Things To Do
in Zagora
Zagora is a town in southeastern Morocco, known for its desert landscapes and stunning sunsets. It serves as a gateway to the Sahara Desert and is a popular starting point for camel treks and desert tours. The town is characterized by its traditional mud-brick buildings and date palm trees lining the streets.
Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as the Draa Valley and Tinfou Dunes for a true desert experience.
- "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 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a sunrise camel ride in the desert, taking in the stunning vistas. Enjoy breakfast at your camp, featuring traditional Moroccan bread and mint tea.
Visit the nearby oasis and learn about the local flora and fauna. Engage with local Berbers and understand their way of life.
Return to your camp and enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars. Wind down with a fire and storytelling from your guides.
Stroll through the town of Zagora, browsing local shops for handmade craft items. Stop by the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere.
Visit the famous 'Timbuktu' sign for a memorable photo opportunity. Explore historical sites, including ancient kasbahs that tell the story of the region.
Dine at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Moroccan dishes. Enjoy the warm ambiance as you discuss your day's experiences.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning desert landscapes and proximity to the Sahara Desert.
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional Berber architecture.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, camel trekking, and star gazing.
- Less touristy compared to other Moroccan destinations, offering a more authentic experience.
- Pleasant climate, especially in spring and autumn.
- Limited access to modern amenities and services.
- Hot summers can be challenging for visitors not used to extreme heat.
- Fewer English-speaking locals, which might pose a communication barrier.
- Public transportation options may be limited, requiring more planning.
- Scarce nightlife and shopping opportunities compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Zagora
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the Sahara desert on a trekking adventure with experienced guides.
Experience a traditional mode of transportation and enjoy the scenic desert landscapes.
Slide down the sandy dunes on a board for an exhilarating experience.
Ride through the desert on a quad bike for an adrenaline-pumping excursion.
Tours
Uncover the best of Zagora with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Zagora
Visit one of these nice places.
Visit the historic village of Tamegroute and capture stunning views of the surrounding desert landscapes and the famous Tamegroute Library.
Hike or drive up Jbel Zagora for panoramic views of the city and the picturesque Draa Valley with its lush palm groves.
Travel to the nearby Ksar Ait-Ben-Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for iconic desert views and picturesque ancient buildings.
Food in Zagora
Zagora Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory stew of tender lamb, slow-cooked with apricots, almonds, and a blend of aromatic spices like saffron and cumin, creating a rich and hearty dish. A must-try when visiting Zagora.
Must-Try!
A traditional festive dish prepared with lamb, honey, almonds, and a palatable combination of spices, providing a sweet and savory flavor profile.
A delectable dish featuring shredded msemen (Moroccan flatbread), chicken, lentils, and a flavorsome broth, often served during special occasions.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Zagora better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the vibrant Zagora Souk, where local vendors offer a delightful array of street food such as savory pastilla (meat-filled pastry), grilled kebabs, and aromatic couscous, allowing visitors to savor authentic flavors as they wander through the bustling market.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When greeting someone in Zagora, it is customary to use a warm and friendly tone. Handshakes are common, but some people may prefer to touch their heart with their right hand as a gesture of respect.
Visitors to Zagora should dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Women are generally expected to cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid wearing shorts in public places.
It is important to respect local customs and traditions in Zagora. This includes asking for permission before taking photos of people, refraining from public displays of affection, and being mindful of Ramadan fasting and prayer times.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Zagora with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Zagora
Ensure a smooth experience
In Zagora, Morocco, tipping is a common practice in restaurants, cafes, and for service providers such as hotel staff and tour guides. It is customary to tip around 10% of the total bill, although this can vary based on the level of service received.
When it comes to payment practices in Zagora, Morocco, cash is the most widely used form of currency. However, larger establishments and hotels may also accept credit cards. It's important for visitors to have enough cash on hand, especially when venturing into more rural areas where electronic payment options may be limited.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Zagora.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Zagora, with warm weather, blooming flowers, and pleasant temperatures. It is also the time of the Tinfou dunes festival, showcasing local music and culture.
Another good time to visit Zagora, with comfortable temperatures and the date harvest season. The Oasis Festival in nearby Marrakech also occurs in September.
Summer can be very hot in Zagora, with temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F). It is advisable to stay hydrated and seek shade during this time.
Winter in Zagora can be chilly, especially at night. It's the low tourist season, but a good time for experiencing traditional Berber life and exploring the desert in cooler temperatures.
Zagora at Night
Hiking in Zagora
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located a few hours from Zagora, this park features the highest peak in North Africa, Jebel Toubkal, and offers a range of challenging hiking routes.
A stunning mountain range situated near Zagora, known for its unique volcanic landscapes and excellent trekking opportunities.
Famous for its palm groves and archaeological sites, this valley offers scenic hikes along the Draa River and through traditional Berber villages.
An impressive mountain region that offers various trails with views of landscapes and wildlife native to the area.
A beautiful hiking route that leads hikers from Zagora into the edge of the Sahara, providing an opportunity to experience the desert landscape.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Zagora through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Zagora by plane.
Located approximately 160 kilometers from Zagora, Marrakech Menara Airport serves both international and domestic flights with a wide range of destinations.
Situated around 120 kilometers from Zagora, Ouarzazate Airport operates mainly domestic flights but also offers some international services.
Located about 240 kilometers from Zagora, Agadir–Al Massira Airport is an international airport serving the Agadir region with flights to several European destinations.
Approximately 470 kilometers from Zagora, Fès–Saïs Airport provides both domestic and international flights, connecting with various major cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous people of the region, the Berbers form a significant part of the population in Zagora, with a rich cultural heritage and language.
Arabs make up another important demographic group in Zagora, particularly those who migrated to the area, contributing to the cultural and social landscape.
Sahrawis, or people from the Sahara region, have a presence in Zagora, with their own unique cultural identity and traditions.
A smaller community that has settled in Zagora, often known for their crafts and contributions to local trade.
This includes small populations of other ethnicities and nationalities that may have settled in the region for various reasons, including trade and tourism.
The Soul of Zagora
Discover the essence of Zagora through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Zagora, with many local teams and community support.
Basketball has a growing following, especially among the youth, with courts available in schools and neighborhoods.
Athletics, including running and track events, are popular, with local competitions held regularly.
Handball is played in various recreational leagues and is popular in schools.
Traditional Moroccan sports, such as horseback riding and archery, are also practiced, especially during festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zagora.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Moroccan cuisine prominently features meats, many restaurants in Zagora offer vegetarian tagines, couscous, and vegetable-based dishes, ensuring a variety of options for vegetarian and vegan visitors.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can savor gluten-free couscous made from alternative grains like maize or rice, and may also find restaurants accommodating gluten-free dietary needs with prior notice.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Zagora with these cultural adventures.
