I tried the sidecar ride through Marrakech — and I'll never forget it

The first time I saw this sidecar

I'll be honest: the first time I saw this vintage sidecar parked near Bab Doukkala, I stopped dead in my tracks. There's something irresistible about these machines from another era — their retro look stands in striking contrast to the colourful derbs of the Médina and immediately draws smiles from passers-by. That, I think, is when I understood why this ride was unlike anything else.

Since then, I recommend it regularly. Not because it's "original" in the marketing sense of the word, but because it offers something rare: an immersion in the city at human scale, in private, at whatever pace you choose.

What you experience during the ride

The concept is simple and effective. You settle into the sidecar — up to two people — and a passionate local driver takes the wheel. He knows the city down to its smallest alleyways. He knows where to stop, when to slow down to let a donkey loaded with fresh mint pass by, and how to tell you about Marrakech without ever overwhelming you with anecdotes.

Expect around 70% of the time on board and 30% on foot, depending on the option you choose. These on-foot pauses are precious: they let you step out, touch, smell, chat with a craftsman, or take a moment to admire a fountain you would have missed from a car.

The ride is available in French, English, Spanish and Arabic — to be specified at the time of booking, subject to availability.

Equipment designed with your comfort in mind

Nothing is left to chance on the logistics side. Helmets are provided for adults and children, waterproof gear is available in case of unpredictable weather, fuel is included, and refreshing drinks and bottled water are on hand throughout the route. I think that's worth mentioning, because Marrakech can surprise you with its heat just as much as with sudden winter showers — knowing you're equipped for both is a real peace of mind.

Entry fees to sites visited are also included depending on the option chosen. And if you'd like to bring your own snacks or drinks, that's perfectly allowed.

One important note: for safety reasons, it's not possible to drive the sidecar yourself. The dedicated driver holds the handlebars — and honestly, it's much better that way. You get to fully enjoy the spectacle without worrying about the road.

Who do I recommend this experience for?

This ride is open to guests aged 18 and over. I particularly recommend it to couples who want to experience Marrakech in a different way, to friends travelling together who are looking for a memorable activity, or to visitors coming back for their second or third time who think they've "already seen everything." Trust me, the sidecar shows you a whole other city.

At the end of the ride, the provider drops you off at your hotel or at a location of your choice in the city centre. A small detail that matters when you're heading back with a full camera roll and arms loaded with market finds.

How to book (and what you need to know)

The meeting point is near Bab Doukkala — a Google Maps link is sent upon booking, which is handy for navigating the surrounding alleyways.

No deposit is required at the time of booking: once your time slot is confirmed, the provider sends you a payment link to finalise the reservation. It's a system I appreciate — no stress about making an immediate bank transfer from abroad.

On cancellations: 100% refund before confirmation, 90% if you cancel in writing at least 5 weeks in advance, 50% for a cancellation 48 hours before. In the event of a no-show or cancellation less than 48 hours before, no refund is provided. And if the weather truly takes a turn for the worse (heavy rain), cancellation is possible up to 2 hours before departure with a full refund — excluding bank fees. A clear and fair policy.

My advice before you go

Book this ride at the start of your stay rather than the end. Why? Because it will give you your bearings in the city, reveal corners you'll want to come back to on foot, and set Marrakech in the best possible light from the very beginning. In my eyes, it's one of the finest introductions to the city there is — unusual, human, and deeply Marrakchi.

If you're looking for other original ways to discover the city, you might also want to take a look at the Balade Privative en 2CV à Marrakech or the Visite Privée des Souks de Marrakech to round out your programme.