11 Best Things To Do On Your Birthday in Marrakech

Planning a very merry birthday celebration? But not exactly sure about the best things to do on your birthday in Marrakech? If so then this mega epic local’s guide is here to help.

Not only have I been living in Morocco since January of 2023, but I have celebrated many birthdays in Marrakech. And honestly, it is a really great place to celebrate your birthday.

The city is wonderfully vibrant, there are a ton of great things to do, and you can find a wealth of cool activities that are perfect for any budget.

So, regardless of whether you’re broke like a joke or the next Elon Musk, you’ll have fun celebrating your birthday in Marrakech.

I also love how vibrant and diverse the city is. As a result, it is easy to find something to do, even if the birthday celebrant is a super picky teenage boy who hates everything (lol).

Now, let’s swan dive into this guide on how to celebrate your birthday in Marrakech. This way you can get tons of great ideas and start to plan the perfect birthday celebration.

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Best Things To Do On Your Birthday in Marrakech

1. Go On a Hot Air Balloon Ride

⭐️ Rating: 4.9/5.0 (1529 Reviews) Price: $170.00+ per person Duration: 2-3 hours 📍Meeting Point: Pick up included Operator: Marrakech Dream Ballooning Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

I did a magical hot air balloon ride above Marrakech and absolutely loved it when I went in February to Marrakech.

That being said, I had done hot air ballooning before (in Cappadocia) and enjoyed that experience a bit more since the landscape was more diverse and there were way more hot air balloons in the air.

Therefore, I would ONLY book a hot air balloon tour from Marrakech if the birthday celebrant has never ridden in a hot air balloon before. Or, if they are just obsessed with hot air balloons.

It’s also worth noting that this tour takes you through the Moroccan countryside and not directly above the city of Marrakech.

So, if you’re expecting to soar in a hot air balloon above the Marrakech Medina then that is not going to happen.

If you’re aware of those things then you’re going to have an amazing time, especially since you’ll be spending 45 minutes soaring through the air.

I found it to be enough time to take pictures and enjoy the ride. But, it wasn’t SOO long that I got bored and started to wonder when the ride would be over.

“The whole experience was amazing, from the food to the staff and the balloon flight. Initially we were skeptical about the value for money, but honestly after being there and watching the set up and experiencing the morning I couldn’t recommend it more highly. Our pilot was so friendly and full of information on the area and the flight itself. The flight was very calm, so peaceful and relaxing. A once in a lifetime experience!!“

Susan (read more reviews now)

I also love that you get picked up/dropped off directly from your hotel. So, no need to worry about getting lost in the Medina early in the morning since your pick up will be WELL before sunset.

It’s worth it though since you’ll be treated to mint tea and pastries upon arrival. You’ll then watch the balloon getting blown up before hopping in the basket with between 20 and 25 other people.

Then, watch the sunset as you take photos, enjoy an amazing playlist, and savor the beautiful views.

You’ll then land and be treated to a traditional Moroccan breakfast (mssemen, eggs, tea, fruit, cheese, etc.) before arriving back in Marrakech around 8:00 am/9:00 am.

Yes, this activity is a bit expensive but it is perfect if you want to make someone feel special during their birthday in Marrakech.

It also is one of those things you can really only do in Marrakech, which is why I would choose Marrakech vs. Agadir.

Local Tip: Be sure to get the best SIM card in Morocco before you visit. This way you and your friends can stay connected.

2. Go Stargazing in the Agafay Desert

⭐️ Rating: 4.7/5.0 (5895 Reviews) Price: $44.00+ per person Duration: 5 hours 📍Meeting Point: Hotel pick up and drop off or meet at Hotel Islane Operator: Mouslih Tour Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

If you’re looking for an unforgettable birthday experience then this Agafay Desert day tour is a must. Not only is it one of the best Agafay Desert tours of them all, but it provides you with incredible value for your money.

So, I wholeheartedly recommend this experience if you want to enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of the Agafay Desert during your trip to Morocco.

This trip starts at 3:30 or 4:00 pm, allowing you to dodge the midday sun and marvel at a beautiful sunset as you watch the stars illuminate the sky.

You’ll also get picked up and dropped off from your hotel, making it easy to enjoy an array of activities like dinner, a thrilling one-hour quad bike ride, a dazzling fire show, and a 20-to-30-minute camel ride near Marrakech.

“Very good excursion, complete and which corresponds to the description. We were warmly welcomed by Mohamed Baakenna, smiling and attentive. The only thing to improve perhaps in our opinion is the difficulty in finding the right group at the starting point. A sign perhaps? Or not the same starting point for all groups.”

Camille (read more reviews now)

It’s just a great way to enjoy a lot of amazing things in Marrakech in a short amount of time. Honestly, I think I spent ten times more on each of these activities when I stayed at one of the best Agafay Desert camps.

What I really loved about this tour though was watching the sunset around a bonfire as I listened to live Berber music and watched beautiful traditional dances. I then indulged in a delightful dinner filled with exquisite Moroccan cuisine.

So, it’s a great way to experience all that the Agafay Desert has to offer while making someone feel extra loved on their special day.

3. Try an Amazing Cooking Class

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (632 Reviews) Price: $40.00+ per person Duration: 4 hours 📍Meeting Point: Pharmacie Bab Doukkala Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

If you, or someone you love, enjoys cooking then sign them up for one the best cooking classes in Marrakech. It’s a great way to learn new recipes and become familiar with Moroccan food.

I did this class a few months ago and think it is the most amazing cooking class in the city. I got expert tips on how to make a PERFECT tajine and gained a lot more confidence in my ability to prepare delish Moroccan food.

Plus, the recipes weren’t super difficult and I felt like I could recreate them at home without too much difficulty (I have done this since the class and they turned out pretty good).

You’ll start with a short tour of a Marrakech market. Along the way, you’ll get veggies and anything else you might for the class.

Afterward, head back to a local home where you’ll sip on tea and learn how to make authentic Moroccan mint tea. Once you’ve had enough tea, you’ll chop up ingredients and season your tajine with incredible spices.

“Another great activity in Marrakech. What more could you want from a cooking class a true family atmosphere where everyone cooks different elements of the meals together, to then getting to enjoy them at the end as well. The two cooks and teachers are both great, speaking numerous different languages and delivering the class in a very easy-to-understand way. Not to mention first being taught how to make Moroccan tea. Could not recommend this enough considering the price you pay!!”

Dominic (read more reviews now)

In total, I made four unique dishes and thought it was an awesome way to try a bunch of different foods. I also liked working as part of a group since I got to meet new people and chat about Moroccan culture.

I also loved the food since I basically couldn’t stop eating it. Yeah, the couscous, tajine, and harira were almost as good as what my partner’s mom makes.

It’s also nice that they can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free travelers in Marrakech. Just let them know about your specific needs when you book the class.

4. Try an Amazing Food Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.7/5.0 (1682 Reviews) Price: $47.00+ per person Duration: 2-3 hours 📍Meeting Point: Café de France, in Jemaa el-Fnaa Square Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

If you love food but are not into cooking for your birthday then check out some of the best food tours in Marrakech instead.

I personally like this evening street food tour since it is a great way to try amazing local street food and experience the vivacious atmosphere of this city after dark.

So, start your adventure at the Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. This is where you’ll meet your fantastic local guide before making your way to the Mellah, aka Marrakech’s historic Jewish Quarter.

Discover a lively market brimming with fresh produce, meats, and fruits. See talented bakers crafting irresistible pastries, and indulge in a variety of sweet treats before tasting a classic charcoal-baked tagine.

To top it off, treat yourself to a refreshing, cold almond drink before continuing through Marrakech’s bustling souks. This is the perfect place to shop for cool Marrakech souvenirs as you sample savory olives and rich dates.

“Ali was an excellent guide ,very informative and humorous. Plenty of tastings on the tour and we went back the next day to buy more of what we had sampled . Maybe add a little more time to the tour so it gives customers the opportunity to do this at the time of the tasting . Very enjoyable and I would highly recommend.”

Sarah (read more reviews now)

As you wander through the Medina, watch talented méchoui artisans expertly roast a whole lamb in a traditional oven before discovering a hidden restaurant serving delightful tangia and kofte with fresh bread.

Afterward, savor the refreshing flavors of three distinctive salads before ending your tour at a Marrakech cafe. Here, you’ll sip on mint tea and take in the breathtaking views from a charming rooftop.

You’ll also enjoy a bit of tranquility inside a beautifully decorated courtyard filled with colorful rugs, mosaic lamps, and calming fountains.

Overall, the food is delicious and Mo is an outstanding guide. Plus, you’ll get introduced to some hidden spots in Marrakech that you’d never discover on your own, and can even take a fun recipe home with you.

5. Visit ANIMA Garden

If you love gardens and enjoy incredible art then you’ll love spending your birthday in Marrakech at ANIMA. It’s an amazing garden that I highly recommend visiting since the space is gorgeous and sits about 35 minutes outside the city.

Designed by Andre Heller, it is a great place to go to take amazing photos, see world-class art (from Picasso and Keith Haring), and to escape the chaos of the city. The best part?

ANIMA has a free shuttle that you can use to visit. Just make a reservation on their website and choose between a 9:30 am and 2:30 pm departure time. You’ll then meet the shuttle in a parking lot behind Koutoubia before heading to the garden.

Once there, purchase a ticket for 140 Dirhams ($14.00) and enjoy a wide array of cacti, palm trees, roses, fountains, and well-manicured gardens. There was even a shaded hammock that we loved relaxing in.

There’s also a nice cafe on-site that serves food that actually tastes good. Yeah, I was surprised too. You can also order something and then sit up on the roof to admire epic views of the property.

Sure, the garden isn’t huge. But, it’s an amazing place to relax. I also like that it isn’t too crowded since the shuttle can’t handle THAT many people.

You also don’t have to worry about returning to the city since the free shuttle will be there to bring you back to the Medina after your visit.

6. Enjoy Some Jazz at Le Bistro Cafe Arab

If you want to make your birthday celebrant feel EXTRA special then run, don’t walk, to Le Bistro Cafe Arabe. Yes, this place is crowded AF and you will 100% need to make a reservation.

But, I still think it’s worth visiting since you get to sit at these charming tables that surround a gorgeous outdoor pool.

As you wait for your meal, you’ll be treated to stellar performances from local jazz bands and singers that croone into the mic, helping you create a beautiful night in Marrakech.

Typically, the live music starts at 8:00 pm and continues all the way until 11:00 pm. However, you’ll probably love the food even more than the music since it is expertly prepared by world-famous chef, Myriam Ettahri.

Sure, items are a bit expensive at 165 Dirhams ($16.50) each, But, it’s worth it if you want to make someone feel special on their birthday.

The last time we stopped by we got the chicken roulade with date stuffing and the tajine du jour. Both were amazing and made me want to come back to sample even more delicious food. Just be sure to dress up a bit since this place is fancy.

Local Tip: if you want to enjoy a less formal evening then head to Le Pergola rooftop upstairs. My partner loved the falafel (I hated my meal) and you can still hear the music, even if the views are kind of meh.

7. Grab a Drink at La Mamounia

If you’re in this vibrant city and want to sip on exquisite cocktails at one of the best bars in Marrakech then pay a visit to this world-class luxury hotel.

Trust me, once you step inside you’ll feel like you’re in another world since this lavish establishment has a star-studded history and four distinct lounges to choose from.

For a tranquil evening, Le Churchill is your best bet since it seats just nine people. However, if you’re in the mood to dance the night away then you’ll love the lively atmosphere of Le Club rooftop bar.

What, fancy a poolside drink? Then check out Le Bar de la Piscine with its relaxed vibes, awesome wellness drinks during the day, and delicious cocktails at night.

Finally, for a touch of elegance, unwind at Le Bar Majorelle. You can listen to beautiful jazz music and sip on awesome drinks as you enjoy the bar’s exquisite ambiance.

The last time we visited we loved the Coco Lush cocktail. It was a delightful blend of coconut, vanilla, mango, and lemon. Yes, it’s a bit expensive at 170 ($17.00) Dirhams.

However, that’s what you pay when visit one of the swankiest hotels in the city. Just don’t forget to dress up since this hotel does have a dress code.

8. Enjoy a Lavish Dinner at La Trattoria

Before I had visited La Trattoria, I had seen this restaurant in Marrakech plastered all over Instagram.

It appealed to me because I loved the gorg poolside tables and the beautiful Moroccan lanterns. They were all lit up in the evening and dangled high above an amazing indoor pool.

However, I was a bit worried that the food would not be nearly as good as the exquisite decor. Thankfully, I was wrong.

We visited late in the afternoon (so it was empty) and were given, warm, complimentary bread that was perfectly paired with delicious Moroccan olive oil and super tasty zaalouk (eggplant salad).

I basically gobbled that zaalouk up before my partner ate his bruschetta and I moved on to my burrata. Both dishes were incredible and beautifully presented to us.

In fact, we loved our meal so much that we ordered their delicious Tiramisu for dessert. Overall, it was an amazing experience that was complimented by impeccable service.

I would 100% go back and would happily pay 400 Dirhams per person ($40.00) for another gorgeous meal in Marrakech.

Just be aware that this is an Italian restaurant and not a Moroccan restaurant. La Trattoria is also tucked away in Gueliz. So, you may want to take a taxi here since the walk is a bit far.

Local Tip: Looking for a nice restaurant with beautiful decor, epic Moroccan food, great prices, and exceptional decor? Then head to Le Jardin instead.

The ambiance is amazing and it is a great place to try traditional Moroccan food in the Medina.

9. Admire Sweeping Views of the City from El Fenn Rooftop Bar

Easily one of the best rooftop bars in Marrakech, El Fenn is a swank AF bar that sits atop a snazzy 4-star hotel.

It is filled with beautiful lounge chairs, gorg umbrellas, a spacious bar, and patterned seat cushions that give the space a fun, Boho-chic feel.

So, feel free to do a bit of sunbathing and relax the day away by the rooftop pool as you sip on their amazing El Fenn Margarita with hibiscus.

Then, when the sun sets, listen to live DJs and get ready to party like a rockstar. Overall, this is a fun, plush place to hang out as you enjoy one of the best things to do on your birthday in Marrakech.

I also like that you can enjoy beautiful views of the Kouttoubia Mosque as you sit on uber-comfy lounge chairs. The rooftop is also huge. So, even when it’s packed with people you still don’t feel like it’s super crowded.

Local Tip: To enter, you’ll have to step inside their store on the ground floor and then make your way up a circular staircase to the roof. You also will need to purchase a day pass if you would like to swim and use the pool on the roof.

I would definitely spend some time browsing through the store on the ground floor since they have some pretty cool souvenirs.

10. Enjoy Breakfast at Bacha Coffee

There is no better way to start your birthday than with breakfast at Bacha Coffee. That’s because this amazing cafe is tucked away inside the Dar Bacha Museum and features amazing, Colonial-inspired decor that you need to see to believe.

I would buy a ticket for the museum and then head straight to the cafe. You’ll know you’re there when you see a charming outdoor courtyard.

Upon arrival, put your name down for a table. This way if there is a queue then you can explore the museum while you wait for a table.

When you finally step inside, you’ll be in awe of waiters wearing Fes hats, a beautiful wooden coffee bar, a light-filled atrium, large potted palm trees, gorg black and white floors, and awesome Colonial-style furniture.

Next, feel free to look through a giant menu filled with hundreds of different coffees. Be sure to ask the staff for help since it can be difficult to choose a coffee.

However, all the coffee is really delicious and served in a giant gold coffee pot. It also comes with fresh whipped cream as well as some fresh vanilla on the side.

Whatever you do, though, do not leave without ordering their croissants. Two come in an order and the almond is absolutely amazing. I get this every time I visit.

Yeah, I have been here at least four or five times and never get tired of this place. Just be aware that they are closed on Mondays. However, the prices are reasonable. So, you won’t break the bank during your visit.

11. Relax at Le Bain Bleu Hammam

Just in case you’re in the know, a hammam is a steam bath or a place for public bathing in Morocco.

During your visit, you’ll sit in a steam room before bathing in black soap and scrubbing all the dead skin off your body with a glove.

So, if you want to spend a relaxing day at the spa for your birthday, then try booking a treatment at Le Bain Bleu.

It’s a private hammam (so you’ll bathe by yourself) and your personal assistant will guide you through the bathing process based on the treatment you choose.

This was the very first hammam I went to in Marrakech and I booked the Stimulating Hammam and Massage package for 880 Dirhams ($80.00).

I was in total heaven as I relaxed in a steam room before getting exfoliated and cleansed with black soap for two hours.

After the refreshing treatment, I was then given an awesome massage with argan oil. I really loved the services, thought the facilities were beautiful, and enjoyed the friendly staff who made me feel like family.

I also wouldn’t worry too much about pre-booking since I was able to get an appointment at the last minute.

Local Tip: Berber massages tend to be a bit lighter than deep tissue massages. So, you may need to ask your masseuse to be a bit firmer if you get a massage.

Conclusion

I hope you found this guide to celebrating your birthday in Marrakech super helpful and now know exactly what to do while you’re there.

After all, Marrakech is a great city to visit if you want to make someone feel extra special and like you truly care about them. It’s also ideal since there are a range of activities on offer to suit many different interests and budgets.

So, stop stressing and use this guide to the best things to do on your birthday in Marrakech to plan a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

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