Things To Do
in Assa
Assa is a small town located in southern Morocco, known for its desert landscape and remote location. The town serves as a gateway to the Sahara Desert, offering opportunities for desert treks and camping experiences. Assa is surrounded by rocky plateaus, sand dunes, and palm groves, providing a unique backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts.
The town's inhabitants are mainly of Berber descent, maintaining traditional practices and hospitality towards visitors.
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "La shukran aala wajib" - No thanks, it's my duty
- "Bslama" - Goodbye
- "Kif halak?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Wander through the narrow streets of the Medina of Essaouira, discovering local crafts and art. Stop by a traditional café for a refreshing mint tea.
Visit the historic Skala de la Ville and enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Don't forget to explore the local fish market for a taste of fresh seafood.
As the sun sets, stroll along the beach to watch the waves. Enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Relax on the sandy beaches of Essaouira, soaking in the sun and fresh ocean breeze. Take a stroll along the coast to appreciate the stunning views.
Try out some water sports like windsurfing or kitesurfing, popular activities in Essaouira. Grab lunch at a beachside restaurant with local cuisine.
Enjoy a casual beach bonfire with friends or family under the starry sky. Experience authentic Moroccan music performed by local artists.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites.
- Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Warm and hospitable local population.
- Growing economy with opportunities in trade and tourism.
- Strategically located near the Sahara Desert for unique experiences.
- Limited infrastructure in some areas.
- Occasional water scarcity issues.
- Higher unemployment rates among youth.
- Cultural differences may pose challenges for newcomers.
- Market fluctuations affecting local economy.
Best Activities in Assa
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Atlas Mountains with various trails suitable for all skill levels.
Experience the magic of the Sahara Desert by camping under the stars and enjoying local Berber culture.
Discover a diverse range of bird species in this beautiful national park, perfect for nature lovers.
Embark on a camel trek through the scenic dunes and landscapes of the region, an unforgettable experience.
Visit the vibrant souks of Assa to experience local culture, handicrafts, and traditional Moroccan cuisine.
Enjoy a relaxing day of fishing in the Draa River, surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Join guided tours to learn about the history and culture of Assa and its surrounding areas.
Places to Visit in Assa
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic valley with natural pools and waterfalls, offering stunning views and great photo opportunities.
Known for its breathtaking sea cliffs and natural arches, providing a unique backdrop for memorable photos.
A beautiful gorge with towering rock formations and a winding river, ideal for picturesque landscapes and nature photography.
Famous for its striking pink granite rocks and picturesque almond groves, offering outstanding views and photography opportunities.
Food in Assa
Assa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish made with shredded msemen (Moroccan pancake), chicken, lentils, and a spiced broth, topped with saffron-infused clarified butter and almonds. It's often served during special occasions and celebrations.
Must-Try!
A savory stuffed bread with a filling of spiced minced meat, onion, and a variety of herbs, then baked in a clay oven. This dish is a local favorite and can be found in street-side bakeries.
A hearty and aromatic couscous dish featuring succulent meat, vegetables, and a blend of flavorful spices. It's a staple in Sahrawi cuisine and can be enjoyed in family-owned restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling weekly market offers a wide array of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. Visitors can sample authentic street food such as grilled meats, tagines, and freshly baked bread from various vendors.
A vibrant marketplace where one can find an assortment of street foods, including spiced kebabs, flavorful soups, and traditional sweet treats like chebakia and sellou.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Assa, it is customary to greet others with a friendly 'Salam' (peace) and a handshake. When greeting someone of the opposite gender, it is polite to wait for the other person to extend their hand first. Also, it is common to inquire about the wellbeing of the other person and their family.
Dress modestly to show respect for local cultural norms. Both men and women should wear clothing that covers their arms and legs. Women especially should wear loose-fitting clothes that don't draw attention, as Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country with conservative values.
When dining with locals, it’s important to wait for the host to invite you to start eating. Sharing food is a common practice, so be prepared to pass dishes around. Also, remember to eat with your right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean in Moroccan culture.
Safety
Tipping in Assa
Ensure a smooth experience
In Assa, Morocco, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is customary to leave a gratuity of around 10% for service in restaurants and cafes, especially if the service was good. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare or adding a small extra amount is common. In hotels, it's polite to tip porters and housekeeping staff, usually a few dirhams. Tipping is usually done in cash.
Payments in Assa are predominantly made in Moroccan Dirhams (MAD). Cash is widely used, and most small businesses, markets, and street vendors may not accept credit or debit cards. However, larger hotels and restaurants may have card facilities. It's advisable for visitors to carry cash for everyday transactions and small purchases. Mobile payment options are growing but are not universally adopted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Assa, Morocco. The weather is pleasant, and the landscape is blooming with flowers.
Expect high temperatures in summer, but this is a good time for outdoor activities and exploring the desert.
Another great time to visit Assa, with warm temperatures and the opportunity to witness harvest activities.
Winter can be cold in Assa, but it's a unique experience to see the desert landscape in a different light.
Assa at Night
Hiking in Assa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Home to the highest peak in North Africa, Toubkal National Park offers various hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains and diverse landscapes.
Located near Beni Mellal, Ain Asserdoun features scenic trails with waterfalls and lush greenery, ideal for a peaceful hike.
A stunning gorge filled with palm trees and natural pools, Paradise Valley is a popular hiking destination offering various trails and beautiful landscapes.
A picturesque valley known for its stunning vistas and traditional Berber villages, Imlil is a gateway for trekking to Mount Toubkal.
Famed for its beautiful waterfalls and lush landscapes, Akchour offers hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views and natural attractions.
Known for its picturesque rock formations and mountains, Tafraoute offers unique hiking trails through the Anti-Atlas region.
Aiports
How to reach Assa by plane.
Located in Casablanca, it is the busiest airport in Morocco and serves as a major hub for international air travel.
Situated in Marrakech, this airport serves both international and domestic flights and is popular among tourists.
Located in Agadir, this airport handles both international and domestic flights, catering to the coastal tourism sector.
Located near Fès, this airport serves as a gateway to the historical city and the surrounding region.
Situated in Tangier, this airport connects Morocco with various international destinations and serves the northern region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Assa, consisting of individuals who primarily speak Arabic and Berber languages.
Indigenous Berber groups that have historically inhabited the region, maintaining their culture and language.
Various groups of Arabs who have settled in the area, contributing to the cultural and linguistic diversity.
A growing population of migrants from Sub-Saharan Africa, involved in local trade and economic activities.
A very small Jewish presence, which has diminished over the years but has historical significance in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Assa, Morocco, with a large fan base and numerous local teams. Matches often draw large crowds and are a central part of community life.
Basketball is gaining popularity among the youth in Assa, with various local courts and schools promoting the sport. It is played both recreationally and competitively.
Athletics, including running and track events, is popular in Assa, particularly among schools and youth clubs. Local events often encourage participation from a young age.
Traditional sports, such as horse riding and local wrestling, play a significant role in cultural events and festivities in Assa, showcasing the region's heritage.
Cycling is enjoyed by many residents in Assa due to the scenic landscapes. It is both a competitive sport and a popular pastime for leisure riding.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Assa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-centric dishes are prevalent, many restaurants and cafes in Assa offer vegetarian options such as vegetable tagines, couscous with fragrant vegetables, and hearty lentil soups. Exploring Sahrawi and Berber cuisine can unearth delicious plant-based choices.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can delight in dishes like grilled fish marinated in herbs and citrus, as well as gluten-free couscous made from alternative grains like millet or corn. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly to ensure a pleasant dining experience.