Created by French horticulturist Marcel François in 1951, these gardens were declared a Natural Heritage site in 2003 and reopened in 2005 after several years of restoration. They are divided into the Jardin Nature , plantations that evoke the exotic vegetation the horticulturalist encountered on his many travels; the Jardin Culture , referring more to the philosophy of the garden in different cultures; and the Jardin Didactique , with birdcages, an aquarium and a vivarium. Colour-coded paths lead through overgrown Brazilian rainforest, Polynesian jungle, Japanese pleasure grounds and an Andalucian garden. Jardins Exotiques is managed by the Mohammed VI Foundation for the Protection of the Environment.
The gardens are tranquil on weekends, and are a great place to bring children. It’s also a popular spot for courting couples.
The gardens are 13km north of Rabat on the road to Kenitra. Take bus 28 from Ave Moulay Hassan in Rabat, or Bab Fès, the main gate at Salé medina.
