Palmeraie (Palm Grove)

Most Marrakech sightseeing tours visit the Palmeraie along with attractions like the Medina and Koutoubia Mosque, and the city’s hop-on hop-off buses stop directly outside. You can also take your pick of organized activities at the Palmeraie, such as a camel or horseback ride, or a buggy or all-terrain vehicle (ATV) expedition. Nature lovers, meanwhile, might check out the Palmeraie and another lush green space, such as Majorelle Garden or the Menara gardens.

• If you’re doing any shopping at the Palmeraie, remember that the vendors expect you to haggle.

The easiest way to get to the Palmeraie is on a tour that includes round-trip transport. If you’re visiting independently, take a taxi or horse-drawn carriage—they operate all over Marrakech. Alternatively, ride a hop-on hop-off bus, or catch a public bus from Jemaa el-Fna to Bab Doukkala, roughly five minutes from the Palmeraie by taxi.

The Palmeraie is open to everyone, every day. If you’re traveling independently, it’s best to go in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun. Early arrival also means you beat the noisy adventure-sport tours and enjoy the oasis at one of its most atmospheric times. Dusk is another option, with many camel rides timed to coincide with the sunset.

Once you’ve experienced the essential Palmeraie camel, ATV, or buggy ride, hit the relax button at one of the grove’s 5-star accommodations. Head to a hotel café to sip a Moroccan mint tea—the perfect way to cool off after a dusty expedition around the palms.