As the end-of-year holidays approach, Marrakech unveils a range of varied tourist offers, carefully orchestrated by hoteliers. These captivating offerings allow customers to immerse themselves in the magic of celebrations, whether with family or friends. Personalized offers have been designed to meet everyone's expectations, thus offering the opportunity to experience end-of-year holidays in a friendly and festive atmosphere. Booking rates even exceed levels recorded before the pandemic, demonstrating the renewed appeal of this destination.
Although Marrakech's sunny climate (with maximum temperatures between 21 and 24 degrees in the last week of December), its vast accommodation capacity and excellent air and land connections attract domestic and international tourists to book for the holiday season. year, it is undeniable that the Marrakech-Safi region has considerable assets which have earned it the title of national tourist champion, positioning it among the best global destinations.
The Marrakech-Safi region occupies a preponderant place in the country's tourist activity since it has an accommodation capacity representing nearly 35% of Morocco's total capacity and accounts for nearly 40% of total overnight stays. registered in classified accommodation establishments in the kingdom. From luxury hotels to traditional riads and rural lodges, the Marrakech-Safi region offers a wide range of accommodation options to meet the needs of all travelers. In addition, the international airports of Marrakech-Menara and Essaouira allow easy accessibility for visitors from all over the world.
Marrakech, an imperial city with a thousand charms.
Pearl of the region, Marrakech is an unmissable destination in Morocco. The medina of Marrakech, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a journey through time with its winding and lively streets, its colorful souks and its sumptuous palaces such as the Bahia Palace and the El Badi Palace. Its majestic monuments such as the Koutoubia, the Ben Youssef Madrasa, the Saadian Tombs, the Marrakech ramparts, etc., bear witness to the history and past grandeur of the city, captivating visitors with their beauty and timeless charm. Jemaa el-Fna Square, the beating heart of the city, is a permanent spectacle where musicians, snake charmers, storytellers and street vendors mingle.
Enchanting gardens.
Marrakech is also renowned for its magnificent gardens which offer an oasis of calm and freshness in the heart of the bustling city. The Menara and Agdal gardens offer green landscapes ideal for relaxation and walking. The Majorelle Gardens, for their part, are truly enchanting with their exotic plants and vibrant color palette.
The Palmeraie of Marrakech.
Located on the outskirts of the city, the Palmeraie which extends over approximately 13 hectares, with more than 000 date palms and its vast expanses of greenery is a lush oasis which offers a striking contrast to the hustle and bustle of the medina of Marrakesh. The Palmeraie offers a variety of activities for visitors: stroll through the lush gardens, tour in a traditional horse-drawn carriage, or even quad or buggy in the surrounding desert.
The Agafay desert.
A desert expanse located approximately 30 kilometers southwest of Marrakech, Agafay is a geological formation which offers a breathtaking desert landscape, with its golden sand dunes, arid mountains and vast rocky plains. Visitors can enjoy many activities in the desert including camel rides, Quad, Buggy and ATV rides and the sunset is a particularly magical time to experience. Visitors can also spend the night in traditional Berber tents or modern lodges set in luxury camps that offer an immersive desert experience, with comfortable amenities, traditional meals, campfires and lively evenings. with traditional music and dances.
The Lalla Takerkoust dam.
It is a major dam located about 40 kilometers southwest of Marrakech, a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts, nature enthusiasts and visitors looking for a peaceful escape near Marrakech. Whether to practice water activities, enjoy the landscape or explore the surrounding trails, the Takarkoust dam offers an enriching experience in the heart of Moroccan nature.
Accommodation infrastructure, major events and Marrakech-Menara airport: the trio that makes Marrakech happy
- The Marrakech-Safi region: nearly 35% of accommodation capacity and nearly 40% of overnight stays in Rayaume
The Marrakech-Safi region occupies a leading place in Morocco's tourism sector thanks to its remarkable reception infrastructure. With over 100 beds spread across a diverse range of accommodation: over 000 rated accommodation ranging from 2500 to 1 star luxury, riads, rural gites, the region offers a wide choice of options for visitors of all horizons and contributes to nearly 5% of nights recorded in classified accommodation establishments in the Kingdom. For an upscale stay in a five-star hotel or a more authentic experience in a traditional riad, or rural accommodation, the region meets the expectations of all travelers. Additionally, the restaurants offer delicious cuisine, ranging from traditional Moroccan dishes to international flavors, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience.
- Marrakech, an event destination par excellence
Marrakech has distinguished itself as a venue for hosting world-class events. From October 9 to 15, the city hosted the Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and the IMF, which bring together public and private actors to discuss global issues such as the economic situation, the fight against poverty and development. COP22 in 2016, a crucial international conference on climate change, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability and the environment. The Marrakech International Film Festival, meanwhile, brings together renowned filmmakers and actors from around the world, shining the spotlight on the Moroccan cultural scene. The city of Marrakech hosts around ten large-scale events each year: congresses, conventions, festivals, etc. Additionally, the Marrakech Convention Center, with its modern facilities, regularly hosts international events, reinforcing the city's reputation as a premier destination for conferences, exhibitions and business meetings.
- Marrakech-Menara airport a catalyst for tourist activity
Located approximately 6 kilometers southwest of downtown Marrakech, Marrakech-Menara Airport's proximity to the city makes it a convenient gateway for international travelers. The airport has two terminals. Terminal 1 is mainly used for international flights, while Terminal 2 is used for domestic and low-cost flights. Both terminals are well equipped with modern facilities for travelers, including shops, restaurants, currency exchange offices and car rental services. Many airlines operate scheduled flights to serve a wide range of domestic and international destinations.
- 6 million passengers for Marrakech before Covid-19
Marrakech Menara Airport is 2rd airport in the Kingdom in terms of traffic, after Mohammed V airport in Casablanca. Air traffic within this enclosure increased from 3,8 million passengers in 2016 to more than 6 million passengers in 2019. As a result, a new terminal was built by ONDA within this enclosure. It covers an area of 57.000 m2 with an annual capacity of 9 million passengers. Also the airport will subsequently undergo development work for an amount estimated at over 14,6 MDH.
- A new VIP terminal in February 2020
Marrakech-Menara airport has a new VIP terminal dedicated to business and private aviation. Inaugurated on February 1, 2020 by ONDA, this new structure covers an area of 3.000 m². It is made up of two “Fixed base operator” FBOs, built as part of an international call for tenders launched by ONDA. As a result, Marrakech-Menara airport has become the second airport in Morocco with a terminal entirely dedicated to business and private aviation after Mohammed V airport in Casablanca.
- Air connectivity continues to recover and numbers exceed pre-Covid level
During the first 11 months of 2023, the movement of air traffic increased to 43.320 flights compared to 41.325 flights during the same period of 2019, representing a recovery rate of 105% and the number of passengers increased from 5.354 during the same period. period from 057 to 2019 in 5, i.e. a recovery rate of 676%.
In addition, Marrakech airport occupied respectively 1st and 2nd place in the TOP 5 international air routes in November 2023 with 54 and 353 passengers respectively with Paris-Orly and London-GATW airports. Third, fourth and fifth place were won respectively by Casa Mohamed V-Paris-Orly airport, with 50 passengers, Mohamed V-Paris -CDG with 376 passengers and Mohammed V-Jeddah with 45 passengers.
- Hotel occupancy improving
Arrivals in classified hotels stood at 232.910 for the month of November 2023 compared to 228.726 in 2019, an increase of +2%. The cumulative number of arrivals at the end of November 2023 reached 2.658.381 compared to 2.482.028 during the same period of 2019 (+ 7%). In terms of overnight stays, they reached 716.159 during November 2023, compared to 680.565 in 2019, i.e. +5% and the cumulative figure at the end of November increased from 7.750.496 in 2019 to 8.299.756 in 2023 (+7%)
In November 2023, 77% of overnight stays were made by international tourism and 23% by national tourism. The first three dominant markets are: the French market (27%), followed by the national market (23%) and in third position the English market (14%). The best performances of the issuing markets were achieved by France, the United Kingdom and Spain which experienced an increase of +37%, +35% and +21% respectively compared to November 2019
- A clearly growing hotel portfolio and ambitious projects for the future
Marrakech continues to innovate and develop to offer an exceptional tourist experience. In addition to the extension of its hotel portfolio, Marrakech will see the construction of a new Conference and Exhibition Center, with a capacity of 20 places, thus strengthening the city's capacity to host large-scale international events, the upgrade of the ski resort at Oukaimeden, in the Atlas Mountains, to attract winter sports enthusiasts to Marrakech as well as the creation of a theme park.
- New openings in 2023.
At the end of December 2022, the number of accommodation structures under construction should strengthen the litter capacity of the ocher city by around 35.000 additional beds and during the first 6 months of 2023,196, 8.454 projects in tourist accommodation were authorized with a litter capacity of 1.001,02 beds for an investment amount of 5.851 million dhs and generating XNUMX jobs.
In addition, during the first 11 months of 223, Marrakech saw the opening of new tourist projects, in particular, 45 tourist accommodation establishments for an investment volume of 1.094.685.000 dhs, strengthening the accommodation capacity of 1154 additional beds and creating 574 direct jobs.
The sector was also enriched by the opening of 11 restaurants for an investment of 59.000.000 dhs and 229 jobs, 29 travel agencies with an investment of 11.410.000 dhs and 105 jobs and 35 tourist transport agencies for a budget of 100.860.059 dhs with 458 vehicles and 676 jobs.
Structuring tourism projects planned as part of the 2022-2027 PDR
- A Congress Center and Exhibition Center with 20.000 seats.
The realization of this project is part of the Development Plan of the Marrakech-Safi region (PDR) 2022-2027. This plan provides, among its strategic axes, the creation of a tourism product with high added value, in particular by developing a MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) center of national and international dimension.
The future Conference Center and Exhibition Center, which represents an investment of 937 million dirhams, will be of international scope and will be able to host events bringing together up to 20 participants. This project is the result of a partnership between the Council of the Marrakech-Safi Region, the Moroccan Society of Tourism Engineering (SMIT), the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the Ministry of Interior, the wilaya of the Marrakech-Safi region and the Caisse de Dépôt et de Gestion (CDG). The Palais des Congrès and Exhibition Center will propose an offer based on the quality of infrastructure, the tourist appeal of Marrakech, the prices offered and its position on the Africa-MENA market.
The infrastructure planned for the “Marrakech Convention and Exhibition Center” will be adapted to host “Trade Events” with a capacity of 75 net usable square meters, divided into one or more modules. As for the “Congress” component, it will be designed to host events gathering up to 000 participants.
- Ski resort upgrade
The Oukaimeden ski resort will benefit from an upgrade as part of the Regional Development Plan (PDR) 2022-2027, adopted by the Marrakech-Safi Regional Council. This project, which requires a budget of 400 million dhs, aims to position the Oukaimeden resort as a sustainable ski and mountain resort through its restructuring and valorization by modernizing its facilities and offering rich experiences in winter and summer and quality entertainment activities in order to optimize its tourist attractiveness.
The upgrade of the ski resort will include several important components: Existing infrastructure will be renovated and improved to meet international quality and safety standards, including the upgrading of ski lifts, ski slopes and related facilities to provide visitors a pleasant and safe skiing experience.
The Marrakech-Safi Regional Council will also ensure that this upgrade is carried out in compliance with the principles of sustainable development. Measures will be taken to minimize the impact on the region's natural environment, for example by promoting the use of ecological technologies and encouraging responsible resource management.
- A theme park to strengthen the entertainment and entertainment offering
It is also planned to strengthen entertainment and tourist activities in Marrakech through the creation of a vast amusement park requiring funding of 3 billion dirhams. This project, which is one of the 14 priority projects of the 2023-2026 roadmap established by the Ministry of Tourism, is the result of a public-private partnership. Its objective is to immerse local and foreign visitors in a journey through the history of the Kingdom of Morocco and the African continent by offering grandiose shows and reconstructions of major historical events. The park will stage gigantic shows involving hundreds of actors, precisely designed costumes, special effects and impressive sets to offer an extraordinary experience.
The attractions offered in the park will be varied and suitable for all ages. There are roller coasters, boat rides, animal shows, exhibitions and children's play areas. This educational and entertaining experience will include major shows with epic battles, re-enactments of historical events, knightly jousts and nighttime shows featuring light shows and sound effects.
The park will also feature beautifully designed gardens, mazes, fountains, green spaces and themed villages housing shops, restaurants, exhibitions and interactive activities using digital devices. For visitors wishing to extend their stay in this entertainment city, themed hotels and camping areas will be available.
Essaouira, a coastal jewel with bohemian charm.
With its 451 classified accommodation establishments, offering 10 beds, Essaouira is shaping up to be a centerpiece of tourism in the Marrakech-Safi region, on the Moroccan Atlantic coast. This coastal city, once a vital port, retains its bohemian charm and a unique architectural heritage, raising it to the rank of an essential destination. The golden sandy beaches of Essaouira attract water sports enthusiasts, particularly surfers, seduced by the waves of the Atlantic.
Visitors can wander the picturesque lanes of the UNESCO-listed medina, exploring local craft shops showcasing renowned wood marquetry and ceramic production. Essaouira celebrates its annual Gnaoua music festival, bringing together international musicians, creating a festive and vibrant atmosphere.
Essaouira also offers a quiet getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. Peaceful beaches, active fishermen and well-preserved ramparts with panoramic sea views invite you to relax. The relaxed and bohemian atmosphere attracts artists, musicians and fans of alternative culture. Essaouira harmoniously merges historical heritage, natural beauty and a vibrant artistic scene, positioning itself as a leading tourist destination in the Marrakech-Safi region and a must-see stop for travelers to Morocco.
Al Haouz, between mountains and oases.
The province of Al Haouz constitutes a tourist destination of significant importance, attracting travelers with its vast accommodation park of 185 Classified Accommodation Establishments (EHC), totaling 12 beds. This varied accommodation offering allows visitors to fully benefit from the natural and cultural diversity of the region.
The extraordinary landscapes of the province attract adventurers and lovers of discovery. The Ourika Valley, nestled in the heart of the Atlas Mountains, reveals breathtaking panoramas, complete with majestic waterfalls, picturesque Berber villages and captivating hiking trails. The green oases and lush valleys, rich in local flora and fauna, offer an immersive experience for nature lovers.
Beyond its natural attractions, the province of Al Haouz is distinguished by its rich cultural heritage, reflecting the history and traditions of Morocco. Traditional Berber villages scattered throughout the region offer visitors an authentic immersion into daily life and local customs. Local artisans perpetuate ancestral know-how, with particular expertise in the production of carpets, pottery and handicraft objects. Visitors have the opportunity to explore these artisanal traditions, admire the meticulous work of artisans and interact in a direct and enriching way with the local population.
Safi, cradle of crafts and ceramics.
Safi shines thanks to the largest tagine of sardine balls, measuring 6,30 m in diameter and 4,5 m in height, presented on 09/07/1990 on Mohamed V Square, listed in the Guinness book. The world-famous Potters' Hill is linked to the historic production of ceramics. The Château de Mer, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, seat of the governor, restored in 1963. Dar Sultan, an Almohad citadel, has a tower engraved with the coat of arms of the Portuguese King Emanuel. The National Ceramics Museum, created in 1990, exhibits the diversity and authenticity of Moroccan ceramics. The Portuguese Cathedral, built in 1519 on the ruins of the ancient Almohad mosque, is the only Gothic building in Africa. The ramparts, of Almohad origin and rebuilt by the Portuguese between 1510 and 1540, complete the historical heritage of Safi.
The artisanal sector in Safi, an essential economic pillar of the province, is characterized by its quality and diversity, with pottery in the lead. Ceramics reveal the authentic character of Morocco, testifying to a deep attachment to national culture. Over the years, this sector has seen substantial growth, playing a crucial role in employment and national currencies. With 45 trades directly or indirectly involving 52% of the workforce, including nearly 40 artisans in ironwork, pottery stands out with more than 000 potters.
In addition to its crafts, Safi has tourist appeal thanks to its beaches and its rich architectural heritage. The beaches of Safi are popular with water sports enthusiasts, particularly surfers, who come to enjoy the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can also explore the well-preserved walls of the medina and admire the panoramic views of the sea. Safi is a dynamic and lively city, with a warm and welcoming ambiance that appeals to travelers seeking authenticity. The tourist importance of Safi lies in its ability to offer an experience rich in cultural discoveries, natural beauty and human exchanges, making this destination a jewel to explore in the Marrakech-Safi region.
The province of Rehamna.
The province of Rehamna stands out for its geographical diversity, with mountains, plains and oases, offering a multitude of activities for visitors. The Atlas Mountains, which run through the province, offer hiking and climbing opportunities, with breathtaking landscapes and picturesque trails. The green plains and oases, for their part, invite quiet walks and moments of relaxation in the middle of preserved nature. In addition to hiking and horse riding, mountain biking and motocross, Rehamna is the ideal place to practice windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking and pedal boats at the Al Massira dam lake, tourist hunting, river fishing along the 'Oued Oum Errabia or even hot air balloon flights overlooking the beauty of the Jebilets.
Rehamna is also renowned for its festivals and cultural events that celebrate the traditions and heritage of the region such as the Rehamna Folk Arts Festival and the “Raouabite” Festival which aims to promote the intangible and cultural heritage of the Rehamna region and its ancestral traditions, to enhance the memory of the city and its common links with the Sahrawi tribes and to strengthen its deep roots with the southern provinces of the Kingdom.
The province of Chichaoua.
Nestled in the heart of the Marrakech-Safi region, the province of Chichaoua is a tourist destination offering an authentic and exotic experience. The natural beauty of Chichaoua is one of its greatest assets, with diverse landscapes ranging from the majestic peaks of the Atlas to verdant valleys and lush plains. Hiking enthusiasts will be delighted by the picturesque trails which offer breathtaking panoramas of mountains, waterfalls and traditional Berber villages. Visitors can also discover the region's nature reserves, home to rich and diverse flora and fauna.
Besides its natural wonders, Chichaoua is also rich in cultural heritage. The region's traditional Berber villages are places where visitors can immerse themselves in the daily lives of locals and learn about their ancestral traditions. Rammed earth houses, bustling souks and traditional festivals are an integral part of the Chichaoua cultural experience. Visitors can interact with the friendly locals, get to know their customs, crafts and local cuisine.
The Province of Kelaa Sraghna.
Known for its natural beauty and cultural richness, Kelaa Sraghna is a popular destination for travelers seeking unique experiences. The region is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, with its majestic Atlas mountains, fertile plains and green valleys. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy numerous activities such as hiking, climbing and quad excursions to explore these magnificent natural settings.
The Seguia Yaagoubia Educational and Recreational Park, a flagship project of the Department of Water and Forests in the El Kelaa des Sraghna region, offers a unique experience of linking urban and rural areas, highlighting the management of natural resources. Recognized as a Perimeter of National Interest since 1952, the park plays a crucial role in protecting El Kelaa des Sraghna against flooding, with conservation actions such as reforestation on 140 hectares and silviculture on 30 hectares.
Kelaa Sraghna is also renowned for its local crafts. Visitors will have the opportunity to discover traditional manufacturing techniques and meet talented artisans from the region. The crafts of Kelaa Sraghna include Berber carpets, pottery, leather objects and carved wooden items. Local souks are full of unique artisanal treasures, offering visitors the opportunity to take home authentic souvenirs.
The province of Youssoufia.
The province of Youssoufia is home to several historical and cultural sites worth exploring. The town of Youssoufia itself has a charming medina, where visitors can wander the narrow streets, admire the traditional architecture and discover the bustling souks. Not far from there are the old phosphate mines, which played a major role in the history of the region. Visitors can learn more about the Moroccan mining industry by visiting these sites and seeing abandoned mining facilities.
The surrounding nature of Youssoufia also offers many opportunities for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The region is surrounded by spectacular scenery, with the nearby Atlas Mountains providing scenic hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains, lush green valleys and refreshing waterfalls. Atlantic Ocean beaches are also easily accessible from the area, offering visitors the chance to relax on the fine sand and enjoy water activities such as surfing and windsurfing.
