original travel marrakech

Everything you need to know before going to Marrakesh

Nov 29, 2023 • 6 min read

Marrakesh can be a sensory overload for first-time visitors so read on for some local advice before you go © minoandriani / Getty Images

I lived in Marrakesh full-time for almost 10 years with no intention of leaving. My life in Morocco was colorful, diverse and endlessly inspiring for a curious, creative soul like me. And today the city’s intrigue and magic continues to pull me back. 

I will never tire of wandering the tiny alleyways of the Marrakesh medina, stopping for a nouss nouss at Cafe des Epices or gazing at the art deco architecture throughout my Gueliz neighborhood, stepping inside to discover independent art galleries . 

Picture-perfect guest houses, and chefs putting a creative spin on local cuisine, are also part of the charm. The design scene in Marrakesh is second-to-none, and in my opinion unique in Morocco as traditional artisans sell their wares alongside contemporary designers, putting a new touch on the traditional techniques and crafts.

A visit to Marrakesh is not about ticking sites off a must-see list but rather meandering – stumbling upon a historic site and watching the world go by from a street-side cafe – the city itself is a sight. Allow three days to see the main historical sites, sample local cuisine and take in a bit of shopping, but design lovers could easily spend a week here.  

1. Plan your days prior to arrival

While there is something to be said for spontaneous wanders and chance encounters, Marrakesh is the country’s leading tourist destination and guides, experiences and restaurants book up days, weeks and months in advance.

Jardin Majorelle  and the nearby Musée Yves Saint Laurent  require online advance bookings via their website. To ensure a table at popular restaurants like +61 , La Famille  and Nomad , book prior to arrival for best availability. 

2. Book an airport transfer or catch the local bus

It’s best to organize an airport transfer via your accommodation provider for a smooth arrival. Taxis have a reputation for overcharging clients, despite posted rates. A city bus departs frequently from the airport to Djemaa el Fna and destinations throughout Gueliz for Dh30 (cash only). Find the bus stop beyond the waiting taxis, near the car rental offices. 

3. Hone your negotiation skills in advance

From haggling in souqs to negotiating fares with taxi drivers, bargaining is commonplace in Marrakesh. Shopkeepers often state an offer and the buyer is expected to negotiate a price they are prepared to pay. I say: pay what the goods are worth to you . You may find the same item cheaper (or more expensive) elsewhere, but is that worth worrying about? It's all part of the Morocco experience.

Prior to hopping in a cab, negotiate a price in advance if the meter is not activated, or if it (notoriously) doesn’t work. The price within Marrakesh city limits shouldn’t cost more than Dh30 if the meter is activated. Daytime rates start at Dh1.70 – Dh2.40 at night – and increase based on distance. If the meter does not work, negotiate the price in advance and make sure you have small bills and coins to pay the exact amount agreed upon (the amount will already include a tip).

4. Be wise about the street food you eat

Some of the best food is served up street side in Marrakesh. When deciding where to eat, consider how many locals are pulling up a seat to tuck into the local delicacy like msemen (pancakes), harira (soup) or a tajine. In Djemaa el Fna , opt for stalls where the food is prepared in front of you. 

5. Stay current

Morocco’s Dirham is a closed currency, and visitors are permitted to arrive and leave with a maximum of 1,000 Dirhams. Most ATMs distribute up to Dh2,000 per transaction to a daily maximum of Dh4,000 per bank card, though this varies by international bank. All banks will charge a fee.

For the best currency exchange, head to Hotel Ali in Djemaa el Fna or Hotel Farouq on Avenue Hassan II near the train station. 

6. Dress like a local for a comfortable experience 

For women, I suggest ditching any belly tops and short shorts while wandering in the Marrakesh medina, one of the city’s most traditional neighborhoods. Instead, opt for dresses that fall below the knee or trousers and a shirt that covers your shoulders. For men, knee-length shorts or trousers are advised. For traversing the cobblestoned and uneven footpaths, flats are best, ideally close-toed.

7. Don’t avoid visiting Marrakesh just because it’s Ramadan

Don’t put off a trip to Marrakesh during the month of Ramadan. It provides an insight into another aspect of this rich culture. Locals will expect that visitors will want to eat and drink, even while out in public. Guides may join you at the table and won’t want you to feel guilty about eating or drinking. During this holy month it is even more important that you're mindful about alcohol consumption. 

8. Local table manners

When accepting a sample of olives or dates in the souqs, or sharing a tajine with locals, always use and eat with your right hand. If invited into a local’s home, arriving with some sweet treats will be graciously received, and bakeries – Amoud,  Pâtisserie Amandine and Café 16 – are local favorites. 

9. When it comes to love, discretion is key 

Sexual relations between non-married Moroccan men and women are not typically flaunted in public. It is illegal for an unmarried Moroccan to book a hotel room or self-catering apartment with a non-Moroccan. Discretion is recommended when it comes to flaunting one’s affection for their partner, regardless of nationality or sexual orientation.

10. Knowing a few words of Darija will earn you points

Though folks working in tourism often speak several languages, with English becoming increasingly common, learning a few words of Darija (Moroccan Arabic) will earn respect. Walking into a shop, it’s common to greet fellow customers and shopkeepers with an "Assalaamu alaykum"  (peace be with you) and respond with “Wa alaykum ssalaam”. “Chakrun” for thank you, “la chakrun” for no thank you, and “afak” for please are also key. 

11. Problems you may encounter in Marrakesh

Stumbling upon a faux guide either on foot in the medina, or a man on a bike who claims to work at your hotel with offers to visit the Berber market or another special, can’t-miss event may result in being led to a family member’s carpet or spice shop. A firm, but polite “no thank you” is often sufficient as you walk confidently in the direction you plan to go.

While it may cause frustration, getting lost in the Marrakesh medina is part of the fun – until it’s not. If and when this happens, remain confident in where you’re going. Ask an older gentleman in the souqs for directions if necessary. If engaging a local lad to show the way, expect to pay for their assistance (Dh20 is reasonable).

Plain-clothes police officers roam the medina frequently and are there to help, taking tourist concerns seriously. A central police station is located in Djemaa el Fna.

Also note: Although Morocco experienced a magnitude seven earthquake in September 2023, with the area surrounding Marrakesh heavily hit, natural disasters within the city are rare.

12. Keep these must-have items in your day bag 

Brushing one’s teeth with tap water is not likely to cause any health issues, but bottled or filtered water for hydrating is recommended. You’ll also want to pack hand sanitizer and wet wipes for days spent wandering, shopping and eating. Always keep a pack of tissues on hand for bathrooms which may not be stocked with toilet paper.   

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The Ultimate Marrakech Travel Guide: Uncover Hidden Gems

Marrakech, the heart of Morocco, is a city where the ancient and the modern coexist in a vibrant tapestry of colors, sounds, and scents. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, Marrakech offers an unforgettable experience that is as rich as it is diverse. From the bustling souks of the Medina to the serene gardens and palatial Riads, every corner of this city tells a story. As you embark on your adventure, exploring the hidden gems of Marrakech is a must, and what better way to experience the magic than with expertly curated Morocco tours that reveal the city’s lesser-known treasures?

Discover the Medina: A Labyrinth of Wonders

The Medina of Marrakech is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a sprawling maze of narrow alleys and bustling markets. While many tourists flock to the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the true charm of the Medina lies in its quieter corners. Wander away from the main thoroughfares and you’ll find hidden courtyards, traditional hammams, and local artisans crafting everything from leather goods to intricate metalwork. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Ben Youssef Madrasa, an ancient Islamic school adorned with stunning zellij tiles and wood carvings, offering a glimpse into Morocco’s rich cultural heritage.

Explore the Palatial Gardens

Marrakech is home to some of the most beautiful gardens in the world, each offering a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The Majorelle Garden, with its striking cobalt blue buildings and exotic plants, is a favorite among visitors. However, for a more secluded experience, head to the Secret Garden, a beautifully restored 19th-century Islamic garden hidden in the heart of the Medina. Stroll through its lush pathways, and you’ll discover an oasis of tranquility, far from the crowds.

Dive into Marrakech’s Culinary Delights

Moroccan cuisine is a feast for the senses, and Marrakech is the perfect place to indulge in the country’s culinary delights. While the street food stalls in Jemaa el-Fnaa are a must-visit, some of the city’s best food experiences can be found off the beaten path. Join a cooking class in a traditional Riad, where you’ll learn to prepare classic dishes like tagine and couscous, or dine at one of the city’s hidden rooftop restaurants, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Medina as you savor your meal.

Venture Beyond the City: Day Trips and Morocco Tours

While Marrakech is a destination in itself, it’s also the perfect base for exploring the surrounding region. Take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains, where you can hike through picturesque Berber villages and enjoy breathtaking views of the landscape. Alternatively, book a Morocco tour to the Agafay Desert, a rocky desert just outside the city, where you can experience a camel ride, enjoy a traditional Moroccan tea, and watch the sunset over the rolling dunes. These tours offer a deeper insight into the rich culture and natural beauty of Morocco, far beyond the city limits.

Hidden Gems to Add to Your Itinerary

• Le Jardin Secret: A peaceful retreat in the Medina, showcasing traditional Islamic garden design.
• Dar Si Said Museum: An often-overlooked museum housing a stunning collection of Moroccan art and artifacts.
• Maison de la Photographie: A small museum dedicated to Moroccan photography, offering a unique perspective on the country’s history.
• Bab Agnaou: One of the original gates of the city, featuring intricate carvings and an imposing presence.

Adventurer’s FAQ

Q: What is the best time to visit Marrakech? A: The best time to visit Marrakech is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. These seasons offer the perfect conditions for exploring the city and embarking on Morocco tours.

Q: How safe is it to explore Marrakech’s hidden gems? A: Marrakech is generally safe for tourists, especially in well-traveled areas. However, it’s advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in less crowded places. Joining a guided tour can also enhance your safety and provide valuable insights.

Q: What should I wear while exploring Marrakech? A: Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, so it’s important to dress modestly, especially in public places. Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing is ideal for staying cool while respecting local customs.

Q: Are there any local customs I should be aware of? A: Yes, when visiting religious sites or entering someone’s home, it’s customary to remove your shoes. It’s also polite to greet people with a “Salam” (peace) and to use your right hand when giving or receiving something.

Top Experiences & Tours in Marrakech

Experience the vibrant culture of Marrakech by exploring its historic landmarks and lively souks. Escape to nearby mountains for stunning views and traditional meals. Enjoy local culinary delights, desert adventures, and rejuvenating spa treatments, all offering a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation in this dynamic city.

Embrace the Magic of Marrakech

Marrakech is more than just a city; it’s a gateway to adventure, a place where every alley, garden, and dish tells a story. As you uncover the hidden gems of this vibrant destination, you’ll find that the true magic of Marrakech lies in its contrasts and surprises. From the bustling energy of the souks to the serene beauty of its gardens, Marrakech offers a travel experience like no other. So pack your bags, embrace the unknown, and let Marrakech’s enchantment sweep you off your feet.

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After exploring the High Atlas Mountains, Ait Benhaddou, and the shores of Essaouira, as well as journeying down from Casablanca through the blue city of Chefchaouen and the ancient medina of Fes, your next adventure is Marrakech: the perfect final spot. 

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Audley travel, original travel, kensington tours.

Original Travels Co   Reviews

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Reviews 4.4.

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Perfect vacation planning in Morocco

This was our first time working with KimKim and Original Travels and we could not have been more pleased. They took all the stress out of planning the trip. We told them the cities we wanted to visit and our budget for appropriate riads to stay and they put together the perfect itinerary of comfortable and well located riads along with customized day tours of the cities. We also can’t stress enough how wonderful it was to have a private driver throughout our trip. Reda was not only enjoyable to be with but was so accommodating to our whims of stopping for supplies and amenities. More than an a driver, he was a friend. And the home base staff of Ali and Said were available instantly when we had questions during the trip or wants to change things at the last minute. There was never a feeling of guilt. They made us feel like we were their only travelers. So polite and professional. We look forward to using this team again for future travels. If you want to truly relax and enjoy an adventure of a trip that spans multiple cities, you will not beat the prices and service of this team.

Date of experience : October 01, 2023

Easy to customize a 10 day tour

Booked a 10 day trip, Abdel was easy to communicate with to customize what we wanted to see in Morocco and gave us a few options. It was also great to know the drivers and local guide in each city spoke English. Transportation, hotels/riads, and mini excursions were all planned out by the company for us.

Date of experience : April 27, 2022

Unforgettable Morocco

We miss Morocco and our amazing guide Abdel and Karim, our always smiling driver! Abdel arranged a magical trip for us, a true experience and not simply a prescribed list of sights. The highlight of our trip was our 2-nights camping in the Sahara at Tiziri Camp. The camp is run by Akmed with his team of friendly helpers/amazing musicians. After delicious dinners we would sit around the fire listening to live music played by Akmed and his crew. Fantastic! We had many memorable discussions under the starry sky and I happily celebrated an unforgettable birthday there. We also visited a nomad home and rode camels at sunset, heard the music of Mali... thank you Akmed! We have visited Morocco before but this trip taught us a great deal more and deepened the experience immeasurably.

Date of experience : January 05, 2021

Reply from Original Travels Co

Hi Betsy, Thank you so much for your lovely review, I'm overwhelmed by your comments and it was a pleasure to arrange all the services for you and to select unique hotels for your stay to make it more memorable. I will let Karim and Ahmed about your praise and lovely words, they will be glad to hear that you and Richard enjoyed the tour. I hope you would visit us again, you are always welcome! Thanks again, Abdellah Original Travels

Whatever you want to do in Morocco, they can deliver!!!

If you want a unique experience in Morocco, then Original Travels is the the perfect travel agency for you! From back country trekking deep into the mountains to more luxurious trips, they can do everything for you and your family or friends! I've been travelling with Original Travels during spring 2019 and I really enjoyed my stay. We did a 5-6 days trekking through Ait Bouguemez to the summit of the M'Goun and we were alone on the tracks! We didn't met any other travelers! That's what I call back country experience! Going through small villages with very welcoming people, breath taking sceneries, very good meals and snacks... always with some fresh baked bread and olive oil and sweet mint tea! I have recommended friends to Original Travels and they have been very happy with their experience. I will strongly recommend Original Travels again, and I will contact them for my next trip in Morocco!

Date of experience : May 05, 2020

Hey Jordane, Thanks for taking the time to share your opinion on our service, We're overjoyed to receive your compliments and appreciation. At Original Travels, we take pride in giving outstanding service to every guest by providing meaningful and authentic experiences that leave a positive impact on both travellers and local populations. We hope to see here again, and please bring all your friends and family, we will ensure they all enjoy the same quality of service as you have. Chokran and best wishes! Abdellah. Original Travels

Great Week in Morocco

We did a weeklong trip in May 2019 and had a fantastic time. Original Travels arranged a wonderful trip - they listened to what we wanted and figured out a perfect trip for us. Our driver was very nice and easy to work with. We fit in some extra hikes and adventures which made the trip even more fun. Excellent trip - I highly recommend Morocco and Original Travels

Date of experience : May 25, 2020

Hi Catherine, On behalf of all of us at Original Travels, I would like to thank you for sharing this great review about our company! We are thrilled that you have enjoyed your experience with us. We will be sharing your feedback amongst our team :). Warm greetings to all family members and please come visit us again soon! Respectfully, Abdellah.

Personalised hiking in Maroc

We booked a 9 day trip with Abdel of OTTravel in october 2019. He was recommended by a friend who had hone with him twice already. The recommandation was duely founded. We had a fantastic experience on our trip. We visited the main cities by ourselves and wanted a true wilderness hike experience. We went through volcanic mountainous regions, camped in the strict middle of nowhere as we wanted. On our trip we were perfectly accompanied by competent guides, mule-riders and a cook. Our sleeping tents and eating area were up when we arrived at each site. The food was absolutely perfect, tasty and fresh. We had an intense trip planned over many parts of maroc and many many kimometers. We were extremely well taken care of. People were friendly and helpful. We met the actual owner and had good talks with the guides. We saw things we never saw before. All in all we highly recommend this travel compagny. The hikes are the highlight. Do 1 day in fes or marrakesh to see what a medina is, the go straight to the nature. Skip the desert and hike some more. And go hike with OTTravel.

Hi P-A, We are incredibly grateful that you took the time out to leave us this note, its people like you that make our job wonderful. Being a small company, most of our customers are referred to us by existing customers.—We work hard to meet expectations like yours, and we’re happy to hear we hit the mark for you. We look forward to serving you again in the future. Best regards, Abdellah

Best trip ever!

What can I say? Words just don’t do an experience like we had any justice. It was a breathtaking, sweeping view of a beautiful country rich in religious, cultural, historical and geographical wonders. Abdellah, our guide, and Mohamed, our driver (more importantly our good friends) took us on the trip of a lifetime. With Covid, the flights were a little tricky and we missed the first day of our scheduled tour. They were super flexible and accommodating and fixed our tour without any issues. When we arrived they were both there to greet us with smiling faces and a nice air conditioned car. We went to Chefchouen, the blue pearl of Morocco, Fes, Skoura Oasis, the Sahara Desert and Marrakech. (We had to skip Casablanca because of our flights.) We drove the whole way to each place. Abdellah and Mohamed pointed out all the details along the way and answered all of our questions. We ate amazing local food and experienced life like it is for the locals. Our Riads (little bed and breakfasts made out of old homes that are like mansions) were amazingly beautiful and unique at each stopping point. If you choose to go to Morocco, you have to go to the Sahara. It’s a must. We stayed at TIZIRI camp and were lucky enough to have the place to ourselves. It was magical. Please use Oroginal travels for your plans. A trustworthy company that will make your trip exactly what you want and need. Thank you guys. 🇲🇦🇲🇦🇲🇦❤️❤️❤️🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

Date of experience : December 04, 2020

Hey Kelly & Edgar, Thanks for this amazing 5-star review, we are delighted that you enjoyed your journey with Original Travels. Our entire team makes it a point of honor to ensure that the Moroccan experience is for the best, in accordance with the wishes, desires and expectations of our travelers. Thank you again for choosing us, and we will be happy to assist you with future travels to Morocco, Inshalah. Maa Salama ! All the best, Abdellah

A wonderful trip at the heart of…

A wonderful trip at the heart of Morocco and its traditions off the beaten tracks. Cultural and immersive experiences, every detail was carried out by rigorous and attentive people. Many thanks to Abdellah, an honest and lovely person. I recommend Original Travels without hesitation.

Date of experience : January 14, 2020

Hey Caroline! Thank you so much for this great 5-star review. We really appreciate you being a loyal customer and helping to share the word about us. We’re here for you anytime. Chokrane! Abdellah Original Travels

An awesome return to travel

Our trip to Marrakech and Imlil in the Atlas Mountains, planned and guided by Abdel from Original Travels, was a spectacular (!!) return to travel for a group of vaccinated expats coming from Abu Dhabi. We started out with a very smooth transfer from Casablanca to Marrakech with our wonderful (and safe!) driver, Samir, then had dinner at our gorgeous riad, Palais Sebban, a solid recommendation from Abdel. Our first morning, we took a super fun and informative cooking class at Maison Al Arabe then met up with our laid-back and kind local guide Hassan, for a loop through the Medina where we learned a lot about the culture and daily life of Marrakech and shopped for carpets, leather goods and argan oil. The following day we were driven to Imlil in the Atlas Mountains for unforgettable hiking, visits with local Berber families for lunch and tea and a night of stargazing and some of the best tajine of the trip from Khasbah du Toukbal. Then it was back to Marrakech for our last two nights. We booked hammam treatments at the Royal Mansour, one of the city's prettiest hotels, a stop at the Majorelle Gardens and YSL museum and a final loop through the souq. Phew! We are a relatively well-traveled group and I have to say this was a trip of a lifetime, thanks to Abdel. He was so responsive and helpful in planning and leading us, but also patient and sweet when it came to giving us time to relax and do our own thing. If you're looking to be a tourist, and I mean that in the very best sense of the word of experiencing and learning and feeling awe and gratitude for this big world, Original Travels is how to do it. Thank you, Abdel!

Date of experience : May 16, 2021

Good service levels

Good service levels. Thanks for moving our Safari trip quickly.

Date of experience : April 21, 2020

Suggested companies

Audley travel, original travel, kensington tours.

Original Travels Co   Reviews

In the Travel agent category

Visit this website

Company activity See all

Write a review

Reviews 4.4.

Most relevant

Perfect vacation planning in Morocco

This was our first time working with KimKim and Original Travels and we could not have been more pleased. They took all the stress out of planning the trip. We told them the cities we wanted to visit and our budget for appropriate riads to stay and they put together the perfect itinerary of comfortable and well located riads along with customized day tours of the cities. We also can’t stress enough how wonderful it was to have a private driver throughout our trip. Reda was not only enjoyable to be with but was so accommodating to our whims of stopping for supplies and amenities. More than an a driver, he was a friend. And the home base staff of Ali and Said were available instantly when we had questions during the trip or wants to change things at the last minute. There was never a feeling of guilt. They made us feel like we were their only travelers. So polite and professional. We look forward to using this team again for future travels. If you want to truly relax and enjoy an adventure of a trip that spans multiple cities, you will not beat the prices and service of this team.

Date of experience : 01 October 2023

Easy to customize a 10 day tour

Booked a 10 day trip, Abdel was easy to communicate with to customize what we wanted to see in Morocco and gave us a few options. It was also great to know the drivers and local guide in each city spoke English. Transportation, hotels/riads, and mini excursions were all planned out by the company for us.

Date of experience : 27 April 2022

Unforgettable Morocco

We miss Morocco and our amazing guide Abdel and Karim, our always smiling driver! Abdel arranged a magical trip for us, a true experience and not simply a prescribed list of sights. The highlight of our trip was our 2-nights camping in the Sahara at Tiziri Camp. The camp is run by Akmed with his team of friendly helpers/amazing musicians. After delicious dinners we would sit around the fire listening to live music played by Akmed and his crew. Fantastic! We had many memorable discussions under the starry sky and I happily celebrated an unforgettable birthday there. We also visited a nomad home and rode camels at sunset, heard the music of Mali... thank you Akmed! We have visited Morocco before but this trip taught us a great deal more and deepened the experience immeasurably.

Date of experience : 05 January 2021

Reply from Original Travels Co

Hi Betsy, Thank you so much for your lovely review, I'm overwhelmed by your comments and it was a pleasure to arrange all the services for you and to select unique hotels for your stay to make it more memorable. I will let Karim and Ahmed about your praise and lovely words, they will be glad to hear that you and Richard enjoyed the tour. I hope you would visit us again, you are always welcome! Thanks again, Abdellah Original Travels

Whatever you want to do in Morocco, they can deliver!!!

If you want a unique experience in Morocco, then Original Travels is the the perfect travel agency for you! From back country trekking deep into the mountains to more luxurious trips, they can do everything for you and your family or friends! I've been travelling with Original Travels during spring 2019 and I really enjoyed my stay. We did a 5-6 days trekking through Ait Bouguemez to the summit of the M'Goun and we were alone on the tracks! We didn't met any other travelers! That's what I call back country experience! Going through small villages with very welcoming people, breath taking sceneries, very good meals and snacks... always with some fresh baked bread and olive oil and sweet mint tea! I have recommended friends to Original Travels and they have been very happy with their experience. I will strongly recommend Original Travels again, and I will contact them for my next trip in Morocco!

Date of experience : 05 May 2020

Hey Jordane, Thanks for taking the time to share your opinion on our service, We're overjoyed to receive your compliments and appreciation. At Original Travels, we take pride in giving outstanding service to every guest by providing meaningful and authentic experiences that leave a positive impact on both travellers and local populations. We hope to see here again, and please bring all your friends and family, we will ensure they all enjoy the same quality of service as you have. Chokran and best wishes! Abdellah. Original Travels

Great Week in Morocco

We did a weeklong trip in May 2019 and had a fantastic time. Original Travels arranged a wonderful trip - they listened to what we wanted and figured out a perfect trip for us. Our driver was very nice and easy to work with. We fit in some extra hikes and adventures which made the trip even more fun. Excellent trip - I highly recommend Morocco and Original Travels

Date of experience : 25 May 2020

Hi Catherine, On behalf of all of us at Original Travels, I would like to thank you for sharing this great review about our company! We are thrilled that you have enjoyed your experience with us. We will be sharing your feedback amongst our team :). Warm greetings to all family members and please come visit us again soon! Respectfully, Abdellah.

Personalised hiking in Maroc

We booked a 9 day trip with Abdel of OTTravel in october 2019. He was recommended by a friend who had hone with him twice already. The recommandation was duely founded. We had a fantastic experience on our trip. We visited the main cities by ourselves and wanted a true wilderness hike experience. We went through volcanic mountainous regions, camped in the strict middle of nowhere as we wanted. On our trip we were perfectly accompanied by competent guides, mule-riders and a cook. Our sleeping tents and eating area were up when we arrived at each site. The food was absolutely perfect, tasty and fresh. We had an intense trip planned over many parts of maroc and many many kimometers. We were extremely well taken care of. People were friendly and helpful. We met the actual owner and had good talks with the guides. We saw things we never saw before. All in all we highly recommend this travel compagny. The hikes are the highlight. Do 1 day in fes or marrakesh to see what a medina is, the go straight to the nature. Skip the desert and hike some more. And go hike with OTTravel.

Hi P-A, We are incredibly grateful that you took the time out to leave us this note, its people like you that make our job wonderful. Being a small company, most of our customers are referred to us by existing customers.—We work hard to meet expectations like yours, and we’re happy to hear we hit the mark for you. We look forward to serving you again in the future. Best regards, Abdellah

Best trip ever!

What can I say? Words just don’t do an experience like we had any justice. It was a breathtaking, sweeping view of a beautiful country rich in religious, cultural, historical and geographical wonders. Abdellah, our guide, and Mohamed, our driver (more importantly our good friends) took us on the trip of a lifetime. With Covid, the flights were a little tricky and we missed the first day of our scheduled tour. They were super flexible and accommodating and fixed our tour without any issues. When we arrived they were both there to greet us with smiling faces and a nice air conditioned car. We went to Chefchouen, the blue pearl of Morocco, Fes, Skoura Oasis, the Sahara Desert and Marrakech. (We had to skip Casablanca because of our flights.) We drove the whole way to each place. Abdellah and Mohamed pointed out all the details along the way and answered all of our questions. We ate amazing local food and experienced life like it is for the locals. Our Riads (little bed and breakfasts made out of old homes that are like mansions) were amazingly beautiful and unique at each stopping point. If you choose to go to Morocco, you have to go to the Sahara. It’s a must. We stayed at TIZIRI camp and were lucky enough to have the place to ourselves. It was magical. Please use Oroginal travels for your plans. A trustworthy company that will make your trip exactly what you want and need. Thank you guys. 🇲🇦🇲🇦🇲🇦❤️❤️❤️🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

Date of experience : 04 December 2020

Hey Kelly & Edgar, Thanks for this amazing 5-star review, we are delighted that you enjoyed your journey with Original Travels. Our entire team makes it a point of honor to ensure that the Moroccan experience is for the best, in accordance with the wishes, desires and expectations of our travelers. Thank you again for choosing us, and we will be happy to assist you with future travels to Morocco, Inshalah. Maa Salama ! All the best, Abdellah

A wonderful trip at the heart of…

A wonderful trip at the heart of Morocco and its traditions off the beaten tracks. Cultural and immersive experiences, every detail was carried out by rigorous and attentive people. Many thanks to Abdellah, an honest and lovely person. I recommend Original Travels without hesitation.

Date of experience : 14 January 2020

Hey Caroline! Thank you so much for this great 5-star review. We really appreciate you being a loyal customer and helping to share the word about us. We’re here for you anytime. Chokrane! Abdellah Original Travels

An awesome return to travel

Our trip to Marrakech and Imlil in the Atlas Mountains, planned and guided by Abdel from Original Travels, was a spectacular (!!) return to travel for a group of vaccinated expats coming from Abu Dhabi. We started out with a very smooth transfer from Casablanca to Marrakech with our wonderful (and safe!) driver, Samir, then had dinner at our gorgeous riad, Palais Sebban, a solid recommendation from Abdel. Our first morning, we took a super fun and informative cooking class at Maison Al Arabe then met up with our laid-back and kind local guide Hassan, for a loop through the Medina where we learned a lot about the culture and daily life of Marrakech and shopped for carpets, leather goods and argan oil. The following day we were driven to Imlil in the Atlas Mountains for unforgettable hiking, visits with local Berber families for lunch and tea and a night of stargazing and some of the best tajine of the trip from Khasbah du Toukbal. Then it was back to Marrakech for our last two nights. We booked hammam treatments at the Royal Mansour, one of the city's prettiest hotels, a stop at the Majorelle Gardens and YSL museum and a final loop through the souq. Phew! We are a relatively well-traveled group and I have to say this was a trip of a lifetime, thanks to Abdel. He was so responsive and helpful in planning and leading us, but also patient and sweet when it came to giving us time to relax and do our own thing. If you're looking to be a tourist, and I mean that in the very best sense of the word of experiencing and learning and feeling awe and gratitude for this big world, Original Travels is how to do it. Thank you, Abdel!

Date of experience : 16 May 2021

Good service levels

Good service levels. Thanks for moving our Safari trip quickly.

Date of experience : 21 April 2020

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Wanderlust Morocco: A Tapestry of Colors and Culture

Welcome to our travelogue chronicling the enchanting journey through the diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of Morocco. Join us as we explore the bustling markets of Marrakech, camp under the starlit skies of the Sahara Desert, and wander through the blue-hued alleyways of Chefchaouen. Morocco, a land where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with modern allure, awaits your discovery.

Things to do in Marrakech, the heart of Morocco, is a city that dances to the rhythm of its own drum. Nestled at th...

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Morocco Travel Guide

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Morocco at a glance

Best time to visit morocco, useful information, practical guide.

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Morocco in Context

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Things To Do In Morocco

Morocco holiday ideas.

Nights in the Medina: A Big Short Break in Fez

Spend a weekend in Morocco’s cultural and spiritual capital

4 days, from £ 705 to £ 1,130

Tangier - Asilah - Chefchaouen

A big short break to tangier.

Unravel Tangier’s mysteries and must-see spots alongside a local resident.

5 days, from £ 990 to £ 1,500

Morocco - Marrakech

Marrakech for two: a secret riad & berber culture.

The cosy atmosphere of your riad, select accommodation in the heart of the medina (old town)

3 days, from £ 1,045 to £ 1,520

Morocco Travel Blog

Six Things to do in Tangier

Sustainable Tourism in Morocco

Research Report: Issy’s Trip to Morocco

Unmissable Landscapes in Morocco

Five Best Rooftop Bars in Marrakech

Best Souks in Morocco

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We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities

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