Imsouane to Marrakesh tickets

About the ride from Imsouane to Marrakesh

Perched where the desert meets the ocean, the Moroccan village of Imsouane retains its low-key charm despite its growing profile. 

Visiting here means surfing some of the best waves in Africa and dining on only the freshest seafood. Yet Morocco is so much more than surf and sand, and a must-see when in the country is the eternally exotic city of Marrakesh.

Bursting with museums, monuments and mosques, Marrakesh is a cultural and architectural gem that must be seen to be believed. From crowded souks to ornate palaces to surprising gardens in the middle of the city, you'll have no shortage of things to see in this showpiece of Moroccan culture.

Best of all, Imsouane and Marrakesh are located in the southwest of the country. So, adding a few days in Marrakesh is not only possible but highly recommended. All it takes is a 3-4 hour drive in a car or minivan, and you've got yourself another jewel to add to your travel crown.

Unmissable things to see in Marrakesh

As one of Morocco's most popular cities, Marrakesh will easily fill your itinerary and beyond. 

Here are some of the top things to see in Marrakesh:

1. Play the market at Jemma el Fnaa. This expansive square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the heart of Marrakesh. All day long, you can soak up the energy of juice vendors, snake charmers and hawkers of all types.
   
   After nightfall, the square goes into overdrive, with lights, smells and sounds right out of a travel show, as restaurants light their grills and musicians fill the air with music.
   
   

2. Go museum hopping. Fans of history, fashion and art will have plenty of options to explore throughout the city.
   
   

Fashion lovers won't want to miss the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, which showcases his style and garments over a 40-year career.

Photographers will love the Maison de la Photographie for its collection of vintage photos set inside an authentic building.

Modern art enthusiasts will want to check out the neighborhood of Gueliz, which has galleries and an artistic vibe.

3. Soak up the souk. There's no experience more typical of Morocco than a visit to a souk. Start in Souk Semmarine for a maze of vendors selling leatherwork, brass lanterns, handbags, and, of course, carpets. Lose yourself in the tiny alleys and shopping stalls where haggling is not only required; it's a sport!
   
   

4. Get your fill of amazing architecture. Whether it's the ruins of the former sultan's palace at El Badi, the ornate doorways of Bahia Palace or the stunning geometric designs of the Musee des Confluences, it's hard not to be impressed by the beauty and design of Marrakesh's many monuments.
   
   Don’t forget the gorgeous Jardin Majorelle. You'll find a wonderful blend of nature and design that is perfect for your Instagram feed.

What to expect when traveling from Imsouane to Marrakesh

Imsouane sits on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean along Morocco's arid southwestern coastline. Marrakesh lies 155 miles (250 kilometers) inland. Travel time between the two ranges from three to four hours.

Your trip will take you through and over the barren mountains near the coast to eventually emerge into the more fertile plains around Marrakech. In the background, the looming peaks of the High Atlas Mountains make for a spectacular backdrop.

How to get from Imsouane to Marrakesh

In this remote corner of Morocco, your only practical options for getting from Imsouane to Marrakesh are by taking either a minivan or car. Each has its pros and cons to consider before booking. 

Here's more information to help you reach a decision:

By minivan

Minivans are the cheapest of the two options and can be private or shared. There's not a whole lot of difference in price, with shared rides starting at $49 per person and private rides at $126 per van.  

With a shared minivan, you will have to go along for the ride to various hotels as other guests are picked up.

A private ride allows you to enjoy the trip without picking up or dropping off strangers, while the shared ride is cheaper and allows you to meet new people. 

Most companies require a minimum number of passengers (either two or three) to make the trip. 

If you have a large enough travel party, you can easily fill the van and share the cost for a private ride.

You can expect an English-speaking driver and air conditioning. Some minivans include extras such as charging ports, WiFi and reclining seats. 

Luggage allowances range from 1-2 bags per passenger. Details vary by operator, so check what's included before you book.

All minivans take restroom breaks along the way. The trip can take anywhere from 3-4 hours, depending on the number of stops and passengers. 

A nice feature of the minivan service is getting picked up and dropped off at your hotel in each city. With certain operators, it is also possible to arrange a drop-off directly at the Marrakesh Airport. You also get to pick the time of your departure. 

By car

Car service is a private affair, with most companies allowing a maximum of three to four passengers. The luggage allowance varies by operator, so pay attention when booking. Prices start at $153 per car.

You can expect a 3- to 4-hour ride with the option of making stops along the way. Cars have English-speaking drivers, air conditioning, charging stations and usually some WiFi.

As with minivans, a car service will pick you up at your accommodations in Imsouane and drop you off at your hotel in Marrakesh, you also get to pick your departure time.  

When is the best time of year to visit Marrakesh?

Spring and fall are peak seasons, so attractions will be crowded, and hotels will be at their priciest. To narrow that down, May and September are the best time to visit Marrakesh. During these months, temperatures are pleasantly warm, typically ranging from the 70s to the 90s°F (20s to 30s°C), and there is very little chance of rain.

Summertime can get unbearably hot, so be prepared.

December and April are the wettest, and even then, it isn't much.

Visiting during off-peak months like November or January (avoid the Christmas and New Year's breaks) will not only result in better hotel deals but will also allow you to enjoy the city with far fewer pesky crowds hanging around.

How much time do I need in Marrakesh?

As one of Morocco's greatest cities, you wouldn't have much trouble filling a week in Marrakesh. If your itinerary doesn't allow for a week, spend at least three days to hit the highlights and sample the exotic vibe.

Where to travel after Marrakesh

Whenever you're ready to move on, move further into the desert towards the iconic dunes and tented experiences of Merzouga.