Marrakesh

Constructed in the 16th century under the orders of Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur of the Saadian dynasty, El Badi Palace — the "Incomparable Palace" — was once hailed as a marvel of its era. Initially featuring 360 rooms, an expansive courtyard, and a 90-metre-long pool, the palace was a monument to the Sultan's affluence and influence. Adorned with a lavish selection of materials sourced globally — from Italian marble to Malian gold — the palace was envisioned as an opulent space for grand receptions and ceremonies. However, following al-Mansur's death in 1603, the palace was abandoned and gradually succumbed to decay, especially during the waning years of the Saadian rule. Many of its precious elements, particularly its marble, were harvested and repurposed in various Moroccan structures. Nowadays, El Badi stands as a significant point of interest in Marrakesh, housing various exhibitions and even showcasing the Minbar of the Kutubiyya Mosque. Though largely in ruins, the palace still whispers stories of a bygone era of wealth and grandeur.

Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Marrakesh as you embark on a city sightseeing tour. Visit the top highlights, including the Majorelle Gardens, the Berber Museum, Koutoubia Mosque, and the Medina. While you explore, your guide provides context on the history of Morocco as well as the local culture.

Erected in 1120, the Koutoubia Mosque and its 70-metre-tall Minaret serve as the spiritual and architectural heart of Marrakesh, framed by expansive gardens. Situated in the southwest area of Marrakesh's medina, close to the bustling Jemaa el-Fna marketplace, the mosque is not just the city's largest but also one of its most iconic. Although entry is restricted to Muslims, the mosque's exterior is an awe-inspiring sight that can be appreciated by all.

Jemaa el-Fna, the vibrant epicentre of Marrakesh's medina, is a riot of colours, sounds and scents, especially at sunset. Though the square has transitioned from its roots as a daily food market for mountain traders, its hustle and energy remain palpable. During the day, vendors offer refreshing fruit juices, but it's at dusk when the place truly transforms. Street theatre, or 'halqa,' has been a mainstay here since the 11th century, and the tradition continues in modern times. As the sun dips below the horizon, food stalls magically unfold, adding tantalising aromas to the air. Musicians tune their instruments, snake charmers enchant both serpents and tourists, and the spectacle crescendos into a nightly celebration of Marrakeshi life and culture.

Witnessing the age-old craft of leather treatment at the Bab Debbagh tanneries is a fascinating experience. Situated near a river for water supply, these tanneries have been operating for centuries. The distinctive odour, resulting from ammonia used in the leather-softening process, will let you know you've arrived. Unlike some other Moroccan tanneries, the focus here is on treating leather in its natural state; the dyeing happens elsewhere. Visiting the site can be a bit tricky due to the presence of unofficial 'guides' demanding payment. If you prefer a hassle-free experience, consider hiring a certified guide as part of a medina tour. Otherwise, prepare to navigate past these unofficial attendants by offering a small tip and insisting on entering without their assistance.

Step into the sensory whirlwind that is Marrakech's sprawling labyrinth of souks. Known as Morocco's largest and among the world's most exotic marketplaces, they offer a feast for the senses — vibrant colours, intoxicating aromas, and the ceaseless hum of haggling. While the thrill of the hunt and the art of bargaining are all part of the experience, first-time visitors may find the maze-like alleys a bit disorienting. The narrow, often-covered passageways, brimming with goods, can seem indistinguishable one from another. To help you navigate this complex web and truly appreciate what's on offer, consider taking a guided tour to get your bearings and avoid getting lost.

Dating back to the 12th century, the Menara Gardens offer a serene oasis, enveloped by olive trees and framed by the Atlas Mountains. Initially developed by Abd al-Mu'min, a ruler of the Almohad Caliphate, the gardens hold the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985.

The Saadian Tombs stand as an opulent tribute to the Saadian dynasty. Originating from the 16th century, the site was envisioned by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur as a monumental homage to his lineage. Found within the aged Kasbah Mosque, the tombs are divided into multiple sections, each boasting a collection of chambers festooned with ornate stucco work and vibrant tiling. The architectural flair of the Saadian Tombs is nothing short of mesmerising. From ceilings embellished with kaleidoscopic tiles to walls etched with intricate Islamic motifs, every element contributes to the site's majestic ambiance. Domed chambers further add to the grandiosity, featuring complex geometric and arabesque patterns.

Ali Ben Youssef Madrasa is an old Koranic school, built in the 14th century. It housed up to 900 students at its peak, and it was one of the largest theological schools in North Africa. It closed down in the 1960s but opened again in 1982 as a public sight. Even though the building looks modest on the outside, the inside will amaze you with its intricate beauty.

This museum, located in the heart of the city, shows the history of Morocco through 3,500 photographs taken between 1870 and 1950. From the rooftop, one of the highest in the area, you can enjoy the beautiful view while eating a light lunch.

At 17 acres and over 150 varieties of cacti, Thiemann is the biggest cactus farm in the whole of Africa. The farm was founded by a German agricultural engineer who wanted to expand beyond growing cacti in grow house conditions and thus came to Morocco in the 60s. Today, you can admire his life's work of lined-up rows of cacti, in what amounts to a massive pool of different types and shapes.