Taroudannt Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat, stay, and how to get around Taroudannt, Morocco. Learn about its culture, customs, safety, and nearby excursions.


Introduction to Taroudannt

Located in the Anti-Atlas region of Morocco, Taroudannt is a vibrant and historic city that is often referred to as the “Grandmother of Marrakech”. Surrounded by ancient red walls, the city is known for its fascinating history, stunning architecture, and colorful souks. Tourism in Taroudannt is less developed than that of nearby cities, which means it has a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path vibe.

List of Places to Visit in Taroudannt

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. The Palais Salam: Built in the 16th century, this palace was once the residence for sultans visiting the city. Today, it is a luxury hotel that is open to the public for tours.

  2. The Medina of Taroudannt: Composed of numerous narrow and winding alleyways, the Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination in Taroudannt.

  3. The Kasbah: A fortified citadel located in the heart of the city. It was once the residence for the ruling family of Taroudannt and now one of the best-preserved kasbahs in Morocco.

  4. The Al-Qasr Mosque: One of the oldest mosques in Taroudannt, it is known for its impressive architecture, especially its minaret.

  5. The Souks: Known for local handicrafts and traditional Moroccan products, the souks of Taroudannt are great places to find unique souvenirs and practice your haggling skills.

Natural Attractions of Taroudannt: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. The Oasis of Tiout: A lush oasis located just outside of Taroudannt, Tiout offers a tranquil respite from the bustle of the city. It is home to palm groves, natural springs, and a series of traditional Berber villages.

  2. The Anti-Atlas Mountains: Known for their rugged terrain and stunning beauty, the Anti-Atlas Mountains offer a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking and mountain biking.

  3. Agadir Beach: Located just an hour’s drive from Taroudannt, Agadir Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Morocco. The beach is known for its long stretches of sand and warm waters.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Taroudannt

  1. The Hills of Taroudannt: A great place for hiking and mountain biking, the hills surrounding Taroudannt offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

  2. The Anti-Atlas Mountains: The Anti-Atlas Mountains offer numerous hiking and mountain biking trails that cater to all levels of experience.

Best Things to Do in Taroudannt: Activities and Tours

  1. Take a cooking class: Learn how to prepare traditional Moroccan dishes with a local chef.

  2. Visit a traditional hammam: Relax and rejuvenate in one of Taroudannt’s historic bathhouses.

  3. Take a tour of a local olive oil farm: Learn about the process of olive oil production and sample some of the region’s finest olive oils.

Week-Long Itinerary for Taroudannt

Day 1 Arrival in Taroudannt, check-in to hotel and explore the Medina
Day 2 Visit the Palais Salam and the Al-Qasr Mosque
Day 3 Visit the Kasbah and take a cooking class
Day 4 Hike in the Anti-Atlas Mountains
Day 5 Visit the Oasis of Tiout and take a tour of a local olive farm
Day 6 Relax in a traditional hammam
Day 7 Departure from Taroudannt, onwards to next destination

Food and Drink Scene of Taroudannt

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Tagine: A slow-cooked stew of either meat, fish, or vegetables, served with steaming hot couscous.

  2. Harira: A hearty tomato soup that is usually served at the beginning of traditional Moroccan meals.

  3. Couscous: A dish of steamed semolina grains served with vegetables, meat, or fish.

Local Beverages

  1. Mint tea: A refreshing drink made from hot water steeped with fresh mint leaves and sugar.

  2. Café noir: A strong, bitter coffee that is usually served with a sweet pastry.

Where to Stay in Taroudannt: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Palais Salam: A luxurious hotel located within a historic palace, featuring beautiful gardens and a swimming pool.

  2. Villa Tassoultante: A budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of the Medina, featuring traditional Moroccan architecture.

  3. Dar Zitoune: A cozy guesthouse located just outside the city walls, featuring beautifully landscaped tropical gardens.

What to Buy in Taroudannt: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Moroccan rugs and textiles

  2. Traditional Berber jewelry

  3. Argan oil products

Local Culture and Customs of Taroudannt

Taroudannt is a city rich in culture and history. Visitors should be aware of certain customs and practices, such as dressing conservatively when visiting mosques and avoiding public displays of affection.

Best Time to Visit Taroudannt

The best time to visit Taroudannt is during the spring and fall months, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summers can be very hot, while winters can be rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Taroudannt

Do:

  1. Respect local customs and traditions.

  2. Learn a few basic phrases in Moroccan Arabic.

  3. Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  1. Wear revealing clothing in public.

  2. Take photographs of locals without asking their permission.

  3. Drink tap water.

Safety and Health

Safety in Taroudannt

Taroudannt is generally a safe city, but visitors should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially at night. It is also important to keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid traveling alone in isolated areas.

Health in Taroudannt

Visitors to Taroudannt should be up to date on routine vaccinations and should consider getting additional vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid. It is also recommended to bring a supply of bottled water and to avoid drinking tap water.

Getting to Taroudannt: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Taroudannt

The closest airport to Taroudannt is Agadir–Al Massira Airport, which is located about 50 kilometers away. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or a local bus to Taroudannt.

Bus Stations Near Taroudannt

Taroudannt has one main bus station that offers regional and intercity bus services to destinations throughout Morocco.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Taroudannt by hiring a private car or by joining a guided tour.

How to Get Around in Taroudannt

The best way to get around Taroudannt is on foot, as the city has numerous narrow and winding streets that are not accessible to cars. Taxis are also available for longer journeys or for visitors who prefer not to walk.

Where to Go Next from Taroudannt: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Agadir: Home to one of Morocco’s largest beaches and a vibrant nightlife scene.

  2. Tafraoute: A stunning mountain town known for its pink granite rock formations and beautiful countryside.

  3. Ait Benhaddou: A UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into Morocco’s history and culture.

Conclusion

Taroudannt offers visitors a unique perspective on Morocco’s history, culture, and traditions. With its stunning architecture, natural beauty, and welcoming locals, Taroudannt is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the heart of North Africa.

Taroudannt defensive wall Taroudannt defensive wall Souk Shoe Shop Souk Shoe Shop Goats on argantree Goats on argantree Panoramic view from above Bab Salsa Panoramic view from above Bab Salsa