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The Palm Grove reveals to the traveler the other side of Marrakech, the desert. Far from the bustle and noise of the city, the enclave transports to other times. A ride on a camel or in a horse-drawn carriage through this area dominated by palm trees is an ideal tourist plan for the whole family. Here it is possible to take a break, enjoy some leisure time in the open air, and learn more about the origins, customs, and history of the Moroccan capital.
With more than six thousand hectares, the Marrakech Palm Grove is one of the largest in the world. Once upon a time, it even encompassed a lot more ground. Today, this mythical corner of the city has become a luxury residential area. Majestic hotels and vacation villas have taken away space from the wooded area. The sumptuousness of the buildings contrasts with the sobriety of the landscape. The indigenous people’s harrowing living circumstances are shown by the vegetation’s emergence in an otherwise parched region.
History and Legends of the Palm Grove of Marrakech:
Palm Grove is a key environment in the origins, subsistence, and prosperity of Marrakech. Reality and legend mingle when recreating the history of this unique landscape. Very old accounts indicate that the founder of the city, Youssef Ben Tachfine, was the one who accidentally gave birth to the palm grove. It is said that he decided to camp with his army in the vast plain, protected by mountains. And that the soldiers spilled on the ground the seeds of the dates with which they fed themselves, coming from other regions.
This gesture eventually gave rise to thousands and thousands of palm trees. And, according to the historical narrative, it was the son of the Moroccan leader, Ali Ben Youssef, who, to alleviate the water shortage, set up an effective irrigation system. Known as Khettara, it consisted of a network of subway channels, linked together, which allowed water to rise from the subsoil to the surface. It is estimated that about five thousand wells can be counted in the plain. Thanks to this system, the area became fertile. Palm trees grew, and in their shade, the cultivation of vegetables and olive groves prospered, which allowed the population to subsist.
The present, a luxurious environment:
Originally, the Palmeral had about 14,000 hectares, which have been reduced to about half. The conversion of the area into a luxurious zone of hotels, villas, and golf courses has brought wealth to the city thanks to tourism development. But the natural environment, in which some 100,000 palm trees have been counted, has been damaged. Various pests and the lack of maintenance of the millenary irrigation system have also contributed to this, which has led to the drying up of many wells.
To date, the environment is not a protected area. With some regularity, the authorities talk about promoting plans to improve and reforest this place, with a thousand years of history, which attracts travelers from all over the world. Those who have visited it, usually recall the impression that the place continues to produce, its historical weight, and the beauty of its sunsets.
What to do in the palm grove of Marrakech, unforgettable tours:
Despite the urbanization of the enclave, the Palm Grove of Marrakech remains a mythical place, where it is still possible to imagine the past of the city. It is not usually overcrowded and its extension guarantees areas of calm and silence. Very often, visitors arrive at the site by horse-drawn carriage. They can rent the service of these horse-drawn carriages in the Medina area or the New City. From the popular Jemaa el Fna square, the ride takes two hours.
Once in the area, you can enjoy unforgettable camel, horse, or pony rides. The most active also have the possibility of activities such as quad biking in the interior of the area. It is very common to go to one of the luxurious resorts in the surroundings to enjoy a cup of tea, a meal, and even a swim in their pools. But, undoubtedly, the greatest gift is to enjoy the scenery, the refreshing walk among palm trees, and the spectacular sunsets, with the Atlas Mountains in the background.
The experience of a camel ride in the Palm Grove:
Many companies facilitate the excursion in small groups to the Palmeral, Palmeraie of Marrakech. The itinerary starts and ends at the hotel where the tourists are staying. It includes the typical camel ride for an hour. It is customary to stop at the home of a Berber family to enjoy a welcome aperitif and mint tea.
The routes are unforgettable at sunset. The tour begins after listening to the detailed explanations of a guide about the resistance of camels. Camels have been used in Morocco as a means of transportation for centuries, thanks to their ability to travel long distances without water. To make the experience more authentic, tourists are provided with the traditional clothing of the “Tuaregs”. Not missing the typical “sheish” (turban) to protect from the sun.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Where is the Marrakech Palm Grove located?
The Palm Grove is located on the Route de Fès in Marrakech, northeast of the city, occupying about 7,000 hectares of land.
How to get to the Palm Grove of Marrakech?
By cab or horse-drawn carriage. Palm Grove, located on the outskirts of Marrakech, can be reached by cab or by hiring a horse-drawn carriage ride from the city center. The carriage can be rented in the Medina area or the New City. From the popular Jemaa el Fna square the ride takes two hours.
By bus. There is a tourist bus service, City Tour, which has a route, ‘Route Tour Palmeral’, which consists of 13 stops and addresses the northern part of the city, where you visit the Palm Grove of Marrakech. Approximately one hour will be devoted to the tour. Other tour companies also offer itineraries for small groups, departing from hotels to Palm Grove.
How can one most effectively see Marrakech’s Palm Grove?
Taking a camel ride through Palm Grove is undoubtedly the most recommended and widespread activity to know Palm Grove. An authentic experience that you will not regret.
What can you do in the palm grove of Marrakech?
This is one of the most luxurious areas of Marrakech and here you can enjoy activities such as golf, quad biking, and of course, camel riding. You will enjoy an environment in which views of the Atlas Mountains and fabulous sunsets will conquer you.
