Morocco's Amazigh Heartland: The Essential Travel Guide to Tafraoute
- Malika
- Jun 14, 2024
- 8 min read
Updated: Aug 11
Tucked away in the spectacular Ameln Valley, Tafraoute is an enchanting town overlooking fertile fields dotted with date, almonds and argan trees. This remote oasis in the heart of Morocco's Anti-Atlas range is a hidden gem and surrounded on all sides by red-granite mountains that glow brilliantly at sunset.
Massive boulders in shades of deep red, orange and pink are scattered across the landscape, which provides endless opportunities for hiking and outdoor adventure.
With very few visitors making their way here, Tafraoute has a delightfully laidback and authentic atmosphere and offers a window into traditional Amazigh life. Stroll the unpaved streets, dine at the local eateries and soak in the incredible natural scenery that surrounds you at every turn.
Tafraoute contrasts dramatically to the bustling beach resort of Agadir (the nearest major city) and is well worth the detour from Morocco’s Atlantic coast.
In this Essential Travel Guide to Tafraoute, discover the top things to see and do in the town, as well as inspiring places to stay and the best time to visit.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best things to do in Tafraoute
Enjoy a scenic drive around the Ameln Valley
The natural beauty surrounding Tafraoute is astounding and a leisurely drive around the Ameln Valley is one of the best ways to experience it. Along the way, you'll pass through the villages of Oumesnat and Emintizket, where the traditional mud-brick architecture blends seamlessly into the ochre-coloured landscape. Stop to wander the winding alleyways and admire the homes decorated with geometric patterns.
Further on, the villages of Amtoudi and Ikouka feature unique rock formations sculpted over millennia by the elements. Perched atop many of the hills are granaries known as agadirs. Their sturdy stone walls stand as a testament to the ingenuity of the Amazigh people who built them centuries ago to store their foodstuffs.
Go shopping at the Tafraoute market
Every Wednesday, the streets of Tafraoute come alive with the sights and sounds of the local market. Merchants from across the region gather in the town centre to sell fresh produce, meats and artisan goods, including an array of handicrafts and souvenirs.
No trip to the Tafraoute market would be complete without sampling the local delicacy, amlou. This rich, nutty spread is a blend of almonds, argan oil and honey, creating a uniquely Moroccan flavour profile. I love amlou as a breakfast spread but it also makes for a delicious snack while hiking through the surrounding mountains.
Admire Les Roches Bleues
Among Tafraoute's most photogenic attractions are the "Blue Rocks" - massive boulders and outcroppings that have been transformed into a multicoloured work of art. In 1984, Belgian artist Jean Verame (known for his large-scale outdoor installations) arrived in Tafraoute and, together with a team of locals, undertook an ambitious project to paint these immense rock formations.
As you drive the winding road that leads from Tiznit to Tafraoute, this one-of-a-kind display suddenly comes into view. The bright blues, reds and yellows stand in stark contrast to the earthy tones of the surrounding mountainscape - you really can’t miss it!
Photograph La Tête du Lion
Etched into the side of Jebel Lkest is a natural formation known as "The Lion's Head". This striking geological feature, eroded over millennia, bears a striking resemblance to the head of a lion gazing over the landscape below. The sheer, curved "mane" of the lion's head is sculpted from the pale, weathered stone, while deep shadowed crevices and contours delineate the facial features.
La Tête du Lion can be seen near the exit of Tafraoute before the road climbs Tizi Mlil en route to Agadir. It’s best observed in the early afternoon when the shadows cast across the face of the rock clearly highlight the lion’s features.
Best things to do in Tafraoute
Explore Aït Mansour Gorge
Around 30 kilometres from Tafraoute is this magnificent oasis, which contrasts dramatically to the predominantly arid landscapes of the region. A palm-lined river winds its way through the ochre cliffs that rise up on either side, creating what feels like a Garden of Eden.
Beyond simply admiring the scenery, you can take a dip in Aït Mansour Gorge's refreshing waters or hike along one of the scenic trails that weave up into the surrounding mountains. Not to miss within the gorge is the village of Gdourt, famed for its adobe houses.
Visit La Maison Traditionelle
Near the town of Oumesmat stands La Maison Traditionelle, a guesthouse and museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the region’s Amazigh people. It is housed within the walls of a traditional Amazigh home that has been beautifully preserved to showcase the functionality of the dwellings.
From the intricate weavings that adorn the walls to the weathered tools and implements used in traditional crafts, every artefact on display reflects the lifestyle of the area’s Amazigh people. The museum's knowledgeable caretakers are usually on hand to share their insights into the local culture and the collections.
Relax at a local hammam
After a day out trekking in the Anti Atlas Mountains, there’s no better way to relax your muscles than by heading to a local hammam. Luckily, Tafraoute has several traditional bathhouses where you can partake in this centuries-old cultural ritual.
A favourite spot for locals and in-the-know travellers is the hammam that's tucked just behind Tafraoute’s market. Begin your experience by sweating out any toxins and impurities in the steam-filled chambers before indulging in a thorough scrub-down using black Moroccan soap. You’ll emerge from this experience feeling completely rejuvenated and cleaner than you’ve ever been before!
You can learn more about visiting a traditional Moroccan hammam and what to expect here.
Things to do in Tafraoute
Best tours to Tafraoute
Tafraoute is an ideal day trip destination from Agadir and can be combined with a visit to Tiznit (famed for its silver souks). Joining a guided tour is a wonderful way to experience the Anti Atlas Mountains and an area of Morocco that is off the radar of many tourists.
Both Viator and GetYourGuide are good resources for finding guided tours to Tafraoute, complete with reviews from previous travellers.
This full-day private tour from Agadir focuses on the Anti-Atlas Mountains, including the Amazigh settlement of Tafraoute and the fortified granaries at Imchiguegueln and Tizerkine. There's also time to wander through Tiznit and explore its silver souks.
Exploring the spectacular scenery of the Anti Atlas Mountains, this full-day trip from Agadir includes a private guide and can be customised to your interests. It includes a stop in Tiznit to visit its silver souks and time in Tafraoute, as well asn an (optional) lunch in the home of an Amazigh family.
How to get to Tafraoute
Tafraoute is located around 165 kilometres southeast of Agadir and Agadir Al-Massira International Airport, which has flights to destinations across Morocco and Europe. It’s just over 5 hours by bus or shared taxi and slightly less if you’re self-driving.
CTM operates one daily bus from Agadir to Tafraoute (via Tiznit), departing at 2 pm and arriving just after 7 pm. If you're travelling in the opposite direction, buses depart Tafraoute at 8 am and arrive in Agadir just before 1 pm. Bus tickets can be purchased directly with the bus companies or you can compare options at 12Go.
If you want the freedom to explore not only Tafroute but also the surrounding area, renting a car is the best way to do it. This will allow you to venture to the surrounding villages or combine your visit to Tafraoute with a stop in Tiznit. You can compare Agadir hire cars at Discover Cars to find the most competitive rates for your chosen dates.
While hiking is one of the most popular ways to experience the surrounding mountains, there are also several places in Tafraoute that rent bicycles. The road that connects Tafraoute with Tiznit is particularly wonderful to explore on two wheels, with spectacular views across the Anti Atlas along the way.
Best places to stay in Tafraoute
While there aren't a lot of hotels and guesthouses in Tafraoute, there are still more than enough to make it easy to spend a night (or few). Most are in the budget to mid-range category, with few luxury options. That being said, the hospitality at all of the recommendations below is incredible and you'll enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals during your stay.
If you're visiting Tafraoute during the Almond Blossom Festival, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance!
Located a short drive from Tafraoute in the Ameln Valley, this two-bedroom apartment is perfect for families or groups. There's an additional sofa bed in the living room, as well as a kitchenette and a terrace with valley views. Breakfast is included in the rates and dinner is available on request.
"Lovely accomodation outside Tafraoute. Delicious traditional dinner and breakfast. Fantastic view of the mountains from the terrace." - Alison (read more reviews here)
Occupying a traditional kasbah, this lovingly decorated Tafraoute hotel features twin, double and family rooms that cater to all types of travellers. In addition to the comfortable lounge and sun-drenched terrace, there’s a swimming pool where you can refresh in the warmer months. Delicious Moroccan cuisine is served at the onsite restaurant, making this one of the best hotels in Tafraoute.
"Always enjoy staying here for a relaxing break (3rd visit).” - Stella (read more reviews here)
Centrally located in Tafraoute, this budget hotel is charmingly decorated in a traditional Moroccan style. Its double, twin and triple rooms come with TVs and ensuite bathrooms while the upper-level suites have balconies from where you can soak up the comings and goings below. Begin each day with breakfast in the attractive dining room and cosy up beside the open fireplace on winter nights.
"Lovely location in the middle of town yet nice and quiet. Wonderful helpful staff. Great laundry service. We will return!” - Rachel (read more reviews here)
Travel guide to Tafraoute
Best time to visit Tafraoute
Due to its inland setting, Tafraoute experiences extremes of temperatures, with scorchingly hot summers and chilly winters. If you’re visiting in December or January, you’ll need to rug up, although many accommodations have open fires to keep you warm. The searing heat of summer can make this a less-than-ideal time to visit, although August does herald in the three-day Tafraoute Summer Music Festival.
With the exception of the coldest winter months, the best time to visit Tafraoute is generally considered to be between September and May. This is the ideal time for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the mountainous landscapes of the Anti Atlas, which remain well off Morocco’s beaten tourist track.
In February, as the chill of winter gradually subsides, wildflowers blanket the rocky terrain, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle. It’s during this month that Tafraoute hosts the Almond Blossom Festival, which celebrates the cultural traditions of the area’s Amazigh people.
