Majorelle Garden: The Most Beautiful Botanical Escape in Marrakech

Majorelle Garden, also known as Jardin Majorelle, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Morocco. With its electric Majorelle Blue walls, towering exotic plants, and peaceful walking paths, this stunning botanical garden has become a symbol of Marrakech’s artistic soul. Every year, hundreds of thousands of travelers from around the world visit Majorelle Garden to experience its unique atmosphere, rich history, and extraordinary beauty. More than just a tourist attraction, the garden represents a deep connection between nature, art, and Moroccan culture.

Majorelle Garden offers a magical escape from the busy streets of Marrakech. From its vibrant blue villa to its rare plant species collected from different continents, everything inside the garden feels thoughtfully designed and beautifully preserved. Whether you love photography, art, nature, fashion, or Moroccan culture, Majorelle Garden promises an unforgettable experience.

1️⃣ What Makes Majorelle Garden Special?

Majorelle Garden combines creativity, history, and natural beauty in a truly unique way. The moment you walk through the entrance, you step into a world of color and calmness. The bright blue accents are striking, the pathways are shaded and inviting, and the sound of water trickling from fountains creates a peaceful atmosphere that feels far from the noise of Marrakech’s bustling medina.

Beyond its beauty, Majorelle Garden is also deeply connected to the legacy of Jacques Majorelle, a French painter who dedicated more than 40 years of his life to building this botanical paradise. Later, the famous French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé saved the garden from decline and restored it into the masterpiece it is today.

2️⃣ History of Majorelle Garden

🟨 Jacques Majorelle’s Vision

The story of Majorelle Garden begins with Jacques Majorelle, a French artist who first visited Morocco in 1917. Inspired by the country’s light, colors, and traditional architecture, he made Marrakech his new home. Majorelle purchased the land in 1922 and began transforming it into a luxurious botanical garden inspired by his travels and artistic imagination.

He introduced plant species from North Africa, Asia, South America, and the Mediterranean. Over time, Majorelle added fountains, ponds, pathways, and artistic elements to create an oasis that blended nature with design. It became one of the most exotic private gardens in the region.

🟨 The Birth of Majorelle Blue

In 1937, Majorelle created the famous shade of blue that now defines the entire garden. Known as Majorelle Blue, this intense cobalt color was inspired by Moroccan tiles, desert skies, and the vibrant hues found in Berber culture. He painted the villa and various structures in this color, giving the garden its striking identity. The vibrant blue contrasts beautifully with the green plants, red pathways, and yellow accents.

🟨 Decline and Revival by Yves Saint Laurent

After Jacques Majorelle’s death in 1962, the garden was neglected and faced the risk of demolition. In 1980, Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé purchased the property to save it from destruction. They restored the plants, repainted the villa, redesigned the pathways, and transformed Majorelle’s old studio into the Berber Museum.

Their involvement not only rescued the garden but elevated it into an international cultural treasure. Yves Saint Laurent loved the garden so much that his ashes were scattered here in 2008, and a memorial was built in his honor.

3️⃣ What You Will Find Inside Majorelle Garden

Majorelle Garden is much more than a simple garden. It is a carefully designed space where art, nature, and history come together. Every corner has something special to see.

⭐ A Diverse Collection of Exotic Plants

Majorelle Garden houses more than 300 species of plants collected from all over the world. You will find:

Giant cactus forests
Bamboo groves
Palm trees and date trees
Bougainvillea flowers
Yucca and agave
Lotus flowers and water lilies
Beautiful jasmine vines
Rare tropical plants

Walking through the pathways feels like traveling from one continent to another while remaining in the heart of Marrakech.

⭐ The Famous Blue Villa

The centerpiece of the garden is the Art Deco villa painted in Majorelle Blue. Its sharp angles, yellow windows, and contrast with the greenery make it one of the most photographed buildings in Morocco. The villa houses:

Berber Museum
Yves Saint Laurent Memorial areas
Artistic displays

The bright colors and clean design make the villa a visual masterpiece.

⭐ Fountains, Pools, and Shaded Pathways

The sound of flowing water guides you throughout the garden. You’ll find:

Reflecting pools
Shallow fountains
Water channels
Ceramic pots
Shaded paths lined with bamboo

These elements create a peaceful atmosphere that encourages visitors to slow down and appreciate their surroundings.

4️⃣ Berber Museum Inside Majorelle Garden

The Berber Museum, located inside Jacques Majorelle’s former studio, showcases the rich heritage of the indigenous Berber people of Morocco. The museum displays:

Jewelry
Clothing
Antique items
Tools
Musical instruments
Artifacts from different Berber tribes

This museum adds a cultural and educational dimension to your visit and helps you understand Morocco's indigenous traditions.

5️⃣ Yves Saint Laurent Museum (Next to Majorelle Garden)

If you love fashion or simply want to learn more about Yves Saint Laurent’s relationship with Morocco, the YSL Museum is a must-visit. Located right next to the garden, it features:

Original couture designs
Rare photographs
Hand-drawn sketches
Art collections
His creative inspirations from Marrakech

Many visitors choose to explore the garden and the museum in the same trip.

6️⃣ Opening Hours, Tickets, and How to Visit Majorelle Garden

Opening Hours

Majorelle Garden is open daily:

8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Last entry is usually one hour before closing.

Ticket Prices

Majorelle Garden:

Foreigners: 150 MAD
Moroccans: 70 MAD
Children 10+: 35 MAD
Children under 10: Free

Berber Museum:

Foreigners: 30 MAD
Moroccans: 15 MAD

Important: All tickets must be purchased online in advance to avoid long waiting times.

7️⃣ Best Time to Visit Majorelle Garden

Majorelle Garden is extremely popular, so timing your visit is important.

Best Times

8:00–9:00 AM: The garden is quiet, cool, and perfect for photography.
Late afternoon: Soft light, fewer crowds, good temperature.

Avoid:

Midday (especially 11 AM – 3 PM), when crowds are at their peak.

8️⃣ Tips for Visiting Majorelle Garden

Here are practical tips to help you enjoy your visit:

💡 Book Your Tickets Early

Tickets often sell out, especially during holidays and weekends.

💡 Bring a Camera

Majorelle Garden is one of the most photogenic spots in Morocco.

💡 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You’ll walk through long pathways and shaded gardens.

💡 Combine With YSL Museum

It completes the cultural experience and saves time since the museum is next door.

💡 Visit in the Morning

Clearer views, less noise, and cooler weather.

💡 Be Patient With Crowds

Majorelle Garden is loved by travelers worldwide—expect many visitors.

9️⃣ Where Is Majorelle Garden Located?

Majorelle Garden is located in the Guéliz district of Marrakech, one of the city’s modern areas. It is close to restaurants, cafés, shops, and major roads. Travel times:

10 minutes from Jemaa El Fnaa
10 minutes from Marrakech train station
20 minutes from Marrakech Airport
Easily reachable by taxi

🔟 Is Majorelle Garden Worth Visiting?

Absolutely — Majorelle Garden is worth every minute. It is one of the most beautiful places in Marrakech, combining art, nature, and cultural history. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or someone who loves photography, Majorelle Garden offers a relaxing and inspiring experience.

Its exotic plants, vibrant blue walls, and peaceful pathways make it a memorable escape from the busy streets. It is also a perfect stop on any Marrakech itinerary.

Final Thoughts

Majorelle Garden is more than just a botanical garden — it is a living piece of art. Created by Jacques Majorelle and saved by Yves Saint Laurent, the garden remains a glowing symbol of Marrakech’s charm, creativity, and cultural richness. Its exotic plants, colorful architecture, and peaceful atmosphere make it one of the most beloved attractions in Morocco.

If you’re visiting Marrakech, Majorelle Garden should be at the very top of your list. With its unmatched beauty and fascinating history, it is a place that stays in your memory long after you leave.

✅ FAQ – Majorelle Garden Marrakech

1. What is Majorelle Garden famous for❓

Majorelle Garden is famous for its vibrant Majorelle Blue, exotic plants from around the world, peaceful pathways, and its connection to Jacques Majorelle and Yves Saint Laurent. It is one of the most iconic attractions in Marrakech.

2. How much is the entrance fee to Majorelle Garden❓

Ticket prices for Majorelle Garden are:

Foreigners: 150 MAD
Moroccans: 70 MAD
Children 10+: 35 MAD
Children under 10: Free

Tickets must be purchased online in advance, especially during high season.

3. What are the opening hours of Majorelle Garden❓

Majorelle Garden is open every day from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
The last entry is usually one hour before closing.

4. When is the best time to visit Majorelle Garden❓

The best times to visit are:

Early morning (8:00–9:00 AM): fewer crowds, perfect for photos
Late afternoon: cooler temperature and soft golden light

Avoid 11 AM–3 PM as the garden is crowded.

5. How long do you need to visit Majorelle Garden❓

Most visitors spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the garden, the Blue Villa, the fountains, and taking photos. If you also visit the Berber Museum or the YSL Museum, expect about 2.5 hours in total.

6. Is Majorelle Garden worth visiting❓

Absolutely. Majorelle Garden is one of the most beautiful places in Marrakech, combining nature, art, history, and Moroccan culture. It is a must-see attraction for first-time travelers.

7. Can I buy tickets at the door of Majorelle Garden❓

No. Tickets must be purchased online only. The garden does not sell physical tickets at the entrance, and spots often sell out during weekends and holidays.

8. Is Majorelle Garden family-friendly❓

Yes. Families enjoy the wide paths, colorful buildings, fountains, and peaceful atmosphere. Children love the variety of exotic plants and the bright blue colors.

9. Can you take photos inside Majorelle Garden❓

Yes, photography is allowed everywhere in the garden for personal use.
However, professional photoshoots require special authorization.

10. What museums are inside or near Majorelle Garden❓

There are two important museums:

Berber Museum (inside the Blue Villa)
Yves Saint Laurent Museum (next to the garden, 2 minutes walking)

Both are highly recommended for culture lovers.

11. How do I get to Majorelle Garden❓

Majorelle Garden is located in the modern district of Guéliz, Marrakech.
Travel time:

10 minutes from Jemaa El Fnaa
10 minutes from Marrakech Train Station
20 minutes from Marrakech Airport

Taxis, Careem, and buses can easily bring you there.

12. Are there restaurants or cafés near Majorelle Garden❓

Yes. The area around Majorelle Garden has several cafés, rooftop restaurants, and bakeries. There is also a small café inside with drinks, pastries, and light snacks.

13. Is Majorelle Garden accessible for wheelchairs and strollers❓

Many pathways are flat and accessible, but some areas may be narrow. Most travelers using wheelchairs or strollers report that the visit is manageable.