Marrakech, the enchanting ochre city, is renowned for its bustling medina and iconic attractions, but beyond the well-trodden tourist paths lie serene and inspiring treasures. These lesser-known spots celebrate gardens, heritage, and art, offering peaceful escapes amidst the city’s vibrancy. From whimsical artist havens to unique museums, here are some incredible places where you can immerse yourself in Marrakech’s quieter side. Discover hidden gems in Marrakech!
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Anima Garden: A Whimsical Artist’s Paradise
Located at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, Anima Garden is the brainchild of world-renowned multimedia artist André Heller. This vibrant garden is a celebration of creativity and nature, where lush greenery mingles with colorful sculptures and artistic installations. Stroll through olive tree avenues, a cactus garden, and groves adorned with Buddhist prayer flags. Highlights include a giant sculpted head exhaling mist and vivid stupas standing against the snow-capped Atlas backdrop in winter.
Designed as a labyrinth, this peaceful escape is 28 km from Marrakech and includes two exhibition spaces and a café-restaurant with panoramic mountain views. A free shuttle service ensures easy access.
- Address: Douar Sbiti, Km 28 Route de l’Ourika
- Hours: Daily, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Entry Fee: €11 (€12 from September), free for children under 12
- Contact: +212 (0)5 24 48 20 22
Farid Belkahia Museum: A Tribute to Moroccan Modern Art
Nestled on the edge of the Palmeraie, the Farid Belkahia Museum honors one of Morocco’s modern art pioneers. This serene space houses the late artist’s workshop, preserved as it was, alongside permanent and temporary exhibitions of his expressive works. Farid Belkahia’s art, created with natural pigments and diverse mediums like animal skin, reflects his ecological values and poetic sensibility. The museum’s tranquil garden and thoughtful curation make it an emotional and inspiring visit.
- Address: Dar Tounsi, Marrakech
- Hours: Daily, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Entry Fee: €4.6
- Contact: +212 (0)5 24 32 89 59
MACAAL: Contemporary African Art for Everyone
The Museum of Contemporary African Art Al Maaden (MACAAL) is a cultural treasure trove featuring over 2,000 works from established and emerging African artists. Located in a sleek, modern building, its dynamic exhibitions, artist dialogues, and events breathe life into African creativity. Visitors can also explore a nearby sculpture park on an electric cart, guided by cultural mediators. The museum’s family-friendly workshops for children provide an opportunity to nurture budding artists.
- Address: Al Maaden, Sidi Youssef Ben Ali, Marrakech
- Hours: Wednesday–Sunday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Entry Fee: €6.45
- Contact: +212 (0)6 76 92 44 92
Cactus Thiemann: Africa’s Largest Cactus Plantation
Spanning seven hectares, Cactus Thiemann is home to more than 150 species of cacti and 50 types of agaves, making it Africa’s largest plantation of its kind. Founded in 1964 by Hans Thiemann, this unique garden showcases stunning succulents, some towering over 8 meters tall. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll, marvel at the plant diversity, and shop for linens, home goods, and cosmetics in the boutique. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the flora.
- Address: Km 10 Route de Casablanca, Marrakech
- Hours: Wednesday–Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (last entry 4 p.m.)
- Entry Fee: €7.35 (€3.6 for children 4–12)
- Contact: +212 (0)5 25 05 18 79 / +212 (0)6 61 61 49 01
Water Museum: The History of Water in Morocco
Located near the Palmeraie, the Mohammed VI Museum for the Civilization of Water offers an immersive journey through the history and management of water in Morocco. Spread over 2,000 square meters, this interactive museum delves into topics like ancient water systems, spiritual connections to water, and its economic uses. The highlight is a massive relief map of Haouz, showcasing the hydraulic innovations that shaped Marrakech’s garden city identity.
- Address: Entrance to the Palmeraie Circuit, Casablanca Road
- Hours: Daily, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- Entry Fee: €4.5
- Tour Fee: Around €10 for guided tours (1–10 people)
- Contact: +212 (0)5 24 32 89 59
