Things To Do
in Foum Zguid
Foum Zguid is a small town located in southern Morocco, known for its proximity to the Sahara Desert. The town is a popular stop for travelers heading towards the desert for excursions and camel treks. Foum Zguid offers basic amenities for tourists, including accommodations, restaurants, and guided tours.
Visitors can experience the vast desert landscape, authentic Berber culture, and stunning sunsets in the area.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore scenic trails in the Anti-Atlas Mountains, offering breathtaking views, diverse landscapes, and a chance to connect with local Berber culture.
Experience the vastness of the Sahara Desert through guided 4x4 tours, including visits to remote oases and stunning sand dunes.
Embark on a traditional camel trek through the desert, where you can enjoy the tranquility of the landscape and spend nights under the stars.
Foum Zguid's unique ecosystems are ideal for bird watching, with opportunities to spot various migratory and resident bird species.
Discover local Berber villages and experience their culture through guided tours that include traditional music, crafts, and cuisine.
Take advantage of the clear desert skies for a stargazing experience, with minimal light pollution enhancing the visibility of celestial bodies.
- "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 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early by visiting the local market where you can experience authentic Moroccan culture. Sample some traditional breakfast options like msemen and mint tea.
Take a guided tour into the nearby desert to discover its stunning natural landscapes. Capture pictures of the mesmerizing sand dunes as the sunlight casts beautiful shadows.
Return to Foum Zguid and enjoy a delicious dinner at a local riad. Spend the evening stargazing, as the clear desert sky offers a breathtaking view of the stars.
Embark on a thrilling desert safari in a 4x4 vehicle. Feel the adrenaline rush as you navigate through the dunes.
Stop for lunch at a picturesque spot in the desert, enjoying traditional Berber cuisine. After lunch, indulge in sandboarding on the golden sands.
Return to your accommodation and unwind with a traditional Moroccan tea. Enjoy a bonfire night with locals sharing stories of the desert.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
- Scenic landscapes and proximity to the Sahara Desert.
- Less touristy compared to other Moroccan destinations, offering an authentic experience.
- Friendly local population and warm hospitality.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring traditional Berber villages.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities compared to larger cities.
- Access to some services and attractions may be challenging.
- Fewer dining and accommodation options.
- Extreme weather conditions, particularly in summer.
- Language barrier may be a concern for non-Arabic/French speakers.
Places to Visit in Foum Zguid
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque oasis surrounded by palm trees and stunning mountains, offering great opportunities for landscape photography and capturing traditional Moroccan life.
Known for its vibrant colors and traditional Berber architecture, the Taznakht Valley provides a striking backdrop for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
A UNESCO World Heritage site located a short drive from Foum Zguid, this ancient earthen fortified village is a stunning location for photography, particularly at golden hour.
The rugged terrain and dramatic landscapes of the Anti-Atlas Mountains create a spectacular setting for adventurous photographers looking for breathtaking views.
Vast stretches of desert landscape featuring unique rock formations and dunes, ideal for capturing sunrise and sunset shots with rich colors and shadows.
Food in Foum Zguid
Foum Zguid Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional slow-roasted lamb dish, seasoned with a blend of Moroccan spices. Perfectly tender and rich in flavor, Mechoui is often served at special occasions and family gatherings. You can savor this dish at local restaurants like Restaurant Ikniouen.
Must-Try!
A classic Moroccan dish cooked in a distinctive earthenware pot, combining succulent meats, vegetables, and a harmonious blend of spices. Must-try variations include lamb with prunes or chicken with preserved lemons. Savour de Sahara is a highly recommended spot to savour delicious Tajine dishes.
Widely enjoyed across Morocco, Couscous is traditionally served with a rich stew of meat and vegetables. The fine grains of couscous are steamed to fluffy perfection and make for a hearty and satisfying meal. You can find excellent Couscous at Café Restaurant Tissili.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Foum Zguid's weekly market offers a vibrant array of fresh produce, aromatic spices, and local specialties. Wander through the bustling stalls and sample a variety of street foods such as grilled kebabs, aromatic couscous, and hearty soups.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Foum Zguid, it is customary to greet people with a warm smile and the phrase 'Salam Alaykum' (Peace be upon you). Handshakes are common among men, while a light touching of the cheek is more appropriate between women or between men and women, depending on their relationship.
Dressing modestly is essential in Foum Zguid, especially for women. While the climate can be warm, it is advisable to wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the arms and legs to show respect for local customs.
Elders in the community are highly respected. It is polite to allow them to speak first in conversations and to show deference in social settings. Always stand when an elder enters the room and address them with appropriate titles.
Safety
Tipping in Foum Zguid
Ensure a smooth experience
In Foum Zguid, Morocco, tipping is a common practice, especially in the hospitality sector. It is customary to tip waitstaff, taxi drivers, and tour guides as a gesture of appreciation for good service. The amount varies but is generally around 10% of the total bill in restaurants. For other services, rounding up the payment or giving small change is also well-received.
Payment practices in Foum Zguid primarily involve cash transactions, as credit card usage is limited in this rural area. The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is the official currency, and travelers are advised to carry enough cash for daily expenses. Some establishments may accept cards, but it is safer to have cash available, particularly in local shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Foum Zguid. The weather is pleasant with mild temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The landscape blooms with wildflowers, creating beautiful scenery. It’s an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the surrounding areas.
Summer (June to August) can be extremely hot in Foum Zguid, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). While it’s a good time for early morning or late evening activities, visitors should be prepared for the heat. This season is great for those who enjoy the desert experience but may limit daytime outdoor activities.
Autumn (September to November) is another excellent time to visit. The temperatures begin to cool, ranging between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F), making it comfortable for exploring the area. The scenery will often be stunning with golden hues as the landscape transitions from summer.
Winter (December to February) can be quite chilly, especially at night, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). While daytime temperatures are mild, ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), visitors should be prepared for colder nights. This is a quieter season, offering a more tranquil experience with fewer tourists.
Foum Zguid at Night
Hiking in Foum Zguid
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning canyon located northeast of Foum Zguid, known for its towering cliffs and beautiful landscapes, with various hiking trails suitable for all experience levels.
A protected area near Foum Zguid, offering diverse ecosystems and hiking opportunities amidst its stunning desert landscapes and unique wildlife.
The second highest peak in the Atlas Mountains, located to the north of Foum Zguid, which provides challenging hikes with breathtaking views.
Situated deeper into the Draa Valley, this area offers scenic hikes through the desert and along the river, showcasing traditional Berber villages.
A mountain range south of Foum Zguid featuring unique volcanic formations and various trails to explore the rugged, unspoiled landscape.
Aiports
How to reach Foum Zguid by plane.
Located approximately 150 km northwest of Foum Zguid, Marrakech Menara Airport is a major international airport serving the city of Marrakech and the surrounding region.
Agadir–Al Massira Airport is about 230 km west of Foum Zguid, serving the coastal city of Agadir and surrounding areas.
Approximately 130 km northeast of Foum Zguid, Ouarzazate Airport primarily serves domestic flights and some international flights.
Located about 570 km north of Foum Zguid, this is the largest international airport in Morocco, handling numerous international flights.
Around 150 km north of Foum Zguid, Benguerir Airport serves mainly as a domestic airport with some international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous people of Morocco, Berbers are a significant demographic group in Foum Zguid, known for their rich culture and traditions.
Arabs are another major demographic group in Foum Zguid, contributing to the linguistic and cultural diversity of the region.
A smaller group in the region, Saharawis have cultural ties to the larger Saharan populations and often influence local social dynamics.
This group includes migrant communities from various sub-Saharan countries, adding to the multicultural fabric of Foum Zguid.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Foum Zguid, played by both men and women, and is a central part of community life.
Basketball is widely played among the youth, with local courts often filled with enthusiastic players.
Athletics, including running and track events, is popular, especially among schools and youth organizations.
Volleyball is a popular team sport in Foum Zguid, often played in community gatherings and schools.
Camel racing is a traditional and culturally significant activity in the region, attracting local spectators and participants.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Foum Zguid.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Moroccan cuisine heavily features meat, many restaurants in Foum Zguid provide vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Dishes like vegetable tagines, stuffed peppers, and flavorful salads offer delightful options for vegetarians and vegans.
Individuals with gluten restrictions can enjoy gluten-free couscous, grilled meats, fresh seafood, and rice-based dishes at accommodating restaurants such as Restaurant Saharaoui and Café Restaurant Bab Sahare.