Le Jardin Majorelle Marrakech

Jardin Majorelle, or Majorelle Garden Marrakech, is one of the most cherished attractions in the city. French painter Jacques Majorelle found it in the 1920s, by transforming a barren plot of land into a beautiful garden with exotic plants and lovely blue buildings. Later, it was restored in the 1980s by the famous designer Yves Saint Laurent (YSL) and his partner Pierre Bergé (after it faced potential domelition); the garden now welcomes visitors from all over the world.

The History of Jardin Majorelle

Jacques Majorelle, born in 1886 in France, was the son of a renowned furniture designer. He arrived in Morocco in the early 20th century and fell in love with Morocco’s culture and nature. In 1923, Majorelle purchased a plot of land in Marrakech and began developing what would become Jardin Majorelle. Majorelle brought exotic plants from around the globe, including cacti, palms, and bamboo. The deep blue shade, now known as “Majorelle Blue,” became his trademark and can be seen throughout the garden.

In the 1980s, after years of neglect, the garden faced potential demolition. Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé, who are deeply connected with Marrakech, have purchased and restored the property. They preserved Majorelle’s original vision while adding new elements, ensuring the garden’s survival as a cultural landmark. Today, the YSL Museum Marrakech sits next to the garden, showcasing the legacy of Yves Saint Laurent and his impact on fashion and art.

Exploring the Features of Majorelle Garden Marrakech

The Marrakech Majorelle Garden covers roughly two and a half acres and features over 300 species of plants from five continents. There, you will find cacti, palms, dense bamboo groves, and bougainvillea.

Notable Features:

• The Blue Villa: The central building in Majorelle Blue was once Jacques Majorelle’s art studio. Today, it houses the Berber Museum, which displays a collection of Berber artifacts, including jewelry, textiles, and pottery.
• Fountains and Water Features: The soothing sound of fountains and water channels adds to the atmosphere, making the garden a great place for relaxation.
• The Cactus Garden: Home to various cacti from across the globe, this section is a favorite for visitors; it’s a unique photo opportunity.

Photography Tips for Jardin Majorelle

Bring a wide-angle lens for your camera if you plan to take photos. The garden’s large, open spaces and tall palm trees require a broader view to capture their full beauty. For the best lighting and fewer crowds, aim to visit early in the morning. The lovely colors of the garden are more pronounced during this time.

Suggested Photo Spots:

• The Blue Villa: Capture the vivid contrast between the blue walls and the greenery.
• The Cactus Garden: Focus on the unique shapes and textures of the cacti.
• Water Features: The reflections in the pools make for stunning shots.

Wildlife In Jardin Majorelle

Jardin Majorelle has a modest variety of wildlife, such as birds, koi fish, and turtles. The birds are often found in the shaded areas and around the ponds. Koi fish swim slowly in the water, and turtles rest quietly by the pond edges. These animals add a calm and quiet presence to the garden.

Accessibility

The garden features well-maintained, paved paths that allow easy access for both wheelchairs and strollers, enabling everyone to explore the whole garden comfortably. You will also find numerous benches and shaded areas throughout, providing plenty of spots to rest and relax along the way.

Admission Cost

Visiting Jardin Majorelle costs 70 MAD (about USD 7) for adults and 30 MAD (about USD 3) for children, you can buy them online on Le Jardin Majorelle Website or through a third party booking platform. Additional fees apply for access to the Berber Museum.

Opening Hours of Jardin Majorelle marrakech

Jardin Majorelle is open daily, with specific hours depending on the season. From October to April, it operates from 8 AM to 5:30 PM. During the warmer months of May to September, the garden opens from 8 AM to 6 PM. On Fridays in Ramadan, the hours are slightly adjusted to 9 AM to 5 PM. For the best experience, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat.

What to Expect Throughout the Year

The look of Majorelle Garden Marrakech changes with the seasons:

• Spring: The flowers bloom, and the plants are greener. It’s an excellent time to visit if you like seeing lots of different plants.
• Summer: The trees give some shade, which helps make it a bit cooler. It’s better to come early in the morning before it gets too hot.
• Fall: The colors might look more profound in the softer autumn light. There are usually fewer people, so it’s a quieter time to walk around.
• Winter: The weather stays mild, and the garden is still green. It’s an excellent time to take a simple walk without much heat or crowds.

Nearby Attractions

After exploring the Jardin Majorelle Morocco, visit the YSL Museum, which celebrates the life and work of Yves Saint Laurent. Other nearby attractions include:

• Palmeraie of Marrakech: A vast palm grove ideal for a camel ride or a walk.
• Medina of Marrakech: Explore the souks and experience the city’s traditional markets.

Insider Tips for Visiting

• Get There Early: The garden is less crowded first thing in the morning.
• Wear Good Shoes: The paths are paved, so comfortable walking shoes are best.
• Bring a Bottle of Water: It gets warm, and you’ll want to stay hydrated.
• Look Up Events: Sometimes there are special exhibitions; check online before you go.

Location and How to Visit

You will find Jardin Majorelle in the heart of the city, near the Medina and Jemaa el-Fnaa square. It’s easily accessible by taxi or local transportation, and many visitors combine a trip to the garden with a stop at the adjacent YSL Museum next to it. This makes it a convenient and popular destination for travelers looking to explore Marrakech’s cultural highlights.

Directions:

• From the Medina: It’s a short 10-15 minute taxi ride.
• Public Transport: You can take a local bus or a shared taxi, which drops you near the entrance.

Map:

Final Thoughts About Jardin Majorelle Marrakech

Jardin Majorelle is a well-known attraction in Marrakech. It features colorful buildings and a variety of plants and has historical ties to Jacques Majorelle and Yves Saint Laurent. Its link to the YSL Museum adds some cultural interest, making it a good spot for those who like plants, art, or history.

If you’re in Marrakech or planning a visit, consider taking a 3-day tour from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert or a 4-day trip from Marrakech to Fez through the desert. You can also explore our private tours for various options. Remember to learn about the best time to visit Marrakech and discover more places to see in the city.