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Marrakesh Magic: Fantastic and Scenic Horse Carriage Ride

Horse-drawn carriages are a quintessential tourist attraction in Marrakesh. They offer a nostalgic and scenic way to explore the vibrant city. As visitors approach the bustling markets, they can’t miss the long queue of carriages parked along the promenade. Here, drivers eagerly wait to take them on a horse carriage ride of Marrakesh’s enchanting streets. This experience brought to mind the horse-drawn carriages of Central Park in New York. Or, maybe the haunted carriage rides in New Orleans. But Marrakesh adds its unique flair to this charming mode of transport.

View of road from horse draw carriage.

A Memorable Horse Carriage Ride Experience

During our stay in Marrakesh, my wife and I opted for a high-end horse carriage ride experience as part of our tour package. Our hotel, situated about a mile from the medina, was the starting point for our delightful journey. A row of elegant carriages lined up in front of our hotel, ready to whisk us away on a meandering journey towards the medina. Taking side roads we hadn’t explored before, we enjoyed a fresh perspective of the area surrounding our hotel.

Horse Carriage tour in Marrakesh.

As the sun began to set, our carriages boldly entered the main plaza, creating a spectacular scene against the carnival-like atmosphere already brewing in the square. This ride wasn’t just a tour; it was part of an unforgettable dinner package that included an incredible fine-dining experience. I’ll delve into the details of the dinner later, but suffice it to say, the combined carriage ride and dinner, costing $65 per person, was worth every penny.

Exploring Marrakesh by Horse Carriage

Our carriage ride served two purposes: it transported us to our dining destination and provided a scenic tour through the market. I was initially surprised that horses were allowed in the bustling square with so many people milling about. However, the experience added a unique charm to our evening. While we didn’t venture too far into the square, the sight of the horses amidst the crowd was a memorable spectacle.

Horse drawn carriage ride through back streets of Marrakesh

For tourists looking to explore Marrakesh, there are various carriage ride options. You can take carriages to see the city’s historic ramparts, visit gardens, or embark on organized tours that include dining experiences like ours. Booking through a tour company can sometimes be more economical; for instance, our tour, which included dinner at Lotus Privilege, was significantly cheaper than the prices listed on Viator.

Horse drawn carriages lined up near Marrakesh market

Concerns and Considerations

As an animal lover, I was initially concerned about the health and welfare of the horses. However, they appeared to be well cared for and unbothered by the traffic and crowds. The drivers seemed experienced and attentive, ensuring the horses were comfortable and safe.

Riding the horse drawn carriages through the Marrakesh medina.

Tips for Your Horse Carriage Ride

If you plan to find a caleche (carriage) when you arrive at the medina, head to the queue located between the Koutoubia Mosque and the square at Djema el Fna. Be prepared to haggle, as the initial price quoted by the driver will likely be higher than what you should pay. For a short horse carriage ride, expect to pay around $20, with longer rides costing more.

Why You Should Try a Carriage Ride in Marrakesh

Carriage rides in Marrakesh offer a fun and relaxing way to see the city, providing a break for your feet while allowing you to soak in the sights and sounds of this enchanting place. The prices are reasonable, and the experience is both nostalgic and unique. If you find yourself in Marrakesh, consider hopping on a horse-drawn carriage for a memorable and charming tour of the city.

Marrakesh medina.

Conclusion

Exploring Marrakesh by a horse carriage ride is an experience that combines nostalgia, charm, and convenience. Whether you’re taking a scenic route to dinner, exploring historic sites, or simply giving your feet a rest, the carriage rides offer a unique and enjoyable way to see the city. So, if you find yourself in Marrakesh, don’t miss the opportunity to take a leisurely ride and create unforgettable memories.

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Majorelle Garden: A Tranquil Escape in the Heart of Marrakesh

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Marrakesh is the enchanting Jardin Majorelle Garden. This stunning garden, created over a forty-year period by French painter Jacques Majorelle, offered us a serene visit during our trip. Ranked as the number two attraction (currently) in Marrakesh by TripAdvisor, Jardin Majorelle offers a peaceful escape. I found Marrakesh to be a bustling city with a vibrant market. Therefore, we found this visit a unique opportunity to explore both nature and local culture. Especially with the addition of the Berber Museum.

Jardin Majorelle map, Marakesh

The History of Jardin Majorelle Garden

Jacques Majorelle began developing the garden in 1923, importing plants from all five continents. His residence was located within the garden, making it a true labor of love. Unfortunately, financial difficulties forced Majorelle to sell parts of his ten-acre garden. In 1947, he opened the garden to the public to help offset his expenses. After his death, the garden fell into disrepair until it was rediscovered by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé in 1966.

Interior garden at Majorelle Garden

In 1980, they purchased the property. Consequently, they saved it from being turned into a hotel. They installed a new irrigation system and more than doubled the number of plant species from 135 to 300. When Yves Saint Laurent passed away in 2008, his ashes were scattered in the garden, and a monument now commemorates his contributions.

Exploring the Jardin Majorelle Garden

My wife and I meandered through the garden, which currently spans two and a half acres. This offered a manageable yet still impressive space for our visit. Upon entering, we were greeted by a fountain with a choice of paths leading straight ahead or veering off to the right towards the Berber Museum. The garden is characterized by its signature Majorelle blue accents, water features, and a variety of plants arranged to create a peaceful atmosphere. Overall, it was a tranquil way for my wife and I to spend a few hours.

The garden is home to several species of birds, including bulbuls, blackbirds, sparrows, robins, blue tits, great tits, warblers, grey wagtails, and turtledoves. Their chirping, combined with the sound of trickling water, enhanced our enjoyment of the serene atmosphere. We stopped to rest on park benches beneath covered walkways to reflect on the quiet beauty around us.

Colorful flowers inside Majorelle Garden

The Berber Museum

The Berber Museum, housed in what was once Majorelle’s painting studio, charges an additional admission fee. Opened on December 3, 2011, the museum is divided into four rooms, each highlighting different aspects of Berber culture and craftsmanship. Visitors enter through a small introductory room before moving on to:

  • Two: Traditional Skills – Showcasing items that demonstrate the craftsmanship of the Berber people.
  • Three: Berber Jewels – Displaying a variety of intricate jewelry designed and worn by Berber women.
  • Four: Berber Finery – Featuring festive costumes, carpets, and musical instruments.

No photography is allowed inside the museum, but the collection, which includes 600 objects dating from the eighteenth century through the 1960s, offers a fascinating glimpse into Berber heritage. The tour concludes in a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs.

Fountain and plaza area near Berber Museum

Practical Information

  • Entrance Fees: Currently gardens cost 165 dirhams (approximately seventeen US dollars) and the Berber Museum costs an additional 55 dirhams (approximately five US dollars). The fees are reasonable given the immaculate maintenance of the garden and the carefully curated exhibits of the museum.
  • Accessibility: Both the garden and museum are wheelchair accessible.
  • Hours of Operation:
    • The Jardin Majorelle is open every day of the week, from 8 a.m to 6:30 p.m. The last entry is at 6 p.m.
    • The Pierre Bergé Museum of Berber Arts is open every day of the week, from 8 a.m to 6 p.m.  The last entry is at 5:30 pm.

For those interested in luxury shopping, there is a YSL shop behind the museum offering high-end products for those looking to indulge.

Cactus and signage inside Jardin Majorelle

Final Thoughts on Majorelle Garden

Jardin Majorelle offers a beautiful blend of nature, art, and culture, making it a must-visit destination in Marrakech. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll through the gardens, enjoying the peaceful ambiance, or exploring the rich history and artistry of the Berber Museum, Jardin Majorelle promises a memorable experience.

Large blooming cactus in the interior of Majorelle Garden, near the Berber Museum.

Don’t forget to add this enchanting garden to your itinerary when visiting Marrakech. It’s a perfect spot to relax, learn, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Moroccan culture.

Walkways offer great views of the immaculate Majorelle Garden.

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Goat Trees of Morocco: A Unique Sight on the Road to Essaouira

While traveling from Marrakesh to Essaouira, Morocco, we encountered an unusual and unforgettable sight: goats climbing trees. Not just one goat in one tree, but numerous goats scattered across several trees. Goat Trees. This peculiar scene was once an essential part of argan oil production. However, it now primarily serves as a delightful spectacle for passing tourists.

Goat Trees of Morocco: Goats adorn a small Argan Tree.

The Fascinating Role of Goats in Argan Oil Production

About an hour or two out of Marrakesh, we came across these climbing goats. Historically, these goats played a crucial role in the production of argan oil. Goats are unable to digest the nuts of the argan tree, so they consume the ripe fruit, allowing the nuts to pass through their digestive tracts. This process softened the nuts, making them easier to process into argan oil. However, modern production methods have evolved, and this practice is no longer necessary to meet the high demand for argan oil.

Argan tree with limbs reinforced to support the weight of a dozen goats.

Today, the goats have taken on a different role: creating photo opportunities for tourists. It’s a win-win situation; the goats get to enjoy their favorite treats while tourists capture memorable photos. Shortly after taking these photos, we stopped at an argan cooperative where local women demonstrated how they create various products from the argan nuts, ranging from cooking oil to cosmetics. More on that in a later post.

The Climbing Goats in Action

Once the first goat ascends a tree, the rest of the flock typically follows. These goats are adept at climbing precariously into the branches, where they nibble contentedly. Nearby, the shepherds keep watch, waiting for tourists to snap photos. It’s customary to tip the shepherd, though not mandatory. I gave the shepherd twenty dirhams, about two US dollars, which seemed fair for such a unique experience.

Goat Trees of Morocco: View of goats in a tree from below

Accompanying the shepherd was a young girl carrying a baby goat, offering another photo opportunity. However, she didn’t seem particularly happy about being part of the tourist attraction, so I refrained from taking her photo.

Goat Trees of Morocco: A Unique Experience

While researching, I found claims that goats climb trees in Texas as well, though I couldn’t find any concrete evidence online. Regardless, goats are naturally skilled climbers, and if Moroccan goats can scale trees, it stands to reason that goats elsewhere might too. However, seeing a herd of goats in trees halfway around the world was a special experience.

A dozen goats creating a spectacle atop an Argon tree in Morocco

Goat Trees: Tips for Travelers

If you ever find yourself traveling to Morocco and heading toward the coast where argan trees grow, keep your eyes peeled. Spotting these goat trees is a delightful experience you won’t want to miss. Just remember to tip the shepherd – it’s a small price to pay for such a unique and enjoyable spectacle.

Farmers finding respite from the heat beneath a tree where a few goats have been staged for a photo opportunity.

In summary, the goat trees of Morocco offer a fascinating glimpse into the country’s unique agricultural history and provide a fun, memorable experience for travelers. Don’t miss the chance to witness this charming sight on your next visit to Morocco.

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Marjana Cooperative: Argan Oil Production With a Heart

On our way to the enchanting coastal town of Essaouira, Morocco, we had the pleasure of visiting the Marjana Cooperative. Located just outside Essaouira, this cooperative is dedicated to empowering local rural women by providing a safe work environment and fair wages. We learned that the cooperative produces argan oil, a product renowned for its culinary and cosmetic uses. Given that the majority of the world’s argan oil production takes place in the small area surrounding Essaouira, we knew visiting a cooperative like Marjana would offer a unique insight into this traditional and labor-intensive process. Additionally, we knew this would be an interesting opportunity to pick up some gifts.

Exterior of Marjana Cooperative gift shop

The Argan Oil Production Process

We quickly learned that producing argan oil the traditional way is a meticulous and labor-intensive process. While mechanized production is more efficient, it doesn’t offer the same economic empowerment to local residents as the traditional method does. It was amazing to witness the traditional method. The process begins with cracking the shells of the argan nuts, a task performed by the women of the cooperative. We watched as they sat on the floor with large bags of argan nuts, cracking each shell with a stone. The scene reminded me of a knitting club, with the women working independently while socializing in a relaxed environment.

Cooperative participant with large bags of Argan nuts.
The process begins by sorting large bags of Argan nuts
Sorting and cracking Argan nuts. More difficult than they make it look.
The women at the cooperative crack the nuts by hand

The skill required to crack the argan nuts was impressive. The guests we watched attempt it quickly realized the difficulty, often struggling to crack even a single nut. The women, however, make it look effortless, deftly striking the nuts to reveal the precious kernels inside. As a result, I opted not to attempt cracking the nuts. I didn’t want to embarrass myself.

Cracking Argan nuts
Creating paste from the Argan nuts

Marjana Cooperative: From Nuts to Oil

Once the nuts were cracked, we observed the kernels being ground and mixed to form a thick paste. This paste was then transferred to another station where it is churned into oil. The kernels were placed into a stone grinder that the women spun by hand, allowing the thick, reddish oil to trickle into a large clay basin.

Creating oil from the Argan nut paste.

The leftover solids from the argan nuts are not wasted. These protein-rich remnants are formed into large bricks and used as animal feed and in various cosmetic products. This sustainable practice ensures that every part of the nut is utilized.

Processing Argan nut paste into oil.

The Marjana Cooperative Experience

After observing the labor-intensive process of producing argan oil, we were taken to the adjoining gift shop. Here, we had the opportunity to purchase a variety of argan products at prices maybe somewhat higher than what you would typically find elsewhere. However, we felt the tradeoff to support the cooperative made sense. The range of products included spreads (one of which tasted remarkably like peanut butter), soaps, and hair products. We also received demonstrations on the various uses for the oils.

Marjana Cooperative gift shop interior.

Despite the relatively high prices, we made several purchases, knowing that the products were hand-rendered and the proceeds supported the local community. My wife, a regular user of argan oil, appreciated the quality and the fair trade aspect of our buys.

Visiting the Marjana Cooperative

The Marjana Cooperative is located at Lahrarta 44000 Ounara – Essaouira, Maroc. Visting in person was a special experience. However, for those unable to visit in person, they offer a selection of their Fair Trade products online at Marjana Cooperative. However, the online selection is limited compared to the variety available in-store.

Map showing location of Marjana Cooperative.

Visiting the Marjana Cooperative was an unexpected highlight of our trip to Morocco. It was not only educational but also a meaningful way for us to support the local economy. If you find yourself traveling to Essaouira, a stop at the Marjana Cooperative is a must. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship involved in producing argan oil and the knowledge that your purchases are making a positive impact.

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