10 Things to Do in Marrakech: Find Accommodations Near Top Adventures

Clock Icon 6 minutes read
Update Icon Sep 18, 2023

Unleash your inner adventurer with this list of thrilling things to do in Marrakech, from mountain trekking to hot air balloon rides. Find the perfect Hotala accommodation near each exciting activity for a convenient, dynamic trip.

The Atlas Mountains near Marrakech is home to the highest peak in North Africa, Mt. Toubkal, which stands tall at 4,167 meters.

Does that sound adrenaline-inducing?

What about — Marrakech’s Palmeraie, with over 100,000 palm trees, is a hotspot for camel rides and quad biking adventures.

Replete with the fragrance of spices, the spectacle of bustling souks, and the echo of call to prayers, Marrakech, often referred to as the ‘Red City’, isn’t just a feast for the senses but also a playground for the adventurous. With the soaring Atlas Mountains as its backdrop and a myriad of experiences waiting to be uncovered, Marrakech offers a captivating blend of old-world charm and adrenaline-pumping action. 

This guide aims to help you, the intrepid traveler, find thrilling things to do in Marrakech that suit your adventure style, all conveniently located near your choice of accommodations. 

Fasten your seatbelt and gear up to go on a journey of discovery, excitement, and unparalleled adventure.

Hotel & Spa Riad Dar El Aila

Atlas Mountains

The Atlas Mountains, an extensive range that spans Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia, has been a majestic backdrop to Marrakech for centuries. The highest peak, Mount Toubkal, towers at an impressive 4,167 meters and is a beacon for adventurers. Things to do in Marrakech such as trekking, mountaineering, and rock climbing are common, drawing enthusiasts from around the world. The surrounding Berber villages and stunning valleys also offer unique cultural immersion. Staying close to the mountains is a treat, with accommodations like the Kasbah du Toubkal offering stunning views and easy access to trekking routes.

Marrakech By Air

For those looking to see Marrakech from a different perspective, a hot air balloon ride offers a unique and thrilling experience. As the city shrinks below, the expansive views of the surrounding plains and distant Atlas Mountains create a breathtaking panorama. Witnessing the sunrise over Marrakech from the sky is an unforgettable thing to do in Marrakech. Stay at accommodations like the Riad El Fenn that offer easy access to the balloon take-off sites located outside the city center.

Dunes & Desert Exploration

Venturing outside Marrakeck, the Agafay Desert and Erg Chebbi Dunes offer an immersive desert experience. The thrill of 4×4 rides, camel trekking, and sandboarding against the backdrop of rolling dunes make for a memorable thing to do in Marrakech. A night spent in desert camps under a starlit sky adds to the experience. Scarabeo Camp offers luxury tented accommodations right in the heart of the Agafay Desert.

Terres d’Amanar

Located at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, Terres d’Amanar is an eco-friendly adventure park. It offers a host of outdoor things to do in Marrakech including zip-lining, horseback riding, and archery. The park also focuses on eco-tourism, promoting sustainable practices and showcasing Berber culture. For nearby accommodation, Terres d’Amanar itself offers comfortable eco-lodges within the park.

Quad Biking Marrakech

Quad biking in Marrakech provides a different way to explore the city’s outskirts. The thrill of maneuvering through the diverse landscapes of palm groves, desert plains, and ancient Berber villages makes it a favorite among adventure-seekers for things to do in Marrakech. The Palmeraie district hosts many quad biking rental shops and staying at nearby hotels like the Palmeraie Palace provides easy access.

The Majestic Marrakesh Riad
Photo Credit: Hotala

Palmeraie Horse Riding

A vast palm grove located at the city’s edge, Palmeraie, offers serene horse riding experiences and other things to do in Marrakech. It’s an enjoyable way to connect with nature and appreciate the tranquil landscapes. Stays like the Hotel Les Deux Tours offer quick access to horse riding adventures in Palmeraie and its rustic charm.

Marrakech Tuk-Tuk Tour

The tuk-tuk tour is a unique way to navigate Marrakech’s bustling markets and narrow alleys. Zipping through the city in these three-wheelers while soaking in the sights and sounds is a fun and exciting thing to do in Marrakech. Riads in the heart of Medina, like the Riad Yasmine, are a great option as they are often close to tuk-tuk tour starting points.

Marrakech Cooking Class

The Moroccan cooking class is a gastronomic thing to do in Marrakech. Learn to cook authentic dishes like tagine and couscous and unravel the secrets of Moroccan spices. Riad Monceau, a boutique hotel, not only offers cozy accommodations but also hosts renowned cooking classes.

Sidi Ghanem Industrial Quarter

Sidi Ghanem, the industrial quarter of Marrakech, is a hub for modern art and design things to do in Marrakech. Exploring this area gives an insight into Marrakech’s contemporary side, away from the traditional medinas and souks. Le Casablanca Hotel, with its modern design, complements a visit to this area and is a short drive away.

Marrakech Street Art Tour

Marrakech’s vibrant street art scene is a visual representation of the city’s cultural evolution. A guided tour around the city to appreciate these artworks helps to understand Marrakech’s dynamic spirit. Accommodations within the city, such as the trendy 2Ciels Boutique Hotel, provide easy access to the street art tour route.

Riad L'Hôtel Marrakech

Embrace the Adventure, Find Your Perfect Stay

In Marrakech, every alley leads to a new discovery, every landscape invites exploration, and every thing to do in Marrakech unveils a new dimension of this vibrant city. From the exhilarating quad biking in the palm groves, traversing the bustling medina on a guided tour, hiking the majestic Atlas Mountains, basking in the tranquillity of beautiful gardens, to the thrill of hot air ballooning over the red city, Marrakech is truly an adventurer’s paradise.

If you’re looking for more adventurous destinations, check out Durban.

We’ve journeyed through the 10 most exciting things to do in Marrakech and their nearby accommodation options – all set to enhance your adventurous getaway. Marrakech’s essence lies in its power to captivate and thrill its visitors simultaneously, and now, it’s your turn to feel that rush.

As you set out to plan your Marrakech adventure, remember that Hotala is your trusted partner. With us, you’ll find the perfect stay located near your preferred adventures, promising a trip filled with unforgettable moments. So go ahead, answer Marrakech’s call of adventure. 

Plan your stay with Hotala, and let the adventure begin or subscribe to the Hot List for more travel destinations!

TLDR

This guide highlights the most exciting things to do in Marrakech, aimed at helping readers plan an unforgettable trip. Experience the exhilarating trek in the Atlas Mountains, marvel at Marrakech’s views from a hot air balloon, explore the beautiful dunes and desert, indulge in things to do in Marrakech at Terres d’Amanar, or ride around Marrakech on a quad bike. Conveniently located accommodations have been included for each activity to make the planning process easier. Whether you’re a nature lover or an adrenaline junkie, there’s something in Marrakech for you. Explore more of what the city has to offer, and remember to book your stay with Hotala, your reliable partner in travel.