Get off the beaten track and connect with real medina living in this traditional Moroccan riad offering dorm-only accommodation and friendly management. What Waka Waka lacks in frills and finish, it makes up for with personality, fun evening entertainment and reliable travel services for excursions further afield.
In a prime position barely five minutes’ walk from the Djemaa el-Fna in the upmarket old city (historic) neighbourhood of El Ksour. Souks are on your doorstep and there are views of the Koutoubia from the lofty roof terrace.
This riad-hostel is well known for its friendly, sociable character and wacky colourful décor. The house revolves around the open, central courtyard which is furnished with low-level Moroccan seating, overlapping Berber rugs and brightly coloured walls festooned with pictures, postcards and murals.
At night it is lit up with cut brass lanterns which lend it a psychedelic feel especially when the guitar comes out and Moroccan dancing ensues. Dorm rooms ring the courtyard on the first and second floor, and there’s a small shaded roof terrace.
Manager Hussain imbues this hostel with its friendly, casual atmosphere and gets tons of positive feedback. He’s happy to help book taxis, make appointments, book guides and arrange all manner of well-priced excursions.
As a musician, he also brings Moroccan sounds and dancing to the dinners that are hosted here every couple of weeks. As a result this is a great place to meet fellow travellers and hook up for excursions further afield.
Dorm rooms are large and basic with six to 12 beds. As is typical of classic old city houses there are no windows in the rooms and they are rather dark. Beds are furnished with foam mattresses and the price includes two sheets and a blanket in winter, when it can get cold. Rooms on the second floor are quieter and offer more privacy.
There are showers and toilets on every floor and they are small and basic.
A basic Moroccan breakfast is provided each morning consisting of bread, pancakes, cake and jam. Guests can store provisions in the kitchen and use the small kitchen for basic meals, although most go out to eat in the Djemaa el-Fna which is nearby. Twice a month, a Moroccan dinner (€5/£4) is served and things can get pretty rowdy with plenty of singing and dancing. Free mint tea and coffee are on tap throughout the day.
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