Riad Chameleon

Riad Chameleon Overview

First Impressions

Walking through the narrow alleyways of the medina to find Riad Chameleon feels like a treasure hunt — and honestly, that’s half the charm. This four-star riad sits tucked away on Derb Foura in the Zaouia Abbassia district, which means you’re deep in the authentic heart of Marrakech without the tourist chaos. The entrance is modest, almost secretive, but step inside and you’ll understand why this place scores a 9.7 rating. The traditional courtyard opens up with that classic riad magic — carved plasterwork, colorful tiles, and a sense of calm that makes the bustling souks feel worlds away.

Location & Getting Around

You know what I love about this spot? It’s genuinely in the real Marrakech, not some sanitized tourist bubble. The location score of 8.7 makes perfect sense when you realize you can walk to Jemaa el-Fnaa in about ten minutes, but you’re staying somewhere locals actually live and work. Couples especially seem to get this — they rate the location 8.8, probably because there’s something romantic about navigating those maze-like streets together. I mean, you’ll definitely need your phone’s GPS the first few times, but the staff gives solid directions and the neighborhood feels safe even after dark.

The Room Experience

The rooms here actually live up to the hype about comfort — and trust me, after walking around the medina all day, you’ll appreciate those “very comfy beds” everyone raves about. Each room feels different since this is a traditional riad, so you might get one overlooking the courtyard or another with a small terrace. The decor strikes that sweet spot between authentic Moroccan style and modern comfort. Air conditioning works well (crucial in summer), and the bathrooms are updated without losing the traditional feel. The attention to detail is what gets me — proper reading lights, enough outlets for your devices, and blackout curtains that actually block the morning call to prayer if you need extra sleep.

Breakfast & Dining

Breakfast here is surprisingly thoughtful — they’ve got continental options, but also vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices that don’t feel like afterthoughts. The restaurant serves everything in the main courtyard, which creates this lovely communal atmosphere in the mornings. What’s really practical is their breakfast-to-go option — perfect for those early Atlas Mountains day trips or if you want to catch sunrise at the Majorelle Gardens. The staff will pack everything nicely, and honestly, eating Moroccan pastries while watching the medina wake up is pretty special.

Why Guests Love It

This riad works because it doesn’t try too hard to be something it’s not. You’re staying in a real neighborhood, in a building that feels authentically Moroccan, with modern touches that make sense. The staff knows the area inside and out — they’ll send you to the spice vendor who doesn’t overcharge tourists, or recommend the hammam where locals actually go. It’s that balance of authentic experience with genuine comfort that keeps people coming back. Plus, there’s something satisfying about finding your way back through those winding streets each evening, knowing you’ve got this peaceful courtyard waiting for you.

Facilities