Discover the Medina of Marrakech in a different way (tips from The Guardian)

The adventure begins at 800 meters altitude. According to the daily newspaper The Guardian, dozens of baskets float at sunrise facing the snow-capped peaks of the Atlas. Pilot Daniel Penet describes the breathtaking view of the Koutoubia minaret and the shaded areas of the old city, contrasting with the tall modern buildings of the Gueliz district.

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Once on the ground, the medina, although secured by the tourist police, remains a complex labyrinth. It now houses more than 7,000 riads, former residences transformed into hotels. Some establishments hidden in anonymous alleys, such as Derb Farnatchi, display no signs and require a true memorization of the historic doors to be found.

To unravel the mysteries of the city, agencies are promoting the integration of women in the tourism sector. Guide Atika Aït Nejjar offers an intimate approach, leading visitors to the traditional ovens where bread is baked. She details the workings of the neighborhood hammams, morning spaces reserved for women, considered as rare places to exchange "away from men’s ears".

The exploration continues through the old caravanserais and thematic markets. While the Spice Square or the Blacksmiths’ Souk attract with their sensory characteristics, other sectors remain confidential. This is the case of the Souk Laghzal, a former slave market now selling traditional remedies and housing a small canteen run by a local figure nicknamed the "mother of the souks".

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As night falls, the physiognomy of the alleys changes radically with the closing of the shops. The hustle and bustle then shifts to the vast Djemaa el-Fna square, where storytellers, musicians and the smoke of barbecues take over to liven up the evening.