Rabat – Salam alaikum and marhaba, “peace be upon you and welcome,” as they say in Morocco, to the red city, Marrakech. Holding uniquely yellow taxis and terracotta walls which mirror the surrounding arid desert, the city is a marvelous, mysterious genie lamp containing winding streets, lively summer nights, and a plethora of college-budget friendly experiences.
A melange of traditional palaces and mosques and sprouts of luxury hotels, the people of Marrakech reflect its urban landscape, a melting pot of indigenous folk from the Sahara and the Atlas Mountains, proud Marrakechi natives, and of course, an outpour of tourists from around the world.
From cozy cooking classes to unforgettable desert escapades, this international destination is an accessible adventure with the right bargains. As haggling and bargaining are practically a national pastime in Morocco, embrace all that the Marrakech region has to offer and let’s begin!
Medina magnificence
Coins, cash, and confidence are necessary companions to shopping and haggling in the medina of Marrakech; but, looking, losing time, and lounging amongst the spices, wares, and the calls of merchants is free.
In the “City of Light,” a profusion of luminescent lamps illuminates the dark alleys of the souk, or market. Pharmacists invite you to sit and smell test the natural remedies, makeup products, and musks stored in jars lining their shelves.
From traditional rugs, neatly stacked piles of roses and cumin, and contemporary pop-art posters with a Moroccan twist, the medina is a sensory overload.
Quench your thirst in small carved out paradises where infused and strong coffee brings celebrities, Moroccans, and folks of all kinds.
Alternatively, grab a cup of mint tea away from the hustle and chaos of the souks.
Afterwards, earmark a visit to one of many palaces or exemplary sites of Moroccan architecture tucked in the old city: Ben Youssef Madrasa, Bahia Palace, or the El Badi Palace.
From meticulously carved florals and Arabic script to peaceful gardens, these historic sites carry a majesty which has transcended the times to the present day.
Calling all fashion lovers, the Yves Saint Laurent Museum and Majorelle Gardens are a well-known fixture of Marrakech.
Students, travel agents, and folks with disabilities can benefit from reduced or complimentary admission in both sites.
As they are further removed from the medina and Marrakech‘s main attractions, be prepared to either take a taxi or a long, winding walk.
At sunset, be sure to visit the medina’s cultural square: Jemaa el-Fnaa, where musicians sing and strum into curious crowds, fruit stand owners dust off their displays, and toy lights are shot into the air.
Delightful day trips
Colorful fruit carts, flowing gnaoua beats, and blue bordered sands and walls characterize the small beach town of Essaouira, a short three hour bus ride from Marrakech.
The salt-tinged walls and aged ramparts are evidence of a different time, the 1700s when Essaouira was immersed in its Golden Age as a global commercial port and diplomatic capital. Today, the meticulously designed foundations frame this relaxed beach town, serving as the film setting for Astapor in the popular television series Game of Thrones.
Before arriving at Essaouira, you could stop for a tour of one of Morocco’s famous, female-run argan oil co-ops. From the nuts to the grinding process, a well-versed guide will elucidate the process, provide a small testing of their different argan products (from hair to honey), and allow ample time for some shopping.
Then, it’s directly to Essaouira, the “Pearl of the Atlantic.”
From your arrival, an included guide will expertly navigate you through the city and recount the history of its architecture and culture of the city for an hour. Within the four hours you have in this tranquil pocket, listen to the gnawa street performers playing in the main square, lose yourself amongst wooden baubles and metal sculptures in the medina, and taste test the local seafood.
The cobblestone streets which frame the medina are drawn in a straight line, a built-in red thread to find your way out of the labyrinth which is the city’s UNESCO deemed heritage site all the way to your bus back to Marrakech.
Divulge in the Desert
Gold colored sand dunes break the sky, more still and magnificent than any laptop screensaver and unbelievably identical to the photoshop-esque photos of the Sahara. Traverse the silent stillness of the Sahara via camel, providing a jolting, rail-gripping, and yet picturesque experience.
For a longer and a bigger budget trip, take a three day tour to the Merzouga desert with a day excursion to Ksar Ait Benhaddou, a crowd of earthen terracotta structures and dwellings.
Climb and weave yourself to the top of the foothills and gaze upon a landscape of saffron vegetation and an agglomeration of complexes built with pre-Saharan earthen techniques. Hydrate, have the freedom to take an abundance of pictures, and then spend the night in a comfortable hotel in Dadès Gorges before heading out to the Merzouga desert for a sugary, starry night.
While an extended trip to Merzouga holds the promise of a somber, dark night filled with moonlight and stars and some extended sightseeing at Ait Benhaddou, a short half day dinner or sunset trip to Agafay is friendlier for the wallet.
With dark milky and ocher pigments, a half-day trip to Agafay gives a peek into summer nights in the Sahara desert as the egg yolk-like sun falls under the stark curved lines of the desert. Around a campfire and a steaming plate of traditional Moroccan food, soak in the desolate beauty before returning promptly to your lodging. Some grains of sand may be tucked into your pockets to follow you back as souvenirs of this brief but wondrous experience.
Meet your Inner Chef
Explore the tantalizing flavors of Morocco through one-of-a-kind cooking classes of Marrakech. These classes will feed your soul and stomach without breaking the wallet, making this highly immersive experience perfect for the low-budget traveler looking to explore the vast world of Moroccan cuisine. No matter if you are well-versed in the kitchen or a cooking novice, these classes will charm and inspire chefs of all levels and experience, ensuring a delightful education for all participants.
These classes are illuminated by the opportunity to prepare a full meal alongside close friends and new acquaintances. With the intimate guidance of local chefs, one will learn the intricacies of Moroccan meal prep and divulge in the creation of iconic dishes like Tajine and couscous.
Vegetarian or gluten free? Not to worry, as simply communicating dietary needs will ensure a healthy and inclusive meal for everyone. Many cooking classes in the area extend this level of consideration and hospitality by also offering a convenient pick-up and drop-off service to provide their students with a completely hassle-free experience.
Depending on the class, students can look forward to Moroccan mint tea and snacks, with the occasional lunch being offered before the completion of the meal (check your specific class outline). Some classes even offer trips to the market to invite students into the authentic experiences of Moroccan chefs and Marrakchi locals. Indulge in the vibrant markets of the city and glimpse into the lively food culture exclusive to this part of the world.
Working alongside local chefs, close friends, and new travelers, one will learn traditional cooking techniques over unforgettable conversations.
When the meal is complete, sit down with your new friends and savor the hand-made delicacies everyone has created. Bask in the aromas and tastes that define Morocco, and share stories of your travels. Take home practical skills that will spice up personal cooking, showcase unique techniques in a new meal, and share with friends a classic Moroccan meal.
Pottery classes
Budget-conscious visitors will be delighted to discover an array of short-term pottery classes filled with craft and hands-on activity. In one of these classes, one will immerse themselves in the ambiance of a Moroccan studio, led by local artists eager to share their knowledge and time-perfected techniques.
These pottery classes allow one to let loose and explore their creativity in the clay arts. Spend a few hours of your day molding a masterpiece, chatting with others, and sipping mint tea for an intimate and authentic Moroccan experience. With these classes being in digestible lengths, one will have their fill creating artwork and still have time to explore the city.
All materials are provided to ensure a simple and carefree way to spend your morning or afternoon. Some studios even offer hotel pickup for maximum convenience and hospitality. The pottery classes throughout the Marrakech region are a great way to spend time in Morocco, for both group travelers looking to bond and solo travelers looking to make new friends.
Relax and rejuvenate
Indulge in the ancient Moroccan tradition of the Hammam, and be transported to a world of relaxation and rejuvenation. The hammam experience will open one not just to a spa day, but also to a cherished cultural practice that will connect one with Morocco’s vibrant heritage.
The hammam experience begins with entering a tranquil space, with the heat of the room enveloping a person. This warm atmosphere melts away stress and prepares the body for treatment by relaxing the muscles and softening the skin. With the guidance of a professional one will be gently cleansed and guided through the next steps.
The heart of the journey lies in the exfoliation process, which begins after one has time to rest in the heated room, the step which allows for an effective and nourishing exfoliation process that leaves the body feeling silky smooth.
This exfoliation process utilizes scrubs and soaps, tantalizing herbs, and silky oils that evoke the culturally significant experience of the hammam
This body treatment is often complemented by a hair treatment, where one’s scalp is cleaned and massaged. Step out of the spa a new person with freshly exfoliated skin, and thoughtfully cleansed hair. The rest of the trip will be illuminated by the nourishing and relaxing effects of the hammam.
Immerse yourself in the hammam experience, and let the inspiring and relaxing touch of a classical Moroccan ritual envelop you. This experience is perfect for all travelers, and will provide an unforgettable escape from the stresses of daily life without breaking the bank.
Marrakech promises to be a captivating destination for adventurous travelers seeking enriching, low-budget experiences. The city offers an unforgettable trove of cultural delights, allowing travelers to indulge in the rich cultural heritage, history, traditions, and sights of Morocco without emptying one’s wallets.
From learning how to master the skills of Moroccan cuisine to perfecting the art of traditional pottery making; from the enchanting day excursions of Essaouira to the one-in-a-lifetime journey of the Sahara desert, one will find their perfect adventure. Visit Marrakech in Morocco for a dream destination that will enrich your memories without busting the bank.
