtyard, imagining the students who once studied within these historic walls.

Pampering the Body and Soul in a Hammam

A visit to Marrakesh is incomplete without indulging in the age-old ritual of a Hammam!

These traditional Moroccan bathhouses provide a rejuvenating experience that cleanses both body and mind. I visited Les Baines D’Orient for a traditional Moroccan Hammam followed by a relaxing full body massage.

The Hammam begins with soothing steam and black soap before an exfoliating treatment which transports you into a state of relaxation; A Hammam is the perfect experience in contrast to the city's vibrant energy!

A Camel Ride in the Agafay Desert

Escape the city's hustle and bustle by embarking on a camel ride through the Agafay desert – a short drive from Marrakesh's outskirts.

There are many tour guides operating these excursions but I chose to pre-book all my excursions using the 'Get Your Guide' app before we travelled. Taking a ride on a camel was a new experience for me and contrary to popular myths, they were not very smelly and they did not spit at us!

Feeling the rhythmic sway of the camel as we traversed the serene landscape, surrounded by the rolling dunes and the distant Atlas Mountains was a very wholesome and therapeutic experience.

This excursion offered another tranquil respite away from the city while still providing a taste of Morocco's diverse natural beauty and heritage.

Dinner was included in this excursion and we were served traditional tagine in a Berber tent as we watched the sunset over the desert.

After dinner, we experienced some traditional Berber music around a campfire, we even had a dance!

The evening then ended with a very impressive fire show!

Adrenaline adventures in the Agafay Desert

Along with the opportunity to ride camels in the desert, Marrakesh guides also offer activities for the adrenaline junkies! This includes dune buggy adventures in the desert and quad biking tours. We opted for a quad bike tour where we rode for around 2 hours to visit a palm oasis and then a Berber camp for some traditional mint tea (Berber whiskey).

Trekking the High Atlas Mountains

For the outdoor enthusiasts and hikers a trip to Marrakesh wouldn’t be complete without venturing out into the spectacular High Atlas Mountains for a trekking adventure.

Just a short drive from Marrakesh, this rugged terrain offers a stark contrast to the city's lively atmosphere. Immerse yourself in breath-taking landscapes, passing through traditional Berber villages and enjoying panoramic views.

Whether you're an avid trekker or a casual hiker, the trails cater to various skill levels, promising an unforgettable experience. The highlight for many visitors is the trek to the summit of Toubkal, Morocco’s 4000m peak and the highest point in North Africa. Although this wasn’t on the cards for us on this trip, we still enjoyed visiting the mountains and hiking through the valley and villages, we even stopped off at a waterfall on the way!

A Tapestry of Experiences

A week in Marrakesh in November weaves together the vibrant threads of culture, tradition, history, and adventure.

From the bustling medina to the tranquil courtyards of riads, the ancient walls of Ben Youssef Madrasa to the pampering rituals of a Hammam, and the rhythmic sway of camels in the Agafay desert to the awe-inspiring landscapes of the High Atlas Mountains – each experience adds to the tapestry of memories created in and around this enchanting city.

Marrakesh in November is not just a journey through space; it's a journey through time and tradition, a harmonious blend of the old and the new. As the sun sets over the city, casting a warm glow on the terracotta walls, you'll carry with you the vibrant spirit of Marrakesh, forever etched in the fabric of your travel adventures.