Gay Marrakech

In an exotic land steeped with charisma and intrigue, Marrakech sits at the head of Morocco’s table. So much so, that for centuries “Marrakesh” was synonymous with the entire country to which it belonged. Many languages today still refer to Morocco as a version of “Marrakesh.”  Situated in the middle of the country, in the foothills of the snowcapped Atlas Mountains, the city is more exposed to traditional ways of life and antiquated methods that have lasted through the test of time. It’s also surprisingly metropolitan though. Marrakesh hosts the largest traditional Berber market (souk) in Morocco, and Jemaa el-Fnaa is the busiest square in all of Africa. It is located in the old walled section of town known as Medina, which dates back almost a thousand years and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The newer, more trendy (and more gay-friendly neighborhood) of Gueliz is found to the northwest of Medina. It’s considered to be more “European” in nature and therefore more liberal by comparison.

A French Protectorate around a hundred years ago, Morocco is still quite popular with French travelers and there are several French celebrities who own property in the Marrakesh area today. The city has also been the filming location for several Hollywood features, most recently The Mummy and Sex and The City 2.

Not just a jumping-off point for local mountain excursions, Marrakesh is fit for the serious shopper, with so many large markets and souks in town, as well as a food-lover’s paradise with interesting, regional cuisine based on its legendary history. With a fabulously varied past, excellent weather, and an appeal all of its own, Marrakesh is one of those fabled places that simply should not be missed.

Marrakesh Gay Scene

Marrakech is a fairly conservative Muslim country, though years of French colonization and a decently sized expat community mean there is a gay scene, however quaint it may be.

Marrakesh is a predominantly Islamic city in North Africa. Homosexual sexual acts of both men and women are illegal according to Moroccan law, and the punishment for such ranges from 6 months to 3 years in prison and a fine. These laws are sporadically enforced by authorities though, and a degree of tolerance is extended in the touristy areas like Marrakesh. Marrakesh also has a significant European influence, particularly in the neighborhood of Gueliz. Most gay-frequented venues run along Avenue Mohammed V in Gueliz. Be sure to keep your wits about you though, and be respectful of the culture you’re a visitor to.

When to Visit

As a North African country, and only a few hours away from the famous Sahara Desert, Marrakesh has hot summers. Winters are also sesasonably warm, though because of the proximity to the Atlas Mountains, Marrakesh does get cold. The shoulder seasons are some of the best temperatures, and it's when you'll likely get the best hotel deals, too. From March to May, the weather will still be warm and even gets up into the 90s ºF during the daytime.

Gay-Friendly Activities & Attractions in Marrakesh

Morocco's most popular city for tourism, there is no shortage of things to see and do in the magical Marrakesh. Soak in the Moroccan culture at some of these top spots.

Jama El f’na Market

The main square of Marrakesh, Jama El f’na Market is a bustling spot with bars, restaurants, and shop vendors. Located in the Old Town medina, it's the top spot in Marrakesh for shopping. It's especially beautiful at sunset when evening vendors are out and about selling everything from snails to fresh fruit drinks and souvenirs like rugs and ceramic pottery.

Majorelle Gardens

One of the loveliest spots in Marrakesh, the Majorelle Gardens is a small botanical and landscape garden. The villa and house, attched to the gardens, was the former home of French fashion designers ​Yves Saint-Laurent and Pierre Bergé where you can see displays from the Yyves Saint Laurent historical collection, as well as a small Islamic Art Museum and Berber Museum.

Les Bains de Marrakech Hammam Spa

Located just near gates to the Marrakesh Medina, Les Bains de Marrakech is a luxury spa and hammam. Hammam culture in Marrakesh is a special treat and a regular part of life for Morrocans. 

welcomes you in its intimate and relaxing spa center, source of well-being for the body and mind. A subtle bridge between the past and the present, our spa is a mix of authenticity and modernity. Our expertise attracts a growing cosmopolitan clientele every year.

Gay-Friendly Dining

From classic Moroccan tajine dishes to couscous and lamb or goat specialities, Moroccan cuisine is among the world's best. Many tourists come to Marrakesh specifically for the world-class cuisine!

Zwin Zwin Café

With a rooftop patio, the Zwin Zwin Café serves Moroccan dishes like traditional tajine dishes with goat cheese, lamb, squash, and even sardines. Don't miss their selection of desserts! 

Terrasse de la fontaine

Chef Rachid Abdelouahad trained in NYC but in this contemporary Marrakesh restaurarnt, he serves modern Moroccan foods in a Riad designed in the most contemporary way: marble tables and unique artwork on the walls.

Gay-Friendly Bars & Nightlife

Alcohol is not as readily available in Morocco as in other countries, though you will find it in bars and restaurants—especially those located in international hotels.

Le 68 Bar A Vin

A French wine bar, Le 68 Bar A Vin is only open in the evenings from 5pm to 2am. The wine selection perfectly complements the French cuisine and cheeseboards available to eat.

L'envers

An international bar with beers, wine, and spirits, L'envers is a hip bar popular with both locals and tourists in the trendy Gueliz neighborhood, a gay-friendly spot in the city.

Pointbar

With a cool vibe and atmosphere, Pointbar is a popular bar in the Marrakesh medina. With a rooftop and views over the medina, it's especially popular at sunset.

Safety

Morocco is generally a safe place to visit for tourists, and Marrakesh, as an international city is also relatively safe. The biggest safety concerns include small crimes, such as tourist scams and pickpocketing. It's best to keep your wits and keep wallets and personal belongings always in eyesight. There have been some notable news events concerning tourists and their safety in Morrocco, including some serious assaults, but if you stick to reputable tour providers and the main tourist track in Marrakesh, you will likely not face any problems. The 2011 terrorist attack in Marrakesh did kill 17 people in Jemaa el-Fnaa square, and security has vastly improved since then. You will likely see armed guards in many tourist spots; they're there to protect you.

LGBTQ travelers should be cautious when traveling in Morocco due to the anti-LGBTQ laws in place.

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