Taza Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich, natural beauty of Taza with this comprehensive tour guide. Learn about the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local customs.


Introduction to Taza

Taza is a city located in the Middle Atlas region of Morocco. It is known for its historical and cultural significance, and natural beauty. While Taza is not as popular as other cities in Morocco, it is a hidden gem that is well worth visiting. This comprehensive tour guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Taza.

List of Places to Visit in Taza

Taza has a lot to offer tourists, from museums and historical sites to hiking and biking trails, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Taza has a rich history and culture, and there are several museums and historical sites that offer visitors an insight into its past.

  • Kasbah Museum: Housed in a 17th-century fortress built by Sultan Moulay Ismail, the Kasbah Museum is a must-visit attraction. It showcases the history of Taza and its surrounding areas, including artifacts from the Roman and Islamic periods.

  • Msid Museum: Another historical site is the Msid Museum, which is located in the old town of Taza. It was originally a mosque, but has now been converted into a museum. The museum contains exhibits on Moroccan art, clothing, and ceramics, as well as a display on traditional Moroccan weddings.

  • Hammam Al-Bayda: Hammam Al-Bayda is a traditional Moroccan bathhouse that has been in operation for centuries. It is one of the most popular bathhouses in Taza and is renowned for its unique architecture.

Natural Attractions of Taza: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Taza is surrounded by natural beauty, and there are plenty of outdoor activities and scenic views to enjoy.

  • Parc National de Tazekka: This national park is located near Taza and covers an area of 38,000 hectares. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the endangered Barbary macaque. Visitors can hike along the trails and enjoy the stunning views of the park.

  • Cascade El-Adouz: This waterfall is located in the Tazekka National Park and is a popular spot for nature lovers. The waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers a refreshing break from the heat.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Taza

Taza is a hub for hiking and biking enthusiasts, and there are several routes that offer visitors an opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty.

  • Tazekka Trail: This trail is located in the Tazekka National Park and is a 15-kilometer loop through stunning mountain landscapes. It is a moderate difficulty trail that is suitable for hikers of all levels.

  • Cycling Routes of Taza: For cycling enthusiasts, there are several routes around Taza that offer scenic views of the region. The most popular route is the Taza-Larache route, which covers a distance of 70 kilometers and passes through small towns and villages.

Best Things to Do in Taza: Activities and Tours

Taza offers a range of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy, including:

  • Taza Food Tour: A food tour is a great way to explore the local cuisine of Taza. Visitors can try traditional Moroccan dishes, such as pastilla and tagine, and learn about the history and culture behind them.

  • Taza City Tour: A city tour is a great way to explore the historical and cultural sites of Taza. Visitors can visit the Kasbah Museum and Msid Museum, and learn about the region’s rich history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Taza

Recommended week-long itinerary for Taza:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Taza, check into hotel
2 Visit Kasbah Museum, Hammam Al-Bayda
3 Taza Food Tour
4 Taza-Larache Cycling Route
5 Parc National de Tazekka
6 Msid Museum
7 Depart Taza

Food and Drink Scene of Taza

Moroccan cuisine is world-renowned, and Taza is no exception. Visitors to Taza can enjoy a range of traditional Moroccan dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pastilla: Pastilla is a traditional Moroccan dish made with pigeon or chicken, almonds, and spices. It is a rich and flavorful dish that is often served during special occasions.

  • Tagine: Tagine is another popular Moroccan dish made with meat, vegetables, and spices. It is slow-cooked in a clay pot with a conical lid, which helps to infuse the flavors.

Local Beverages

  • Mint Tea: Mint tea is a popular beverage in Morocco and is often served alongside meals. It is a refreshing blend of green tea and fresh mint leaves.

  • Orange Juice: Taza is known for its fresh oranges, and visitors can enjoy a tall glass of freshly squeezed orange juice.

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

Taza offers a range of accommodations for visitors, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses.

  • Riad Dar El Maa: This beautiful riad is located in the heart of Taza’s old town and offers guests a taste of traditional Moroccan hospitality. It has spacious rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a restaurant that serves delicious Moroccan cuisine.

  • Hotel Tizi N’Lkhir: This hotel is located on the outskirts of Taza and offers guests stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It has comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant that serves a range of dishes.

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

Taza is known for its beautiful handicrafts and traditional Moroccan products. Visitors can buy souvenirs and local products at the following markets:

  • Taza Market: The Taza Market is the largest market in the region and offers a range of products, including traditional Moroccan clothing, ceramics, and spices.

  • Taza Souk: The Taza Souk is a traditional Moroccan marketplace that offers visitors a unique shopping experience. Visitors can buy souvenirs, local products, and handmade crafts.

Local Culture and Customs of Taza

Morocco has a unique culture, and Taza is no exception. Visitors to Taza should familiarize themselves with the local customs and etiquette.

  • Dress Code: Morocco is a conservative country, and visitors should dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques and other religious sites.

  • Sharing Food: Sharing food is an important part of Moroccan culture, and visitors should be prepared to share dishes with others.

Best Time to Visit Taza

The best time to visit Taza is between March and May and September to November when the weather is mild and pleasant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Taza

Do:

  • Respect Local Customs: Visitors should respect local customs and etiquette, including dress code and behavior in public spaces.

  • Try the Local Cuisine: Morocco is known for its delicious cuisine, and visitors should try traditional dishes, such as tagine and pastilla.

Don’t:

  • Drink Tap Water: Visitors should avoid drinking tap water and instead drink bottled water.

  • Take Photos Without Permission: Visitors should always ask for permission before taking photos of people or religious sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Taza

Taza is a safe city for tourists, but visitors should take the usual precautions, such as avoiding dark alleys at night and not carrying valuable items.

Health in Taza

Visitors to Taza should make sure they have up-to-date vaccinations and take precautions to avoid illness, such as drinking bottled water and practicing good hygiene.

Getting to Taza: Transportation Options and Logistics

Taza is easily accessible via various means of transportation.

Airports Near Taza

The nearest airport to Taza is the Fes-Saïss Airport, which is located about 75 kilometers away. Visitors can take a taxi or rent a car to get to Taza from the airport.

Bus Stations Near Taza

There are several bus stations near Taza, including the Taza Bus Station and the Fes Bus Station. Buses operate regularly between Taza and other Moroccan cities.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or hire a taxi to get to Taza.

How to Get Around in Taza

Taza is a small city, and visitors can easily explore it on foot. However, taxis and buses are also available for those who prefer it.

Where to Go Next from Taza: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Taza is located in the Middle Atlas region, and there are several nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring, including:

  • Fes: Fes is one of the most popular destinations in Morocco, known for its ancient medina and colorful markets.

  • Moulay Idriss: This small town is located near Taza and is considered one of the holiest places in Morocco. It is home to the tomb of Moulay Idriss, the founder of the Idrisid dynasty.

Conclusion

Taza is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With this comprehensive tour guide, visitors can explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local customs. A trip to Taza is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed.

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