Things To Do
in Aghbal

Slow-cooked stew of meat (lamb, chicken, or beef) or vegetables with spices, preserved lemons and olives; available at local homes and guesthouses.

Must-Try!

Steamed semolina grains served with vegetables and sometimes meat, traditionally eaten on Fridays or special occasions; served in family meals and local cafés.

A warming tomato-and-lentil soup often served during colder months or Ramadan; found in cafés and made by families.

Freshly baked round bread that accompanies most meals; often made in village ovens or home kitchens.

Small regional market days in the nearest town or large village where you can buy fresh produce, olives, cheese, spices and sometimes grilled meats and pastries. Ideal for sampling seasonal fruits and buying charcuterie and olives.

Simple outlets offering mint tea, coffee, msemen (pan-fried flatbread) and brochettes (grilled skewers) — perfect for a quick, inexpensive bite.

Polite greetings (Salam Aleikum) and using right hand for handshakes, eating and exchanges are customary. Show respect to elders and ask before photographing people.

Conservative dress is advised — cover shoulders and knees in public, especially for women, to respect local customs.

Remove shoes when entering a home, accept offered tea as a sign of respect, and avoid bringing alcohol without asking.

Be mindful during prayer times and Ramadan; public behavior should be discreet and respectful around religious practices.

Tipping is appreciated but not compulsory; small tips (10–20 MAD / $1–2) for tea, porters or helpful guides are common. For a guide after a full-day hike a tip of 50–100 MAD ($5–10) or more is appropriate depending on service.

Cash (Moroccan dirham, MAD) is king in villages — carry sufficient cash for food, taxis and purchases. ATMs and card acceptance are available in larger towns but may be absent locally, so withdraw in advance. Major credit cards are accepted at some guesthouses and restaurants in nearby towns but expect an extra fee or minimums.

Mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers and green terraces make spring one of the best times to visit; some higher trails may still be wet and slippery after winter rains.

Warm to hot daytime temperatures in lower elevations, but pleasant evenings; higher altitudes remain cooler. Afternoon heat can make mid-day hiking uncomfortable — start early.

Stable weather, mellow light and harvest activities in fields; temperatures cool off in the evenings, making for comfortable hiking conditions.

Cold, and in higher parts of the Atlas there can be snow — some passes or trails may be impassable. Guesthouses provide heating but bring warm clothing and check road conditions.

The nearest major international airport for many Atlas Mountain destinations; offers rental cars, buses and train connections to other cities. Expect a drive of a couple of hours depending on exact village location and road conditions.

A regional airport serving the southern Atlas and desert approaches; useful if traveling from/to the eastern Atlas or desert regions. Ground transport (taxis, shared transfers) connects to surrounding towns.

Vegetarian options are widely available (vegetable tagines, couscous, lentil dishes). Inform hosts early — many local kitchens will happily prepare vegetable-based meals, but ensure no meat stock is used.

Vegan choices exist but can be limited; emphasize no dairy or honey and ask about butter/egg use in breads and pastries. Carry snacks if you have strict needs.

Traditional meals center on couscous and breads, so gluten-free options require planning. Rice, salads and tagines without wheat are available; communicate restrictions clearly and bring staples if needed.

Most meat in the region is halal and alcohol is not widely served in small villages. Standard Muslim dietary norms are observed.