Marrakech en solo
by Bendie
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
Bonjour,
est-il judicieux de planifier chaque jour de mon séjour à Marrakech?Je pars en formule demi-pension dans un hôtel(avenue de la Ménara), et voudrais profiter pleinement de cette semaine:pensez-vous que 150 euros suffisent?Pourrai-je me déplacer sans soucis en soirée (de la place à l'hôtel)?Merci!Partir seule à cette période(début août) est une première pour moi:tant de proches y sont allés...j'aimerais pouvoir partager leur joie!
Bonjour,
Aucun problème d'insécurité à Marrakech , même pour une femme seule
Décliner avec politesse , mais fermeté les sollicitations des dragueurs en tout genre
Avec 20 euros par jour , çà peut aller si vous manger et buvez dans les petits restaurants locaux pour qqs euros , petits taxis à 1€ le trajet .Si vous voulez acheter des souvenirs , cela dépend quoi ! On peut trouver des petits cadeaux sympas à moins de 2 €
Aucun problème d'insécurité à Marrakech , même pour une femme seule
Décliner avec politesse , mais fermeté les sollicitations des dragueurs en tout genre
Avec 20 euros par jour , çà peut aller si vous manger et buvez dans les petits restaurants locaux pour qqs euros , petits taxis à 1€ le trajet .Si vous voulez acheter des souvenirs , cela dépend quoi ! On peut trouver des petits cadeaux sympas à moins de 2 €
Quelques torpeurs?..
Je ne souhaite pas rester à l'hôtel toute la journée:j'aimerais me balader le matin, croquer un petit bout(discrètement!) au Toubkal , repartir à l'hôtel et ressortir vers 16h30 afin de profiter pleinement.Je me renseigne beaucoup, surtout par rapport aux souks dans lesquels il faut oser se perdre:est-ce prudent?Mes questions peuvent paraître un peu stupides...Mon âme de baroudeuse me fait parfois oublier des "règles"de sécurité basiques!Est-ce vraiment sympa un tour des remparts en calèche?J'aimerais aussi me rendre à Oasiria, histoire de me baigner un peu...Dois-je y aller en bus ou en taxi?
Bonjour,
Avec un hotel dans la zone ménara, tu es au pire à 30 minutes à pied en flanant de l'entrée des souks et de la place.
* ** croquer un petit bout(discrètement!) au Toubkal *** en plein ramadan , il n'est pas même nécessaire d'etre "discret" pour manger dans un resto , s'il est ouvert, tout le monde sait que tu n'es pas assujetti au jeune.
* ** aux souks dans lesquels il faut oser se perdre: *** se perdre dans les souks n'est pas une activité héroique ou suicidaire, c'est tout simplement le bon moyen d'y rencontrer des vrais gens dans leur vrai environnement, en échappant aux 2 ou 3 allées parcourues par les touristes. A la moindre hésitation un adulte te remettra dans le droit chemin (les enfants , eux te perdront un peu plus, attendant les euros que trop de touristes donnent pour le moindre renseignement).
* *** J'aimerais aussi me rendre à Oasiria, histoire de me baigner un peu...Dois-je y aller en bus ou en taxi? *** Ton hotel serait il sans piscine ... une exception !!! http://www.ilove-marrakesh.com/oasiria/ Pour Oasiria, il y a des navettes gratuites.
Avec un hotel dans la zone ménara, tu es au pire à 30 minutes à pied en flanant de l'entrée des souks et de la place.
* ** croquer un petit bout(discrètement!) au Toubkal *** en plein ramadan , il n'est pas même nécessaire d'etre "discret" pour manger dans un resto , s'il est ouvert, tout le monde sait que tu n'es pas assujetti au jeune.
* ** aux souks dans lesquels il faut oser se perdre: *** se perdre dans les souks n'est pas une activité héroique ou suicidaire, c'est tout simplement le bon moyen d'y rencontrer des vrais gens dans leur vrai environnement, en échappant aux 2 ou 3 allées parcourues par les touristes. A la moindre hésitation un adulte te remettra dans le droit chemin (les enfants , eux te perdront un peu plus, attendant les euros que trop de touristes donnent pour le moindre renseignement).
* *** J'aimerais aussi me rendre à Oasiria, histoire de me baigner un peu...Dois-je y aller en bus ou en taxi? *** Ton hotel serait il sans piscine ... une exception !!! http://www.ilove-marrakesh.com/oasiria/ Pour Oasiria, il y a des navettes gratuites.
Point de concupiscence masculine dans les rues du lever au coucher du soleil
Mais quand il n'y aura plus de soleil , la nuit est à eux!
Mais quand il n'y aura plus de soleil , la nuit est à eux!
Décliner avec politesse , mais fermeté les sollicitations des dragueurs en tout genre
Bonjour
il est encore plus simple de faire à la marocaine : ne rien entendre, ne pas répondre :)
Bonjour
il est encore plus simple de faire à la marocaine : ne rien entendre, ne pas répondre :)
Des infos pour vivre et travailler au Maroc : http://o-maroc.com
Bonjour Bendie,
150 euros = 1 650 Dirhams. C'est tout à fait correct. En effet, la formule en demi pension devrait te permettre un bon petit déj et le repas du soir, donc un "grignotage" à l'heure du déjeuner ne te coutera pas très cher. Juste une remarque, les gargotes de la médina où l'on peut manger pour qqs dirhams seront peut être fermées le midi pour cause de ramadan. Les restaurants ciblant les touristes seront ouverts mais ils sont un peu plus chers. Pour les transports, les petits taxis, à condition d'éviter les "arnaques", devraient te permettre des trajets entre 10 et 20 Dirhams, ne pas hésiter à insister pour que le chauffeur mette le compteur. Question sécurité, aucun problème... même pour une jeune femme seule perdue dans les dédales des souks ou des derbs de la médina. J'habite à Marrakech, je suis à ta disposition si tu as des questions ou des problèmes particuliers !
150 euros = 1 650 Dirhams. C'est tout à fait correct. En effet, la formule en demi pension devrait te permettre un bon petit déj et le repas du soir, donc un "grignotage" à l'heure du déjeuner ne te coutera pas très cher. Juste une remarque, les gargotes de la médina où l'on peut manger pour qqs dirhams seront peut être fermées le midi pour cause de ramadan. Les restaurants ciblant les touristes seront ouverts mais ils sont un peu plus chers. Pour les transports, les petits taxis, à condition d'éviter les "arnaques", devraient te permettre des trajets entre 10 et 20 Dirhams, ne pas hésiter à insister pour que le chauffeur mette le compteur. Question sécurité, aucun problème... même pour une jeune femme seule perdue dans les dédales des souks ou des derbs de la médina. J'habite à Marrakech, je suis à ta disposition si tu as des questions ou des problèmes particuliers !
Bonjour,
Sympa ton blog ... Ça me rappelle quelques souvenirs ...de tentatives d'achat - 4 - à Fès, avant de me tourner vers Marrakech ! J'aurais du écrire alors mes 18 mois de recherches, mes joies de découvrir ainsi cette ville de cette façon, de l'intérieur si on peut dire, par la visite d'au moins une centaine de maisons, mais aussi mes déconvenues ... Bravo en tous cas pour ta perséverence, j'avoue que je n'aurais pas le courage de me lancer ici dans les affres de gros travaux... Mais on est récompensé après !😉
Sympa ton blog ... Ça me rappelle quelques souvenirs ...de tentatives d'achat - 4 - à Fès, avant de me tourner vers Marrakech ! J'aurais du écrire alors mes 18 mois de recherches, mes joies de découvrir ainsi cette ville de cette façon, de l'intérieur si on peut dire, par la visite d'au moins une centaine de maisons, mais aussi mes déconvenues ... Bravo en tous cas pour ta perséverence, j'avoue que je n'aurais pas le courage de me lancer ici dans les affres de gros travaux... Mais on est récompensé après !😉
" Nous ne saurons jamais tout le bien qu'un simple sourire peut être capable de faire."
Mère Teresa
bonjour bonjour!!
n'hesites pas une seule seconde cela fais trois ans que je pars a marrakech, je dis tt le temps que "cette année on change de pays" mais l'amour de cette ville me ramene toujours a elle!! tout les ans entre amis ou en couple !
l'annee derniere nous y sommes allées pendant le ramadan! tu ne trouveras pas beaucoup de petit resto et boutique typique ouverts comme dans le souk dans la journée !
Is vivent la nuit pendant cette période et ouvrent souvent vers 18 19h par contre tu trouveras aussi bien dans le quartier de gueliz ou sur la place jema el fna des chaines de resto ouvertes toute la journée comme on a en france tels que mc do, KFC ....!!
Si tu es de natures festives tu te rendras compte que bcp de bars et discothèques ferment pendant le ramadan !Ensuite pour les souvenirs n'hesites pas à aller dans le souks seule traanquillement le soir et la nuit tu n'auras aucun probleme mais ne t'y enfonces pas jusqu'a ne plus voir un seul touristes!!!la seule chose est d'être ferme et catégorique si on te propose quelquechose que tu ne desires pas acheter sinon va s'en suivre un débat et une conversation d'une demi heure !! tu es avenue de la menara il me semble que cet hotel est dans le quartier de l'hivernage donc au niveau des taxi ca va aller tu es tres tres bien situé exactement entre tout les quartier sympa pour aller juqua la place jema ca t coutera 2 euro quelque chose comme ca meme si tu peux y aller à pied bien quil fasse tres chaud en aout au allentour des 45 degres le jour !! voila j'espere que jai pu t'aider !
Ah bon ? je rentre de Tunisie et même en période de ramadan 😕 Sans doute les européennes ne méritent elles pas le respect dù aux locales!
SO
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More discussions
Bonjour à tous,
Nous partons début octobre 2026 et prévoyons de relier la vallée d'Aït Bougmez (vallée heureuse) à Skoura/Ouarzazate en passant par Demnate et la route R307/N23.
Quelqu'un a-t-il emprunté cette route récemment ? Est-elle praticable avec une voiture normale (non 4x4), ou faut-il impérativement un 4x4 ? Y a-t-il des travaux en cours ou des sections dégradées à signaler ?
Merci d'avance pour vos retours !
Hi,
This autumn, we’re planning to explore the Oriental region and we’re wondering where the best place to land would be. We’ll have three weeks ahead of us and we’ll be renting a car.
Any tips would be much appreciated. Thanks.
Hello,
In September, my wife and I, along with another couple, will be traveling to Tunisia and staying at the Sheherasade Hotel near Sousse.
We’d love to hear your recommendations or tips on places to visit, as well as advice on taxis or other transportation options.
Thanks in advance!
Is there an official website or list of certified Egyptologist guides in Egypt? And most importantly, what are the normal prices for a full day or half day? There’s so much scamming and crazy pricing—depending on who you contact, it can range from simple to quadruple!!!!
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Hi everyone,
I'm looking for a pool to go to with my wife and my 8-year-old son in the Targa neighborhood of Marrakech, or near that area.
Thanks in advance for your help. didier
I'm looking for a pool to go to with my wife and my 8-year-old son in the Targa neighborhood of Marrakech, or near that area.
Thanks in advance for your help. didier
We're planning a 2-week trip in late February/early March for a road trip in the High Atlas with a rental car, and we'd love to avoid booking our accommodations in advance. Is that doable, easily manageable, or risky (are accommodations available, expensive, or not great)? Thanks for your tips!
Annie
Hi there, 🙂
This autumn’s trip should be in Morocco—barring any geopolitical issues between now and then.
After many trips to the south of Fès, I’m giving the north a try.
My plan is roughly to do a road trip loop from Rabat back to Rabat, passing through Asilah, Tangier, Tétouan, Chefchaouen, Akchour, Fès, Meknès, and Volubilis.
That’s a lot of cities. Probably a bit too many for our taste—we usually prefer more isolated spots...
So I’m looking for tips on little backroads, secluded beaches, half-day hikes, and offbeat places.
If you’ve also got recommendations for accommodation... (We’re open to splurging over 100 € if it’s a real favorite.)
Feel free to think outside the box—this is an open-ended plan! !😉
Thanks
This autumn’s trip should be in Morocco—barring any geopolitical issues between now and then.
After many trips to the south of Fès, I’m giving the north a try.
My plan is roughly to do a road trip loop from Rabat back to Rabat, passing through Asilah, Tangier, Tétouan, Chefchaouen, Akchour, Fès, Meknès, and Volubilis.
That’s a lot of cities. Probably a bit too many for our taste—we usually prefer more isolated spots...
So I’m looking for tips on little backroads, secluded beaches, half-day hikes, and offbeat places.
If you’ve also got recommendations for accommodation... (We’re open to splurging over 100 € if it’s a real favorite.)
Feel free to think outside the box—this is an open-ended plan! !😉
Thanks
Based on your experiences, do you have a professional to recommend?
Hello,
I’m looking for testimonials from Pieds-Noirs who have recently returned to Algeria.
There can’t be many left after 65 years of the country’s independence.
I’m planning to go back myself soon to reconnect with my roots... before I pass away...
I’ve started making a few pre-bookings for hotels and apartments to rent in Algiers. At first, I received friendly and welcoming responses. Then, when I mentioned I wanted to stay for two or three weeks—maybe even a month—explaining that my trip wouldn’t be strictly touristy but more of a pilgrimage to the places of my childhood, and that it would likely be a very emotional journey, I expected a positive and warm reaction to my approach. Instead, I suddenly stopped getting replies from the three or four people I’d contacted. So now I’m wondering about the reception former Pieds-Noirs can expect...
Anyone here who can share their experience of returning? I specified “recently” because it seems that right now, diplomatic relations between the two governments are extremely tense, not to say hostile... even if Macron claims otherwise...
There can’t be many left after 65 years of the country’s independence.
I’m planning to go back myself soon to reconnect with my roots... before I pass away...
I’ve started making a few pre-bookings for hotels and apartments to rent in Algiers. At first, I received friendly and welcoming responses. Then, when I mentioned I wanted to stay for two or three weeks—maybe even a month—explaining that my trip wouldn’t be strictly touristy but more of a pilgrimage to the places of my childhood, and that it would likely be a very emotional journey, I expected a positive and warm reaction to my approach. Instead, I suddenly stopped getting replies from the three or four people I’d contacted. So now I’m wondering about the reception former Pieds-Noirs can expect...
Anyone here who can share their experience of returning? I specified “recently” because it seems that right now, diplomatic relations between the two governments are extremely tense, not to say hostile... even if Macron claims otherwise...
Hello,
I’m traveling to Algeria from October 27 to November 16, 2026.
I’d love to hear from anyone who’s been through the process about the accommodation attestation required for the visa application:
- Does it need to cover the entire duration of the trip?
- Is this document mandatory for a hotel to rent a room?
- Is it checked during inspections?
- Is a hotel booking (e.g., via Booking.com) sufficient for the visa?
- If so, does it need to be paid in advance?
I plan to visit several cities and do one or more treks with a guide or agency. If you have any contacts you’d recommend, I’d be grateful!
Also, I’d love to share this trip with a companion who’s already done some traveling. We’d organize the journey together, of course.
Thanks for your feedback! Safe travels to all, Dom, Dijon, 64 years old
I plan to visit several cities and do one or more treks with a guide or agency. If you have any contacts you’d recommend, I’d be grateful!
Also, I’d love to share this trip with a companion who’s already done some traveling. We’d organize the journey together, of course.
Thanks for your feedback! Safe travels to all, Dom, Dijon, 64 years old
Hi there,
I’m leaving for Tunisia in five weeks for a full 15-day trip. I’ll be arriving in Monastir and departing from there as well.
I’d like to do a route that’s a bit different from my first stay, which was more focused on cities and culture (Tunis, Sousse, Kairouan, El Jem).
I’ll be getting around by public transport.
I’d like to head south toward Tozeur, and I saw that you can take a *louage* from Monastir to Sbeitla (2h30). I imagine it’s not too complicated to get to Tozeur from there afterward? The issue is the return trip to Monastir and safety in Sbeitla.
If this route seems too complicated, I might opt for Djerba instead, which looks simpler.
Thanks in advance.
I’m leaving for Tunisia in five weeks for a full 15-day trip. I’ll be arriving in Monastir and departing from there as well.
I’d like to do a route that’s a bit different from my first stay, which was more focused on cities and culture (Tunis, Sousse, Kairouan, El Jem).
I’ll be getting around by public transport.
I’d like to head south toward Tozeur, and I saw that you can take a *louage* from Monastir to Sbeitla (2h30). I imagine it’s not too complicated to get to Tozeur from there afterward? The issue is the return trip to Monastir and safety in Sbeitla.
If this route seems too complicated, I might opt for Djerba instead, which looks simpler.
Thanks in advance.
Hi, I'm looking for a taxi from Dakhla airport to downtown Dakhla.
If you know a contact ?????
Hi there,
I’m looking for info about driving a vehicle in Tunisia.
Is it complicated?
Do I need an international driver’s permit?
Thanks for your help
Hi there,
I’m heading to Morocco in September 2026, and part of my trip takes me through Merzouga. I’m looking for a 4x4 driver-guide to explore the area with my partner and me.
Any recommendations?
Have a great day
I’m heading to Morocco in September 2026, and part of my trip takes me through Merzouga. I’m looking for a 4x4 driver-guide to explore the area with my partner and me.
Any recommendations?
Have a great day
It's all in the title.
Thanks in advance
Hi everyone,
Even though I come to Morocco four times a year, it’s been a long time since I’ve made the trip by car. I need to refresh my knowledge! I’ll be traveling in early October. I have a car that’s about 20 years old. The plan is to cross via Algeciras/Ceuta.
A few questions:
1) Does this crossing still exist? If so, do I need to buy the ticket in advance or on the spot? From whom? Any advice is welcome!
2) What documents are required for the car?
3) If anyone is making the trip around the same time, it could be fun to drive together 😊
I know there are experts on this forum.
Thanks in advance
Even though I come to Morocco four times a year, it’s been a long time since I’ve made the trip by car. I need to refresh my knowledge! I’ll be traveling in early October. I have a car that’s about 20 years old. The plan is to cross via Algeciras/Ceuta.
A few questions:
1) Does this crossing still exist? If so, do I need to buy the ticket in advance or on the spot? From whom? Any advice is welcome!
2) What documents are required for the car?
3) If anyone is making the trip around the same time, it could be fun to drive together 😊
I know there are experts on this forum.
Thanks in advance
Hi there,
I’m looking for some friendly recommendations for places to stay in Marrakech for 3 nights in June 2026.
In the meantime, have a great day, everyone! Thanks so much in advance.
hi,
I’m planning to take the SETE-TANGER ferry with my car.
No agency in my town sells tickets.
Has anyone done this before and can point me in the right direction?
Thanks in advance.
have a good day
I’m planning to take the SETE-TANGER ferry with my car.
No agency in my town sells tickets.
Has anyone done this before and can point me in the right direction?
Thanks in advance.
have a good day
Good evening, everyone!
I’m reaching out to gather your thoughts on an itinerary (10 days... or more?) I’d like to do at the beginning of June 🙂.
Just so you know, I’m planning to do this trip solo (25 years old), using only public transport and just a backpack. I’ve already been to Marrakech and climbed Mount Toubkal two years ago...
I’ll be arriving in Tangier. Day 1-2: Explore the city center, hike around Cap Spartel... Day 3: Stop in Tetouan Day 4-5-6: Chefchaouen and a day hike in the Rif Mountains Day 6-7: Discover the city of Fes (I’ve heard so many great things!!) Day 8: Stop in Meknes and possibly visit the historic site of Volubilis Day 9-10: Rabat (I’ve heard mixed things... some good, some bad) After that, I have the choice of heading back to Tangier for my return flight... or going down to Agadir (also a possible return flight) and extending my trip by 5 days :)
From what I can tell, everything is well connected by bus (CTM) or train (ONCF). Another question: Is the vibe in Moroccan youth hostels for meeting people the same as what you’d find in Western Europe?
Thanks in advance for your replies and your kindness! 😊
I’m reaching out to gather your thoughts on an itinerary (10 days... or more?) I’d like to do at the beginning of June 🙂.
Just so you know, I’m planning to do this trip solo (25 years old), using only public transport and just a backpack. I’ve already been to Marrakech and climbed Mount Toubkal two years ago...
I’ll be arriving in Tangier. Day 1-2: Explore the city center, hike around Cap Spartel... Day 3: Stop in Tetouan Day 4-5-6: Chefchaouen and a day hike in the Rif Mountains Day 6-7: Discover the city of Fes (I’ve heard so many great things!!) Day 8: Stop in Meknes and possibly visit the historic site of Volubilis Day 9-10: Rabat (I’ve heard mixed things... some good, some bad) After that, I have the choice of heading back to Tangier for my return flight... or going down to Agadir (also a possible return flight) and extending my trip by 5 days :)
From what I can tell, everything is well connected by bus (CTM) or train (ONCF). Another question: Is the vibe in Moroccan youth hostels for meeting people the same as what you’d find in Western Europe?
Thanks in advance for your replies and your kindness! 😊
Tickets for entry to Majorelle Garden are only issued online via an official site
(though there are fraudulent sites out there). On the official site, they ask for legitimate info
(name, nationality, etc.). What made me go "hmm" was the request for both an email address
AND a password (with confirmation). Is this normal?
Thanks for your replies.
Hi there, a group of girlfriends and I are heading to Tunisia. We’d love to know how much cash we should bring for 6 days, considering everything’s already paid for at the hotel. Thanks for your tips!
Hi everyone! :)
I’m finalizing the loop I’d like to do in May over 13 days, starting and ending in Essaouira.
We’re planning to rent a vehicle and are pretty active—we’re not really into crowds (that’s why I’ve decided to skip Marrakech).
Here’s my proposed itinerary:
Trip Proposal Summary: From May 13 (morning arrival) to May 26 (morning departure) Arrival and departure: Essaouira Day 1 (May 13): Arrival in Essaouira – Settling in / Exploring / Rest Day 2 (May 14): Essaouira – Water activities Day 3 (May 15): Essaouira to Tafraoute (~5h30) – route via Agadir – arrival and first exploration; Question: Is a detour to Taroudant worth considering? Day 4 (May 16): Tafraoute – Hike in the granite rocks – wild bivouac Day 5 (May 17): Tafraoute – Aït Mansour gorges – oasis – night in a hostel Day 6 (May 18): Tafraoute → Foum Zguid (~5h) – transition route – simple overnight or bivouac Day 7 (May 19): Foum Zguid → Zagora (~3h) – Draa Valley – desert prep Day 8 (May 20): Zagora → M'Hamid El Ghizlane → Erg Chigaga – departure with 4x4 guide – entering the dunes – bivouac Day 9 (May 21): Erg Chigaga – full desert day – walking, exploring – bivouac Day 10 (May 22): Desert → Ouarzazate (~5–6h) – leaving the desert – rest Day 11 (May 23): Aït Benhaddou – early visit – short hike – overnight stay Day 12 (May 24): Aït Benhaddou → Telouet – route toward the Atlas – start of trek – bivouac Day 13 (May 25): Atlas → Essaouira (~5–6h) – end of trek – return to Essaouira (overnight) Day 14 (May 26): Essaouira – free time + return flight
What do you think?
I aimed for an excursion to the Chigaga desert from M’Hamid because it seems less touristy and allows for a more compact loop. Is that a good idea? Is the drive to M’Hamid maybe too tedious?
Open to your great tips if there’s room for optimization!
All ears! :)
Thanks in advance and have a great day!
Clément
I’m finalizing the loop I’d like to do in May over 13 days, starting and ending in Essaouira.
We’re planning to rent a vehicle and are pretty active—we’re not really into crowds (that’s why I’ve decided to skip Marrakech).
Here’s my proposed itinerary:
Trip Proposal Summary: From May 13 (morning arrival) to May 26 (morning departure) Arrival and departure: Essaouira Day 1 (May 13): Arrival in Essaouira – Settling in / Exploring / Rest Day 2 (May 14): Essaouira – Water activities Day 3 (May 15): Essaouira to Tafraoute (~5h30) – route via Agadir – arrival and first exploration; Question: Is a detour to Taroudant worth considering? Day 4 (May 16): Tafraoute – Hike in the granite rocks – wild bivouac Day 5 (May 17): Tafraoute – Aït Mansour gorges – oasis – night in a hostel Day 6 (May 18): Tafraoute → Foum Zguid (~5h) – transition route – simple overnight or bivouac Day 7 (May 19): Foum Zguid → Zagora (~3h) – Draa Valley – desert prep Day 8 (May 20): Zagora → M'Hamid El Ghizlane → Erg Chigaga – departure with 4x4 guide – entering the dunes – bivouac Day 9 (May 21): Erg Chigaga – full desert day – walking, exploring – bivouac Day 10 (May 22): Desert → Ouarzazate (~5–6h) – leaving the desert – rest Day 11 (May 23): Aït Benhaddou – early visit – short hike – overnight stay Day 12 (May 24): Aït Benhaddou → Telouet – route toward the Atlas – start of trek – bivouac Day 13 (May 25): Atlas → Essaouira (~5–6h) – end of trek – return to Essaouira (overnight) Day 14 (May 26): Essaouira – free time + return flight
What do you think?
I aimed for an excursion to the Chigaga desert from M’Hamid because it seems less touristy and allows for a more compact loop. Is that a good idea? Is the drive to M’Hamid maybe too tedious?
Open to your great tips if there’s room for optimization!
All ears! :)
Thanks in advance and have a great day!
Clément
A lot of people find it important to stick to their budget when traveling—not to skimp, but to visit as many places as possible since traveling is their hobby.
In this post, I want to share some tips for those coming to Morocco who want their trip to be budget-friendly.
1. Prebook everything: hotels or riads, car rentals, or tours. If you book these in advance, it’ll make your life easier. You won’t have to deal with hagglers or people trying to overcharge you for services that are available online for free. Use platforms like Booking, Expedia, carsrental.ma, Airbnb, and other booking services to get this done properly.
2. Exchange your money to Moroccan dirhams as soon as you land. 1 € is always a little over 10 dirhams, but many people get charged as if it were exactly 10 dirhams per euro.
3. When visiting an old site or the old medina, avoid talking to vendors and shop owners—they’re really good at getting your attention and making you overpay for things.
4. Ask your tour guide to buy things for you. Yes, they do get a commission, but you’ll probably pay way more if you buy something yourself that they can get cheaply.
5. Walk everywhere. You don’t need a taxi for every little trip. Pick a good location and walk—most Moroccan cities are safe during normal hours.
6. Buy your food, drinks, etc., from supermarkets at normal prices. They can’t overcharge you since they scan every product.
I think that’s it for now.
Take care
In this post, I want to share some tips for those coming to Morocco who want their trip to be budget-friendly.
1. Prebook everything: hotels or riads, car rentals, or tours. If you book these in advance, it’ll make your life easier. You won’t have to deal with hagglers or people trying to overcharge you for services that are available online for free. Use platforms like Booking, Expedia, carsrental.ma, Airbnb, and other booking services to get this done properly.
2. Exchange your money to Moroccan dirhams as soon as you land. 1 € is always a little over 10 dirhams, but many people get charged as if it were exactly 10 dirhams per euro.
3. When visiting an old site or the old medina, avoid talking to vendors and shop owners—they’re really good at getting your attention and making you overpay for things.
4. Ask your tour guide to buy things for you. Yes, they do get a commission, but you’ll probably pay way more if you buy something yourself that they can get cheaply.
5. Walk everywhere. You don’t need a taxi for every little trip. Pick a good location and walk—most Moroccan cities are safe during normal hours.
6. Buy your food, drinks, etc., from supermarkets at normal prices. They can’t overcharge you since they scan every product.
I think that’s it for now.
Take care
Hi everyone! 😊
We’re traveling as a family to Marrakech from April 19 to 24, and there’ll be 15 of us (all ages), staying in the Targa neighborhood (El Idrissi Street).
I’d love your advice on a few things! 🙏
🚗 Vehicle rental
We’re thinking of renting 3 cars. We’ve seen really low prices online, but often without insurance.
👉 Do you have any reliable contacts or personal experiences to share?
👉 Would you recommend getting specific “tourist” insurance?
🏛️ Visits – Bahia Palace & Saadian Tombs
We’d like to visit the Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs, but:
We can’t find single tickets online We only see guided tours with fixed times (like 9:30 AM / 4-hour tours)
👉 Do you know if it’s possible to book without a guide? 👉 Or do we have to buy tickets on-site? (We’re a little worried about crowds and lines, especially with older folks in the group.) 🍽️ Restaurants / meals We’ve spotted the Grand Bazaar Marrakech for a meal. 👉 Any thoughts? 👉 Could you recommend other restaurants in the same budget? (We’re a big group, so it needs to stay reasonable.) For lunch/snacks, we’ve seen:
Snack Toubkal Goûter Saveur
👉 If anyone’s been, I’d love your feedback! 😊 🛒 Practical info – Targa neighborhood We’ll be in Targa (El Idrissi Street). 👉 Are there shops nearby for quick groceries (breakfast, water, etc.)?
If you’ve got any great tips, contacts, or little tricks, I’d love to hear them! 😍 Thanks so much for your help! 💖
We can’t find single tickets online We only see guided tours with fixed times (like 9:30 AM / 4-hour tours)
👉 Do you know if it’s possible to book without a guide? 👉 Or do we have to buy tickets on-site? (We’re a little worried about crowds and lines, especially with older folks in the group.) 🍽️ Restaurants / meals We’ve spotted the Grand Bazaar Marrakech for a meal. 👉 Any thoughts? 👉 Could you recommend other restaurants in the same budget? (We’re a big group, so it needs to stay reasonable.) For lunch/snacks, we’ve seen:
Snack Toubkal Goûter Saveur
👉 If anyone’s been, I’d love your feedback! 😊 🛒 Practical info – Targa neighborhood We’ll be in Targa (El Idrissi Street). 👉 Are there shops nearby for quick groceries (breakfast, water, etc.)?
If you’ve got any great tips, contacts, or little tricks, I’d love to hear them! 😍 Thanks so much for your help! 💖
As-salamu alaykum!
We’re heading to Morocco as a family from April 22 to May 8. It’s a bit short to explore such a beautiful and vast country, but school and work commitments, you know how it is... My partner is a musician and absolutely loves Gnawa music. Unfortunately, we won’t have time to visit Essaouira, as we’re heading south toward the Valley of the Roses...
Do you know of any places around Marrakech, Ouarzazate, or Kelaat M’Gouna where we might have the chance to meet Gnawa musicians? We’ll also be staying a few days in Aït Benhaddou and Skoura during our trip toward the Dadès Valley. If you have any good spots to buy a guembri along the way, I’d love to hear about them too! :)
Thanks in advance for your tips!
Mathieu
We’re heading to Morocco as a family from April 22 to May 8. It’s a bit short to explore such a beautiful and vast country, but school and work commitments, you know how it is... My partner is a musician and absolutely loves Gnawa music. Unfortunately, we won’t have time to visit Essaouira, as we’re heading south toward the Valley of the Roses...
Do you know of any places around Marrakech, Ouarzazate, or Kelaat M’Gouna where we might have the chance to meet Gnawa musicians? We’ll also be staying a few days in Aït Benhaddou and Skoura during our trip toward the Dadès Valley. If you have any good spots to buy a guembri along the way, I’d love to hear about them too! :)
Thanks in advance for your tips!
Mathieu
Mid-May: arriving alone (so, a "petit taxi"?) at Marrakech airport around 4:30 PM,
is it advisable to take a taxi at the airport (cost?) or is it wiser to book one through the hotel before departure (which would cost me 20 €)?
I think I’ve seen lower fares elsewhere (12 €?).
Destination: Riad Sijane near Djemaa El Fna square. Thanks!
hi there
we’re heading to Hammamet in a few months
what would you recommend visiting for a week?
best regards
Hi there,
I’m planning my next trip outside Europe for next year, but unfortunately, I don’t have a choice with the dates—it’s late June to early July. Last year, I went to Japan for three weeks, and it was constantly 36-37°C with over 90% humidity. It wasn’t easy, but it wasn’t impossible either.
For Egypt, I know it’s a period to avoid if possible, but I’m thinking that by the sea, it might be manageable. Otherwise, I’ll consider another destination.
Day 1: Arrival in Hurghada in the evening Day 2, 3, 4: Hurghada Day 5: Hurghada, then drive to Luxor in the early afternoon Day 6: Luxor Day 7: Luxor, then drive back to Hurghada in the late afternoon Day 8, 9, 10, 11: Hurghada Day 12: Return flight
For the Hurghada trip, either rent a car or—easier—a private car/van. Is it worth adding an extra day in Luxor?
During the stay, we’re planning activities like camel rides, quad biking, jeep tours, snorkeling, and jet skiing.
Thanks for your replies
I’m planning my next trip outside Europe for next year, but unfortunately, I don’t have a choice with the dates—it’s late June to early July. Last year, I went to Japan for three weeks, and it was constantly 36-37°C with over 90% humidity. It wasn’t easy, but it wasn’t impossible either.
For Egypt, I know it’s a period to avoid if possible, but I’m thinking that by the sea, it might be manageable. Otherwise, I’ll consider another destination.
Day 1: Arrival in Hurghada in the evening Day 2, 3, 4: Hurghada Day 5: Hurghada, then drive to Luxor in the early afternoon Day 6: Luxor Day 7: Luxor, then drive back to Hurghada in the late afternoon Day 8, 9, 10, 11: Hurghada Day 12: Return flight
For the Hurghada trip, either rent a car or—easier—a private car/van. Is it worth adding an extra day in Luxor?
During the stay, we’re planning activities like camel rides, quad biking, jeep tours, snorkeling, and jet skiing.
Thanks for your replies
Hi there,
We’re planning a trip to Morocco in September-October in our Fiat camper van, which isn’t a 4x4 but has already handled quite a bit of rough travel. While reading up on southern Morocco, we’ve been drawn to the Aguinane oasis but I’m having trouble locating it on the map. Is it possible to get there without a 4x4?
Thanks for your help
Hi,
Does anyone know the address of a rose flower distillery in the Valley of Roses / Kelaa M'Gouna? A traditional distillery, not just the tourist shop.
Thanks a bunch!
Nicolas :-)
Does anyone know the address of a rose flower distillery in the Valley of Roses / Kelaa M'Gouna? A traditional distillery, not just the tourist shop.
Thanks a bunch!
Nicolas :-)