© Thibdx · CC BY 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons Cactus Thiemann
Seven hectares of cacti at the foot of the Jbilets, planted since 1964: a specialist's place more than mass tourism. Atlas view, audio guide worth taking, and now on reservation. For those who love plants or want a quieter Marrakech, it is worth the trip.
History & context
Cactus Thiemann was founded in 1964, north of Marrakech. Hans Thiemann, a German agricultural engineer, settled at the foot of the Jbilets hills and, convinced that the Moroccan climate would suit cacti better than the European one, gradually acclimatised more than 150 varieties from the Americas.
Sixty years on, the plantation covers seven hectares and is reputed to be the largest in Africa. You walk between cereus and cushion cacti several metres tall, some planted half a century ago, with the palm grove and the Atlas as a backdrop.
The place stays family-run and confidential: since 2 January 2026, the visit is by booking.
You come here for the plants, not the crowd: seven hectares of cacti at the foot of the Jbilets, and the Atlas beyond.
What to see - the highlights
The collection
More than 150 varieties of American cacti, acclimatised over seven hectares since 1964, among the largest on the continent.
The giants
Cereus and cushion cacti several metres tall, some planted half a century ago, lined up in avenues.
The view
At the foot of the Jbilets hills, the plantation opens onto the palm grove and the Atlas range.
The audio guide
A tour commented in English, French and German, included with the ticket, which names the species and tells their origin.
When to go
Raking light on the spines and heat still bearable among the cacti.
Annual closure from 3 to 30 August; and little shade in the full sun at noon.
Some cacti in flower and gentle temperatures for walking.
Ticket & audio guide
Book ahead - useful during peak hours, when the queue can top thirty minutes.
Booking via GetYourGuide, our ticket partner. Indicative prices ; we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Visitor tips
In the morning, soft light and bearable heat.
August (annual closure from 3 to 30) and full sun at noon.
- Since 2 January 2026, the visit is on booking: call or write before you go up.
- Access is by a track about 1 km long after the roundabout past the Grand Stade; follow 'Cactus Thiemann' on Waze.
- The ticket with audio guide (EN/FR/DE) is worth it: without commentary, you miss the name and the origin of the species.
Location & access
North of Marrakech, at the foot of the Jbilets hills, about fifteen minutes by car. At the roundabout past the Grand Stade, follow the track for about 1 km. No public transport: taxi or car, and booking required since 2026.
