Top 5 Marrakech Experiences

You’ve got your culture, food and shopping itinerary sorted out… But what about some other ways to experience the city of Marrakech? Here’s a rundown of our top 5. 

Bike tour 

Seeing Marrakech on a bike means you reach parts of it you might not otherwise and you’re accompanied by one of Pikala’s wonderful team of young, local guides. Plus, you’re supporting a social project that also trains young people in bike repairs, teaches road safety to schoolchildren and gives free cycling lessons to women. That’s a win, win, win. Pikala is about five minutes walk from El Fenn so super easy to get to.  Pikala Bikes

Hot air balloon ride 

Soar up and away at sunrise with the team at Ciel d’Afrique. The flight begins just as dawn is breaking and you can watch the countryside around Marrakech flood with picture perfect light as you float upwards. The trip lasts about 60 minutes and you then go to a local village for breakfast. It’s an early start for sure. But worth it for the views. Ballooning Website

Cooking class 

Want to learn how to cook your own Moroccan meal? Head to La Maison Arabe to learn the secrets of traditional dishes. Half-day classes are held at their country club where you can pick fresh herbs from the garden before being talked through dishes such as Moroccan salads and tagine. You’ll also be shown the preparation of a typical dessert before sitting down to eat the fruits of your labour. Cookery Workshops Local to El Fenn

Motorbike sidecar tour

If you can’t cycle – or just want to be driven around in style – then hop into one of Marrakech Insiders’ vintage motorbike sidecars. The 90-minute tour will take you through the medina and then on to see the art deco buildings in Gueliz and a palm-filled grove with views of the Atlas Mountains. All the guides are local, informative and wonderfully hospitable. There are longer trips to the Agafay Desert too if you want an all-day experience. Book a ride

Horse & carriage ride 

Yes. It’s super touristy. But make no mistake: Marrekchis also love hopping onto one of the city’s bright green horse drawn carriages – or caleches – for a scenic drive. Most people go down to Djemaa el Fna and pick up a daytime ride. But our favourite way to experience them is at night. Go out for dinner before being picked up late by a caleche and taken on a tour of the city at night. You’ll see it in a whole new – and magical – way.  Our concierge team can arrange carriage pick-up from the restaurant of your choice.