Marrakech is in Africa
Marrakech is actually in Morocco
In the vibrant heart of Morocco, enveloped by the Atlas Mountains and kissed by the warm embrace of the Sahara, lies Marrakech in Africa, a city that pulsates with life, colour, and an intoxicating blend of ancient traditions and modern flair. Nicknamed the “Red City” for its terracotta-hued walls and buildings, Marrakech is a captivating labyrinth of souks, palaces, and bustling squares, each corner promising an adventure, a sensory overload that will leave you forever enchanted by its unique charm.
A Labyrinth of Souks: Where Shopping Becomes an Art
Venture into the heart of Marrakech, where the labyrinthine alleyways of the medina await, a shopper’s paradise brimming with treasures at every turn. The souks, organized by artisanship, each have their own distinct rhythm and aroma, a symphony of sights, sounds, and smells that will awaken your senses. From the vibrant textiles and intricate carpets of the Souk Cherifia to the handcrafted leatherwork and gleaming silverware of the Souk Smata, every stall is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.
Jemaa el-Fnaa: A Spectacle of Life
As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the city, the allure of Jemaa el-Fnaa, Marrakech’s iconic square, beckons. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jemaa el-Fnaa is a mesmerizing tapestry of humanity, a pulsating hub of entertainers, food stalls, and storytellers. From the rhythmic beats of traditional Gnawa musicians to the hypnotic movements of snake charmers, the square is a feast for the eyes and ears, a spectacle that encapsulates the very essence of Marrakech.
Beyond the Medina: Unveiling Marrakech’s Hidden Gems
Step beyond the bustling medina and discover the tranquil oasis of the Majorelle Garden, a sanctuary of vibrant colours and lush greenery. Wander through its meandering paths, adorned with exotic flora and adorned with cobalt blue structures, a testament to the artistic genius of its creator, French painter Jacques Majorelle. For a glimpse into Marrakech’s rich history, visit the Bahia Palace, a sprawling complex of courtyards, patios, and ornate salons, a testament to the grandeur of the Alaouite dynasty.
Culinary Delights: A Gastronomic Adventure
Marrakech is a melting pot of flavours, a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds. Indulge in the aromatic tagines, slow-cooked stews infused with spices and herbs, or savor the succulent grilled meats, marinated in a blend of traditional Moroccan spices. For a taste of street food, venture into the medina’s bustling cafes and sample the ubiquitous pastilla, a flaky pastry filled with savoury or sweet fillings.
A Haven of Tranquillity: Rejuvenation in Moroccan Hammams
After a day of exploring the city’s vibrant energy, immerse yourself in the rejuvenating rituals of a traditional Moroccan hammam. Unwind in the steamy chambers, let your skin be pampered with exfoliating scrubs and soothing massages, and emerge feeling refreshed and revitalized. The hammam experience is an essential part of Marrakech’s cultural tapestry, a centuries-old tradition that offers a sanctuary of tranquillity amidst the city’s vibrant rhythm.
As you bid farewell to Marrakech in Africa, carrying with you a treasure trove of memories and a heart brimming with newfound appreciation for this captivating city, you will realize that Marrakech is more than just a destination; it is an experience, a journey into the heart of Africa, a kaleidoscope of colours, aromas, and flavours that will forever linger in your soul.
- Published in Tour
Explore Authentic Morocco with a Local
A Small Group Tour to Explore Authentic Morocco
A small group tour or private escorted tour is the ideal way to discover authentic Morocco. The country lends itself to travelling by train, mini-bus or ferry. A combination of all three is even better. With good road networks, decent rail connections and ferry connections with mainland Europe, Morocco is a great introduction to exploring Northern Africa.
Imagine spending a night in a palace in a charming bustling city, then the next day you go to a breath-taking Kasbah at the heart of the mountains then you get to ride a camel in the desert and spend the night in a tent, with a universe of stars to gaze at. This is what Morocco offers and more.
It has Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines, a rugged mountain interior and a history of independence not shared by its neighbours. Its rich culture is a blend of Arab, Berber, European and African influences.
Morocco History
Morocco has a rich and colourful history. A variety of tours offer authentic experiences that lead you through the historical Imperial cities and beautiful landscapes. On these journeys of discovery, you can sleep in charming Riads, step back in time while sightseeing Roman ruins and explore ancient Kasbahs.
Morocco has a history of several dynasties that have succeeded one another over the years, Names that any traveller to the country will come across include the Idrisside dynasty, the Almoravid dynasty, the Almohad dynasty, the Merinid dynasty, the Saadian dynasty and the Alaouite dynasty. Morocco has gained international consideration as a multicultural country, with much of its heritage recognised as World Heritage by UNESCO. Morocco is one of the go-to destinations for discovery lovers, perfect for any traveller fascinated by nature, history, the art of living. It is hard not to fall in love with Moroccan hospitality.
Food in Morocco
For those with an interest in the culinary, then travelling throughout the country offers the opportunity to learn about Moroccan cuisine. The country itself is consistently ranked among the best travel destinations for food lovers. Jit is not surprising to anyone who has been before, but for a first-time traveller to Morocco, the culinary delights include souk tasting trails in Fes and Marrakech, having the chance to eat at a local family’s home in the Atlas Mountains or for those dedicated to learning a new skill, why not take a cooking class with an expert chef out in the countryside.
Authentic Morocco
At Our Local Tour one of our main aims is to help you connect and get closer to the local communities during our immersive small group tours. Morocco is home of the Berber, and you will uncover the daily life in Berber villages of the High Atlas Mountains. Here the revolve around the necessities of food, hunting, rug making and taking care of the herds and land. Get involved and experience day to day activities such as jam or bread making cooking using the most basic tools and an outdoors clay oven. When travelling as a group, there are opportunities for light treks or desert safaris. If you are lucky, you may be invited to join with a nomadic tribe as they migrate from one region to another!
There are opportunities to support local craft producers and shop for colourful rugs and handicrafts, many of which are still made in the traditional ways. Explore workshops and meet the local skilled artisans. Here you will discover not only the process of making Moroccan handicrafts but also the rich heritage that the country and its people continue to convey through their artisanship. Brass etching, pottery, weaving, leather & jewellery making, and embroidery. On an authentic tour of Morocco, you can avoid the crowds and fully experience the local specialties and give credit, acknowledgment and direct benefits to all of the underrated artists behind those pieces of art.
Morocco has many different types of traditional dances and music styles rooted in Arab, Berber, and African culture. The Moroccan arts reflect the many cultural backgrounds and ethnicity that have found their home in Morocco. For this reason, Moroccan dance is very diverse and varies from region to region. However, no cultural or historical tour of Morocco would be complete without witnessing a belly dance.
Shikhat is the dance commonly known as the Belly dance and Professional shikat wear colourful costumes with tight, midriff-baring sequined tops and long loose skirts or pants. This dance is characterised by sensual hip movements and often, the women wear a hip scarf to bring attention to the movements of the lower body. These exhibitions are often combined with a folk show which focuses on the culture, heritage, architecture, and rich history of Morocco. According to some, the belly dance is extremely old and traces of it can be found up to 6,000 years ago, in some pagan societies who used to worship a feminine deity, to celebrate women’s fertility as something magic.
Modern Morocco
In the 21st century, Morocco has been able to preserve its traditions and make its cultural heritage prosper through the generations. For example, in Marrakech, the Medina and its magnificent souks envelop you with its traditional side, while Guéliz and Hivernage offer the most modern facilities and infrastructure. Far from being a clash, this combination of modern and traditional Morocco embodies the true essence of the country.
For any traveller wishing to have an authentic group tour in Morocco, then contact Our Local Tour, whose local travel experts can create the perfect itinerary for your journey of discovery.
- Published in Specialist Travel
