Family Adventure in the Heart of Marrakech

Adventures in the Palmeraie
Today was a day of embracing the adventurous spirit of Marrakech, trading the bustling souks for the serene yet exciting landscapes of the Palmeraie. From exhilarating quad biking to gentle camel rides, and from savoring traditional Moroccan flavors to sharing laughter with my family, today was a perfect blend of thrill and cultural immersion. It's days like these that make travel so enriching, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at L'mida Marrakech. This restaurant is quickly becoming a favorite of ours, serving up modern Moroccan cuisine with a smile. Aisha was particularly fond of the fresh juices, while Hans and I enjoyed the traditional pastries and coffee. The warm atmosphere and friendly staff made it the perfect start to our adventurous day. I was particularly excited to try the Moroccan pancakes, and they did not disappoint!


Experience exquisite Moroccan cuisine at L'mida Marrakech - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

After breakfast, we hopped in a taxi and headed towards the Palmeraie, a vast palm oasis just outside Marrakech. The drive itself was an experience, as we watched the city fade into a landscape dotted with palm trees and traditional villages. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from the city's hustle and bustle. January in Marrakech offers mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities. The average daytime temperature is around 18°C (64°F), making it comfortable for exploring without the scorching heat of the summer months.

Our first adventure of the day was with Palmeraie Quad & Buggy Tours. I was a little nervous about quad biking, but the guides were excellent, providing a thorough briefing and ensuring our safety throughout the experience. Aisha, of course, was thrilled at the prospect of speeding through the desert! We each had our own quad bike, and after a few practice runs, we were off, following our guide through the Palmeraie's rugged terrain.


Explore the stunning landscapes of Marrakech with thrilling quad and buggy tours in the scenic Palmeraie region, perfect for adventure enthusiasts.

The adrenaline rush of riding the quad bike was exhilarating. The landscape was stunning, with palm trees stretching as far as the eye could see, and the Atlas Mountains providing a majestic backdrop. We zoomed past traditional Berber villages, catching glimpses of local life, and even stopped for a refreshing mint tea break at a local house. Aisha loved the quad biking, she was yelling with joy as we sped through the desert! I must admit, even Hans was enjoying himself immensely, despite his initial reservations.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are the ones that take you out of your comfort zone, revealing a world of beauty and excitement you never knew existed.

After the high-octane quad biking, we slowed things down with a camel ride through the Palmeraie. We booked our tour with Camel Ride Marrakech, and they did not disappoint. The camels were gentle and well-cared for, and the guides were knowledgeable and friendly. Aisha was especially excited to ride a camel, and she named hers Sahara. As we mounted the camels, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder. There's something magical about traversing the desert on these majestic creatures, connecting with the ancient traditions of the region.


Discover the enchanting Camel Ride experience in Marrakech, where adventure meets Moroccan culture amidst stunning landscapes and rich history.

The camel ride was a peaceful and serene experience, a welcome contrast to the adrenaline-fueled quad biking. We swayed gently with the camels' rhythm, taking in the stunning scenery and enjoying the tranquility of the desert. The sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape, creating a truly magical atmosphere. We stopped at a scenic spot to take photos, capturing the beauty of the moment. Aisha, perched high on Sahara's back, looked like a little desert princess.

For lunch, we decided to try the Bazaar Cafe, which offered a delightful mix of Moroccan and Mediterranean cuisine. The cafe had a cozy and relaxed atmosphere, with a charming courtyard and friendly staff. Hans opted for a traditional tagine, while Aisha chose the spaghetti. I decided to try the sardines, and they were cooked to perfection. The Bazaar Cafe was a welcome oasis after our desert adventures, providing a delicious and relaxing meal.


Savor exquisite Moroccan and Italian cuisine at Bazaar Cafe in Marrakech's vibrant Medina—where every dish tells a story.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Dar Essalam for dinner. This restaurant is steeped in history and tradition, having hosted famous figures such as Winston Churchill and Alfred Hitchcock. The restaurant's interior was stunning, with intricate mosaics, ornate ceilings, and a peaceful atmosphere. We were seated in the K'Dim room, the oldest and most refined lounge, dating back to the 17th century.


Experience the essence of Moroccan cuisine at Dar Essalam – where tradition meets elegance in Marrakech's Medina.

Dinner at Dar Essalam was a truly immersive cultural experience. We started with a selection of Moroccan salads, followed by a delicious couscous dish and a tagine. The food was exquisite, and the service was impeccable. Throughout the evening, we were entertained by traditional Moroccan music and belly dancers, adding to the magical atmosphere. Aisha was captivated by the dancers, her eyes wide with wonder. I was so glad we chose Dar Essalam for our dinner, it was a perfect way to end our day of adventure and cultural immersion. Dar Essalam truly exhibits Marrakech architecture. It is a beautiful restaurant with exquisite interiors.

Reflecting on the day, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we shared as a family. The Palmeraie offered a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility, while the culinary delights of Marrakech tantalized our taste buds. It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding, creating lasting memories and strengthening our bond as a family. I am also grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with you, my readers, hoping to inspire you to embark on your own adventures and discover the beauty and wonder of the world.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Le Jardin Secret and the Dar Si Said Museum, delving deeper into Marrakech's rich history and culture. We also plan to visit Souk El Henna for some shopping, and I'm particularly excited to see the traditional henna designs. I'm sure it will be another day filled with unforgettable experiences. For dinner, we are planning to try Nomad Marrakech, which I have heard has amazing views.

Before I head to bed, I wanted to share a little anecdote from our day. While we were quad biking, Aisha spotted a group of local children playing in a field. She insisted that we stop and say hello, and soon she was playing with them, laughing and sharing stories. It was a beautiful reminder of the power of human connection, transcending language and cultural barriers. I am so proud of Aisha for her open-mindedness and her ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

As I write this, I am filled with a sense of contentment and gratitude. Today was a day of embracing the adventurous spirit of Marrakech, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Goodnight from Marrakech! I am excited to share more of our adventures with you soon.

P.S. I almost forgot to mention! Today, January 15th, is also the date of preliminary workshops and shows in Essaouira and Safi for the International Storytelling Festival of Marrakech, setting the stage for the main event! How exciting is that?! Also, tonight is Don't Believe The Hype Wednesday at Theatro, the best club in Africa! If we didn't have Aisha with us, Hans and I would definitely check it out! Perhaps another time...