Things To Do
in Taounate
Taounate is a small Moroccan town in the northern Rif region, set in a green valley and surrounded by olive groves and orchards. The city serves as a friendly market town with a lively souk, traditional crafts, and hillside views. Its culture blends Berber and Arab influences, reflected in everyday life, food, and music.
Visitors can base themselves here to explore rural villages, scenic valleys, and local hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Taounate and settle into your accommodations. Enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring local Moroccan specialties like bread and olives. Take your time to refresh and acclimate to the beautiful surroundings of the Rif Mountains.
Embark on a guided tour to explore the medina and enjoy the intricate architecture and bustling local markets. Pause for lunch at a traditional restaurant, sampling tagine and local herbs. Spend the midday visiting artisan shops where you can witness and purchase handmade crafts.
As the sun sets, find a cozy café to sip on mint tea and people-watch in the vibrant town square. Participate in a local cultural show featuring traditional music and dance. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the serene streets, admiring the night sky blanketed with stars.
After an early breakfast, head to the Rif Mountains for a guided hiking adventure. Enjoy the breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna as you traverse the well-worn paths. Stop at a lookout point for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the fresh mountain air, surrounded by nature. Afterward, continue your hike, exploring hidden valleys and perhaps discovering local wildlife. As you hike down, reflect on the beauty of the Moroccan outdoors.
Return to Taounate and refresh yourself before heading out for dinner. Dive into a true Moroccan feast featuring local dishes and seasonal ingredients. Engage with fellow travelers or locals, sharing experiences and stories from the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🚎Local bus fare | $0.5-2 |
| 🧺Groceries (basic essentials) | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-50 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $0.5-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich in culture and friendly people
- Great base for rural and nature experiences
- Limited nightlife and modern amenities in some areas
- Language barriers in remote spots
- "Salam alaykum" - Hello (peace be upon you)
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "La afak, smaH li" - Excuse me, please
- "Bsh hal?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Taounate
Visit one of these nice places.
Scenic riverside with farmers, palm groves, and golden hour light.
Narrow lanes with whitewashed walls, blue doors, and daily life in action.
Ridge vantage points offering sweeping valley panoramas.
Food in Taounate
Taounate Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked tagine with tender meat, tangy olives, and bright preserved lemon.
Must-Try!
Steamed semolina served with a colorful mix of vegetables and chickpeas.
A nourishing tomato-lentil soup often enjoyed with dates and bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, olives, spices, breads, and street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake; women should wait for men to initiate. Dress modestly in conservative areas.
Safety
Tipping in Taounate
Ensure a smooth experience
Leave small tips for waiters (roughly 5-10%), guides, and hotel staff. Cash is widely used; many places may not accept credit cards in smaller towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry; carry water, hats, and sunscreen; some trails may be exposed.
Mild to cool; some showers; bring warm layers and a light rain jacket.
Cool mornings with blooming almond and olive trees; ideal for walking.
Harvest season; pleasant temperatures, less crowded.
Taounate at Night
Hiking in Taounate
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Valley routes along the Sebou River with olive groves and farmlands.
Easy to moderate ridge walks with panoramic views of the plains and mountains.
Airports
How to reach Taounate by plane.
Nearest major airport to Taounate, with domestic connections and some international flights.
Regional airport serving domestic and limited international routes; longer drive from Taounate.
Northern airport with international connections; farther but accessible by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Amazigh (Berber) population with strong cultural traditions.
A blend of Arab and Amazigh populations contributing to local culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular sport; local teams and informal matches in towns and parks.
Common in schools and community centers; casual games in towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Taounate.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include tagines with vegetables, chickpeas, lentils, and salads; ask for no meat or fish stock; speak Darija or French.