Discover the Authentic Souks of Marrakech: A Traveler's Ultimate Adventure

MARRAKECH – I've traveled extensively. I've been to many places. But by far, the wildest place I've experienced is the souk in Marrakech. The open-air Berber marketplace is a completely foreign and entirely authentic world. No hoards of tourists. No visible Western influence. Just the pure and beautiful culture of Morocco.

I could describe the labyrinthine soil paths winding back into the bowels of the Grand Medina. I could tell you about pungent spice stalls, glimmering jewelry, and silver light fixtures that cast their intricately patterned glow on colorful rugs woven by ancient Berber tribes. I could relay the surprise and wonder I felt after discovering that snake charming is real, and yes, it's taking place next to a fresh-squeezed orange juice stand in the center of the bustling marketplace. But I won't tell my story with words.

I'll do it with pictures. Because, on top of the conflicting smells of live animals and silky spices, above the sounds of desperate hawking merchants and street music, it's the striking imagery of the marketplace that stays with me to this day.

TOUR THE SOUK

Carpets, camels, and colors galore. See the slideshow.

BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE

Meet the Traveler: Anna Petrow
The Fine Art of Haggling in Marrakech
The Garden of Eden is in Marrakech