Gardens of Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains January 2026

There are few travel experiences more invigorating than stepping into a Moroccan garden in springtime. The air is scented with orange blossom and roses, the walls glow with sun-baked terracotta, and every path leads to a new delight—whether it’s a trickling fountain, a shady palm, or a glimpse of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains beyond.

In January 2026, Travel Editions invites you to join gardening expert David Hurrion on a unique journey through the gardens of Marrakech and the breathtaking landscapes of the Atlas Mountains – a tour designed to inspire, inform, and delight every plant lover and cultural traveller.

Morocco is a land of contrasts: ancient medinas and modern boulevards, arid deserts and lush oases, bustling souks and tranquil gardens. Nowhere is this more evident than in Marrakech, a city whose legendary gardens have provided sanctuary and inspiration for centuries. The country’s rich horticultural heritage is rooted in centuries of creativity, blending Islamic, French, and Berber influences to create spaces that are both practical and profoundly beautiful. As the promise of spring comes to the Haouz Plain where the city is situated, the gardens are at their freshest, with citrus and jacaranda starting into bloom, and the Atlas Mountains providing a dramatic, majestic backdrop.

The Red City’s green heart

The tour begins in Marrakech, a city that pulses with life and colour. Behind its ochre walls and labyrinthine streets lie some of the world’s most celebrated gardens. You’ll explore the iconic Jardin Majorelle, a masterpiece of design created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent. Its cobalt blue walls, towering bamboos, and rare cacti form a striking contrast to the city’s earthy tones.

Just as captivating is the Le Jardin Secret, a recently restored 19th-century palace garden in the heart of the medina. Here, you’ll see how traditional Islamic garden principles – geometry, water, and shade – are used to create a serene oasis amid the city’s bustle. The garden’s exotic planting and intricate tilework reflect centuries of Moroccan craftsmanship.

The tour also includes a visit to the Menara Gardens, with their vast olive groves and reflecting pools, and the Agdal Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site with origins dating back to the 12th century. These spaces tell the story of Marrakech’s rulers, who used gardens not only for pleasure but also as a demonstration of power and ingenuity in water management.

Beyond the City: The Atlas Mountains

Leaving the city behind, the tour ventures into the foothills of the Atlas Mountains – an entirely different world of Berber villages, terraced fields, and wildflower meadows. The cooler air and dramatic scenery provide the perfect setting for exploring a new side of Moroccan horticulture.

One of the highlights is a visit to the Anima Garden, created by Austrian artist André Heller. This magical, contemporary garden blends art, sculpture, and exuberant planting into a dreamlike landscape. You’ll also visit a traditional Berber garden, where ingenious irrigation systems and terracing have enabled families to cultivate fruit, vegetables, and herbs for generations. These gardens offer a fascinating contrast to the formality of Marrakech, showing how local knowledge and resourcefulness have shaped the landscape.

No trip to Morocco would be complete without sampling its legendary hospitality. The tour includes opportunities to enjoy mint tea in tranquil courtyards, savour tagines and fresh salads made with garden ingredients, and browse the vibrant souks for spices, ceramics, and textiles. There’s time to explore Marrakech’s famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square, where storytellers, musicians, and food stalls create a carnival atmosphere each evening.

January is a perfect time to visit Morocco: the gardens are always lush in Marrakech, the mountains spectacular with their peaks still snow capped, and the weather ideal for exploring. Whether you’re entranced by the blue of Majorelle, the tranquillity of Le Jardin Secret, or the wild beauty of the Atlas foothills, this tour promises memories to last a lifetime.

A journey with an expert guide

David Hurrion brings a lifetime of horticultural expertise to this tour. As a trained horticulturist, teacher, and journalist, David’s passion for plants and places is infectious. His deep knowledge of Mediterranean and arid planting, combined with a warm, engaging style, makes him the perfect host – offering practical insights, historical context, and plenty of inspiration for your own garden back home.