The Menara Gardens (if it could even be called a garden, there are no flowers) is about 4km from Djeema El Fna. Built in the 12th century it consists of a long wide boulevard flanked by rows upon rows of olive trees leading to an artificial basin and a pavilion. Entering the garden, you would likely be harassed to buy cheap clothing, souvenirs and camel rides.
The basin is used to irrigate the surrounding gardens and orchards. The basin gets its water from the mountains approximately 30 km away from Marrakech. There are fishes in the basin if you care to feed them.
On a fine day it is said that you can see the Atlas mountains in the distance but in November nothing much can be said of this. It is a well photographed site in Marrakech appearing on postcards and brochures. It might be different at other times of the year as pictures of the Atlas mountains from the Menara gardens is fantastic. So, if you only have time to spare and be there at the correct time of the year, you may want to visit the Menara Gardens.
The basin with the pavilion in the background. There are fishes in the basin.
Closer view of the pavilion.
Marrakech’s Menara International airport ATC tower in the background.
Olive trees, rows upon rows.
Care for a camel ride? You’ll find them at the entrance of Menara Garden.
About the only souvenir you need not be harassed to get. A greeting card written with your name in Arabic. Unique actually.
In all fairness, depending on the time of your visit, you could get a shot like this of the Menara Gardens, the pavilion and the Atlas mountain at the back. Credit:darijadictionary.com
