Join me on a walk around Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech
This February I was fortunate to be able to visit Jardin Majorelle which is an absolute highlight of any trip to Marrakech, I booked tickets online and chose the first slot of the day in the hope that there would be less people - alas there are always a lot of tourists now in Marrakech as there are flights from all over Europe and this is one of the most popular attractions - so if you’’re planning a visit, do book your tickets in advance (link below)
The morning was crisp and bright with a chill in the air, the sun still low on the horizon. We largely managed to navigate the garden and take photos with few people on which was the whole point of taking the early slot to visit.
Majorelle Blue, just gorgeous
Stepping into the Jardin Majorelle is like walking into a living painting. This two-and-a-half-acre botanical garden is a psychedelic desert mirage, famous for its intensely vibrant shade of cobalt blue that coats the fountains, walls, and the central Art Deco villa.
A Desert Oasis: The Story:
The garden was the passion project of French Orientalist painter Jacques Majorelle, who began creating it in 1923. He spent almost forty years collecting rare plants from across five continents to plant around his studio. The striking blue you see everywhere - now known officially as "Majorelle Blue” was inspired by the coloured tiles he had seen around Marrakech and Berber burnouses.
After Majorelle's death, the property fell into disrepair until it was famously rediscovered in the 1980s by fashion designers Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé. They purchased the estate to save it from being turned into a hotel complex and lovingly restored it. Today, it stands as a tribute to both its original creator and its famous saviors. A memorial to Yves Saint Laurent is tucked away within the gardens.
Highlights You Can't Miss
The "Majorelle Blue" Villa: The heart of the garden is the Cubist villa. Its electric blue color is mesmerising and provides a stunning contrast against the countless shades of green from the surrounding foliage.
Botanical Collection: The garden is home to an impressive collection of plants, including a dense bamboo forest that offers a cool, shady respite, and a striking array of cacti of all shapes and sizes.
The Berber Museum: Housed inside Majorelle's former painting studio, this small but excellent museum displays a rich collection of Berber objects originating from diverse regions of Morocco, including jewellery, textiles, and woodwork.
Musée Yves Saint Laurent: Located just down the road, this museum is dedicated to the legendary couturier's work and connection to Marrakech. You can often buy a combined ticket for both the garden and museum.
Practical Information for Your Visit
This is one of the most popular attractions in all of Morocco, so a little planning goes a long way.
The Golden Rule: Book Online in Advance. This is not a suggestion; it's practically a requirement. Tickets are sold for specific time slots, and they often sell out days or even weeks in advance. Do not show up expecting to buy a ticket at the door.
Best Time to Visit: To experience the garden's tranquil magic, aim for the very first time slot in the morning (usually 8:00 AM or 8:30 AM). The light is soft, the temperature is cool, and you'll beat the largest tour groups. Late afternoon can also be lovely, but it tends to be busier than the morning.
Opening Hours: The garden is generally open every day of the year, though hours can vary by season. Check the official website for the most current schedule.
Photography: The garden is incredibly photogenic. Tripods and professional equipment typically require special permission and they’re not really necessary anyway - I shot everything on a Fuji X-T5 and Zeiss Touit 32 (50) which I think was an ideal setup.
Essential Links
Official Ticket Website: Be sure to book through the ONLY official website to guarantee your entry.
www.tickets.jardinmajorelle.com
Location Map: The garden is located in the Guéliz neighbourhood (the "new town"), outside of the historic Medina. It's easily reachable by a short taxi or bus ride.
Map Link