Things To Do
in Tahannawt
Tahannawt is a small Berber village set in the Atlas foothills just outside Marrakech. Its clay and stone houses climb the hillside, with terraced fields rolling toward olive groves and almond orchards. The town serves as a quiet base for exploring the Atlas, offering friendly locals, simple guesthouses, and a relaxed pace of life.
Visitors come for scenic drives, markets, and hearty Moroccan meals that showcase local hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Marrakech Menara Airport and take a scenic drive to Tahannawt. Enjoy the beautiful views of the Atlas Mountains along the way, providing a perfect introduction to the region. Check into your accommodation and take a moment to relax and freshen up after your journey.
Explore the charming village of Tahannawt, visiting local artisan shops and markets. Engage with the friendly locals, who are often eager to share stories about their culture. Savor a traditional Moroccan lunch in a local eatery, sampling tagine or couscous.
Unwind at your accommodation or enjoy the tranquility of the Berber mountains. As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely walk through the village and witness the evening lights. Dine under the stars, enjoying Moroccan tea and sweet pastries.
Travel to the Ourika Valley, famous for its beautiful landscapes and traditional Berber villages. Enjoy a guided hike along the lush riverbanks, with a chance to see waterfalls and vibrant greenery. Refresh yourself with a picnic breakfast surrounded by nature.
Visit local markets in the valley, where you can interact with artisans and purchase handmade crafts. Experience a traditional meal at a Berber home for lunch, where hospitality is key. Explore the valley’s botanical garden and learn about local medicinal plants.
Return to Tahannawt and enjoy the serene evening atmosphere. Take in the panoramic views of the mountains as the day’s activities come to a close. Share stories with fellow travelers over dinner, while enjoying Moroccan music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🥘Three-course dinner for two | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible Atlas scenery within a short drive from Marrakech
- Warm Berber hospitality and authentic local cuisine
- Limited nightlife and fewer Western-style amenities
- Can be hot in summer and chilly at night in shoulder seasons
- "Salam" - Hello/Peace
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afak" - Please
- "La bas?" - Are you well?/How are you?
- "Kayn wahd?" - Is there...?/Do you have...
- "Ana min Morocco" - I am from Morocco
Places to Visit in Tahannawt
Visit one of these nice places.
Scenic overlooks where terraced fields meet the jagged silhouettes of the Atlas mountains, ideal for sunrise or golden-hour shots.
Narrow lanes with mud-brick walls, carved wooden doors, and colorful textiles, perfect for candid street photography.
Stepped landscapes that descend toward valleys, offering leading lines and dramatic lighting in late afternoon.
Interior spaces and market stalls where artisans weave, pottery, and dye fabrics—great for capturing hands-on process photography.
Vibrant shelves of saffron, paprika, cumin, and dried fruits—rich colors and textures for close-ups.
Food in Tahannawt
Tahannawt Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory-sweet slow-cooked tagine combining tender lamb, prunes, almonds, and warming spices; best enjoyed with crusty bread.
Must-Try!
Fluffy couscous topped with a colorful mix of vegetables, chickpeas, and a light saffron broth.
Classic tangy tagine featuring chicken, preserved lemons, olives, cumin, and ginger.
FlakyMoroccan pancakes served with honey or butter, ideal for breakfast or tea-time.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh produce, olives, spices, bread, and handmade crafts. Try olives, grilled flatbreads, and sweet pastries from the stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Salam' or 'Bonjour'; handshakes are common, and some people may greet with a kiss on both cheeks among friends. Address elders and women with respect and patience.
Dress modestly in public; shoulders and knees should be covered. Ask before taking photos of people, especially in private settings.
Public displays of affection are discouraged. When visiting homes, remove shoes if asked and follow the host's lead on meals and seating.
Safety
Tipping in Tahannawt
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, consider 5-10% for good service; for guides or drivers, 10-15% depending on effort.
Cash in Moroccan dirhams is widely accepted. Some larger establishments may take cards; ATMs are available in towns nearby. Always carry small bills for tips and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry days with cooler evenings. Start activities early to avoid heat; carry water, wear sun protection, and plan for shade during midday.
Pleasant temperatures with less intense heat; good for longer outdoor walks and photography; occasional misty mornings.
Cool to cold nights; higher elevations may see light snow. Pack layers, a warm jacket, and be prepared for slower trails.
Lush landscapes and blooming flowers; ideal for hikes and market strolls; occasional showers create lush scenery.
Tahannawt at Night
Hiking in Tahannawt
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular multi-day or one-day trek from Imlil into the Atlas, offering high mountain scenery and village life.
Gentle to moderate hikes through olive groves, streams, and dramatic valley views, suitable for day trips.
Scenic high-mountain routes with panoramas of the surrounding range and easy-to-access viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Tahannawt by plane.
Main international gateway to the region; about a 30–60 minute drive to Tahannawt depending on traffic and route.
Major hub with many international connections; typically a longer transfer to the Marrakech region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant in the village, with Berber languages and strong family networks.
Present in the wider region, contributing to a diverse cultural mix.
A small number of visitors and seasonal workers who come for trekking, photography, and agriculture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Morocco, widely played at schools, clubs, and in communal spaces.
Common in urban centers and community centers; often played in local courts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tahannawt.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in Tahannawt. Ask for vegetable tagines, couscous with vegetables, and breads cooked with olive oil. Request no meat stock or animal-based fats if needed.