Still on the fence about a trip to Marrakech? In 2026, Tripadvisor travelers ranked it the 7th best destination in the world. Here are 5 good reasons to put the Red City at the top of your list for your next holiday.
1. For its UNESCO-listed medina
Behind its ochre ramparts, the medina of Marrakech has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. A maze of alleys, colourful souks, hidden riads and the scent of spices: it is the beating heart of the city, built around the famous Jemaa El Fna square and the minaret of the Koutoubia, the largest mosque in Marrakech.
To make the most of it, wander the souks in the morning, when they are quieter, and come back to the square in the late afternoon, when storytellers, musicians and grill stalls take over. You’ll find all our tips in our articles Travel in the medina of Marrakech and Top 7 things to do in Jemaa El Fna.
2. For the nature, less than an hour from the city
Marrakech is surrounded by deserts and mountains: the perfect base for a complete change of scenery in a single day.
- The Agafay desert: less than an hour south of the city, this stone desert offers endless horizons, a unique light and breathtaking views of the Atlas. It is the perfect playground for a quad bike or buggy ride, or a camel ride to our oasis.
- The High Atlas: its Berber villages and terraced valleys are best explored on foot, in Imlil, at the foot of Toubkal (4,167 m, the highest peak in North Africa), or in the Ait Oucheg valley, the little sister of the Ourika valley. Find more ideas in our article on mountain sports from Marrakech.
- The Ouzoud waterfalls: the highest in Morocco, for a great day trip with a swim in the natural pools.
3. For its food
Tagine, couscous, tanjia, pastilla, harira, msemen and mint tea: Moroccan cuisine is part of the country’s heritage, and one of the great pleasures of a stay in Marrakech.
At Dunes & Desert, we love to share it: mint tea and Moroccan pancakes during our rides, a traditional lunch served in our oasis or a dinner under the stars in the Agafay desert.
Marrakech is also a street food capital. In the evening, the stalls on Jemaa El Fna square serve skewers, merguez, spicy snail broth and mechoui. A tip: give your stomach a day or two to adjust before diving in.
4. For its sunshine, almost all year round
With around 300 days of sunshine a year and little rain, Marrakech is a year-round destination.
- Spring and autumn: the best seasons, with warm days that are never stifling.
- Winter: mild, sunny days but cool evenings, sometimes below 5°C. It is the best time to admire the snow-capped peaks of the Atlas.
- Summer: it gets very hot, often over 35°C. Plan your outings early in the morning or at sunset, and pack wisely.
5. For its art of living and unique experiences
Marrakech is also a luxury destination: legendary palaces such as La Mamounia and its gardens, refined hammams and spas, and charming riads tucked away in the medina.
On the adventure side, our Premium experiences are all about exclusivity:
- the 36-hour buggy tour, with a night in a luxury desert camp in Agafay;
- a hot air balloon flight at sunrise, facing the Atlas mountains;
- a private camel ride, just for you.
So, convinced? The whole Dunes & Desert team is looking forward to showing you the best of Marrakech and its surroundings. Book directly online: confirmation is instant.
