Things To Do
in Arfoud
Arfoud is a small desert town in southeastern Morocco that sits at the edge of the Sahara and the Ziz River valley. It functions as a practical gateway to Erg Chebbi’s towering dunes, while its palm groves and fossil workshops give it a distinct, earthy character. The town’s souks, coffee terraces, and welcoming Berber hosts offer a low-key, authentic desert stop for travelers.
From Arfoud, day trips to Merzouga, Erfoud, and other desert highlights are within easy reach, making it a convenient base for Sahara exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in the charming town of Arfoud and take in the striking desert landscape as you settle into your accommodations. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan breakfast featuring fresh bread, olives, and aromatic mint tea. After breakfast, explore the local market for vibrant carpets and intricate crafts.
Visit the nearby fossil quarries to learn about the rich geological history of the region. Marvel at the stunning displays of prehistoric fossils and perhaps purchase a unique souvenir to take home. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery that serves delicious tagine and couscous dishes.
As the sun sets over the desert dunes, experience the enchanting ambiance of an outdoor dinner surrounded by the serenity of nature. Engage with locals around a bonfire while sharing stories and enjoying traditional music performances. Retire to your accommodation and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Spend your morning taking a guided trek into the mesmerizing Erg Chebbi dunes. The golden sands shift beautifully with the light, creating a serene yet dramatic landscape. Capture stunning photographs of the scenery and experience the thrill of climbing to the highest points.
Relax and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the dunes, where you can taste local specialties. Afterward, spend time sandboarding or camel riding, a quintessential desert experience that connects you to the landscape. Embrace the adventure and excitement, surrounded by the breathtaking views of the desert.
Return to Arfoud and unwind at a local café, sipping sweet mint tea as night falls. The evening can be spent mingling with fellow travelers or enjoying a traditional Moroccan dinner featuring an array of spices and flavors. End the night by gazing up at the starry desert sky, a perfect conclusion to your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🏨One night in a budget hotel | $25-60 |
| 🚕Local one-way taxi within town | $2-6 |
| 💧1.5L bottle of water | $0.50-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to dramatic Sahara scenery and desert experiences
- Authentic Berber hospitality and a slower travel pace
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options compared to bigger cities
- Some services (especially outside main towns) are basic and require flexibility
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "La shukran" - No, thank you
- "Bslama" - Goodbye
- "Kam hatha?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Arfoud
Visit one of these nice places.
The sweeping rose-to-gold dunes offer dramatic silhouettes at sunrise and sunset, with the silhouettes of camel caravans creating iconic desert scenes.
Tall date palms and narrow irrigation channels create tranquil, green corridors ideal for daytime and golden hour photography.
A dramatic river canyon and oasis landscape; striking light and rocky textures make for compelling landscape shots.
Rough-cut stones and workshop interiors provide an earthy, documentary photography angle on Arfoud’s fossil economy.
Blue-shuttered doors and sunlit courtyards offer intimate, travelogue-worthy street photography opportunities.
Food in Arfoud
Arfoud Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A sweet-savory slow-cooked tagine common in the southeast, best enjoyed with crusty bread.
Must-Try!
A hearty, comforting dish featuring seasonal vegetables and tender couscous.
A rich tagine with raisins and spices that echoes Berber flavors of the region.
A warming tomato-based soup often enjoyed in cooler months.
Savory-sweet flatbread sometimes served for breakfast or tea time.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant stalls selling dates, olives, spices, dried fruit, and quick street bites; a window into daily life.
Sweet, chewy dates and local pastries ideal for a quick snack or takeaway.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Salam or a simple hello; dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) in public spaces, especially in smaller towns and religious sites.
Ask before photographing people, especially in traditional settings or family contexts; some may decline out of preference or privacy.
If invited to a home or a family meal, modestly accept offerings and participate in sharing tea; politeness goes a long way.
Haggling is common in markets; do so with a smile and respect, and expect a back-and-forth process.
Safety
Tipping in Arfoud
Ensure a smooth experience
Small tips are appreciated for good service: 5-10% in restaurants if service charge isn’t included; tip guides, drivers, and cafe staff modestly for quality service or extra help.
Cash (Moroccan dirhams) is most widely accepted in markets and small eateries; some hotels and larger restaurants take cards. ATMs are common in town; carry some cash for vendors who prefer it.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot days (often above 35°C/95°F). Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon. Stay hydrated, wear a hat, and use sunscreen; evenings cool slightly but can still be warm.
Pleasant temperatures with clear skies; ideal for desert excursions and photography without the peak heat of summer.
Mild to cool days with chilly nights; occasional rainfall. Pack layers and a light jacket for evenings and early morning outings.
Moderate temperatures and blooming landscapes; a comfortable time for hiking, markets, and longer walks.
Arfoud at Night
Hiking in Arfoud
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible trails along palm groves and canyon edges with opportunities for scenic overlooks and birdwatching.
Gentle, near-level hikes through date palm orchards and irrigation channels, ideal for a relaxed day outdoors.
Airports
How to reach Arfoud by plane.
A small regional airport serving Erfoud and nearby desert routes; convenient for quick air access to the Erg Chebbi area.
Larger regional airport with more flight options; often used to reach the Drâa-Tafilalet region before driving to Arfoud.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The area is home to Berber-speaking populations with strong cultural traditions and a welcoming, family-centered social fabric.
Many residents maintain agricultural and oasis-based livelihoods, offering a unique desert lifestyle and hospitality.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime and community activity across towns, with local matches and informal games in schools and public spaces.
Camel riding, dune trekking, and sandboarding are widely enjoyed as recreational activities for visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arfoud.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most tagines and couscous dishes can be made vegetarían; request no meat or fish and request dairy-free options if needed. Many restaurants will accommodate with vegetable tagines or chickpea-based dishes.