Vibrant cobalt blue walls rise dramatically against lush exotic gardens, creating one of Morocco’s most photographed and visited attractions. Jardin Majorelle stands as an oasis of calm in the bustling heart of Marrakech, drawing over 900,000 visitors each year to its artistic paradise.
This botanical garden represents more than just a beautiful space—it’s a unique fusion of Moroccan architecture, French artistic influence, and the fashion legacy of Yves Saint Laurent. From its rare plant collections to its stunning architecture and museums, the garden offers visitors an unforgettable journey through art, culture, and nature.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about experiencing Jardin Majorelle, from its rich history to practical visiting tips that will help you make the most of your time in this remarkable destination.
The story of Jardin Majorelle begins in 1917 when French artist Jacques Majorelle first set foot in Morocco, seeking recovery from illness 1. What started as a convalescence journey would eventually birth one of North Africa’s most celebrated gardens.
In 1923, Majorelle purchased a modest four-acre palm grove on the outskirts of Marrakech 1. His artistic vision took shape when he commissioned architect Paul Sinoir to design a striking Cubist villa in 1931 1. The garden’s most distinctive feature emerged through Majorelle’s creation of an intense cobalt blue shade, now trademarked as “Majorelle Blue,” inspired by Moroccan tiles and traditional Berber clothing 2.
The garden faced near destruction in the 1980s when property developers threatened to replace it with a hotel complex 3. At this crucial moment, fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé stepped in, purchasing the property in 1980 to preserve its artistic heritage 1. The duo made the former villa their home, renaming it Villa Oasis 3.
Under Saint Laurent and Bergé’s stewardship, the garden underwent a remarkable transformation. The restoration project involved:
Today, the garden spans 9,000 square meters 3, attracting over 700,000 visitors annually 1. The property has evolved into more than just a garden—it now houses the Berber Museum in Majorelle’s former studio and, since 2017, the Yves Saint Laurent Museum 1. After Saint Laurent’s death in 2008, his ashes were scattered in the rose garden, forever connecting him to the oasis he helped preserve 4.
The garden’s management now rests with the Foundation Jardin Majorelle, a non-profit organization that continues to develop and maintain this cultural treasure 1. The street leading to the garden was renamed Rue Yves Saint Laurent in 2010, honoring the designer’s pivotal role in preserving this masterpiece 1.
Making the most of your visit to Jardin Majorelle requires careful planning, especially given its status as Morocco’s most popular tourist attraction. Let’s break down everything you need to know for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
The garden welcomes visitors daily throughout the year, with operating hours varying by season. From October to April, the garden opens from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM 5. During Ramadan, adjusted hours run from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM 6.
For the most pleasant experience, plan your visit during spring or fall when Marrakech’s temperatures are mild 7. To avoid crowds, arrive either right at opening time or 1-2 hours before closing 8. Early mornings are particularly ideal for:
Important: Tickets must be purchased exclusively through the official website (www.tickets.jardinmajorelle.com) 5. Current admission prices are:
Children under 10 and persons with disabilities receive complimentary admission with proper documentation 3. The garden offers wheelchair accessibility throughout the grounds 5.
Located in the Ville Nouvelle district, the garden is accessible through several convenient options. The site sits approximately 30 minutes by foot from the medina 8. For public transportation, Bus No. 12 from Bab Doukkala stops near the garden 2.
Pro tip: When taking a taxi, avoid hiring directly from those waiting outside the garden, as they often overcharge. Instead, walk a short distance and hail one from the main road 2.
The garden complex includes amenities such as restrooms and a café 8. Most visitors spend between 45 minutes to an hour exploring the grounds, though this can vary depending on your pace and photography interests 8.
Remember that the garden’s popularity means advance planning is crucial. Booking your tickets online not only guarantees entry but also helps avoid potentially long wait times, especially during peak tourist seasons 5.
Stepping through the entrance of Jardin Majorelle, visitors are immediately struck by the bold interplay of colors and textures that define this botanical masterpiece. The garden, extending over 9,000 square meters, presents a mesmerizing labyrinth of crisscrossing alleyways and striking architectural elements 3.
The garden’s signature feature is its distinctive cobalt blue shade, now known worldwide as “Majorelle Blue.” This intense color adorns the buildings, fountains, and garden edges, creating dramatic contrasts against the lush greenery 9. The architecture seamlessly blends Art Deco and Moorish influences, with geometric patterns and decorative archways enhancing the visual appeal 9.
The botanical collection showcases an impressive array of specimens from five continents, including:
Two striking linear pools form the garden’s central axes, each edged with the iconic blue walls. The primary pool extends 45 meters from the atelier, while a second 35-meter channel intersects it at a right angle, creating a peaceful crossroads marked by a stone fountain 11.
The garden offers countless photography opportunities, with the most captivating spots including:
The dense foliage strategically deflects both sunlight and outside noise, creating intimate spaces perfect for photography. The garden’s layout features raised pathways that offer excellent vantage points for capturing the precise geometries and botanical diversity 7. For the best lighting conditions, early morning visits provide optimal natural illumination for photography, when the sun’s rays create enchanting patterns through the garden’s varied textures 13.
The garden’s design emphasizes contrasts throughout – between water and dryness, between the vibrant blue structures and natural greenery, between geometric architecture and organic plant forms 14. These intentional juxtapositions create an endless array of stunning visual compositions for visitors to discover and photograph.
Beyond the stunning gardens, three remarkable attractions await visitors at Jardin Majorelle, each offering unique insights into Moroccan culture and fashion history.
Housed in Jacques Majorelle’s former painting studio, the Berber Museum showcases the rich heritage of North Africa’s most ancient people. The museum displays more than 600 artifacts collected by Pierre Bergé and Yves Saint Laurent 15, spanning from the Rif Mountains to the Sahara. The collection features traditional attire, intricate jewelry, and rare artifacts displayed across four themed spaces 15.
Notable highlights include:
Opening its doors in 2017, the Yves Saint Laurent Museum stands as a testament to the designer’s creative legacy 1. The museum features rotating exhibitions of original sketches, iconic couture gowns, and multimedia presentations chronicling YSL’s illustrious career. A small cinema space offers fascinating insights into the designer’s life and work, making it an essential stop for fashion enthusiasts 4.
In a tranquil corner of the garden stands the Yves Saint Laurent Memorial, centered around an ancient Roman pillar transported from Tangier 17. This poignant space serves as the final resting place for the designer’s ashes, creating a permanent connection between the artist and his beloved garden 17.
The Villa Oasis, once the private residence of Saint Laurent and Bergé, represents the height of Moroccan-European design fusion. The villa’s striking architecture combines traditional Moorish elements with bold colors, surrounded by verdant gardens featuring cacti, palms, and fragrant jasmine 18. While the villa’s interior remains private, its exterior and surrounding gardens offer glimpses into the sophisticated lifestyle that inspired some of Saint Laurent’s most celebrated designs.
The museums operate on specific schedules, with the Berber Museum welcoming visitors daily from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM 15. For the best experience, consider purchasing a combination ticket that includes access to both museums and the gardens 4. Photography is permitted in designated areas, allowing visitors to capture memories of these remarkable cultural institutions.
To maximize your experience at this iconic destination, here’s your comprehensive guide to timing, photography, and amenities at Jardin Majorelle.
The garden’s new online booking system has revolutionized visitor access, allowing you to secure specific time slots and avoid the notorious queues that can stretch up to an hour during peak times 19. For the most serene experience, plan your visit during these optimal windows:
Pro tip: Book your tickets online to receive a 30-minute flexibility window around your chosen time slot 19.
The garden’s stunning architecture and botanical collections offer countless photo opportunities. For the best shots, consider these timing and lighting tips:
Morning visits provide optimal natural lighting for photography, particularly for capturing the famous Majorelle blue against the verdant backdrop. The garden’s design creates intimate spaces perfect for photography, with raised pathways offering excellent vantage points 20.
Important: While photography is generally permitted throughout the gardens, be mindful of other visitors and respect any “no photography” signs, particularly in certain museum areas.
Café Majorelle welcomes visitors throughout garden hours, serving:
The garden’s boutique showcases the finest Moroccan craftsmanship, featuring:
Shopping Tips:
For budget-friendly alternatives, consider exploring the cafes and boutiques across the street. Kaowa, a small café opposite the garden, offers more affordable options with quality food and drinks 23. The nearby 33 Rue Majorelle and Chabi Chic provide additional shopping experiences with unique local designs 23.
For transportation after your visit, avoid the overpriced taxi stand outside. Instead, either:
Remember that while the garden can be explored in 45-60 minutes, you might want to allocate additional time for museum visits, shopping, and dining to fully appreciate this cultural treasure 8.
