Welcome to Zagora, a hidden gem in Morocco that promises an incredible blend of desert wonders and vibrant traditions. Zagora is considered the doorway to the Moroccan Sahara Desert.
Get ready for a journey filled with stunning landscapes, ancient treasures, and a taste of Moroccan life.
Whether you’re up for desert thrills, curious about nomadic culture, or craving exotic flavors, Zagora has something special for everyone.
In this article, we will explore its history and some of the best things to do in Zagora.
Zagora’s Trade Legacy
Located in southeastern Morocco, Zagora has a rich history that dates back centuries.
In the 13th century, it grew into a bustling trade center during the Saadyin dynasty.
Positioned at the meeting point of trade routes, the town played a key role in the lively trading of goods and concepts.
Zagora’s significance in trade is highlighted by its role as a customs post for caravans en route to Tombouctou.
Just 12 miles south of Zagora, Tamegroute is a treasure waiting to be discovered. This small village holds deep historical and spiritual significance.
Once a vital Draa River settlement, Tamegroute’s connected kasbahs and religious sites tell tales of influence.
The ‘zaouia,’ a sanctuary around a revered tomb, held sway over the region and camel caravans.
Dating back to the 11th Century, Tamegroute became a hub of learning and theology. By the 17th Century, it embraced the Nasiri Brotherhood, a potent Sufi movement.
The village’s library held manuscripts on math, history, and more. Though the library’s collection shrank, it’s open to visitors.
The zaouia draws those seeking solace, and Tamegroute’s fame includes its distinct green pottery. Influenced by Fes, this ancient glaze exudes tradition.
Today, Tamegroute’s past lives on through a small pottery cooperative, where families craft pottery traditionally.
Amezrou’s Ksar: Discover the Charms
Just 2 km from Zagora, the Ksar of Amezrou is a stunning fortified village from the 18th century.
It has a tall mud minaret at its mosque and an old synagogue you can explore. The village was home to skilled Jewish artisans who made jewelry.
Their traditions live on in the ancient Mellah, where you can see their craft.
You can visit workshops to watch craftsmen at work and even buy silver or bronze jewelry with intricate designs.
It’s a chance to experience history and artistry in Morocco’s Ksar of Amezrou
Ksar Tissergate
Ksar Tissergate offers yet another enchanting example of Morocco’s architectural heritage.
The maze-like layout of interconnected dwellings showcases the practical ingenuity of desert life.
The intricate carvings and designs adorning the buildings are a testament to the creativity and artistic prowess of the local Berber people.
Exploring Ksar Tissergate provides a unique perspective on how communities thrived in this challenging environment.
Dunes de Tinfou
No visit to Zagora is complete without a rendezvous with the desert dunes.
The Dunes de Tinfou, located a short distance from Zagora, offer an opportunity to experience the vastness and solitude of the Sahara.
Whether you opt for a camel trek or choose to sandboard down the dunes, the ever-changing landscape and the warm hues of the sand will leave an indelible mark on your memory.
Agdz
Agdz, a captivating oasis town near Zagora, offers a delightful day trip. Known for its well-preserved kasbahs, traditional mud-brick architecture, and lush palm groves,
Agdz provides a glimpse into Morocco’s heritage. Explore historic sites, wander vibrant markets, and engage with the local Berber culture.
The drive through the Draa Valley presents stunning landscapes, making Agdz a haven for photographers. Indulge in Moroccan cuisine, participate in cultural workshops, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this desert oasis.
Agdz is renowned for its well-preserved kasbahs and traditional mud-brick architecture.
The most prominent among these is Kasbah Tamnougalt, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Immerse yourself in the intricate designs, narrow alleys, and fortified walls that showcase the intricate craftsmanship of the past..
M’hamid El Ghizlane
For those seeking a more immersive desert experience, M’hamid El Ghizlane offers an authentic encounter with nomadic culture. Known as the “Gateway to the Desert,” this town is the last settlement before the vast Sahara takes over.
Visitors can engage in desert excursions, spending nights in traditional nomadic tents while stargazing and listening to local folktales around a campfire.
Tamnougalt
Tamnougalt is yet another gem in Zagora’s crown of historical sites.
This ancient ksar boasts a rich history, and its well-preserved structures provide insights into the architectural practices of the past.
Walking through its narrow passageways and shaded alleys, you’ll feel like you’re stepping into a scene from a classic movie.
The UNESCO-listed Tamnougalt offers a glimpse of the kasbah life that once thrived along the trans-Saharan trade routes.
Echoes of History: Musée des Arts et Traditions
Nestled in Zagora, the Musée des Arts et Traditions may be small, but its exhibits offer an expansive view into the Draa Valley’s heritage.
Delicate jewelry and intricate pottery paint a vivid picture of the valley’s past.
This unassuming museum bridges time, connecting visitors to the lives and traditions that have shaped the region’s identity for centuries.
Flow of Life: The Draa River in Zagora
The Draa River, Morocco’s longest at 1,100 kilometers, weaves a profound connection through the landscape, gracing Zagora with its presence.
Summer sees its banks teeming with joy: children frolic in its waters, while adults find reprieve on the neighboring boardwalk.
Amidst this serene beauty, the river silently echoes tales of sustenance, leisure, and the timeless cycle of life.
Practical Information
Getting There
- From Marrakech: 350 km via National Road N9, passing through the High Atlas peaks.
- From Ouarzazate: 160 km also via N9.
- Zagora also has a small airport, currently open only for domestic flights.
Best Time to Visit
- Avoid summer!
- Zagora features a typical hot desert climate, with long, scorching summers and short, pleasantly warm winters. Opt for autumn and spring!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Zagora is a destination that offers far more than meets the eye. Its allure lies not only in its breathtaking landscapes but also in the hidden historical and cultural treasures that await discovery.
From the timeless beauty of Ksar d’Amezrou and Ksar Tissergate to the tranquility of Agdz and the awe-inspiring desert experiences of M’hamid El Ghizlane.
Each attraction in Zagora contributes to a tapestry of experiences that will linger in your heart and mind long after your journey comes to an end.
So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and embark on an unforgettable exploration of Zagora’s best-kept secrets