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Marrakech, a Photographer’s Dream Destination

Written on : 18 June 2019
By : Samantha Franco

Marrakech is one of the most photogenic countries in the world. A feast for the senses, especially the eyes. This ancient city is home to stunning mosques and palaces, lush gardens, mouth-watering cuisine and marvelous natural landscapes. The colors, the textures, the beautiful chaos, there is nothing quite like it. If you are looking to up your photography game or just simply want to amaze your friends with your next instagram post, then we recommend you head to Marrakech. Our team at Villas Marrakech has curated a list of beautiful places where you are guaranteed some lovely photo ops.

Marrakech Souks

Marrakech Souks

The souks of Marrakech are the largest in all of Morocco and known throughout the world as some of the most exotic marketplaces to shop in. Inside the maze of narrow alleys is a world brimming with tantalizing smells, silk kaftans, gorgeous antiques, handmade jewelry, pottery and multicolored carpets.

Nowhere is Morocco’s craftsmanship better illuminated than in the souks. Pottery stalls can be seen in abundance, here you will find everything from soup bowls to ornate teapots. Traditional woven Moroccan carpets and handmade Berber boucherouite (rugs) are also displayed at numerous stalls. You will be amazed by the patterns and colors! If you don’t end up taking something home with you, don't hesitate to snap a photo.

El Badi Palace

El Badi Palace

El Badi Palace is a ruined palace in the city of Marrakech. It was commissioned by the sultan Ahmad al-Mansur of the Saadian dynasty sometime shortly after his accession in 1578. The palace took 15 years to be built. It was constructed using some of the most expensive materials of the time, such as gold, onyx, ivory, cedar wood and marble. Unfortunately, after the fall of the Saadians and the rise of the Alaouite dynasty, the palace entered a period of rapid decline.

Today El Badi is a shell of its former self and though the palace’s grandeur has been stripped off, you will still be impressed. The massive courtyard and giganted red sandstone walls will make you feel tiny. Thanks to the generous space, the place never feels crowded.

The Jardin Majorelle

The Jardin Majorelle

The Jardin Majorelle is a labor of love 40 years in the making. Jacques Majorelle arrived in Morocco in 1917. He immediately fell in love with the red city, and in 1923 purchased a plot of land. He slowly began to develop and expand his property. He cultivated 135 plant species from five continents, turning his property into an enchanting garden of cactus, coconut trees, white water lilies, palms and more. The Jardin Majorelle fell into despair after the death of Jacques Majorelle but hope arrived just four years later in the form of French designer Yves Saint-Laurent. Saint-Laurent started a restoration project not only to revive the garden but to expand upon it.

Come to Jardin Majorelle and you will encounter the perfect combination of Moorish Charm and Art deco. Walk along shady lanes, in the midst of trees and pools filled with water lilies and lotus flowers. There are definitely some cute photos to take here.  Full disclosure, it is extremely crowded at times. If you want to get a good shot without having to wait for people to walk past, we suggest visiting in the early hours of the day.

Cactus Thiemann gardens

Cactus Thiemann gardens

If you are looking for something less crowded and don’t care that it is less well known, then head to Cactus Thiemann gardens. It is one of North Africa’s largest cactus farms. It was started by Hans Thiemann, an agricultural engineer and cacti lover. This 17 acre nursery houses over 150 cacti varieties and also operates as a research facility.

The property is family owned, and receives a lot less visitors than some of the well-known gardens in the city so be sure to call ahead to make sure they are opened.

Sahara Desert

Sahara Desert

Escape the busy stress of Marrakech’s medina for a three day adventure into the Sahara. It is a must-do when visiting Morocco. You can truly lose yourself in the orange sand, which stretches as far as the eye can see. It is simply incredible.

Make sure you take pictures during the day because once the sun goes down, it becomes pitch black. There is no need to be disappointed though, as this is the perfect opportunity to put your phones and camera down, and stare at the stars. Thanks to the zero light pollution, you can see the Milky Way over the sand dunes.

Nomad Restaurant

Nomad Restaurant

If landscapes aren't really your thing and you are more of a food connoisseur, then head to Nomad. It makes for an excellent escape from the craziness of the markets. This bustling rooftop is definitely one of the most instagrammed restaurants in Marrakech.

The restaurant is situated right in the middle of the Medina. It boasts unparalleled views while offering delicious dishes that can only be described as moroccan with a modern cosmopolitan twist. Make sure you reserve a table if you plan to go for dinner, otherwise you will have to sit inside and will miss out on some great photo opportunities.