Marrakech at night: 7 epic adventures after dark

Marrakech is known for its stunning architecture and serene gardens filled with daytime visitors, but did you know there are still plenty of lively activities in Marrakech at night? In Gueliz, you'll find trendy dance clubs and an active social scene. And just a short trek out of the city, you'll find the tranquil sands of the Agafay Desert with unique adventures such as fire dance shows and romantic dining options.

The adventure doesn't end there — Marrakech is teeming with activity at night. Whether you enjoy shopping at the night markets, dancing through the nightlife scene, or indulging in authentic Moroccan cuisine under the stars, you'll make lasting memories with these top eight things to do in Marrakech at night.

Top-ranked: Marrakech at night

Best attraction to visit at night: Jemaa el-Fnaa
Best neighborhood for nightlife: Gueliz
Best sunset spots: La Terrasse des Epices or Agafay Desert

1. Adventure into the desert (safely, of course)

Marrakech is surrounded by deserts and mountains, so it makes sense that the city has boundless methods for trekking through the sands. Right outside the city, you'll find the Agafay Desert, which has a range of adventures that'll allow you to ride off into the sunset, literally. Options include nature hikes, quad bike excursions, and more. The Agafay Desert is also known for hosting a range of fire and dance shows, dinner packages, and spectacular views of the stars.

Why visit the Agafay Desert at night?

It can get pretty hot in the desert during the day, but the evening brings more desirable temperatures. This makes longer journeys on the sand more comfortable, and the sunset views aren't so bad either.

Address

Agafay Desert, Région Marrakech Safi, 40254 Agafay Desert, Marrakech Safi Region, Marrakesh 40254.

Opening hours

Open 24/7.

2. Explore the square at Jemaa el-Fnaa

Jemaa el-Fnaa is a square in Old Town that has been host to open markets for centuries. It's one of the busiest attractions in Marrakech at night due to the more bearable temperatures, incredible street food, and traditional Moroccan entertainment. At night, the square is filled with storytellers, musicians, belly dancers, snake charmers, and so much more.

Why visit Jamaa el-Fnaa at night?

The square is much more active at night as the evening performers start their street shows, and you may be able to negotiate better deals because vendors will be trying to make the most sales before the night ends.

Address

Jemaa el-Fna, Marrakesh 40000.

Opening hours

Open 24/7.

3. Grab some souvenirs from the night markets and souks

The streets of Marrakech are lined with traditional markets and shops known as souks. They feature a range of local wares such as lanterns, carpets, leather, gold, spices, and jewelry.

Why shop the souks at night?

Timing your experience for the evening lets you avoid the midday crowds (and heat). Souk markets are scattered all around the city, with many stalls staying open until 9:00 PM or later.

4. Savor the night with authentic Moroccan cuisine

Marrakech is renowned for its versatile spices and distinctive culinary creations, so sampling the flavors of traditional Moroccan cuisine is a must if you're in Marrakech for the night. Street food stalls in the market serve tasty dishes on the go, while elegant restaurants provide a more sophisticated setting for a quality dining experience.

Why indulge in Moroccan dining at night?

The warm lighting of the sunset reflecting off the sandstone buildings creates a romantic atmosphere for evening dining.

5. Watch the sunset from a rooftop restaurant or bar

Don't miss the sunset in Marrakech because the light reflects off the golden sand and the red sandstone architecture. This atmosphere, coupled with the traditional buildings and stunning terraces, make rooftop restaurants the go-to spot for watching the sun sink below the horizon. There are many options, but the La Terrasse des Epices is said to have one of the best sunset views in the city.

Why visit rooftop restaurants at night?

Most rooftop restaurants offer panoramic views of the city and its sandstone architecture. At sunset, the buildings' colors glow.

Address

La Terrasse des Epices: Sidi Abdel Aziz، 15 souk cherifia, Marrakesh 40000.

Opening hours

Open daily from noon-5:00 PM and from 6:00 PM-12:30 AM.

6. Enjoy the amazing nightlife of Gueliz

Of course, the city nightlife is among the most fun things to experience in Marrakech at night. Gueliz is the neighborhood for young adventurers looking for a modern vibe. And there are plenty of nightlife activities in New City, including clubs and casinos.

Why Gueliz at night?

The music and dancing scene starts to pick up after dinner as local clubs and casinos begin to open. Most clubs are open from 11:00 PM-5:00 AM.

7. Attend a belly dance show

Belly dancing is one of the oldest dances in the world, with a long history in Morocco. You can find performers almost anywhere in Marrakech at night, from late-night markets to popular clubs. However, you can see the best, uninterrupted belly dancing performances with tickets to belly dancing shows like the Chez Ali Fantasia Folk Show.

Why see a belly dancing show at night?

Belly dancing is a flowing, melodic dance that uses props like scarves and jeweled belts to create artistic movement. At night, these movements are exaggerated as the lighting emphasizes the embellishments of the outfits.

Address

Chez Ali Fantasia Folk Show: Chez ali، Ouahat Sidi Brahim, Marrakesh 40000.

Opening hours

Open nightly from 8:00 PM to midnight.

FAQs

1. What is the nightlife like in Marrakech?

The nightlife scene in Marrakech is very active, featuring clubs, casinos, and bars. There are plenty of fun things to do at night in Marrakech, including visiting modern art-themed dance clubs and lounges that treat visitors to belly dancing shows.

2. What should I wear at night in Marrakech?

It cools down at night, but the temperature is usually pretty comfortable. Most travelers wear light fabrics like linen.

3. What are the best spots for a romantic night out in Marrakech?

For nature lovers, watching the sunset in the Agafay Desert is one of the most romantic things to do in Marrakech at night. For city lovers, the terrace-style restaurants may be more fitting.

4. What time do people go to sleep in Marrakech?

It's common for people to stay up until 5:00 AM in Marrakech. Many people will sleep through the hottest parts of the day, so they may wake up around 10:00 AM for daily activities and then take a nap around 3:00 PM before enjoying the afternoon and the night.