This special tour guides you through eleven centuries of Marrakech history and takes you deep into the heart of the Medina to discover its eleventh-century foundations.
Our walk begins in the vastDjemaa el Fna Sqaure which from the late afternoon onwards becomes a kaleidoscope of all humanity: acrobats and snake charmers, story tellers and dancers, magicians and musicians set against the smoking braziers of hundreds of food stalls. In the morning it is quiet but late in the afternoon the bustle will have already begun.
We’ll look at the landmark koutoubia Mosque, symbol of Marrakech, and consider its significance – and those of the ruins beside it.
We will then make our way towards the sixteenth century Mellah, the Jewish Quarter, which until the second half of the twentieth century was an important and thriving centre. You will learn to recognisethe differences between Jewish and Muslim architecture and identify signs of its rich Jewish heritage.
The next stop is the beautifulBahia Palace with its decorative stucco panels, elaborate tiled floors, cooling fountains and pretty gardens.
Weaving our way through winding alleyways we will begin to leave the usual tourist trail behind us as we make for the ancient souks,or workshops. Here in the narrow labyrinthine alleyways amid the sounds, sights and smells of this artisan quarter you will feel as if you are stepping back in time.
We will see where the workers stop for lunch and the fruit and vegetable market where the locals pick up their daily provisions. And as we meander back to the Square we will stop to peer into courtyards and unearth their secrets. Maybe we shall also meet en route some of the colourful characters that bring the Medina to life. There is just so much to discover.
During our tour we will make a brief stop so you can refresh yourself with a traditional mint tea, a Moroccan coffee or perhaps a freshly squeezed orange juice.
Please note that in THIS TOUR, we have a policy of NOT taking our clients to shops and shopping outlets. The busy tour itineraries focus solely on the history and culture of Marrakech. You are of course welcome to shop in the markets and souks once the tour is finished!
Family Friendly
Probably best suited to older children (6 – 8years plus) as there is a substantial amount of walking and the alleyways are often busy and narrow. Please also bear in mind the heat especially in the summer.
Practicalities
This Tour lasts 3 hours and begins at 9am.
No tours on Friday, as many authentic places and some attractions close for the Collective prayer.
You will be met at your centrally located hotel or riad by your guide or given instructions about where to meet at an easy to access location in the Medina.
We suggest you wear comfortable walking shoes as the routes are often uneven. We also suggest that you dress modestly and appropriately and have sunscreen and a hat. If it is hot please bring a bottle of water although this can be purchased en route.
TWO options:
1) Group Tour: (max of 6 people)
2) Private Tour: Highly Personal
We prefer to take small groups which is a definite advantage as the whole experience is more personal.
