Things To Do
in Kourimat

Kourimat is a quiet Moroccan town perched near the Atlantic plains, offering a gateway to coastal scenery and inland hills. Its surroundings blend Berber and Arab influences, with olive groves, argan trees, and simple, welcoming communities. Visitors encounter a slower tempo, authentic markets, and a backdrop of dramatic skies over agricultural terraces.

The area is a well-suited base for day trips to beaches, kasbahs, and hillside viewpoints away from larger tourist hubs.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Kourimat
morning
:

Arrive in Kourimat and settle into your quaint accommodation, where you can absorb the stunning views of the surrounding Atlas Mountains. After unpacking, enjoy a traditional Moroccan breakfast featuring fresh bread, olives, and mint tea. Take some time to stroll around the village and get a feel for the local culture.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby foothills and indulge in the natural beauty of the landscape. Perhaps visit a local artisan or handicraft shop to appreciate the craftsmanship of Moroccan goods. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café, sampling tagine or couscous, which are specialties of the area.

evening
:

As the sun sets, join a traditional Moroccan cooking class where you will learn the secrets of preparing local dishes. Share a meal with fellow travelers and locals alike, filled with laughter and stories. Conclude the night by sipping mint tea under the stars, listening to the tranquil sounds of nature.

day 2
Explore Ait Benhaddou
morning
:

Set off early to visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou, a stunning example of traditional mud-brick architecture. Wander through the ancient Kasbahs and enjoy the sweeping views of the surrounding gardens and mountains. Marvel at the intricate designs and historical significance of the structures that have withstood the test of time.

afternoon
:

After a guided tour, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant serving refreshing salads and savory tagines. Spend the afternoon wandering the village, speaking with local artisans, and perhaps purchasing a few handmade souvenirs. Explore the nearby riverbanks for a peaceful moment away from the crowds.

evening
:

Return to Kourimat as the sun casts a golden hue over the landscapes. Have dinner at your accommodation, savoring another local delicacy. In the evening, take a stroll through the village, embracing the serene environment and friendly smiles from the locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
🥗Three-course dinner at mid-range restaurant$15-25
🏨Budget hotel per night$25-40
🚕Taxi ride within town$3-7
🧭Local SIM card with data$5-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic, welcoming culture and slower pace of life
  • Close proximity to Atlantic coast and diverse landscapes
  • Limited nightlife and fewer tourist services in smaller towns
  • Travel between towns can require private transportation or longer bus routes
  • "Salam alaykum" - Hello
  • "Shukran" - Thank you
  • "Kam l-thaman?" - What is the price?
  • "La shukran" - No, thank you
  • "Fin l-makan?" - Where is this place?

Places to Visit in Kourimat

Visit one of these nice places.

Atlantic Coastline Viewpoint near Kourimat

Open panoramic spot ideal for sunrise silhouettes and sea-expanse photography.

Old Kasbah Ruins

Weathered adobe walls and earthen textures that glow in golden hour light.

Argan Grove Road

Scenic drive through groves with backlit trees and atmospheric mist in the mornings.

Harbor-side Cafés

Nautical scenes, boats, and daily life at the small harbor; great for candid shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kourimat

Moroccan cuisine in and around Kourimat emphasizes fresh vegetables, olive oil, seafood when near the coast, and slow-cooked tagines. Expect flavorful, hearty dishes built on simple, locally sourced ingredients and bold regional spices.

Kourimat Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tagine d'agneau aux pruneaux

Slow-cooked lamb with prunes and almonds, finished with cinnamon and saffron; a hearty, aromatically layered dish.

Must-Try!

Couscous aux légumes

Steamed couscous served with a medley of seasonal vegetables and chickpeas, often accompanied by a light broth.

Poisson grillé à la chermoula

Fresh fish marinated in chermoula (garlic, herbs, and spices) and grilled, typically served with lemon and bread.

Harira

Tomato-based soup with lentils and chickpeas, commonly enjoyed as a comforting starter or light meal.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché Central de Kourimat

Daily market offering fresh produce, olives, spices, bread, and ready-to-eat snacks; great for a quick, local bite.

Street food stalls

Msemen (savory or sweet flatbread), grilled sardines, and small fried snacks commonly found near the harbor during peak hours.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kourimat experiences a Mediterranean-influenced climate moderated by the Atlantic: mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers with sea breezes buffering inland heat.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a smile and a handshake; use 'Salam alaykum' when addressing others.

Dress modestly

Respectful attire is advised, especially in rural areas and religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered.

Photography consent

Ask for permission before photographing people and private homes; some spaces may prohibit photography.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of petty crime in crowded markets and around tourist sites; keep valuables secure and use licensed taxis. For medical needs, rely on local clinics or travel to larger towns for more comprehensive care; carry travel insurance and a basic first aid kit.

Tipping in Kourimat

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5–10% in restaurants if service charge isn’t included.

Payment Methods

Cash in Moroccan dirhams (MAD) is common; some hotels and larger establishments may accept credit cards, but rural venues often do not.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (Mar–May)

Mild temperatures and blooming olive groves; ideal for markets, hiking, and outdoor photography.

Summer (Jun–Aug)

Hot and dry inland; cooler evenings by the coast due to sea breeze; stay hydrated and use sunscreen.

Autumn (Sep–Nov)

Warm days with cooler nights; harvest festivals in nearby towns and comfortable hiking conditions.

Winter (Dec–Feb)

Milder coastal climate with occasional rain; layer clothing and plan indoor activities for wet days.

Nightlife Guide

Kourimat at Night

The nightlife in Kourimat is low-key, centered on local cafés and family gatherings rather than clubs. Evenings typically revolve around tea, conversation, and shared meals at community spaces or seaside venues.

Hiking in Kourimat

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Anti-Atlas foothills hike (nearby)

Scenic trails offering terraces, villages, and panoramic views; suitable for day hikes.

Coastal cliff walk

Easy to moderate walk along sea cliffs with ocean views; check tides and weather.

Airports

How to reach Kourimat by plane.

Essaouira–Mogador Airport (ESU)

Convenient entry from Europe; approximately 3–4 hours by road from Kourimat depending on route.

Agadir Al Massira Airport (AGA)

Larger international hub with regular connections; about 3–4 hours by car.

Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK)

Major international gateway; longer drive but broad flight options.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kourimat is walkable within the town center, with markets and kasbahs; for longer trips or coastal routes, a car or taxi is convenient.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Berber/Amazigh communities

A significant presence with Tamazight-speaking communities alongside Arab populations.

Farmers and fishermen families

Much daily life revolves around agriculture and fishing, with social life centered on family and community events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The dominant sport across towns; local matches and informal games are common.

Basketball

Played in schools and community centers; informal leagues exist in larger towns.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light to moderate; narrow streets in town can slow movement, and public transport options are limited outside urban centers. Licensed taxis or private car hires are common for longer trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kourimat.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Look for vegetable tagines or couscous with extra vegetables; ask for dishes without meat or fish and verify no animal-based broths are used.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available in local clinics for minor issues; for more serious care, plan to travel to larger towns like Guelmim or Agadir where hospitals and specialists exist.

Discover Morocco

Read more in our Morocco 2025 Travel Guide.

Morocco Travel Guide