Things To Do
in Zaouiet Says
Zaouiet Says is a small rural town in Morocco characterized by a close-knit community, agricultural landscapes and traditional Moroccan architecture. The town acts as a quiet local hub for surrounding villages, where weekly markets and family-run businesses set the daily rhythm. Visitors will find a slower pace of life, friendly residents, and easy access to olive and argan groves as well as nearby hills.
Zaouiet Says is a good base for low-key cultural encounters and day trips into more touristed towns or natural areas nearby.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Zaouiet Says and settle into your accommodations, where you can enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding Atlas Mountains. Take a leisurely stroll around the village to absorb the unique rural atmosphere and cultural heritage. Meet some friendly locals who may share stories about their daily lives in this picturesque setting.
Savor a traditional Moroccan lunch at a local eatery, where you can sample authentic dishes like tagine and couscous. After lunch, embark on a guided walking tour of the village, discovering hidden gems such as local artisans and traditional markets. Engage with the artisans to learn about their crafts and perhaps buy a handmade souvenir.
As the sun sets, enjoy a tranquil evening while having dinner under the stars. Join a local family for a home-cooked meal, experiencing the warmth of Moroccan hospitality. Conclude the night by gathering around a fire for storytelling, immersing yourself in the rich oral traditions of the region.
After breakfast, set out for a thrilling day hike into the nearby Atlas Mountains. The exquisite landscapes and breathtaking views will leave you in awe as you navigate through valleys and hills. Equipped with a local guide, learn about the flora and fauna native to this stunning region.
Stop for a picnic lunch amidst the mountains, taking in the serene beauty of your surroundings. Continue your trek to explore hidden waterfalls or traditional Berber villages nestled in the hills. Capture memorable photos of the picturesque vistas and the charming architecture you encounter.
Return to Zaouiet Says, where you can freshen up before enjoying dinner at a local restaurant. Reflect on your day of adventure while indulging in delicious Moroccan cuisine. As night falls, consider a short walk to admire the stars illuminating the clear desert sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-10 |
| ☕Coffee or mint tea | $0.50-2 |
| 🚌Local bus or shared taxi (short trip) | $0.50-3 |
| 🧳Taxi or private transfer (short local ride) | $3-12 |
| 🏨Guesthouse / simple room per night | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Moroccan experience with friendly locals
- Low tourist density—quiet, relaxed atmosphere
- Good base for exploring nearby agricultural landscapes and small natural areas
- Affordable prices for food and lodging
- Limited tourist infrastructure and English signage
- Fewer dining and entertainment options at night
- Public transport and ATMs may be limited—reliant on nearby towns
- Medical facilities are basic; serious care requires travel to larger cities
- "Salam / Salam alaykum" - Hello / Peace be upon you
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Bslama" - Goodbye
- "Besh-hal?" - How are you? (Darija)
- "Lla y-khellik" - Please (polite request, Darija)
- "Kadeer taman?" - How much does it cost? (Darija)
- "Maa shukran, ma n-kolsh meat" - No thank you, I don't eat meat
Places to Visit in Zaouiet Says
Visit one of these nice places.
Vibrant scenes of daily life, colorful produce stalls and traditional architecture—best in the morning when vendors set up.
Photogenic geometric shapes, doorways and narrow lanes that capture traditional Moroccan townscapes.
Rural landscapes with gnarly trees, terraced fields and farming activity—great for golden-hour shots.
Short hikes yield panoramic views of the town, cultivated valleys and distant ranges—excellent at sunset.
Food in Zaouiet Says
Zaouiet Says Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked stew (meat or vegetables) with preserved lemon and olives; available at local family restaurants and home kitchens.
Must-Try!
Steamed semolina often served with vegetables and meat on Fridays or special occasions; commonly found at market eateries and family homes.
Hearty soup made with tomatoes, lentils and chickpeas, often eaten to break fast during Ramadan and sold at markets or cafés.
Flatbreads and pancakes commonly served at breakfast or as snacks with butter, honey or cheese from local vendors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Typical weekly market where villagers sell produce, olives, spices, bread and clothes; ideal for trying fresh olives, local cheeses and grilled skewers.
Small stalls near the main road serving brochettes (grilled meat skewers), sandwiches and tea—great for an inexpensive, authentic bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Modest dress is appreciated—cover shoulders and knees in public to respect local norms, especially for women.
Greet people with a friendly salam/bonjour and accept offers of tea or food when offered; it's polite to reciprocate warmth and small gestures.
Always ask permission before photographing people, particularly women. Many locals are happy to pose if asked respectfully.
Be mindful during prayer times and Ramadan; avoid loud behavior near mosques and observe local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Zaouiet Says
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; leave small change for café servers, 5–10% in restaurants if service is good, and a few dirhams for guides or helpers.
Cash (Moroccan dirham, MAD) is king in small towns—carry small bills and coins. ATMs are likely in larger nearby towns; some restaurants or guesthouses may accept cards but expect limited card acceptance locally.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
One of the best times to visit: mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers and productive farmland. Ideal for outdoor walks and market visits.
Can be hot and dry during the day, especially inland; mornings and evenings are more comfortable. Carry water, sun protection and plan activities for cooler hours.
Pleasant weather, harvest activity and fewer tourists. Good for cultural visits and exploring surrounding countryside.
Mild to cool days with cooler nights and occasional rain; nearby higher ground can be chilly. Some rural services may slow down in bad weather.
Daily life shifts—many shops open at different hours and some daytime eateries close; evenings become more lively after sunset prayers.
Zaouiet Says at Night
Hiking in Zaouiet Says
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, accessible hikes on nearby low hills offer panoramic views of the town, olive groves and countryside—suitable for half-day outings.
Gentle routes through argan and olive groves where you can observe traditional tree harvesting and local biodiversity.
Longer day trips to higher terrain in the regional ranges provide more challenging hiking, varied scenery and cooler temperatures; consider a guide if unfamiliar with the area.
Airports
How to reach Zaouiet Says by plane.
Major airport serving the Souss-Massa region with domestic and limited international flights; reachable by car or bus from nearby towns—useful gateway for international visitors.
Larger international airport with frequent flights; farther away but useful for more flight options and connections; accessible by road or intercity bus.
There may be smaller regional airstrips or seasonal charters in the wider region, but commercial service is limited—plan via Agadir or Marrakech for reliable connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Population is primarily local Amazigh and Arab families engaged in agriculture, small trade and crafts; multi-generational households are common.
Nearby villages converge on weekly markets, bringing a diverse mix of rural producers and traders from the region.
Many younger residents travel or move to larger towns for education and work, though they often return for family and festivals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport—local pickup games are common in open fields and schoolyards; community support for regional teams is strong.
Daily walking and informal running are common, with locals using village lanes and trails for exercise.
In rural Morocco, horse-related activities and traditional equestrian displays may appear at festivals or local celebrations.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zaouiet Says.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian dishes are common—vegetable tagines, lentil stews and couscous—but always confirm that broths are meat-free. Markets provide fresh produce for self-catering.
Possible but requires care: many dishes use butter or eggs; ask vendors to prepare vegetable-only dishes or order salads and bread with olive oil.
Most meat served will be halal by default; pork is uncommon in local menus. Religious dietary norms mean fewer surprises for Muslim visitors.
Bread, couscous and pastries are staples—gluten-free options are limited. Rely on grilled meats, salads and vegetable tagines, and communicate needs clearly.