In the late 1960’s, Marrakech became an iconic spot for Yves Saint-Laurent and his glamorous friends. Follow their path from the multicolored medina that deeply influenced the French designer’s work, to spectacular buildings or rooms designed by Bill Willis, his close friend and famous decorator and to villas once hosting notoriously lavish parties in the palm grove.
ITINERARY
Your insider will meet you at the departure point ‘Cafe Taxi’. Share your expectations and specific requests while your insider introduces you, thanks to an old map, to both the geography of the city and your tailor-made itinerary. Adjust your helmet, put on your sunglasses and hop on.
On this ride, the unique atmosphere of the 1960s surrounds you. Back then, Marrakech was a mythic travel destination for the bohemian jet set crowd. Yves Saint-Laurent, who cherished the colourful alleys and lively atmosphere of the Medina, is our golden thread in this enchanting maze.
Further away, we enter the palm grove. Once a very fertile oasis, this piece of land, only known nowadays for its luxurious villas, used to give birth to the entire Tensift region almost a thousand years ago thanks to its ingenious underground irrigation systems. Stop at a stunning art deco gem, one of the first houses to be built in the Palmeraie, and an out-of-town oasis for Yves Saint Laurent, Pierre Bergé, Bill Willis and Serge Lutens who often gathered there to lunch, dine or get lost in its garden.
Ride to Gueliz to witness the art of Bill Willis, a close friend of YSL and talented decorator, who designed magnificent buildings just like this famous Italian restaurant, still a must-see in the ochre city today. Expect to be surprised on this very unusual ride.
After this last stop, your insider will take you back to your hotel or any other place in downtown Marrakech.
NB: This itinerary is subject to change due to passengers’ requests, holidays or weather conditions.
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Your ride is tailor-made, off the beaten path and designed according to your level of knowledge of the area and your centers of interests, respectful of the local culture and all inclusive to offer you a memorable experience. Custom rides and multi-day expeditions are also available in China and in Morocco.
CONTACT US: If you are trying to book a last minute ride within 24 hours or if you have any questions and just prefer talking to a human being we understand – you can email us at the Contact us link or you can call us at +212 6 69 69 93 74. We try to get back to everyone within 24 hours.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
RIDE
As this is a private ride, you set the pace. Your insider will accompany you based upon what you want to see and how long you want to stop. And if you see something you like along the route, just yell STOP! Your wish is our command. Expect to spend about 70% of the time driving and 30% exploring on foot. Our rides can accommodate up to 2 passengers by sidecar from 2 to 99 years old. Every child below 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult on the sidecar.
MEETING POINT
STANDARD MEETING POINT : Our rides start from Cafe Taxi , 10-minute drive from the Jemaa el-fna square.
At the end of your ride, we will drop you off wherever you like in downtown Marrakech (Allowed areas only) free of charge.
LANGUAGES
We offer rides in other languages! When you send us your booking form you will be asked if you need an insider who speaks a language other than English.
WHAT IS INCLUDED
Our rides are all inclusive. Knowledgeable insiders immersed in local culture, characterful vintage vehicles, waterproof gear, helmets with hair net, site entrances and refreshing drinks. Rides exclude meals unless specifically mentioned. It also excludes alcoholic beverages & gratuities. For legal and safety reasons, you are not allowed to drive our sidecar.
EXTRAS
French champagne, instant camera renting or smartphone camera accessories… we do offer a wide array of options to make your ride truly confortable and memorable. Discover them during your booking process.
REFUND POLICY
In case of no-show or if you cancel within 48 hours of your ride you will be responsible for the total amount of your ride.
HELP & QUESTIONS
Please check our help page to find answers to your questions or contact us by email at info@insidersexperience.com
700 MAD per bottle (375 mL for 2 persons)
200 MAD per ride
200 MAD per vehicle