Lucas Peters - Moon Marrakesh & beyond

LUCAS PETERS

Youve never experienced a destination quite like the famed Red City. For years now, Marrakesh has been one of the worlds greatest travel destinations, and for good reason. Unlike other destinations that invite you to see, Marrakesh invites you to do. Whether you want to relax in one of its many gardens, pools, or hammams; learn to cook the Moroccan way in one of the popular cooking courses; or haggle for the best price in the bustling medieval markets, Marrakesh is a destination that is guaranteed to engage all your senses.

My first time in Marrakesh, back in 2009, I felt like I was transported to another universe. Sights like the Saadian Tombs, Bahia Palace, and the Secret Garden are all wonderful, but the real charm of the city is found just around sunset out on the Jemaa el-Fnaa. As the sky darkens, the entire square lights up with traditional music, snake charmers, acrobats, and more. That this has happened every night for a millennium is a modern marvel.

From Marrakesh, you can easily visit the snow-capped heights of the High Atlas Mountains, enjoy year-round suntanning weather along the Atlantic Coast, or travel deep into the Sahara. Many of the mountain destinations can be done as day trips, including hikes through rustic Amazigh villages that look as though they havent changed in centuries. Along the Atlantic, youll find some of Moroccos finest beaches in Essaouira, Taghazoute, and Agadir. In the desert, you can discover the nomadic culture of the Sahara and feel the utter amazement of spending a night out on the great sand sea.

Finally, many travelers will find themselves in Casablanca for a day or two on their way to or from the Red City. Beyond the daily rush of big business, there are a few sights to see, including Moroccos largest mosque, as well as a number of great restaurants.

traditional Moroccan zellijmosaic tiles

ornate lamps in the medina

A tajine cooks in the busy medina.

seeking isolation in traditional Bedouin tents

the towering Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca

camel near Erg Chigaga

Feeling the real pulse of Marrakesh every night on the carnivalesque wonder that is

Chilling like a modern-day pasha in one of Marrakeshs brilliantly renovated , or one of the truly special accommodations that dot the surrounding region.

Wandering through the incredible UNESCO World Heritage site of the , one of the finest examples of the kasbah architecture of the desert region and the setting for countless Hollywood productions.

through the rustic Berber villages and humble homes of the majestic High Atlas Mountains to experience the older, more ancient Morocco.

Pampering yourself in a , or traditional Moroccan spa, with options available at all levels, from budget to luxury. This bathing ritual is impossible to skip.

Cooking a traditional meal at a cooking class, enabling you to take the tastes of Morocco home with you to share with your friends and family.

Catching a wave in Taghazoute, the self-proclaimed of Morocco, a touch of San Diego in Morocco.

Cooling off beneath the , Moroccos largest, a great escape when the city is scorching.

Splurging on a five-star meal at one of Marrakeshs stellar restaurants. To say this city is a dream is an understatement.

Sipping a G&T at Casablancas best gin joint, heres looking at you, kid.

Three days and two nights is just enough time to see the biggest sights in the old medina, tour one of Marrakeshs popular gardens, and get a feel for life here. More days will give you more flexibility and a more relaxed pace. Prioritize getting a