Things To Do
in Touama

Touama is a small village located in the northeastern region of Morocco, near the Atlas Mountains. It is known for its scenic landscapes and traditional Berber architecture. The village has a close-knit community where agriculture and craftsmanship are the main livelihoods.

Visitors can experience authentic Moroccan culture and hospitality in Touama.

  • "Salam" - Hello
  • "Shukran" - Thank you
  • "La shukran aala wajib" - No thanks, it's my duty
  • "Bslama" - Goodbye
  • "Kif halak?" - How are you?

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
  • Coffee: $1 - $3
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Adventure in Touama
morning
:

Start your day with a hike in the picturesque Atlas Mountains. Enjoy the fresh air and stunning views before heading back to town.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local couscous restaurant and enjoy traditional Moroccan flavors. Afterwards, visit local artisans to shop for unique handcrafted souvenirs.

evening
:

Relax in a nearby café with traditional mint tea. Engage in conversations with locals and share stories of your adventures.

day 2
Cultural Discoveries
morning
:

Explore the villages around Touama, interacting with the friendly locals. Discover their customs and witness their daily lifestyles.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum to learn about the history and culture of the area. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant.

evening
:

Attend a folkloric music show to experience the rich Moroccan culture. Savor a traditional dinner with live music at a local venue.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful landscapes and proximity to the Atlas Mountains.
  • Friendly local communities and hospitality.
  • Culinary delights featuring traditional Moroccan cuisine.
  • Relatively low cost of living compared to larger cities.
  • Limited access to modern amenities and healthcare facilities.
  • Infrequent public transportation options.
  • Economic opportunities may be limited.
  • Potential language barriers, especially for non-Arabic speakers.
  • Hot summers can be challenging for those not accustomed to the climate.

Best Activities in Touama

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking in the Atlas Mountains

Explore the scenic trails and breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains, which are close to Touama. Ideal for all skill levels, ranging from gentle walks to challenging hikes.

Visiting Berber Villages

Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting nearby Berber villages, where you can learn about traditional practices and crafts.

Cycling Tours

Join a cycling tour to explore the beautiful landscapes around Touama, offering a mix of rural roads, hills, and stunning scenery.

Bird Watching

Touama and its surroundings are home to a variety of bird species. Bring your binoculars and enjoy a day of bird watching in this beautiful region.

Camping

Pitch a tent in the great outdoors and enjoy a night under the stars in the natural beauty surrounding Touama.

Horse Riding

Engage in horseback riding experiences through the scenic landscapes of Morocco, offering guided rides suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.

Exploring Local Markets

Visit local markets to experience Moroccan culture, where you can find handmade crafts, spices, and local produce.

Tours

Uncover the best of Touama with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Touama

Visit one of these nice places.

Mount Toubkal

The highest peak in North Africa offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Atlas Mountains and valleys, perfect for photography at sunrise or sunset.

Imlil Valley

This picturesque valley provides stunning panoramas of lush green landscapes and majestic mountains, ideal for capturing the beauty of rural Morocco.

Ait Benhaddou

This UNESCO World Heritage site features ancient mud-brick buildings and dramatic landscapes, making it a perfect backdrop for unique photographs.

Ouzoud Waterfalls

One of the tallest waterfalls in Morocco, the cascading waters amidst a stunning natural setting create excellent photo opportunities.

Lake Takerkoust

A beautiful lake surrounded by mountains that offers reflective water views, particularly stunning at dusk.

Agafay Desert

Just outside Marrakech, this desert landscape is known for its stunning sunsets and vast horizons, perfect for capturing the essence of Morocco’s scenery.

Ourika Valley

Scenic vistas and traditional Berber villages provide a beautiful backdrop for photography, especially along the riverbanks and in the mountains.

Toubkal National Park

Home to rich flora and fauna, this national park features stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and valleys that are great for outdoor photography.

Food in Touama

Touama, Morocco, offers a delightful culinary experience blending traditional Berber, Arab, and Mediterranean influences. The local cuisine is characterized by aromatic spices, colorful ingredients, and hearty flavors.

Touama Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tagine

A classic Moroccan dish cooked in a special earthenware pot, featuring tender meat or vegetables flavored with a blend of spices and served with couscous.

Must-Try!

Pastilla

A savory-sweet pastry made with layers of thin dough filled with pigeon or chicken, almonds, and eggs, then dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon.

Harira

A hearty, spiced soup made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and lamb, often enjoyed during Ramadan and as a comforting meal throughout the year.

Mint Tea

A ubiquitous part of Moroccan social life, this sweet and fragrant green tea is served in ornate glasses, symbolizing hospitality and friendship.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Touama better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Touama Market

Explore the bustling market where local vendors offer a vibrant array of fresh produce, aromatic spices, and traditional snacks like msemen, grilled meats, and dried fruits.

Sidi Bibi Square

Indulge in the lively street food scene in this square, where sizzling skewers of kebabs, steaming bowls of snail soup, and delectable honey-drenched desserts tempt the taste buds.

Weather

Located in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, the climate in the region exhibits a Mediterranean influence with various local characteristics. Summers tend to be hot and dry, with daytime temperatures often reaching the high 30s °C (over 100 °F). Nights can be cooler, providing some relief from the daytime heat. Winters are mild to cool, with temperatures generally ranging from 5 °C to 15 °C (41 °F to 59 °F). Rainfall primarily occurs during the winter months, with the wettest periods typically between November and March. The region can receive moderate precipitation, which supports local agriculture. Overall, the climate is characterized by warm summer days, cool evenings, and a distinct wet season, making it suitable for various agricultural practices. The proximity to the mountains also influences local microclimates, adding variability to the weather patterns in the area.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

When meeting someone, a common greeting is 'Salam Alaikum' (peace be upon you). Handshakes are common, but be mindful that some women may prefer not to shake hands with men. It's respectful to wait for cues from others regarding physical contact.

Dress Modestly

Touama, like many parts of Morocco, has a conservative culture. It’s important to dress modestly, especially in rural areas. Women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees, while men should also avoid overly casual attire in public.

Dining Etiquette

When dining with locals, it's customary to use your right hand to eat and to wait for the host to invite you to begin. If you're offered food, it’s polite to accept, even if you’re not very hungry, as declining can be seen as disrespectful.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Touama with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in this region can generally be regarded as moderate, with considerations that apply to many rural or small-town areas in Morocco. Visitors may find it to be a relatively safe place, but like anywhere, it’s important to stay alert and take basic precautions. Crime rates are lower in rural areas compared to urban centers. Petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, especially in more populated areas or markets, so it's wise to keep personal belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings. Travelers should also be mindful of cultural customs and local laws. Dressing modestly and respecting local traditions can help avoid unnecessary attention and promote positive interactions with the community. Public transportation may not always be as frequent or reliable, so planning ahead is key. Roads can be in various conditions, and while driving, a cautious approach is recommended due to varying traffic behaviors and the potential for livestock on the roads. Health facilities may be limited, so it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical needs. Additionally, staying hydrated and taking precautions against sun exposure is important, given the climate. Overall, maintaining common sense and good travel practices will contribute to a safe and enjoyable experience in the region.

Tipping in Touama

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Touama, Morocco, tipping is a common practice, particularly in the hospitality and service industries. It is customary to leave a small tip for restaurant staff, taxi drivers, and hotel personnel. The amount typically ranges from 5% to 10% of the total bill, but rounding up to the nearest dirham or leaving small change is also appreciated. Tipping is seen as a way to show gratitude for good service.

Payment

Payment methods in Touama can vary, with cash being the most widely accepted form. Moroccan dirhams (MAD) are the principal currency. While some larger establishments and hotels may accept credit and debit cards, many local shops and markets operate on a cash-only basis. Visitors are advised to carry enough cash for smaller purchases and to ensure they use local ATMs for withdrawing money when needed.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Touama.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

From March to May, spring in Touama offers mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the countryside.

Summer

June to August is typically hot in Touama, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). While it may be too hot for some, summer is perfect for enjoying local festivals and evening activities.

Autumn

September to November sees cooler temperatures and a reduction in tourist crowds. Autumn is ideal for hiking and experiencing the harvest season in the surrounding areas.

Winter

December to February can be quite chilly with temperatures dropping at night. However, this season is perfect for those looking to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the region.

Touama at Night

In this small village located in the Ait Ourir region, nightlife is typically low-key and centered around local culture and community. The evenings often feature gatherings among residents, where families and friends come together to enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine and share stories. Street vendors might serve up snacks like grilled kebabs, fried pastries, and tea, creating a warm atmosphere filled with laughter and conversation. Music can sometimes be heard from local homes, where people might gather to celebrate special occasions or simply enjoy their evenings together. For those seeking more entertainment, it's common to find cafés where locals unwind, sipping mint tea or coffee while discussing the day. The nightlife is more about community bonding and less about bars or clubs, leading to a vibrant yet relaxed experience that highlights the values of hospitality and friendship inherent to Moroccan culture. The natural beauty of the surroundings, with the Atlas Mountains nearby, also invites evening strolls, allowing visitors to enjoy the serene atmosphere under the stars. The pace here allows for deep connections and appreciation of the simple pleasures of life.

Hiking in Touama

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Toubkal National Park

Home to North Africa's highest peak, Mount Toubkal, this national park offers breathtaking landscapes and a variety of hiking trails suitable for all levels.

Oukaïmeden

A popular ski resort in the winter, Oukaïmeden also provides hiking opportunities in the warmer months, featuring stunning views of the Atlas Mountains.

Imlil Valley

A picturesque valley that serves as a starting point for many treks into the High Atlas, known for its charming Berber villages and scenic vistas.

Ait Bouguemez Valley

Often referred to as the 'Happy Valley', it offers beautiful hiking trails through fertile landscapes and traditional villages.

Ourika Valley

Located near Marrakesh, the Ourika Valley offers lush forests and waterfalls, making it a great destination for hiking enthusiasts.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Touama through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Touama by plane.

Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK)

Marrakech Menara Airport is the primary airport serving Marrakech, located approximately 50 km from Touama. It is an international airport with flights to various destinations in Europe and beyond.

Agadir-Al Massira Airport (AGA)

Agadir-Al Massira Airport is situated around 170 km from Touama. It serves the city of Agadir and offers international flights mainly to Europe.

Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport (CMN)

Located approximately 240 km from Touama, Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport is the largest airport in Morocco, serving numerous international destinations worldwide.

Fès–Saïs Airport (FEZ)

Fès–Saïs Airport is around 150 km from Touama. It serves the city of Fès and offers some international flights, mostly to Europe.

Walkability

Nestled in the picturesque Atlas Mountains, the village features narrow, winding streets that are typical of traditional Moroccan architecture. The landscape is marked by walking paths that connect various areas, allowing residents and visitors to easily navigate the community on foot. The pedestrian experience in this location is enhanced by a vibrant local culture, with small shops, cafes, and markets often situated within walking distance of homes. The terrain can be hilly and uneven in some parts, reflecting the natural geography of the region. However, the compact nature of the village encourages walking, providing opportunities to engage with the local environment and community. Sidewalks may not always be formalized, but the low traffic volume and presence of locals strolling through the area contribute to a sense of safety and community. Overall, the walkability in this region fosters a strong connection between its inhabitants and their surroundings, as people traverse through their day-to-day lives in this authentic Moroccan setting.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ait Hichem

A Berber ethnic group native to the region.

Arab settlers

Descendants of Arab tribes that migrated to Morocco.

Idrisians

Historical group associated with the Idrisid dynasty, influential in the area's history.

Immigrants from Sub-Saharan Africa

A growing demographic in the region, attracted by economic opportunities.

The Soul of Touama

Discover the essence of Touama through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Touama, drawing large crowds to local matches and fostering community spirit.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys a significant following among the youth in Touama, with many local courts available for play.

Athletics

Athletics, including running and track events, are popular, with local events organized to promote talent.

Handball

Handball is played widely in schools and local leagues, encouraging teamwork and competitive spirit.

Volleyball

Volleyball is a favorite recreational activity among many residents, often played on outdoor courts.

Traffic

The traffic in this region is generally characterized by a mix of rural and urban patterns. The roads can be narrow and winding, often reflecting the mountainous terrain. Vehicles range from personal cars to larger trucks that transport goods, particularly agricultural products, which are significant to the local economy. During peak hours, especially around local markets or schools, congestion can occur as residents commute to work or attend daily errands. The presence of pedestrians, animals, and cyclists adds to the complexity of traffic management. There may also be slower travel times due to the occasional road conditions or ongoing construction. Public transportation options such as shared taxis may be available, providing connections to larger cities, but they can also contribute to traffic flow and occasional bottlenecks. Overall, while the traffic is less intense compared to major urban centers, it can still pose challenges during busy times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Touama.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While meat plays a prominent role in many traditional dishes, several restaurants in Touama offer flavorful vegetarian tagines, couscous, and vegetable pastilla. Communicating dietary preferences clearly is advisable for a more tailored experience.

Gluten-Free Choices

Individuals with gluten sensitivities can enjoy naturally gluten-free options such as grilled meats, fresh salads, and rice-based dishes, with some eateries accommodating specific dietary requirements upon request.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Touama with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

Healthcare in the region includes a mix of public and private services, with accessible but varying levels of quality. The public healthcare system in Morocco is predominantly government-funded and is designed to offer basic healthcare services to the population. In more rural areas, like those surrounding Touama, healthcare facilities can be limited. These may consist of local health posts and dispensaries that provide essential services such as maternal care, vaccinations, and treatment for common illnesses. However, more specialized treatments often require travel to larger towns or cities where hospitals are better equipped. The Moroccan government has been working on improving healthcare access and quality through various health initiatives, focusing on expanding infrastructure and increasing the availability of medical staff. Despite these efforts, challenges such as limited resources, a shortage of healthcare professionals in rural areas, and disparities in health service access between urban and rural settings persist. Additionally, traditional medicine practices are common and often used alongside conventional medicine, reflecting the cultural beliefs of the local population. This blend of healthcare approaches highlights the community's unique relationship with health and wellness. Overall, while there are significant efforts to enhance healthcare delivery in the region, residents may still face challenges in accessing comprehensive and high-quality medical services.

Discover Morocco

Read more in our Morocco 2024 Travel Guide.

Morocco Travel Guide