In the heart of bustling Marrakech, the Jardin Majorelle offers a serene escape, revived by Yves Saint Laurent. With its interplay of plants, colors, and textures, this charming oasis invites visitors to relax and be fascinated.
Unlike most of Marrakech’s attractions, which are located in the Medina, the Jardin Majorelle is situated in the district of Guéliz. The garden is renowned for its striking cobalt blue, a signature color created by French painter Jacques Majorelle. Inspired by the traditional Berber attire and Morocco’s vivid color palette, Majorelle established this botanical paradise in 1923.
The brilliant hue, later known as “Majorelle Blue”, adorns the pavilion, water basins, and plant pots, contrasting beautifully against the garden’s red Tadelakt pathways. Tadelakt, a traditional Moroccan plaster technique, enhances the garden’s authenticity. A bold yellow shade adds a third dominant color, making the Jardin Majorelle one of the most photographed spots in Marrakech.
Flora and fauna in Jardin Majorelle
Stepping into the Jardin Majorelle feels like entering another world. The garden’s cool microclimate, created by abundant shade, offers a welcome respite from the heat and dust of the city.
The garden is home to more than 300 plant species from all five continents. Towering cacti and palms are particularly impressive, while rare succulents, fragrant jasmine bushes, and exotic orchids add to the diversity. Yucca palms, bougainvillea, and date palms give the garden its distinctive silhouette.
The garden is also a sanctuary for many bird species, including nightingales and turtledoves, whose songs enrich the peaceful atmosphere. Small streams of water flow through the garden, maintaining a pleasant temperature and inviting visitors to relax on one of the many benches along the paths.
At the heart of the garden lies a striking cobalt blue basin with an elegant fountain, home to water turtles.
Yves Saint Laurent and the new museum
Next to the fountain stands a two-story pavilion with refined Art Deco elements. A memorial stone at the back of the garden honors Yves Saint Laurent, who fell in love with Marrakech and played a key role in preserving the Jardin Majorelle.
In 1980, Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé purchased the property and rescued it from decay. They restored the overgrown garden to its former glory. To ensure its long-term preservation, they established The Majorelle Trust in 1997. Today, a dedicated team of 20 gardeners maintains this botanical masterpiece.
In 2017, the Musée Yves Saint Laurent Marrakech opened near the garden. Designed by architects Karl Fournier and Olivier Marty, the 4,000-square-meter museum houses a permanent exhibition of Saint Laurent’s work, temporary art exhibits, a library, and an auditorium. The building’s terracotta facade, inspired by traditional woven fabrics, blends seamlessly into its surroundings.
The Pierre Bergé Museum of Berber Art
The Jardin Majorelle also houses a small exhibition space with paintings by Yves Saint Laurent, as well as a museum dedicated to Islamic art, ethnographic artifacts, and works by Jacques Majorelle.
Opened in 2011 in Majorelle’s former studio, the museum displays an impressive collection of over 600 artifacts from the Amazigh culture. Visitors can admire traditional jewelry, textiles, weapons, and everyday objects that offer a deep insight into the rich heritage of the Amazigh people.
Visitor information and useful tips
With approximately 850,000 annual visitors, the Jardin Majorelle can get crowded, often resulting in long queues. To avoid waiting times, it is highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance, as they are available in designated time slots.
The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the temperature is cooler, and the crowds are smaller. These hours are ideal for photographers, as the soft light enhances the garden’s vivid colors.
Taxis are the most convenient way to reach the garden, as Marrakech’s public transport options are limited. Many hotels offer shuttle services. Since taxis near the garden can be scarce, arranging a return ride in advance is wise.
Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, as some paths are uneven. While the garden provides plenty of shade, sun protection is still recommended. A café inside serves Moroccan specialties and refreshments—a welcome break during your visit.
Conclusion on the Jardin Majorelle
A visit to the Jardin Majorelle is a must for anyone traveling to Marrakech. Its lush vegetation, vibrant colors, and cultural insights make it a unique experience. Although the museum inside the garden is relatively small, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Amazigh culture and Islamic art.
If you can’t explore Morocco’s traditional crafts and jewelry elsewhere, this garden is a great alternative. However, museums such as the Dar Si Said Museum of Moroccan Arts and Crafts offer more extensive collections.
Despite the crowds, the Jardin Majorelle remains a remarkable tribute to Jacques Majorelle’s vision and Yves Saint Laurent’s legacy. It is a perfect blend of botanical beauty, artistic inspiration, and cultural heritage.
Location and directions
The Jardin Majorelle is located near Avenue Yacoub el Mansour, northeast of Bab Doukkala. From the bus station, head north on Boulevard Allal Al Fassi and turn left. Alternatively, take a bus (stop: Boukar Majorelle) or a Petit Taxi, as Guéliz itself is not particularly scenic.
Opening hours
- Jardin Majorelle: daily, 8:30 AM–5 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM).
- Pierre Bergé Museum of Berber Arts: daily, 9 AM–4:30 PM (last entry at 4:15 PM)
Entrance fees
In recent years, ticket prices have increased, making the garden one of Marrakech’s most expensive attractions. Various ticket options are available:
- Jardin Majorelle only: 170 DH (children under 10: 95 DH).
- Jardin + Berber Museum: 230 DH (children: 130 DH).
- YSL Museum only: 140 DH (children: 95 DH).
- Combined ticket (all three): 330 DH (children: 95 DH).
Booking online in advance is strongly recommended to skip lines and guarantee entry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Created in the 1920s by French artist Jacques Majorelle, the garden was saved from ruin in the 1980s by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé. Today, it’s a top Marrakech attraction.
Entrance fees vary depending on the ticket option. The Jardin Majorelle costs 170 DH, with additional fees for the Yves Saint Laurent Museum. Discounts are available for children and Moroccan citizens.
Jacques Majorelle is famous for “Majorelle Blue”—an intense cobalt shade that defines the walls and elements of the garden.
Absolutely! Its unique plant diversity, stunning blue tones, and connection to Yves Saint Laurent make it a must-see. However, early morning visits are best to avoid crowds.
The correct spelling is “Jardin Majorelle”. Common misspellings include “Jardin Majorell”, “Majorelle Garden”, and “Jardin Marjorelle”.
