Marrakech: Moroccan Cooking Class at Riad Nelia & Tajine Lunch

Moroccan flavors come alive in this Marrakech cooking class with tajine, mint tea and shared stories at Riad Nelia

You’ll step into Riad Nelia’s kitchen in Marrakech, blend spices by hand, cook your own chicken tajine with help from a local chef, and learn the art of Moroccan mint tea before sharing lunch together. Expect laughter over mispronounced words and new skills you’ll want to bring home, plus a recipe card for when you do.

Step-by-step itinerary

Moroccan cooking class at Riad Nelia

• Arrive at Riad Nelia
• Learn to blend aromatic spices
• Prepare chicken tagine from scratch
• Master slow-cooking technique
• Discover Moroccan mint tea ritual
• Enjoy meal with fresh bread and tea
• Receive recipe card and certificate

The experience

I’ll admit, I was a little nervous walking through the narrow alleys to Riad Nelia: my sense of direction is tragic and Marrakech’s medina is a maze. But the moment I stepped inside, everything changed. The air smelled like cumin and something sweet I couldn’t place. Our chef, Samira, waved me in with flour-dusted hands and a grin that made me feel instantly less awkward about being late.

We started by picking out spices for our chicken tajine. Samira let us sniff each one (saffron, ginger, paprika), and told us how every family has their own mix. I tried to say “ras el hanout” properly. She laughed and corrected me (twice). Chopping onions with strangers felt weirdly relaxing. There was this quiet hum from the courtyard fountain and the sun kept moving across the tiled floor while we worked. It made me slow down, which doesn’t happen much at home.

The best part? Pouring Moroccan mint tea together after lunch. Samira showed us how high to hold the pot so it foams just right: my first try was a mess but nobody cared. We ate what we cooked around a table that had a wobble in one leg and bread that was still warm from the oven. I still think about that lemony sauce clinging to the chicken.

What’s included

• Your day includes a hands-on Moroccan cooking class at Riad Nelia where you’ll prepare chicken tajine and traditional mint tea with guidance from your chef.
• Lunch features your own creations alongside fresh bread and dessert.
• You’ll also leave with a recipe card and certificate of completion before heading back out into Marrakech’s lively streets.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 12:00, 15:00 and 18:00

AgesAdult (17 to 80 years) · Under 17: can't be booked

GroupUp to 20

Live guideEnglish, French and Arabic

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 8 days ago

Good to know

Public transport nearby

Operated by Nelia Marrakech Activities

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, French and Arabic.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Is lunch included in this Marrakech cooking class?

Yes, you eat the chicken tajine you prepare during the class along with fresh bread and dessert.

Do I get recipes to take home from this cooking class?

Yes, you receive a recipe card at the end of your experience so you can recreate Moroccan dishes at home.

Where is Riad Nelia located in Marrakech?

Riad Nelia is located within Marrakech’s medina. Specific address details are provided upon booking.

Is public transportation available near Riad Nelia?

Yes, there are public transportation options available nearby for easy access.

What will I learn to cook during this class?

You’ll learn to prepare classic chicken tajine from scratch and discover how to make traditional Moroccan mint tea.

Are certificates provided after completing this cooking class?

Yes, you’ll receive a certificate of completion at the end of your session.