Things To Do
in Zag
Zag is a small oasis town in southern Morocco, nestled among date palms and ochre-hued mud-brick kasbahs. Set along arid plains, it serves as a quiet gateway to the Sahara, offering a warm, unrushed pace and panoramic desert views. Visitors come for authentic Berber hospitality, traditional markets, and easy access to nearby dunes and valleys.
Seasonal temperatures can be extreme, so spring and autumn offer ideal conditions for exploring on foot or by camel.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Zag and settle into your accommodation. Take a moment to freshen up and enjoy a traditional Moroccan breakfast featuring fresh bread, olives, and mint tea. Stroll through the local markets to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and pick up some souvenirs.
Explore the nearby oasis, marveling at the palm trees and tranquil water sources that define the landscape. Engage with local artisans and learn about the traditional weaving and craftsmanship that Zag is known for. Enjoy lunch at a charming café, sampling local dishes like tagine or couscous.
As the sun sets, join a guided evening walk to take in the stunning views of the surrounding sand dunes. Savor a traditional dinner while listening to Moroccan music under a sky full of stars. Reflect on your day with friends or fellow travelers around a cozy fire.
Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the Sahara Desert, casting a golden glow on the dunes. After gathering your thoughts in this peaceful moment, enjoy breakfast at your lodging. Prepare for a day of adventure as you set out on a camel trek through the desert.
Ride deeper into the dunes, learning about Berber culture and the significance of this unique landscape. Pause at a scenic spot for a packed lunch while taking in the breathtaking views. Test your skills with sandboarding or simply relax in the serene desert ambiance.
Return to Zag and find a local restaurant for dinner, treating yourself to authentic Berber specialties. Join your fellow travelers for a traditional drum circle or storytelling session, immersing yourself in the local heritage. Wind down with a hot cup of mint tea as you share experiences from the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room | $25-40 |
| 🚗Rental car per day | $25-50 |
| 🛒Groceries or snacks | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and authentic Berber culture
- Accessible base for Sahara excursion and dune photography
- Limited nightlife and dining options after dark
- Can be very hot in summer and cold at night in winter
- "Salam alaykum" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "La shukran, la ba’s" - No thank you, I’m fine
- "Kam anta/anti?" - How much is this?
- "Ana muta’allim Darija" - I am learning Darija
Places to Visit in Zag
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light highlights the textured mud-brick walls and wind towers, making for moody desert portraits.
Rows of date palms and irrigation ditches create rhythmic lines and a tranquil setting.
Colorful stalls, textiles, spices and people in motion offer dynamic street photography moments.
Golden sand, long shadows, and a horizon that glows with the day's last light.
Narrow lanes with carved doors and hanging lanterns give intimate, human-scale compositions.
Food in Zag
Zag Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lamb slow-cooked with prunes and almonds, a sweet-savory classic often finished with preserved lemon.
Must-Try!
Steamed semolina topped with tender lamb and a braised vegetable mix, usually served with a rich broth on the side.
Herb-marinated chicken cooked with preserved lemons for a bright, aromatic flavor.
Moroccan flatbread pancakes served with honey and melted butter for a sweet treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market where you can sample dates, nuts, olives, spices, bread and seasonal produce; great for people-watching and photo opportunities.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hello or salam; shake hands, and use the right hand for giving and receiving items. Dress modestly; ask permission before photographing people.
Modest clothing is appreciated in public areas. Remove shoes when entering homes or some traditional spaces; avoid public displays of affection in conservative settings.
Safety
Tipping in Zag
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary for good service. In restaurants, leave 5-10% if a service charge isn’t included; small tips for guides and café staff (2-5 dirhams for short chats, more for longer services).
Cash in Moroccan dirhams is widely preferred. Some larger establishments may accept cards; keep small bills for tips and market purchases; use ATMs for local currency.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures are mild and landscapes are lush. A great time for outdoor walks, markets, and photography without the desert heat.
Desert heat is intense; plan activities for early morning or late afternoon and stay hydrated. Seek shade and wear sun protection.
Comfortable temperatures return; this is another ideal window for exploring on foot and taking long sunset shoots.
Nights can be cool, sometimes chilly; days are milder. Pack layers for cool mornings and evenings.
Zag at Night
Hiking in Zag
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic, easy-going trails along the river and palm groves with cultural villages.
Gentle to moderate hikes offering panoramic desert and mountain views.
Airports
How to reach Zag by plane.
Nearest airport with domestic connections; typically a short flight or longer drive from Zag.
Larger international airport; farther away but provides more flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant cultural group with Amazigh languages such as Tashelhit or Tamazight alongside Arabic influences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular sport among locals; informal games in public spaces and community leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zag.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Zag, vegetarian options include vegetable tagine, couscous with chickpeas and seasonal greens; ask for no meat stock and request olive oil or butter for flavor.