Things To Do
in Matmata
Matmata is a remote desert town famed for its troglodyte underground houses carved into the earth. Set amid pale hills and clear desert skies, the town has a stark beauty that invites slow exploration. Its Berber heritage informs architecture, cuisine, and daily life in enduring ways.
Visitors come to witness unique dwellings, learn about traditional ways of living, and enjoy expansive, tranquil desert scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in the quaint village of Matmata and check into your traditional troglodyte hotel. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with local bread and olives as you soak in the unique architecture around you. Explore the village and visit one of the famous Berber homes carved into the earth.
Take a guided tour to learn about the history and culture of the Berber people. Visit the Museum of Matmata, where you can see artifacts and exhibits related to the region. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling traditional dishes such as tagine.
Relax in your hotel's garden while watching the sunset over the desert. Dine under the stars, enjoying a traditional Moroccan meal that reflects the local flavors. Engage in storytelling with locals who share tales of their unique way of life.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before venturing out to explore more troglodyte homes. Witness the fascinating design and construction of these underground dwellings firsthand. Chat with the inhabitants and learn about their daily routines and customs.
After lunch, take a trek in the surrounding hills to appreciate the stunning desert landscape. You can discover ancient ruins and walk through the beautiful olive groves nearby. Stop for tea at a local café to break up your hike.
Return to Matmata and unwind with a traditional Berber music performance. Relish a dinner filled with local specialties and sweet mint tea. As the night unfolds, reflect on the day’s experiences under the vast desert sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🧿Local souvenir | $3-25 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $0.5-1 |
| 🛏One-night stay in budget hotel | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unique troglodyte architecture and landscape
- Quiet, uncrowded sites with authentic local culture
- Starlit desert skies and expansive horizons
- Accessible day trips that showcase Berber heritage
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Sparse public transport; reliance on taxis or rental car
- Heat in peak summer can be challenging
- Some English speakers may be limited in rural areas
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "La shukran" - No, thank you
- "Afak" - Please
- "Kam ath-thaman?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Matmata
Visit one of these nice places.
A vantage point above the underground homes offering cinematic views of the cave dwellings and surrounding hills.
Cavernous interiors and exterior rock formations known for their use as film locations; capture dramatic silhouettes at golden hour.
Open horizons with warm, low-angle light over the desert plateaus for vibrant color shifts.
Windswept ridges and pale rock textures provide strong geometric compositions after sunset.
Food in Matmata
Matmata Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fluffy semolina grains served with a fragrant vegetable stew, often featuring carrots, pumpkin, and chickpeas.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked lamb with sweet-prune accents, warm spices, and a hint of almonds; great with crusty bread.
A comforting vegetarian option with chickpeas, tomatoes, peppers, and cumin served over couscous.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market where you can see spices, olives, breads, and seasonal produce; try fresh fruit and pastries from street stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm verbal salam; use the right hand for handshakes and gestures, and avoid pointing with a finger.
Dress modestly in public spaces, especially in rural areas and religious sites; lightweight long sleeves and trousers are recommended.
Ask for permission before photographing people or private homes; some locals may prefer not to be photographed.
Safety
Tipping in Matmata
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary for good service. In cafes and restaurants, round up the bill or leave a small 5-10% tip for staff, guides, and drivers if service is good.
Cash in local currency is most widely accepted in rural areas. Some larger establishments may take cards, but carry enough cash for smaller venues and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild daytime temperatures with blooming landscape; great for trekking and photography. Pack layers and sun protection.
Very hot days with cool nights; plan early-morning activities and stay hydrated. Seek shade and wear light clothing.
Pleasant temperatures returning, clear skies, ideal for outdoor exploration and longer walks.
Cool days, chilly nights. Desert moisture is low; bring warm layers and a windbreaker for chilly winds.
Matmata at Night
Hiking in Matmata
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Circular route offering cave-dwelling views, rocky outcrops, and wide desert vistas.
A moderate hike along sandstone ridges with dramatic silhouettes at sunset.
Airports
How to reach Matmata by plane.
Regional airport serving Gabes; most practical starting point for visits from abroad via connecting flights.
Larger regional airport with more international connections; drive time to Matmata is longer but feasible.
Major international hub; may require a longer overland transfer but often offers more flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Amazigh and Arab residents with a strong Berber cultural heritage and local dialects influencing daily life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched across Morocco; local informal games can be found in towns and schools.
Traditional desert activity popular with visitors and regional tours.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Matmata.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable tagines, chickpea dishes, and couscous-based meals. Ask for no meat stock or clarify ingredients if unsure.