Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation
Upon arrival in Marrakech, enjoy a seamless welcome with fast-track service through the airport. Settle into your luxurious villa and unwind in the serene ambiance of the hotel. Take advantage of the on-site dining options for a gourmet experience, or choose from other curated dining recommendations nearby. A dedicated guide and chauffeur are at your disposal to ensure a comfortable and personalized start to your journey.
During your stay at the Mandarin Oriental, take time to explore the captivating M.O Studio, where the Mandarin Oriental Marrakech, in collaboration with Galerie 208, presents the exceptional exhibition "Rythme des Dunes". This exhibition highlights the work of Franco-Chinese artist Li Chevalier, renowned for her unique artistic vision and celebrated at the 2024 Venice Biennale. Within the expansive 1,000 m² M.O Studio, Chevalier masterfully fuses Eastern and Western influences, offering a visual and sensory journey that captures the harmony between oriental landscapes and Morocco’s sweeping desert dunes. The exhibition features her renowned ink paintings, which gracefully blend traditional Chinese aesthetics with Moroccan motifs, alongside an immersive multimedia installation that invites guests to experience the evocative “rhythm of the dunes” firsthand.
Day 2: Immersion in Contemporary African Art
Morning:
Start your artistic journey with a visit to the Museum of Contemporary African Art Al Maaden (MACAAL), an iconic institution dedicated to the richness and diversity of African contemporary art. In this latest exhibition, nearly 2,500 works from across the continent, including standout pieces by notable Moroccan artists, are displayed in a newly curated collection that reshapes the viewing experience. Each gallery, arranged around themes like decolonization, transformation, and coexistence, invites you to consider how African artists interpret the social, political, and spiritual dimensions of their heritage. This thoughtfully curated experience showcases a mix of painting, sculpture, photography, and multimedia art, encouraging guests to engage deeply with both the historical and modern perspectives shaping the continent’s artistic voice.
Lunch will be enjoyed at Plus 61, a stylish and celebrated spot known for its fresh, seasonal cuisine—a perfect pause amid the city’s creative rhythm.
Afternoon:
Continue your exploration at the Montresso Foundation, where the Resident Gallery presents the works of two thought-provoking sculptors, Cyrille André and Pedro Pires. André’s sculptures evoke the resilience and strength of the human spirit, capturing moments of introspection through robust, yet minimalistic forms that express an unfiltered rawness. His work delves into the complexities of identity and human experience, reflecting both vulnerability and strength. Pedro Pires, meanwhile, takes an opposing approach by focusing on the concept of “absence” to explore the boundaries of human identity and freedom. His pieces often combine organic shapes with industrial materials, inviting viewers to reflect on the tension between individualism and societal constructs.
Also on display in the Montresso Art Space is a collective exhibition titled "La part de l'invisible," featuring the works of artists Aliou Diack, Hasnae El Ouarga, and Rero. Diack’s work draws on his Senegalese roots, blending mythology, nature, and spirituality in layered, symbolic paintings. His use of vibrant colors and organic forms evoke the deep connection between people and their environment. Moroccan artist Hasnae El Ouarga, by contrast, brings a contemporary focus on social themes, using multimedia techniques to explore issues like identity, gender, and cultural intersections. Rero, a conceptual artist known for his minimalist text-based art, challenges viewers with thought-provoking phrases that confront questions of censorship, privacy, and the digital age. His pieces invite silent introspection, using only words to craft powerful visual statements that resonate deeply.
Finally, venture into the Helmet Room, where the solo exhibition by Nathanaël Vodouhè reveals a more intimate yet bold approach to sculpture and installation. Vodouhè’s work is inspired by his Beninese heritage and confronts issues of colonial legacy, spirituality, and modern African identity. His pieces evoke a sense of mystery, utilizing symbolism and abstraction to create an experience that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
Day 3: Immersion in the Art of Adornment
Morning:
Today’s exploration begins at the Museum of Art and Parures (MAP), an exceptional space located in the heart of the Kasbah of Marrakech. The MAP is a world dedicated to the art of adornment, displaying an extraordinary collection of jewelry, ornaments, and ceremonial garments that celebrate the cultural diversity and artistry from over 50 countries. Each piece showcases the rich history, intricate craftsmanship, and symbolic meanings embedded in adornments across hundreds of unique territories, making this museum a true tribute to global heritage. Visitors can marvel at the vast range of designs, from traditional Moroccan parures to rare and ornate pieces from distant cultures, reflecting the profound artistry involved in ceremonial and personal decoration.
Following your tour, enjoy a delightful lunch on the museum’s rooftop, where you’ll have the chance to reflect on the beautiful pieces you’ve seen while taking in views over Marrakech.
Afternoon:
In the afternoon, step into the contemporary world of Moroccan art with a visit to the atelier and gallery of renowned artist Habib Kibari. Known for his work that captures the spirit of Moroccan landscapes and traditions, Kibari’s art blends vivid colors and intricate textures to explore themes of heritage and identity. This private studio visit provides an intimate glimpse into his creative process, offering a unique opportunity to see his masterpieces up close and understand the inspirations behind them. Kibari’s ability to evoke both the vibrancy of Moroccan culture and the subtlety of its landscapes will leave a lasting impression, rounding out a day dedicated to the beauty of Moroccan artistry, past and present.
Artistic Heritage and Cultural Engagement
Morning:
Begin your day at the enchanting Museum of La Palmeraie, where an exclusive collection of artwork curated by the Benchaâbane Foundation awaits. This unique museum, located within the lush landscapes of the Palmeraie, showcases a rotating selection of pieces from the private collection of the esteemed foundation. This season’s exhibit highlights both modern and traditional Moroccan artistry, bringing together diverse works that capture the essence of Moroccan creative expression.
The museum is also committed to fostering artistic development in the local community. Beginning in October, it resumes its educational workshops aimed at inspiring children from neighboring villages. These workshops provide mentorship and resources, encouraging young participants to explore their creativity and nurture an appreciation for the arts. As part of this immersive experience, you’ll have the unique opportunity to meet Mr. Abderrazzak Benchaâbane, the museum’s founder and former director of the famed Majorelle Gardens. Known for his captivating insights, Mr. Benchaâbane’s passion for Moroccan heritage and botanical beauty promises an inspiring encounter.
Enjoy a lunch break on the scenic route through the Palmeraie, a peaceful interlude before the afternoon's activities.
Afternoon:
In the afternoon, the journey continues with a visit to the Fondation Farid Belkahia, a space dedicated to preserving and celebrating the legacy of one of Morocco’s most influential modern artists. As a visionary in Moroccan and African contemporary art, Farid Belkahia is celebrated for his use of innovative techniques and materials, blending Moroccan traditions with global modernist influences. This museum offers an intimate view into Belkahia's transformative work, which explores themes of identity, heritage, and cultural dialogue.
With its tranquil gardens and immersive galleries, the Fondation Farid Belkahia provides an inspiring setting to explore the intersections of tradition and innovation in Moroccan art, closing the day with a profound appreciation for the creative spirit of the region
Artistic Retreat and Immersive Garden Experience
Late Morning:
Your day begins with a journey to Tahanaout, where you’ll visit the renowned Al Maqam Art Space, an extraordinary haven for artists and creatives. Founded by the celebrated Moroccan artist Mohamed Mourabiti, Al Maqam serves as both an artist’s retreat and a vibrant community hub. Nestled at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, this inspiring space combines studios, exhibition rooms, and workshops where artists from Morocco and beyond come to collaborate and create. The space exudes a serene atmosphere that fosters artistic reflection, and Mourabiti’s works, which explore Moroccan identity and contemporary themes, are a testament to his unique vision. Your visit includes an exclusive encounter with Mourabiti himself, offering a rare chance to gain insight into his creative process and the philosophy behind Al Maqam.
A delightful lunch will be served on-site, allowing you to soak in the peaceful surroundings and artistic ambiance before the afternoon’s exploration.
Afternoon:
In the afternoon, the journey continues to the enchanting Anima Garden, a lush and vibrant oasis of creativity envisioned by Austrian multimedia artist André Heller. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Atlas Mountains, Anima Garden is an immersive experience where nature, art, and imagination intertwine. The garden is a sensory wonderland, featuring winding paths through exotic plants, sculptures, and installations that blend with the landscape. Each corner reveals unexpected artistic creations, from colorful installations to whimsical sculptures that invite reflection and exploration.
Anima Garden offers a unique perspective on how art and nature can coexist harmoniously, making it an ideal close to a day filled with artistic inspiration. The tranquil beauty of Anima provides a serene setting for guests to reflect on the week’s artistic encounters and immerse themselves in the meditative experience of art in nature.
Day 6: Departure and Farewell
On your final day in Marrakech, enjoy a leisurely morning to relax or explore at your own pace. Take advantage of the luxurious amenities, indulge in a final spa treatment, or revisit favorite spots in the city to make the most of your last moments in this vibrant cultural hub. When it’s time to depart, a private transfer will be arranged to take you to the airport, ensuring a comfortable and seamless end to your artistic journey through Marrakech.