Today meet your local guide and begin your adventure through Marrakech’s lively medina. This old, walled city, with ramparts and gates, has stood serving as protection from invaders since the 12th century. Wander through the labyrinthine streets and pass by significant sites like the historic Medersa Ben Youssef and Bahia Palace. Sit down for lunch at the Women’s Riad for some authentic, home-style cooking. While here the group will learn the importance of this business within the community and their support of local female-led initiatives. Enjoy the remainder of the afternoon free to explore. Dinner will be had on your own this evening in the cultural gem Café Clock.
Accommodation:
Hotel Oudaya Marrakech
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- Women's Riad Lunch: Sit down for an included group lunch at the Women's Riad and savour a delicious, home-style meal. While there, travellers will learn about the ways in which the riad is supporting the local community and women-led initiatives.
- Free Time: Spend a free afternoon enjoying the sites, sounds, smells, and atmosphere of the city. Choose between a variety of activities ranging from museum visits to garden walks. Maybe check out Medersa Ben Youssef and Bahia Palace from the inside, on your own.
- Marrakech Medina Guided Visit: Head into the maze of tiny streets and alleyways of the ancient medina to really get a taste of everyday life in Marrakech. Shop to your heart’s content in the souk and search out spices, traditional jalabas and slippers, or the famous Moroccan lanterns. Visit to the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, then see the historic Medersa Ben Youssef and Bahia Palace from the outside.
Optional Experiences
- Musée de Marrakech: Wander around the salons of the ornate Mnebhi Palace displaying various collections of Moroccan art forms.
- El Badi Palace: Visit the ruins of what was once the most ornate palace of the 16th-century. Its sunken gardens and pools give a glimpse into its former glory.
- Jardins Majorelle: Visit this enchanting garden in the heart of the city designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle (1886-1962). Follow the pathways through trees, exotic plants, streams, and pools while watching the numerous birds who call this peaceful paradise home. (Please note that the entrance fee to Musée Yves Saint Laurent is an additional 30 MAD.)