Chez Ali Dinner & Horsemen Show From Marrakech

If you’re in Marrakech and looking for an evening that combines culture, spectacle, and a hearty meal, the Chez Ali Dinner & Horsemen Show promises a memorable experience. While I haven’t personally attended, reviews and descriptions paint a vivid picture of an event that transports guests into a Moroccan fairy tale with lively performances, delicious food, and stunning displays of horsemanship.

Three things stand out about this experience: the spectacular horsemen fantasia, the authentic Moroccan cuisine served in traditional caidal tents, and the engaging stories of Berber folklore woven into the show. On the flip side, some travelers note that timing hiccups and transportation issues can happen, so planning ahead is wise.

This tour is ideal for those eager to see Morocco’s cultural spectacle, enjoy a lively dinner, and experience a mixture of tradition and entertainment. If you love vibrant shows, authentic local food, and a bit of adventure, this will likely tick many boxes.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Show: The fantasia horse riding display is a highlight, recreating traditional war ceremonies.
• Delicious Moroccan Food: A 5-course menu features classic dishes like tagines, couscous, and seasonal fruit.
• Engaging Stories: The show includes tales of Berber folklore, adding a layer of storytelling to the entertainment.
• Traditional Setting: Dining in caidal tents creates an immersive Moroccan atmosphere.
• Transport and Timing: Transfers are included, but expect occasional delays or the need to pay extra for distant hotels.
• Value for Money: For around $81, you get a combination of dinner, entertainment, and transportation — generally perceived as good value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Arriving at Chez Ali: A Fairytale Setting

The journey to the outskirts of Marrakech takes about 20-30 minutes from the city center, depending on traffic. The complex itself resembles a Moroccan village out of a storybook, with vibrant tents, lanterns, and a lively atmosphere that sets the tone for the night. Upon arrival, you’re greeted by Berber tribes in traditional costumes, which instantly immerses you in local culture.

From the reviews, guides like Najib and Ahmed are frequently praised for their punctuality and friendliness. One reviewer mentioned how Najib not only made the journey enjoyable but also shared interesting facts about Marrakech, enhancing the overall experience. Keep in mind that if you’re staying far from the city center, there’s a small transport supplement (ranging from 10 to 15 euros). It’s worth considering this extra cost for the convenience of door-to-door service.

Seating and Atmosphere

Guests are led to their seats inside the caidal tents, which are traditional Moroccan-style tents that mimic the desert nomad experience. The tents are relatively comfortable and create an intimate setting for dinner while watching the show unfold around you.

The lively crowd and the colorful surroundings give an authentic feel, not just a staged spectacle. Several reviews highlighted the friendly and welcoming vibe, with many mentioning how the guides and hosts add a personal touch to the evening.

The Show: A Moroccan Spectacle

The heart of this experience is the fantasia horsemen display, which takes place towards the end of the evening. Imagine dozens of horsemen in traditional dress charging across an arena in perfect synchronization, gunfire exploding in the background, all choreographed to evoke Morocco’s legendary war ceremonies. This part of the show is often described as exhilarating, with reviewers noting how the large formations of horses and riders create a stunning visual.

Before the finale, you’ll enjoy a series of performances such as acrobats, belly dancers, and daring horse stunts. One guest raved about seeing flying carpets, which adds a magical, almost fairy-tale element to the night. The parade includes troops from different Moroccan tribes like Zayane and Kelaa MGouna, each bringing their own flavor to the spectacle.

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Food: A Moroccan Feast

Dining is an integral component of the experience. The meal is served in the form of a traditional 5-course Moroccan dinner. The options include Harira soup, meat or chicken tagines with lemon or prunes, couscous with seven vegetables, and seasonal fruit. Guests generally find the food flavorful and generous in portions, with many reviews praising the quality and authenticity.

A reviewer noted that the dinner was “succulent with fresh ingredients and generous portions,” making it excellent value considering all included. The meal concludes with mint tea and Moroccan pastries, providing a sweet and refreshing end to the feast.

Entertainment and Cultural Stories

Throughout the evening, different Moroccan troops and performers pass by your table, singing, dancing, and showcasing traditional costumes. The storytelling aspect is woven into the show, with tales of Berber folklore and Moroccan legends adding depth to the spectacle. The show is dynamic, with daredevil horse stunts, death-defying acrobats, and lively dance acts keeping guests engaged.

Final Thoughts on the Show

The grand finale, the Fantasia, is often described as a “magical and extraordinary” experience. The synchronized horse charge accompanied by gunfire is a highlight, and many guests say it feels like witnessing a piece of living history.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Timing and Duration

This is a roughly 4-hour experience, usually starting in the evening. It’s a good idea to arrive a little early to settle in and enjoy the ambiance. Remember that the show’s timing can sometimes be affected by the transport, so allow some flexibility.

Dress Code

Casual smart is fine, but since you’ll be dining in tents and watching traditional performances, wearing comfortable clothes and sensible shoes is wise. It can get chilly in the desert breeze, so bringing a light jacket might be helpful.

Cost and Value

At $81 per person, this experience offers a good balance of dinner, cultural entertainment, and transportation. Considering the quality of the show and the variety of activities, many guests find it to be a worthwhile expense, especially when compared to typical dinners out. Keep in mind, drinks are not included, so budget extra for beverages.

Who Will Love It?

This experience is perfect for travelers wanting an immersive cultural night with a dash of adventure. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy lively performances, traditional music, and storytelling. Families with children might love the spectacle, but parents should note that some stunts may be intense for very young kids. It’s also a good choice if you’re looking for a hassle-free evening with included transport and dinner.

Authenticity and Value: What Sets This Apart

Reviews consistently mention the good value for money, especially considering the variety of entertainment and the quality of the food. Several guests highlight the knowledgeable guides, like Najib and Ahmed, who make the journey informative and fun. The stunning horse displays and storytelling make it more than just a dinner show; it’s a window into Moroccan tradition.

The dinner in caidal tents adds a genuine Moroccan touch, creating an atmosphere that’s as much about setting as it is about the show. Many reviewers appreciated the friendly staff and the lively performances, which combined to give a warm, welcoming feel.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For travelers who appreciate vibrant, theatrical experiences combined with authentic Moroccan cuisine, Chez Ali offers a memorable night out. It’s a chance to see traditional horse riding displays, enjoy lively dance routines, and indulge in flavorful food, all in a setting that feels uniquely Moroccan.

If you’re after a cultural experience that’s visually stunning and full of energy, this tour is likely to satisfy. It’s especially suited for those looking for an easy, all-in-one evening plan with round-trip transport included, making it ideal for visitors not wanting the hassle of organizing multiple activities.

However, if you prefer more subdued, local dining experiences or have specific dietary preferences, be aware that the focus is on entertainment and traditional dishes rather than gourmet cuisine.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transfers are included in the price, with options from the Marrakech city center. For hotels or riads more than 5 km away, there’s a small supplement of 10 euros, and for locations beyond 15 km, 15 euros applies.

Can I bring children?
Yes, children under 3 travel free, children aged 4-8 get a 50% discount, and those 9 and older are charged full price. The show’s lively nature makes it suitable for families, but very young kids should be prepared for loud sounds and energetic performances.

What language are the guides and shows in?
The experience is offered in English and French, making it accessible for most travelers.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, but they are available for purchase during the evening.

How long does the experience last?
The entire tour lasts around 4 hours, from pickup to drop-off, so plan accordingly.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothes are fine. Since you’ll be dining in tents and watching performances outdoors, a light jacket might be helpful, especially in cooler evenings.

Overall, Chez Ali’s dinner and show offer vibrant entertainment coupled with hearty Moroccan cuisine, providing a fun, culturally rich night that’s well worth the price for many visitors seeking an authentic taste of Morocco’s lively traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: