3-Day Slow Travel in Marrakech: Relax and Explore at Your Own Pace
Day 1: Explore the Heart of Marrakech – The Medina
The Medina:
Start your day...
with a walking tour of the Medina to get acquainted with the history and layout of the city. I personally recommend the Civitatis tour, which offers fantastic insight into the cultural and architectural significance of this ancient district, from its towering walls to its intricate alleys.
Post-Tour Lunch:
After the tour, it's time to refuel (restaurant suggestions at the end of this guide). Then, head to the Souks—the famous marketplaces of Marrakech. Picture this: vibrant stalls overflowing with spices, leather goods, lanterns, and hand-woven rugs, straight out of an Aladdin scene. Here’s a tip: always haggle. Bargaining is expected and part of the fun! Trust me, you’ll want extra luggage space—you'll be tempted to buy everything.
Dinner:
Moroccan dinners are usually served between 7:30 PM and 10:00 PM, so you've got plenty of time to unwind before heading out to one of Marrakech’s best dining spots.
Where to Stay:
Relax back at your riad, a traditional Moroccan Riad. I stayed at a beautiful riad that was well-priced at just €60 per night, including breakfast and a rooftop terrace with a jacuzzi.
Day 2: Escape to the Agafay Desert
After a leisurely breakfast at your riad, it's time to escape the city and head to the breathtaking Agafay Desert. Unlike the sprawling dunes of the Sahara, Agafay offers rugged, lunar-like landscapes closer to Marrakech.
My Tip:
Spend a night here for a truly unforgettable experience. I stayed at Selina Agafay, a glamping site with all the creature comforts. Spend the day soaking in the pool, riding ATVs across the desert plains, or taking a camel ride into the sunset. For food lovers, a Moroccan cooking class is a great way to dive deeper into the local cuisine.
The desert is perfect for unwinding. By evening, you’ll be enjoying dinner under a canopy of stars, with nothing but the sound of the wind sweeping through the sand.
Day 3: Sunrise Serenity and the Hammam Experience
Start your final day with a sunrise yoga session at Selina (included for free with your stay) and soak in the peaceful desert surroundings before breakfast. Spend a few more hours enjoying the tranquility before heading back to Marrakech.
Upon returning to the city, check in at your riad and prepare for a quintessential Moroccan experience: the Hammam.
What’s a Hammam?
The Hammam is a traditional Moroccan steam bath where you can indulge in a thorough cleansing ritual. Expect a full-body exfoliation with black soap and a vigorous scrub down, followed by a series of hot and cold rinses. It’s a rejuvenating and spiritual experience that leaves you feeling completely refreshed.
After your Hammam, top it off with a one-hour massage to relax your muscles and drift into total bliss.
Last Night in Marrakech:
Get dressed up and head out for a memorable final dinner in one of the city’s top restaurants, savoring your last night in this enchanting city.
Food & Restaurant Recommendations
Hammam Recommendations
Here are my Hammam recommendations. These options are affordable, ranging from $30 to $60, offering a great experience without breaking the bank. Of course, if you're looking for something more luxurious, there are pricier hammams available as well.
Enjoy!
This 3-day itinerary promises a blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Marrakech, with its rich history, lively souks, and stunning desert landscapes, will leave you captivated. So, let go, let flow, and savor every moment of this unforgettable journey!
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