Dar Darma

Dar Darma Overview

Look, I’ve stayed in my fair share of riads in Marrakech, and Dar Darma honestly caught me off guard – in the best way possible. Tucked away on Derb El Farnatchi in the heart of the medina, this place feels like stumbling into someone’s gorgeous family home rather than a hotel. The location is actually perfect if you know what you’re doing – it’s deep enough in the medina to feel authentic but close enough to the main souks that you won’t get completely lost trying to find your way back after dinner (though you’ll definitely get turned around at least once, trust me).

What really sets this riad apart is the attention to detail without being precious about it. The traditional Moroccan architecture is stunning – we’re talking hand-painted tiles, carved cedar ceilings, the works – but it doesn’t feel like a museum. The courtyard is where you’ll spend most of your time, and honestly, it’s magical in that golden hour light. The staff here actually knows the neighborhood, which sounds obvious but isn’t always the case. They’ll point you toward the little spice shop that locals use instead of the tourist traps, and they know which hammam is worth your time. I mean, that kind of insider knowledge is worth its weight in saffron. The rooms themselves are spacious by medina standards, and the beds are surprisingly comfortable – something you can’t always count on in traditional riads. You know what impressed me most though? The rooftop terrace views of the Atlas Mountains on clear days, and the fact that despite being in the thick of things, it’s remarkably quiet at night. The thick walls really do their job blocking out the medina’s evening bustle.

The 8.8 rating makes total sense once you’ve been there – it’s that sweet spot of authentic charm without sacrificing comfort. Sure, navigating the narrow derb with luggage can be a bit of an adventure (the taxi drops you at the main road and you walk the last bit), but that’s part of the medina experience. What really sold me was how the place manages to feel both intimate and professional. It’s not trying to be a flashy resort, and it’s not trying to be a bare-bones authentic experience either. It’s just… right. If you’re the type who wants to actually experience Marrakech rather than just photograph it, Dar Darma gets it. The whole Kaat Benahid area has this wonderful rhythm to it – busy during the day with locals going about their business, peaceful in the evenings. You’ll wake up to the call to prayer echoing off the ancient walls, have mint tea in a courtyard that’s been hosting travelers for decades, and fall asleep to the gentle sounds of a city that’s been perfecting hospitality for centuries. It’s not cheap, but honestly, for what you get – the location, the service, the genuine character – it’s worth every dirham.

Dar Darma Accommodations

Reviews of Dar Darma

• Comfort in the Medina. – Thomas from United Kingdom – 3 June 2025 (10/10)

  This small, boutique, hotel is in the Medina of Marrakesh. It seems to be, essentially, two homes amalgamated into one but parts of it look very old indeed and presumably is at it has been much altered over the years.
  Our room looked out onto a courtyard patio and small ornamental pool.
  The rooftop has a dining area and kitchen also there is a small swimming pool. This was ideal for breakfast.
  The hotel arranged a car to meet us at the airport which was most helpful. The car was able to take us to the edge of the Medina where a young man with a barrow took our luggage for the rest of the journey, into narrow streets.Tthe hotel doorway is easy to miss, set into an otherwise blank wall, a short corridor and some steps go down to the hotel reception area. The staff are all very helpful, Hashim, two Mohammed's, and Maria who with helpers, and by arrangement cooked two very good meals for us. We had a dinner on arrival and also lunch on the afternoon of our departure. Breakfast by the room, or better still on the rooftop.
  The hotel was able to arrange a taxi which would come and pick up close to the entrance. Taxis for a return journey were reluctant to go all the way to the door because of the narrowness of the streets.
  The situation is ideal, walking distance to the Medrasa Ben Youssef and not far on the Souk. Meals in the hotel can be taken by arrangement but there were good restaurants very close indeed.

• Very good – Actionjulez from United Kingdom – 15 May 2025 (8/10)

  They decor

• A truly beautiful place – Mary from United Kingdom – 3 May 2025 (10/10)

  This is an incredibly beautiful Riad! We stayed in the Blue Suite and it was simply stunning!! We only stayed for one night but wished it could have been longer.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Superb – Tuija from United States – 29 March 2025 (9/10)

  Everything was very nice. The room was spacious and comfortable. We were greeted with tea on the rooftop. And the breakfast was amazing. Make a note that you need to walk a bit from the taxi drop off to Dar Darma. Not a problem at all, though.

• Great staff, cleaning, best location to visit Marrakech old city – Mohammad from Italy – 22 November 2024 (9/10)

  Beautiful
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Authentic and memorable experience – Supriya from United Kingdom – 28 October 2024 (10/10)

  Beautiful decor
  Well maintained throughout
  Friendly and helpful staff
  Breakfast
  
  What could be improved: –

• Wonderful staff, fantastic support and beautiful rooftop terrace very central to old Medina. – Georgia from Australia – 12 October 2024 (10/10)

  The property was beautifully decorated and more importantly, the staff were super helpful and friendly. I really felt like they tried their best to make my stay pleasant.
  
  What could be improved: The location was tricky to get to but the staff were very good at helping me find my way ! The cleaning solution used had an odd smell to me.

• Great hotel in a very interesting city. – Kelly from United States – 2 October 2024 (10/10)

  The facility and staff were great. A very nice place to stay in Marrakech.
  
  What could be improved: There were a lot of stairs and no elevator. Location does not allow for taxi drop off. Hotel sent a car for our airport pickup and carted our bags to the front door.

• Fabulous place – Shordan from United Kingdom – 28 September 2024 (10/10)

  The riad is a calm, peaceful oasis inside a bustling medina.
  The staff are friendly, helpful and attentive.
  
  What could be improved: No mini fridge in the room, non working TV and a lot of stairs.

• Short and sweet ! Very memorable though!!! 20/10 – Ian from Australia – 27 September 2024 (10/10)

  Great service . Peaceful . Great breakfast!!! Service when you needed it !

Surroundings

Facilities