A Golfer’s Guide to Marrakech: Top Courses & Luxury Stays for 2026
Planning a golf getaway to Marrakech? Tee off against the snow-capped Atlas Mountains with the scent of orange blossoms drifting from the Medina. This city blends championship courses, year-round sunshine, and deep cultural immersion into a world-class golf destination. This guide covers premier courses, luxury accommodations, and essential tips for your Moroccan golf adventure.
Marrakech as a Premier Golf Destination
With rain on only about 29 days a year, Marrakech offers perfect playing conditions from autumn through spring. The city has attracted top architects like Kyle Phillips, Robert Trent Jones Sr., and Jack Nicklaus, who masterfully integrate lush fairways into the red earth and arid plains.
Beyond the fairways, golfers explore bustling souks, indulge in hammam treatments, and experience a rich cultural tapestry. The combination of exceptional golf, luxury resorts, and cultural depth makes Marrakech a bucket-list destination for golfers worldwide.
Top Golf Courses in Marrakech
Marrakech’s golf scene caters to all skill levels, from parkland-style layouts to desert-inspired challenges. These are the must-play courses for your visit.
Royal Golf Marrakech
Established in the 1920s and recently restored, Royal Golf Marrakech is the city’s oldest and most prestigious course. Its 18-hole, par-72 Old Course measures 5,871 meters, and a 9-hole New Course was added in 2008.
Laid out by Gustave Golias and reshaped in 1933 with Arnaud Massy, it features wide, tree-lined fairways of palm, olive, and orange trees, strategic bunkering, and large, undulating greens. The historic clubhouse exudes old-world charm, and the course offers stunning views of the Atlas Mountains. Visitors should book well in advance, especially during peak season from October to April.
Assoufid Golf Club
Consistently ranked among the best courses in Africa, Assoufid Golf Club is a masterpiece of desert-style golf. Designed by Niall Cameron and opened in 2014, this 18-hole, par-72 course is set among palms, cacti, olive trees and rugged desert terrain.
Measuring 6,440 meters (7,042 yards) from the back tees, the course was planted on less than half of its area to keep water use to a minimum. The layout demands strategic thinking, with generous fairways leading to well-guarded greens. The modern clubhouse offers panoramic views and excellent dining, about 20 minutes from the Medina.
Al Maaden Golf Resort
Al Maaden Golf Resort offers a unique golfing experience designed by Kyle Phillips, the visionary behind Kingsbarns in Scotland. This 18-hole course incorporates contemporary art installations throughout, blending sport with culture. Five large lakes, rolling fairways, and dramatic bunkering create a challenging yet fair test, with the Atlas Mountains as a constant backdrop.
The resort includes luxury villas and a five-star hotel, making it an ideal base for a golf-focused stay. One of the villas we list stands inside the Al Maaden Golf Resort: see our golf villas in Marrakech.
Samanah Golf Club by Nicklaus Design
Nicklaus Design’s first course in Morocco, Samanah Golf Club opened in 2008: a challenging 18-hole, par-72 championship course set within a residential estate on the Amizmiz road. The course features significant elevation changes, deep bunkers, and water hazards on several holes. The conditioning is impeccable, and multiple tee boxes make it enjoyable for all levels.
The luxurious clubhouse offers fine dining with spectacular sunset views over the course and mountains.
PalmGolf Marrakech Ourika
PalmGolf Marrakech Ourika lies about 13 km south of the city on the Ourika road, facing the Atlas Mountains. Designed by the Canadian duo Neil Haworth and Stéphane Talbot in a desert style, with sandy waste bunkers, it is an 18-hole, par-72 course of 6,692 meters.
Known for being player-friendly, it offers wide fairways and large greens suitable for all abilities. Practice balls are included in the published green fee of 980 MAD for 18 holes.
Luxury Accommodations for Golfers
Marrakech excels in luxurious accommodations that complement its world-class golf. From opulent palaces to boutique riads, these are the top stays for golfers.
Luxury Resorts with Golf Access
- Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakech: This sprawling estate at km 12 on the Amizmiz road, south-west of the city, is set around its own 18-hole Royal Palm course, designed by Cabell B. Robinson. It features luxurious rooms and villas, a world-class spa, multiple pools, and fine-dining restaurants. The concierge can arrange tee times at nearby courses, including Royal Golf Marrakech.
- Four Seasons Resort Marrakech: Set in the city on Avenue de la Menara, this resort is a short drive from several courses.
- Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech: Set in 20 hectares of gardens and olive groves, this resort offers villas with private pools. A dedicated golf concierge organizes rounds, club rentals, and lessons at premier courses like Al Maaden and Samanah, just a short drive away.
Boutique Riads in the Medina
For a more authentic cultural experience, consider a traditional riad within the historic Medina. These boutique hotels offer intimate settings, personalized service, and stunning architecture. Many can arrange golf excursions, including Riad Farnatchi and La Sultana Marrakech. Be prepared for a 20-30 minute drive to most courses.
Golf & Spa Packages
Many hotels offer specialized golf packages bundling accommodation, breakfast, and green fees. La Mamounia, for example, sells a Golf by La Mamounia stay that includes at least two green fees at Royal Golf Marrakech, Amelkis, Assoufid, Royal Palm or Al Maaden, with return transfers to the clubs. Check hotel websites for the latest seasonal offers.
Planning Your Marrakech Golf Trip: Essential Tips
To ensure a seamless golf holiday, consider these practical tips.
Best Time to Visit
The prime golfing season runs from October to April, with daytime temperatures between 18-25°C (64-77°F). The summer months (June-August) can exceed 40°C (104°F), but offer lower rates and fewer crowds. Spring (March-May) is particularly beautiful as the landscape blooms.
For more on timing your visit, consult our month-by-month guide for perfect timing in Marrakech.
Booking Tee Times
- Book tee times at least a few weeks in advance, especially for premier courses during peak season.
- Most courses have online booking systems. Published 18-hole green fees for 2026 run from about 650 MAD (Atlas Golf Marrakech) to 1,350 MAD (Al Maaden in high season), and a caddie is now compulsory on every Moroccan course.
- Some courses ask for a handicap certificate: Assoufid, for example, requires one at reception, with a maximum handicap of 35.
Caddies
Since a circular of 29 May 2025, the Royal Moroccan Golf Federation requires a caddie on every course in Morocco. At Royal Golf Marrakech a caddie costs 200 to 300 MAD for 18 holes, paid in cash.
What to Pack
- Golf Attire: Collared shirts and tailored shorts or trousers are standard. Denim and t-shirts are not permitted.
- Sun Protection: High-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential under the strong Moroccan sun.
- Equipment: Club rentals are available at all courses, but bringing your own clubs is recommended. Most airlines accept golf bags as standard luggage. For a full packing checklist, see our packing guide for Marrakech.
Getting Around
Most courses require transportation from the city center. Pre-booking a private driver or taxi for the day is the most convenient option. Uber has operated in Marrakech since November 2025 with licensed vehicles; other apps, such as Careem, run without a transport licence. Distances from the Medina to most courses are 15-30 minutes by car.
Cultural Considerations
Marrakech is a Muslim city, and while tourist-friendly, respect local customs by dressing modestly outside resort areas.
For added convenience, consider a local eSIM for connectivity during your travels. Alternatively, consider a pocket WiFi rental from Pocket WiFi Morocco for reliable internet. Friday is the holy day; some services may be limited, but golf courses generally operate as usual.
Beyond the Fairways: Experiencing Marrakech
A golf trip is incomplete without exploring Marrakech’s cultural offerings. Balance your time on the course with these unforgettable experiences.
- Explore the Medina and Souks: Get lost in the labyrinthine alleys of the UNESCO World Heritage site. Haggle for spices, leather goods, and lanterns in the vibrant souks. Visit the iconic Jemaa el-Fnaa square, which comes alive at night with food stalls, musicians, and storytellers.
- Visit Majorelle Garden & Yves Saint Laurent Museum: Find tranquility in the stunning blue botanical garden created by painter Jacques Majorelle, later owned by Yves Saint Laurent. The adjacent museum celebrates his connection to Morocco. For more cultural immersion, check our guide to unique and unusual things to do in Marrakech.
- Indulge in a Traditional Hammam: Rejuvenate after your round with a steam bath, scrub, and massage at a luxury spa like La Mamounia or a traditional public hammam.
- Take a Day Trip to the Atlas Mountains: Escape the city for a hike in the foothills, visit a Berber village, and enjoy a traditional tagine lunch with breathtaking views.
For deeper exploration, discover hidden places only locals know in Marrakech and plan best day trips from Marrakech.
For authoritative information on traveling to Morocco, consult the official Morocco Tourism Board website. For detailed course reviews and rankings, Top 100 Golf Courses is an excellent resource. For golf-specific travel planning, a specialist golf travel guide offers curated itineraries.
Plan excursions from Marrakech to round out your itinerary. For a longer stay, see our guide to choosing a private villa rental. Discover traditional Moroccan dishes you must try.
For a complete luxury golf holiday, combine your rounds with stays at luxury things to do in Marrakech. For further planning inspiration, see our 5-day Marrakech itinerary for your ultimate guide. For official tourism information, visit Visit Marrakech.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the oldest golf course in Marrakech?
Royal Golf Marrakech, established in the 1920s. Its 18-hole, par-72 Old Course measures 5,871 meters, and a 9-hole New Course was added in 2008.
When is the best time to play golf in Marrakech?
From autumn through spring. Peak season runs from October to April, so book tee times well in advance.
Which Marrakech golf courses were designed by famous architects?
Al Maaden was designed by Kyle Phillips, Samanah is Nicklaus Design’s first course in Morocco (opened in 2008), and Assoufid was designed by Niall Cameron (opened in 2014).
How much is a green fee in Marrakech?
It depends on the course. At PalmGolf Marrakech Ourika, the published green fee is 980 MAD for 18 holes, practice balls included.
Can you stay in a villa on a golf course in Marrakech?
Yes. Several private villas stand on the Amelkis, Al Maaden and Samanah golf estates: see our golf villas in Marrakech.
Your Unforgettable Marrakech Golf Adventure Awaits
Marrakech offers a golfing experience like no other—a symphony of challenging play, breathtaking scenery, luxurious comfort, and deep cultural immersion. Whether navigating the artistic fairways of Al Maaden, testing strategy at Assoufid, or enjoying mint tea as the sun sets over the Atlas Mountains, every moment contributes to a memorable journey. With continued investment in world-class facilities, Marrakech solidifies its position as a top global golf destination.
Ready to plan your trip? Start by exploring the official websites of the courses, such as Assoufid Golf Club, to check availability and green fees.
Consult a specialized golf travel agent who can tailor an itinerary to your preferences, combining the best courses with luxury accommodation. Pack your clubs, embrace the adventure, and discover why Marrakech is the ultimate fairway to heaven. For more on local dining and accommodation options, see our guide to top restaurants in Marrakech.
