Marrakech Gardens & Ramparts

Experience some lush greenery during your visit to the arid desert city of Marrakech, exploring two of the city’s most beautiful urban gardens to learn about their history and unique influence on the city’s culture and architecture. It’s a great chance to experience a little slice of peace and quiet amid the wonderful chaos of this vibrant Moroccan city.

Begin your trip with pickup from your central Marrakech hotel or riad. Skirt the high walls surrounding the city’s medieval center as you drive by calash (passenger carriage) to your first stop at the Majorelle Garden, enjoying views of the Atlas Mountains in the distance as you go.

Arrive at Majorelle Garden, the 2.5-acre (1 hectare) oasis of fountains and dense-green foliage of exotic plants, situated in central Marrakech. This intricate botanical paradise was created by Jacques Majorelle a French expatriate artist who drew upon his interest in art nouveau and his love of plants and animals for his design of the site. Stop by Majorelle’s studio, which now hosts an on-site museum characterized by its deep blue color scheme frequently called “Majorelle Blue.” Though the gardens fell into a period of disrepair following Majorelle’s death, designer Yves Saint Laurent helped restore the facilities to their current state. The designer’s ashes are actually scattered in the site’s rose garden.

Proceed next to the Menara Garden, located near the entrance to the Atlas Mountains. This beautiful site was once the 12th-century summer home for Sultan Abderrahmane. Spend some time exploring the beautiful grounds of the site, including its elegant pavilion, olive groves, and orchard. 

Finish your day with a horse-drawn carriage ride through Marrakech. Ride past such famous sites as Agdal Gardens and the ruins of Hivernage and Mamounia before receiving a drop-off back at your hotel or riad.