Fun things to do in Wilaya de Marrakech

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The place, once known as where rebels and thieves were beheaded and then had their heads displayed (fortunately this doesn't happen anymore) is buzzing during the day but really gets going from about 5 in the afternoon when the food stands start to come out and the jugglers, snake charmers and dancers start up.

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These mausoleums, built here in the late 16th. century are the only remains of the Saadien dynasty that ruled Marrakech and Morocco during 125 years. As this is a major site of Marrakech the visit is made somewhat brief by the vast number of visitors packed into a very small area. Better to go very early in the morning. Cost 10DH for the visit.

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This garden was created by the artist Jacques Majorelle in the 1920's. At his death in 1962 it was bought by the couturier Yves St. Laurent, almost entirely replanted and given back it's former splendor. Mainly cactii, but I suppose it depends of the time of year. A very relaxing visit in the shade. 20DH the visit and a further 15 DH to visit the small museum that holds some of Majorelle's paintings. The garden is closed between 12 and 1 midday.

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If you have a strong stomach you can do this as the smell can be overpowering, from the different acids, pigeon dung and the scrapings of the hides that are laying about. This is a tip that you can take or leave as I didn't like the whole area around the tanneries. Too many touts and this looks to be one of the dodgy areas of Marrakech. Loads of kids around to give you the tour. Some being quite aggressive when you say no. Interesting nonetheless.

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A real wondrous eye-opener, just walking about taking in the colours and sounds. Hours to spend in the souks haggling with the vendors. Even trying to keep the touts off your back is good for a laugh. The place Djemaa El Fnaa in the evening is like nothing you've ever seen, so much bustle, noise and colour. Be warned about taking photos on the place, the snake charmers, the dansers and even the water sellers will ask for money if you take their photos.