Marrakesh is a city that tourists either love or dislike. It’s also among the places that you have be able to adapt your expectations and prepare yourself for an experience unlike any other. I am a huge fan of Marrakesh.
In actual fact I’ve been back to Marrakesh two times since my first trip and I’m still feeling like I’m compelled to return to see more.
Learn my top tips and what you should do prior to your trip towards Marrakesh so that you don’t make a mistake. I hope you’ll fall love with Marrakech like I have. Even if you’re only going to Marrakech for the weekend.
Marrakech Morocco Tours – How to Avoid not to be disappointed
1. Don’t trust any forecasts for weather.
Be prepared for extreme hot and very cold conditions.
Prior to arriving in Marrakesh I double-checked the forecast for the weather, and it showed an average temperature of 18-25 degrees. I’m happy I wore the time to put on a coat prior to leaving since it turned out that it was cold in Marrakesh.
It was funny, but my phone was still displaying 20 degrees. I’m sure it wasn’t higher than seven Celsius (44 F).
2. Be prepared to get lost No Whatever
In Marrakesh it is necessary to ignore maps. They don’t function Marrakesh, specifically in the Medina where the streets reminded me like Italian ones, though busy and complicated.
In fact, Google Maps gets lost all the time, so you should try to remember the stroll back to your hotel or riad.
My tip: If would like to stay in the Medina it is possible to book a riad next to the gate. If you are lost, you’ll be able to inquire about what the gates’ name is. Additionally, you won’t have to carry your luggage away from the taxi because there are no vehicles allowed in the Medina.
3. Marrakesh is safe for female Travelers, if You Follow precautions
I’ve read several female blogs where women wrote about the way they were hounded by locals. I’ve never experienced this kind of treatment in the first visit or on my second visits.
Actually I have found Mexico as more annoying, and having lived in Mexico one could conclude that it’s not so bad.
The people of Morocco were all extremely welcoming to me. Sure, a couple of vendors were a bit annoying however I was quick to reply with them in French to tell them that they must behave, and I’m not buying any items, and they immediately stopped.
4. Keep in mind that a word can mean A Plenty in Marrakech
In terms of the locals and their friendly nature There is one thing that is changed significantly in Marrakesh and that is the meaning of the”promise. In the main square, Djemaa El Fna, there are many vendors selling dried fruits, nuts and souvenirs.
When I went out to purchase some almonds and dates with a lady at a hostel, the man offered to lower the price when we promised to come back the following day.
In the beginning, I didn’t believe it, but I returned the next day. I got literally 4 times the amount of dates as well as nuts for around 20 percent of the cost.
The person I talked to told me that many people will lie to get the best price, but when he finds something positive honesty in honest people, they are willing to give them all possible.
I’m afraid that for every person who is nice in Marrakesh there’s a scam artist who is trying to trick tourists. If someone you meet is trying to speak to the person in English and inform you without warning that a street is closed and then drag you into a shop to purchase some thing from their shop.
5. Prepare to debate with Taxi Drivers
There are a lot of taxi scams that occur in Marrakesh. The most popular areas where scammers are targeted can be found at airports, where it will cost around 50-70 dirhams for a trip to the medina, however drivers will not accept less than 350.
I’m actually not surprised when to see them do this because I’ve seen a lot of tourists agreeing to this price.
If you do not make a case, you’ll not be able pay a normal amount. Arguments did not work for me. Then I cut the price down to 100 dirhams. This was still too high however at least I wasn’t completely fooled.
It is possible to prefer to book your taxi in advance at the airport if aren’t looking to bargain after a long drive. This is a dependable and reasonable choice.
6. You can book luxurious accommodations at a low cost
There are many luxury riads and hostels within Marrakesh which are all affordable. There’s no reason to shell out an exorbitant amount of money on trendy places such as La Mamounia (unless you really would like to stay there, but keep in mind that you can make reservations for their spa without). Actually, I believe Royal Mansour is better quality.
On my first trip I stayed in Riad Dar Anika , which was higher than I would have expected for at this rate.
My second time visiting my spouse, I was at an exquisite riad at just $100 per night. Riad Palais Sebban. The place was certainly unique Take a look at the pool below.
I also went to Riad Be that was beautiful and I can attest for it too.
7. Be prepared for chaos on Jamaa el Fna Square
Jamaa el Fna is the most important area of Marrakesh and it’s completely crazy. There are people who will attempt to convince you to buy things and demand payment to photograph them.
They could place monkeys, snakes and all the other animals they locate onto your shoulders. Yes, they will inflict harm on these animals.
Don’t let this stop you from having fun in the square. I loved the food stalls that were there and would definitely recommend them to anyone visiting. Yes, it’s touristy but it’s not one of those tourist traps.
8. There are two different Sahara Tours – Don’t Get Ignored by Vendors
On my first trip to Morocco I was completely wronged from a regional tour company. There wasn’t much information about Morocco on the internet back then however, today you’re fortunate to have the research has been completed for you.
You may be told that you can choose either a 2- or 3-day excursion into the desert starting from Marrakesh and they’re both the same, only one of them is longer. It’s not the same trip and will take you to different locations!
9. If You’re not able to find the time to go on an Desert Trip – Do a Balloon Tour
If you don’t have the time to go on a day desert adventure and climb across the Atlas Mountain, you can experience the mountains by taking a hot balloon.
If you have time, you should consider an air balloon ride as it is a completely different experience.
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