The oriental dance class I slip into every hen party stay

The activity I slip into almost every women's stay

In ten years of accompanying groups around Marrakech, I've seen a lot of activities come and go. Some get a great reaction in the moment; others leave real memories. The Cours de Danse Orientale à Marrakech firmly belongs to the second category. Every time I suggest it — for a hen party, a girls' trip, a birthday — the reaction is the same: fits of laughter, pure joy, and videos the girls are still watching weeks later.

What I particularly love is that the activity comes to you. The dancer travels directly to your villa, your riad or your hotel. No need to dash across the Médina between visits: you stay in your own space, you feel at ease, and the atmosphere is immediately more intimate. That comfort makes all the difference.

A professional who puts everyone at ease

The dancer who leads the classes has fifteen years of experience — and you feel it from the very first minutes. She has that rare gift of putting complete beginners and those with some practice equally at ease. She adapts her pace to the group, explains every movement with patience and humour, and creates an atmosphere where no one feels judged.

All accessories are provided: colourful scarves, sequinned hip scarves that jingle with every sway… Trust me, simply tying a sequinned belt around your hips is enough to transform the mood. Within a few minutes, inhibitions melt away and smiles take over.

What you learn during the session

The class is not a passive demonstration. You learn a real choreography, rehearsed and refined together until the whole group has it down. Hip movements, arm undulations, facial expressions — everything is worked through step by step, in great spirits.

At the end of the session, it's time for free dancing in a circle to the sound of the derbouka. That's the moment I love watching most: each person makes what she has just learned her own, in her own way, with her own personality. It's beautiful, it's liberating, and it's often when the best photos and videos are taken.

A few practical details before booking

The activity is open from age 13, making it an ideal option for multi-generational groups. Time slots are available from 11 am to 6 pm, by reservation only. I strongly recommend booking at least ten days in advance, especially in high season — availability goes quickly.

The booking is confirmed upon payment of a 50% deposit. The balance is settled in cash on the day. If something comes up, cancellation is free up to five days before the session; after that deadline, the deposit is non-refundable, and no cancellation is possible on the day itself. Keep this in mind when planning your stay.

One thing not to overlook: if your accommodation is outside the centre of Marrakech, a travel supplement for the dancer may apply — this is settled directly on the day. Make sure to share your exact address at the time of booking to avoid any surprises.

The perfect pairing for a memorable stay

For a truly complete hen party or girls' trip, I love pairing this class with other experiences that make eyes light up. A Hammam & Massage à Guéliz for gentle relaxation, a Visite Privée des Souks de Marrakech to immerse yourself in the Médina, or a dinner show at Dar Soukkar to end the night in style. But honestly? The oriental dance class often stands beautifully on its own. It's one of those activities that creates a real bond between the participants — something you carry with you for a long time.