Hello everyone,
I’m currently planning our next trip to Morocco. We really enjoy visiting one or two collective granaries on each of our trips. We’ve seen some already, like the one in Aït Kine, or the one in Tasguent, and of course those in Amtoudi, as well as the cliffside granary of Ifri. There are still many left to explore. I’d love to hear which ones you’d recommend—preferably ones that aren’t too hard to access. I’m counting on you! Thanks
How many days do you have for all this, and what will you be driving? Some easy dirt roads or just paved ones?
A bit of walking (max 1 or 2 hours) or easy parking?
Qui écoute trop la météo, passe sa vie au bistrot !
Hi there,
Happy to get some help... thanks!
We’re heading off for three weeks and landing in Marrakech. We’re renting a Dacia. Normally, we shouldn’t take dirt roads, but we’ve done it before. As long as it’s safe for the car, we can handle a bit of off-roading. We can also walk a little, without scrambling over rough terrain...
Here’s what we’re looking for.
If you’ve got any hidden gems to share, we’re all ears!
I managed to figure out—with the help of a few NASA engineers—how to share a GPS point to Google Maps just by clicking on it... Sounds simple, but for a tech-challenged guy like me, it’s an achievement on par with what humans did on the Moon in '69...
Then I tried to shoot for Mars by replacing the link name with another word, but... the rocket crashed...
I’ll recap the ones you’ve visited—might help others who don’t know about them...
There was a travel journal about granaries too; here’s the link again:
Mandatory approach on foot with a nice climb; the daytime guardian is usually here... Small contribution to give to the contracted guardian (he sometimes mixes up 20 dhs and 200 dhs, so don’t hesitate to speak up—poor guy isn’t getting any younger).
This agadir was restored around 2007 with the help of a famous woman who was *very* "interested" in its heritage (then again, she needed a thesis project...😇) before pivoting to a much more lucrative career... We won’t see her restoring other granaries without a press agent or camera crew. But hey, we’ll take what we can get... (Sorry, lol, but I can’t stand that hypocritical opportunist—though she probably knows all the chic restaurants in Paris 😐. Okay, I’ve ranted enough, I’ll stop.)
And the other one, a bit farther away, D'Aguellouy, was also lucky enough to be restored, and it’s a must-visit. The guardian isn’t always around, so don’t hesitate to ask before climbing up—call him from the campsite when you arrive.
It’s best to visit this one right after the other to follow the ridge path and avoid a tough descent and climb.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/KwCtSjMmRSof4sqW9
There used to be six granaries in this area back in the day...
These two granaries offer great viewpoints. If you’ve got the legs for it, a simple hike through the canyon to the gueltas is well worth it... No need to go too far unless you want to climb the cliffs.
A road branches off to the right, heading up toward Tafraout—some nice scenery, especially when driving the other way. There’s a ruined agadir, Oukhdeyr, up high.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/jJDES6igWhoVcfua7
Just after, but like I said, I think this road is prettier when coming toward Amtoudi than the other way.
Pretty spectacular from the road, even more so on-site, but there’s a nearly 1 km approach hike with some exposed sections... Better to have a head for heights like a mountain goat, but it’s doable...
This one deserves restoration... Salima, if you’ve got a free moment between tea salons in Paris... Marhaba (okay, I cracked, but I held out for 10 lines).
You can see a ton of beehives from the road, arranged on several levels on the cliff... This place had a defensive purpose, and even Winnie the Pooh wouldn’t have been able to steal its honey.
There are two watchtowers similar to Amtoudi’s still visible. I figured the honey must’ve had real market value to justify a beehive in such a spot.
For those who don’t know it—if you’re in the area, don’t miss it. Even from the outside, it’s photogenic. Sometimes you won’t find a guardian... No big deal—just go to the nearby village, Amzrou, and ask to visit. A small part is still functional; if I remember right, three tribes manage it, and the granary is open for use on Fridays. On other days, you just need to find someone from one of those tribes who has the key...
Quite a few granaries in this area...
About half an hour north of Tasguent, heading toward Taroudant, there’s the granary of Itourhain.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/onX1kXV98JSmnKvu9
A cool shape with the satellite view... The pavement almost goes right up to it now.
It’s been a while since I’ve been there, but it was functional (mostly for grain) with a guy living on-site.
In the same style, a bit smaller but really charming, the granary of Kemaz.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/3WFoUgYpCKwFtub17
Also heading toward Taroudant, there’s a dirt road, but it’s easy (well, as of two years ago, when I last visited). This track is beautiful, with some spectacular canyon viewpoints (according to my GPX track, it’s 34.3 km of pavement to pavement). This granary is still functional, and a guardian lives on-site. Better chance of talking to people who use it on Fridays after prayers. In good condition.
I’m saving this first part so I don’t lose everything—I live near Mont Saint-Michel, and the internet here is *not* the best ^^
Qui écoute trop la météo, passe sa vie au bistrot !
We start with the granary of Ouguezmir... Jacques Meunier called it the granary of Inif... Google Maps calls it a campsite... We get the culture we deserve... 🤪
Not easy to find this one.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/EgtXQdmZbBiPkzbf6
Okay, it's a track to get there, but you can manage by driving carefully. On my last visit, I only noted one tricky spot—the rest was accessible for sedans. It’s an agadir that looks a bit like Kemaz. Still functional, I think it’s still inhabited... You’ll rarely run into other tourists. It has three beautiful watchtowers. Step back a bit for a full photo.
The track starts here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ug8Z86U2sdcwkmKJ9
And the little tricky spot is here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/S4z1bTEzvU9Kn1447
Note that tracks... they deteriorate, they get redone... Next time, it might be smooth or even paved.
These spots are also the starting point for the track leading to another agadir that’s one of my favorites. As I said, I don’t know if it’s still a track or paved—things change fast in Morocco since COVID...
Not well-known, quite run-down inside, but I think it’s impressive because of its location... Beautiful spot. The track goes down a dead end toward a tiny village. This little village is up high... So you have to descend into the canyon and climb up the rocky outcrop opposite... It’s doable, but not worth it for those who struggle with walking... The granary overlooks a stunning panorama in front of a long, beautiful gorge that I’ve promised myself to hike one day... Don’t go up to the granary without finding someone who has the key... You’ll be cursing... ^^
This track, which starts from the already mentioned paved road, ends on the R106, the one between Ighrem and Tafraout.
Nice track, but better keep your bearings—easy to get lost and follow the wrong one... Not all are passable for sedans...
I’m noting this little point because for signs, you’ll have to wait... Following the main track, turn left here (after that, it’s a dead end, so no mistake possible):
https://maps.app.goo.gl/CDeV9oQBimkVvsPi9
It’s quite visible from afar since it sits on top of a hill. But it mainly offers an impressive panoramic view.
Short track to get there, starting here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/K2PiPt75YWD7tHiA9
Okay, here’s an easy one, more touristy, and also because I read that Trostang didn’t manage to find it (shakes his magician’s hat): Inoummar
https://maps.app.goo.gl/gLaZCFgVXE9hhik99
Really imposing and more touristy, easy to access, not far from the paved road. There’s a kasbah by the road that you can visit—park there... Worth seeing, of course.
Here’s one that’s just a photographic gem and among the most famous in terms of images—paradoxically, it’s very rarely visited and little known.
Walk down the track and step back for some nice photos...
Okay, this one’s easy to access—I won’t dwell on it since you know it, and it’s mentioned in the agadirs travel journal.
In the granaries travel journal, there’s also the one in Tizgui, a bit further north toward Siroua...
This one too is a gem just for the photos...
https://maps.app.goo.gl/EYQMLrbu9bNZztWv8
Easy access. Small hostel at the top of the village—really basic and not fancy, but cheap. The owner, who’s raising his daughter alone, has a heart of gold. Lots of beauty to see in the area otherwise ^^... Yeah, like everywhere...
Okay, I’ll throw in one last one and stop for part 2... I’ll do part 3 next weekend if I have time... And yes, still 17 years to work before retirement... Well, to ask for it... 🤪
Clicking the link, those who don’t remember the site will get their memory jogged...
So, it’s accessible, but better not have a fear of heights... Not easy, and for this one too, having some goat-like agility will steady your step... You have to go around the back, and the passage is in the middle via a sort of zigzag in the rocks... Salima, you’re always welcome for this one. (It reminds me a bit of Id Aïssa.) Well, it’s in very bad shape—don’t go risking a fall for nothing... I mainly went for the viewpoint. (Morning is best.)
There are so many granaries, many in ruins. Less frequented, but there are also some really picturesque ones in the High Atlas... especially the cliffside ones like Aoujgal, easy to access, and Ouchtin, which will take a full day’s hike round-trip from Oulghazi (Imilchil)...
Aoujgal: https://maps.app.goo.gl/mVHBYohx1KbGBuj37
Ouchtin: https://maps.app.goo.gl/s1vPhMmJAqDAoRNF8
No vertigo allowed—Ouchtin is DANGEROUS. Don’t go there in sandals with the *Routard* in your pocket... If you ever want to visit it, DM me, and I’ll give you the WhatsApp of a guy who knows what to do...
Okay, I’ll stop... 😉
Qui écoute trop la météo, passe sa vie au bistrot !
Wow, amazing descriptions 😮!!
So, between Agadir and Tafraoute, what would you recommend as a priority?
I was thinking of stopping to visit the one in Ikounka, Imeghguiguilne, or Ighir Ifran, and the kasbah of Tizourgane.
😎
Hey,
Well, you're not doing too badly already... I was going to mention Ikounka...
There are quite a few in that area...
I’d still add Saïssid for some great photos, and it’s on your way...
There’s even one just before Tizourgane: in Imhiln.
After that, a lot of them look similar inside... Once you’ve seen 5 or 6, you’ve pretty much seen them all. Many are more interesting for their aesthetic appeal—great photo ops—than for writing an art history thesis...
After Tizourgane, most people head to Tafraout via the classic Route 105, which then joins the road to Igherm... It’s much longer, but turning right just before Tizourgane lets you do a really nice big loop with some amazing spots, like a gorgeous little village perched on a rocky outcrop and a short but spectacular hike along rocky ledges on the edge of a cliff... Okay, just one hint... Timjichte... There are several Timjichtes... None on Google show the one I’m talking about... But I’m not home during the week and I’m not great at doing on my phone what I can do on my computer... 🤷♂️
And as always, it all depends on the month you visit... Exploring the Anti-Atlas in March or June... not just about the heat, but the quality of the photos and the clarity of the landscape... well, there’s just no comparison... 😅
Qui écoute trop la météo, passe sa vie au bistrot !
Thanks for your reply.
We’re planning to go in May.
And visit 2 or 3 agadirs, different ones if possible.
In Tafraoute, I was thinking of checking out the village of Tagdicht, the Blue Rocks, and the Ait Mansour Valley.
After that, we’ll head to Icht, then Tata.
I just got back after 4 weeks of traveling around Morocco.
Thanks so much for the info on the different granaries. We had a great time.
We started with Imounar. Stunning. Exceptional location. But the former *amine* was replaced by his son—disappointing, neither interested nor interesting. Too bad.
Next, we visited the granary of Ikounka, right in the middle of the village. In excellent condition. The guide was a substitute because of Ramadan, but full of goodwill.
Then, we went to the granary of Seissid, perched on its rocky spur like an eagle’s nest. Beautiful setting above the valley, but in ruins.
And we finished with the granary of Ichebaken, which we spotted from the village. It’s very beautiful, but the water level in the *oued* didn’t let us get any closer. We were told it’s no longer in use.
Some truly wonderful visits. Thanks again.
Hello, here’s a region we’ll be visiting in early February. We’re somewhat familiar with the Tafraoute area and would like to arrive there from the R105, seeing a few granaries without taking any rough tracks or doing climbs that are beyond what our old bones can handle! I’ve been inspired by these posts, but who would have the courage to share more info? After that, we’re heading to Tiznit, Sidi Ifni, and the Timghert oasis before continuing our west-to-east crossing via Tata. Thanks already for all the details shared.
Ces greniers représentent à mes yeux, l'une des plus belles richesses du patrimoine marocain.Je les ai découverts tout à fait par hasard sur des cartes…
Pourriez-vous m'indiquer où je peux trouver, dans le sud marocain, des greniers à grains ou "igoudars". J'aimerais les situer précisément sur la carte. Merci…
Je pars à Agadir dans un peu moins de 2 mois et l'on m'a conseillé de visiter l'Imchguiguiln, on m'a dit que c'est à 40 km en voiture depuis Agadir mais ça me…
En février dernier, je suis allé visiter un grenier que je trouve très intéressant. Situé ici: 30°05'18.0"N 8°44'33.0"W Je ne parviens pas à trouver le nom de…
Hello,
I’m looking for testimonials from Pieds-Noirs who have recently returned to Algeria.
There can’t be many left after 65 years of the country’s independence.
I’m planning to go back myself soon to reconnect with my roots... before I pass away...
I’ve started making a few pre-bookings for hotels and apartments to rent in Algiers. At first, I received friendly and welcoming responses. Then, when I mentioned I wanted to stay for two or three weeks—maybe even a month—explaining that my trip wouldn’t be strictly touristy but more of a pilgrimage to the places of my childhood, and that it would likely be a very emotional journey, I expected a positive and warm reaction to my approach. Instead, I suddenly stopped getting replies from the three or four people I’d contacted. So now I’m wondering about the reception former Pieds-Noirs can expect...
Anyone here who can share their experience of returning? I specified “recently” because it seems that right now, diplomatic relations between the two governments are extremely tense, not to say hostile... even if Macron claims otherwise...
I’m heading to Morocco in September 2026, and part of my trip takes me through Merzouga. I’m looking for a 4x4 driver-guide to explore the area with my partner and me.
Even though I come to Morocco four times a year, it’s been a long time since I’ve made the trip by car. I need to refresh my knowledge! I’ll be traveling in early October. I have a car that’s about 20 years old. The plan is to cross via Algeciras/Ceuta.
A few questions:
1) Does this crossing still exist? If so, do I need to buy the ticket in advance or on the spot? From whom? Any advice is welcome!
2) What documents are required for the car?
3) If anyone is making the trip around the same time, it could be fun to drive together 😊
This autumn’s trip should be in Morocco—barring any geopolitical issues between now and then.
After many trips to the south of Fès, I’m giving the north a try.
My plan is roughly to do a road trip loop from Rabat back to Rabat, passing through Asilah, Tangier, Tétouan, Chefchaouen, Akchour, Fès, Meknès, and Volubilis.
That’s a lot of cities.
Probably a bit too many for our taste—we usually prefer more isolated spots...
So I’m looking for tips on little backroads, secluded beaches, half-day hikes, and offbeat places.
If you’ve also got recommendations for accommodation... (We’re open to splurging over 100 € if it’s a real favorite.)
Feel free to think outside the box—this is an open-ended plan! !😉
Hello,
I’m traveling to Algeria from October 27 to November 16, 2026.
I’d love to hear from anyone who’s been through the process about the accommodation attestation required for the visa application:
- Does it need to cover the entire duration of the trip?
- Is this document mandatory for a hotel to rent a room?
- Is it checked during inspections?
- Is a hotel booking (e.g., via Booking.com) sufficient for the visa?
- If so, does it need to be paid in advance?
I plan to visit several cities and do one or more treks with a guide or agency.
If you have any contacts you’d recommend, I’d be grateful!
Also, I’d love to share this trip with a companion who’s already done some traveling.
We’d organize the journey together, of course.
Thanks for your feedback!
Safe travels to all,
Dom, Dijon, 64 years old
Hi there,
I’m looking for some friendly recommendations for places to stay in Marrakech for 3 nights in June 2026.
In the meantime, have a great day, everyone! Thanks so much in advance.
I’m reaching out to gather your thoughts on an itinerary (10 days... or more?) I’d like to do at the beginning of June 🙂.
Just so you know, I’m planning to do this trip solo (25 years old), using only public transport and just a backpack. I’ve already been to Marrakech and climbed Mount Toubkal two years ago...
I’ll be arriving in Tangier.
Day 1-2: Explore the city center, hike around Cap Spartel...
Day 3: Stop in Tetouan
Day 4-5-6: Chefchaouen and a day hike in the Rif Mountains
Day 6-7: Discover the city of Fes (I’ve heard so many great things!!)
Day 8: Stop in Meknes and possibly visit the historic site of Volubilis
Day 9-10: Rabat (I’ve heard mixed things... some good, some bad)
After that, I have the choice of heading back to Tangier for my return flight... or going down to Agadir (also a possible return flight) and extending my trip by 5 days :)
From what I can tell, everything is well connected by bus (CTM) or train (ONCF).
Another question: Is the vibe in Moroccan youth hostels for meeting people the same as what you’d find in Western Europe?
Thanks in advance for your replies and your kindness! 😊
Tickets for entry to Majorelle Garden are only issued online via an official site
(though there are fraudulent sites out there). On the official site, they ask for legitimate info
(name, nationality, etc.). What made me go "hmm" was the request for both an email address
AND a password (with confirmation). Is this normal?
Thanks for your replies.
Hi there, a group of girlfriends and I are heading to Tunisia. We’d love to know how much cash we should bring for 6 days, considering everything’s already paid for at the hotel. Thanks for your tips!
I’m finalizing the loop I’d like to do in May over 13 days, starting and ending in Essaouira.
We’re planning to rent a vehicle and are pretty active—we’re not really into crowds (that’s why I’ve decided to skip Marrakech).
Here’s my proposed itinerary:
Trip Proposal Summary:
From May 13 (morning arrival) to May 26 (morning departure)
Arrival and departure: Essaouira
Day 1 (May 13): Arrival in Essaouira – Settling in / Exploring / Rest
Day 2 (May 14): Essaouira – Water activities
Day 3 (May 15): Essaouira to Tafraoute (~5h30) – route via Agadir – arrival and first exploration; Question: Is a detour to Taroudant worth considering?
Day 4 (May 16): Tafraoute – Hike in the granite rocks – wild bivouac
Day 5 (May 17): Tafraoute – Aït Mansour gorges – oasis – night in a hostel
Day 6 (May 18): Tafraoute → Foum Zguid (~5h) – transition route – simple overnight or bivouac
Day 7 (May 19): Foum Zguid → Zagora (~3h) – Draa Valley – desert prep
Day 8 (May 20): Zagora → M'Hamid El Ghizlane → Erg Chigaga – departure with 4x4 guide – entering the dunes – bivouac
Day 9 (May 21): Erg Chigaga – full desert day – walking, exploring – bivouac
Day 10 (May 22): Desert → Ouarzazate (~5–6h) – leaving the desert – rest
Day 11 (May 23): Aït Benhaddou – early visit – short hike – overnight stay
Day 12 (May 24): Aït Benhaddou → Telouet – route toward the Atlas – start of trek – bivouac
Day 13 (May 25): Atlas → Essaouira (~5–6h) – end of trek – return to Essaouira (overnight)
Day 14 (May 26): Essaouira – free time + return flight
What do you think?
I aimed for an excursion to the Chigaga desert from M’Hamid because it seems less touristy and allows for a more compact loop. Is that a good idea? Is the drive to M’Hamid maybe too tedious?
Open to your great tips if there’s room for optimization!
A lot of people find it important to stick to their budget when traveling—not to skimp, but to visit as many places as possible since traveling is their hobby.
In this post, I want to share some tips for those coming to Morocco who want their trip to be budget-friendly.
1. Prebook everything: hotels or riads, car rentals, or tours. If you book these in advance, it’ll make your life easier. You won’t have to deal with hagglers or people trying to overcharge you for services that are available online for free. Use platforms like Booking, Expedia, carsrental.ma, Airbnb, and other booking services to get this done properly.
2. Exchange your money to Moroccan dirhams as soon as you land. 1 € is always a little over 10 dirhams, but many people get charged as if it were exactly 10 dirhams per euro.
3. When visiting an old site or the old medina, avoid talking to vendors and shop owners—they’re really good at getting your attention and making you overpay for things.
4. Ask your tour guide to buy things for you. Yes, they do get a commission, but you’ll probably pay way more if you buy something yourself that they can get cheaply.
5. Walk everywhere. You don’t need a taxi for every little trip. Pick a good location and walk—most Moroccan cities are safe during normal hours.
6. Buy your food, drinks, etc., from supermarkets at normal prices. They can’t overcharge you since they scan every product.
Hi everyone! 😊
We’re traveling as a family to Marrakech from April 19 to 24, and there’ll be 15 of us (all ages), staying in the Targa neighborhood (El Idrissi Street).
I’d love your advice on a few things! 🙏
🚗 Vehicle rental
We’re thinking of renting 3 cars. We’ve seen really low prices online, but often without insurance.
👉 Do you have any reliable contacts or personal experiences to share?
👉 Would you recommend getting specific “tourist” insurance?
🏛️ Visits – Bahia Palace & Saadian Tombs
We’d like to visit the Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs, but:
We can’t find single tickets online
We only see guided tours with fixed times (like 9:30 AM / 4-hour tours)
👉 Do you know if it’s possible to book without a guide?
👉 Or do we have to buy tickets on-site? (We’re a little worried about crowds and lines, especially with older folks in the group.)
🍽️ Restaurants / meals
We’ve spotted the Grand Bazaar Marrakech for a meal.
👉 Any thoughts?
👉 Could you recommend other restaurants in the same budget? (We’re a big group, so it needs to stay reasonable.)
For lunch/snacks, we’ve seen:
Snack Toubkal
Goûter Saveur
👉 If anyone’s been, I’d love your feedback! 😊
🛒 Practical info – Targa neighborhood
We’ll be in Targa (El Idrissi Street).
👉 Are there shops nearby for quick groceries (breakfast, water, etc.)?
If you’ve got any great tips, contacts, or little tricks, I’d love to hear them! 😍
Thanks so much for your help! 💖
We’re heading to Morocco as a family from April 22 to May 8. It’s a bit short to explore such a beautiful and vast country, but school and work commitments, you know how it is...
My partner is a musician and absolutely loves Gnawa music.
Unfortunately, we won’t have time to visit Essaouira, as we’re heading south toward the Valley of the Roses...
Do you know of any places around Marrakech, Ouarzazate, or Kelaat M’Gouna where we might have the chance to meet Gnawa musicians?
We’ll also be staying a few days in Aït Benhaddou and Skoura during our trip toward the Dadès Valley.
If you have any good spots to buy a guembri along the way, I’d love to hear about them too! :)
Mid-May: arriving alone (so, a "petit taxi"?) at Marrakech airport around 4:30 PM,
is it advisable to take a taxi at the airport (cost?) or is it wiser to book one through the hotel before departure (which would cost me 20 €)?
I think I’ve seen lower fares elsewhere (12 €?).
Destination: Riad Sijane near Djemaa El Fna square. Thanks!
I’m leaving for Tunisia in five weeks for a full 15-day trip. I’ll be arriving in Monastir and departing from there as well.
I’d like to do a route that’s a bit different from my first stay, which was more focused on cities and culture (Tunis, Sousse, Kairouan, El Jem).
I’ll be getting around by public transport.
I’d like to head south toward Tozeur, and I saw that you can take a *louage* from Monastir to Sbeitla (2h30). I imagine it’s not too complicated to get to Tozeur from there afterward? The issue is the return trip to Monastir and safety in Sbeitla.
If this route seems too complicated, I might opt for Djerba instead, which looks simpler.
I’m planning my next trip outside Europe for next year, but unfortunately, I don’t have a choice with the dates—it’s late June to early July. Last year, I went to Japan for three weeks, and it was constantly 36-37°C with over 90% humidity. It wasn’t easy, but it wasn’t impossible either.
For Egypt, I know it’s a period to avoid if possible, but I’m thinking that by the sea, it might be manageable. Otherwise, I’ll consider another destination.
Day 1: Arrival in Hurghada in the evening
Day 2, 3, 4: Hurghada
Day 5: Hurghada, then drive to Luxor in the early afternoon
Day 6: Luxor
Day 7: Luxor, then drive back to Hurghada in the late afternoon
Day 8, 9, 10, 11: Hurghada
Day 12: Return flight
For the Hurghada trip, either rent a car or—easier—a private car/van.
Is it worth adding an extra day in Luxor?
During the stay, we’re planning activities like camel rides, quad biking, jeep tours, snorkeling, and jet skiing.
Hi there,
We’re planning a trip to Morocco in September-October in our Fiat camper van, which isn’t a 4x4 but has already handled quite a bit of rough travel. While reading up on southern Morocco, we’ve been drawn to the Aguinane oasis but I’m having trouble locating it on the map. Is it possible to get there without a 4x4?
Thanks for your help
Connaissez vous l'adresse d'une distillerie de fleurs de roses ds la vallée des roses / kelaa M Gouna. Une distillerie traditionnelle, pas uniquement la boutique à touristes.
Hi there,
Can anyone tell me if it's possible to travel from the Dades Gorges (Msemrir) to the Todra Gorges (Tamtatouche) on a paved road? Thanks in advance for any answers.
Hello,
We’d like to hire a French-speaking guide (agency, professional, or volunteer) to show us around Cairo over three days.
Trip planned for November 22, 23, and 24, 2026—four veteran French travelers.
We’re open to any leads, contact info, or suggestions.
Best regards,
Jacques
Hi there,
I have a layover in Algeria.
I won’t be leaving the airport.
The two tickets aren’t with the same airline.
Do I need a transit visa?
Thanks for any details and your help!
Hi there,
I live in Casablanca and my parents, who are 80, will be joining me in Marrakech at the beginning of May for a few days.
We’ll be renting a car to get around.
Do you have any suggestions for things to see or visit within a 2-3 hour drive max from Marrakech that aren’t too touristy?
My parents can walk a bit, but at 80, no climbing Mount Toubkal!
Thanks so much in advance for your ideas!
Hi everyone, just back from the 8-day Marrakech-Merzouga loop by car, and I’d love to share my feedback in case it helps some of you. Big thanks to all the forum members who kindly answered my questions!
Trip from Friday the 20th to Saturday the 28th, flying out of Marseille with Ryanair
- Landed late around 8 PM local time, exchanged some currency, and the rental agency (Magdaz Car, which I highly recommend) delivered the car straight to the airport with some great route tips (don’t blindly trust Maps.me). The night drive was a bit intense—lots of people out and about due to Ramadan. Stayed at Riad Midhou (really nice) on the outskirts of the city, which made it easy to hit the road the next morning.
- Day 1: Marrakech to Skoura. The drive was smooth, roads are great, but watch out for roundabout priority—it’s different from France. Beautiful route. Quick stop in Ouarzazate for lunch, Ait Benhaddou for the view (stunning), and the Fint Oasis (meh...). Spent the night at Taloute Ecolodge in Skoura, overlooking the palm grove (super cozy).
- Day 2: Skoura to Todgha Gorges via the Valley of Roses and Dades Gorges.
Adventure-packed day! We crossed the Valley of Roses (pretty, but not as amazing as I’d hoped) and took a "shortcut" recommended by the *Routard* guide to reach the Dades Gorges without backtracking. After asking locals, they said, "It’s doable." Turns out it was a narrow, rocky cliffside track—no way to turn around! A stressful moment, with a nice scratch on the bumper and a good sweat. Fine in an SUV or 4x4, but not in a Logan... Then the Dades Gorges (nice) and a detour through the north to reach Todgha from above. Gorgeous mountain road and a quick stop on some snow patches—touching African snow! Spent the night at *Les Gorges de Todgha*—great place, except for the bathroom. The Todgha Gorges themselves are stunning!
Day 3: Todgha to Merzouga. Beautiful drive, and the view of the erg (sand dunes) on arrival is breathtaking! Totally worth the trip. Explored the desert and stayed at *Café du Sud* hotel just outside Merzouga—absolutely gorgeous.
Day 4: Merzouga. Desert exploration and chilling by the hotel pool (with a bonus sunburn). Lunch in Merzouga—I recommend *Dakar*—their lemon tajine was amazing. Spent the night in the hotel’s luxury camp, including a camel ride. The camp was beautiful, but I was disappointed we weren’t deeper in the desert given the price (100 € per person, including dinner, breakfast, and camel ride).
Day 5: Merzouga to Tamnougalt. Gorgeous route. First fine (a supposed stop sign...) but the officer was super nice—only 150 MAD. Stayed at *Kasbah Maktob*, right in the middle of ruins—really unique and beautiful!
Day 6: Tamnougalt to Marrakech. Another beautiful drive, and a second fine (minor speeding), same amount. Crossed a windy mountain pass during a big storm—traffic was blocked in the opposite direction (not sure why), causing massive jams for those coming from Marrakech. A few downed cables, but nothing serious. Arriving in Marrakech was tricky—hard to find the rental agency, and the traffic was intense (watch out for GPS trying to send you through the medina). Ask the rental company to meet you somewhere quiet. They didn’t even notice the damaged bumper... Stayed at *Riad Zifamo* in the heart of the medina. Big change of pace—so many people and so much hustle!
Day 7: Marrakech. Lots of wandering through the souk and a quick trip to Gueliz (not essential). A few tips for the medina: watch out for scooters weaving too fast, always negotiate prices (aim for at least 1/3 off what they ask, unless it’s a small amount), don’t buy spices—more expensive than in France! Head to the *Carrefour Market* in Gueliz for better prices. In the end, not many truly unique items—you’ll find more or less the same things everywhere.
Day 8: Early morning flight. We’d booked a car to the airport from the riad, but a taxi would’ve been fine—plenty available even at 7 AM. Security wasn’t an issue (we had lighters and liquids over 100 ml).
A few extra notes: Pleasantly surprised by the road quality—just a few potholes here and there, but overall very drivable. Watch out for the police—they’re everywhere! The car cost me 30 € per day (with the *Routard* discount) and about 90 € in gas. No safety concerns, no harassment, and no stomach issues, despite the ice in Marrakech. Breakfasts at the hotels were usually hearty—take advantage! The timing (end of February) was perfect—pleasant daytime temps and cool nights. Since it was Ramadan, nothing unusual to report, except it was hard to find food outside Marrakech at lunchtime.
If I did it again, Merzouga is a must, but I’d spend a night in a real desert bivouac, deeper in the dunes. My stops (no more than 300 km a day) were well-paced, and with so few cars on the road, it wasn’t tiring—even though I’m not usually a fan of driving...
Happy to answer any questions!
Hi there,
I’m traveling solo to Egypt. Could you give me a rough idea of the budget for:
meals
hotels
taxis including tips
visits...
Just an estimate, of course.
For 15 days, what would the price range be, considering there’s an overnight train and a Nile cruise?
I’d like to compare with a travel agency. Is it more worthwhile to go through an agency despite the downsides of group travel?
Otherwise, if a travel buddy is interested in this country, why not?
Thanks a lot!
Merci aux membres de voyageforum qui nous ont fait part de leurs expériences! Nous avons passé 3 jours formidables à "La Kasbah la Palmeraie" à Skoura. Arrivant de Marrakech (superbe route en décrochant après le col de Tichka via Telouet, Ait-Benhaddou), le séjour à la Palmeraie n'a été que du bonheur: accueil chaleureux de Mohammed et Ghizlane, délicieux petits déjeuners sur la terrasse dominant la palmeraie, (pain cuit au four en terre, crêpes au miel préparées par Ghizlane), repas du soir non moins délicieux et copieux, en famille, autour d'un bon feu. Nous nous sentions comme "chez soi" et avons beaucoup appris sur le mode de vie de la région. Les balades proposées étaient toujours intéressantes et hors des circuits touristiques de masse. De là, le vallée et les Gorges du Dades , la vallée des Amandiers (superbe!), la palmeraie. Il y a des Kasbahs magnifiques dans la région dont celle de nos hôtes. Une autre façon de "visiter" le Maroc!
