Things To Do
in Targuist
Targuist is a small coastal town in northern Morocco along the Rif region, known for its Atlantic beaches and friendly markets. The streets mix Moorish architecture with Berber influences, revealing a quiet rhythm of life. The town serves as a gateway to the Rif hinterlands and nearby fishing ports, offering seafood, crafts, and scenic seaside views.
Visitors can explore old medina lanes, watch fishermen at work, and enjoy sunsets over the Atlantic.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional Moroccan breakfast at a local café, featuring fresh bread, olives, and mint tea. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the village to observe the beautiful architecture and vibrant colors of the landscape. As the sun rises higher, visit the local market to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of daily life.
After lunch, embark on a guided hike in the nearby Rif Mountains, where you can witness breathtaking views and discover hidden waterfalls. Spend time learning about the local flora and fauna, guided by a knowledgeable local who shares stories about the region’s history. End your hike with a visit to a Berber village, experiencing the warm hospitality of its residents.
In the evening, return to Targuist and enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, savoring dishes like tagine and couscous. After your meal, join a cultural performance featuring traditional music and dance, engaging with locals who share their stories and customs. As the night falls, take a quiet walk under the stars, reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Begin your morning at a local artisan workshop where skilled craftsmen create beautiful pottery and rugs, offering you a hands-on experience in traditional Moroccan crafts. Enjoy a brief lesson on the techniques and artistry behind each piece, appreciating the rich cultural heritage of Targuist. Shop for unique souvenirs to take home, supporting the local artisans directly.
Visit the Targuist Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region, with exhibits showcasing local artifacts and lifestyles. Following your museum visit, enjoy lunch at a nearby café, where you can taste Moroccan specialties while mingling with locals. Spend the afternoon wandering through Targuist, discovering hidden gems such as street art and small parks.
Gather for a communal dinner with a local family, allowing you to experience authentic Moroccan hospitality. Engage in stimulating conversations about culture and daily life, and learn how to prepare traditional dishes together. End the evening by sipping on mint tea while enjoying traditional storytelling around a warm fire.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $25-45 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short trip) | $2-8 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful Atlantic coastline and fresh seafood
- Friendly, relaxed atmosphere and welcoming locals
- Good value for money in a less-touristy setting
- Gateway access to Rif mountains and coastal hikes
- Limited large-scale nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Smaller town amenities compared to bigger cities
- Getting around may require patience and local taxis
- Language barriers can exist outside tourist spots
- "Salam alaykum" - Hello / Peace be upon you
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "La shukran" - No thank you
- "Kam l-thaman?" - How much is this?
- "Bniyya mzzya?" - Do you have vegetarian options?
Places to Visit in Targuist
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over nets and boats as fishermen prepare for the day.
Old fortress walls with sea views and whitewashed rooftops.
Narrow paths with colorful doors, pottery, and daily life scenes.
Dramatic coastline with waves crashing against basalt cliffs.
Food in Targuist
Targuist Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy, slow-cooked tagine with fish, tomatoes, peppers, and preserved lemon; best ordered at coastal restaurants.
Must-Try!
Fresh fish marinated in a herby, lemony Chermoula and grilled, often served with bread and salad.
Classic Moroccan couscous topped with a rich vegetable mix; a staple for gatherings.
Tomato-lentil soup with chickpeas and herbs; a comforting starter at most eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seafood stalls, fresh produce, and small eateries; ideal for sampling grilled fish and olives.
Morning stalls selling the day’s catch; try grilled sardines and shrimp skewers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Modest dress in public spaces; avoid loud behavior in sacred places; greet with polite phrases.
A handshake is common; use the right hand and address elders with respect.
Bargaining is customary; be patient and friendly; cash is frequently used.
Safety
Tipping in Targuist
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. For taxi rides, round up to the nearest small bill. In markets, tipping vendors is not required but appreciated for exceptional service.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry, hot days; sea breeze cools evenings; expect crowds at beaches; stay hydrated; sun protection.
Mild to cool temperatures; occasional rain; fewer crowds; comfortable for city walks and hikes.
Pleasant temperatures; blooming flora; ideal for outdoor markets and coastal hikes.
Warm days and cooler nights; good for exploring outdoors without peak heat.
Targuist at Night
Hiking in Targuist
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic day hike along the Rif coastal ridge with ocean views and pine forests.
Shaded trails through cedar and pine, with canyon viewpoints.
Challenging ascent offering panoramic views of the coast and inland valleys.
Airports
How to reach Targuist by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; drive or take a taxi to Targuist in about 60-90 minutes.
Coastal regional airport close to the Rif; check seasonal routes to major European cities.
A larger international hub in the area; connections to Europe and North Africa; longer drive but alternative option.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Amazigh and Arab heritage with bilingual Moslems; Tamazight and Arabic are common, French is often used in business.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local teams and casual pickup games are common in town squares.
Played in schools and local centers; occasional street games around parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Targuist.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for tagines with vegetables, salads, and couscous; many places offer meatless options; avoid meat by requesting no meat stock.