10 best things to do in Taroudant, Morocco

Looking for the best things to do in Taroudant? This hidden gem is known as Little Marrakech and will give you an authentic, more low-key experience.

To me, Morocco has always seemed like a magical, majestic land with snake charmers, charming souks, mysterious alchemists, and ancient history – which might have to do with how it’s presented in my favorite book “The Alchemist”.

While Agadir is modern, the fortified Berber town of Taroudant, also known as “Little Marrakech”, has its mystique. Taroudant has never really caught on with tourists and while its old city walls are some of the best preserved in Morocco, there aren’t any other must-see sights.

The very absence of attractions though has helped preserve the city, making it the perfect place to see everyday Moroccan life in a relaxed atmosphere.

And, as I found out, it’s also the place to be asked if someone can buy you for however many camels. But we’ll get to that later.

Let’s take a look at the best things to do in Taroudant.

About Taroudant

First, let me introduce you to the traditional Berber market town. Unlike Marrakech and Agadir, there are no stoplights here, no McDonald’s, and no fancy all-inclusive resorts.

Taroudant is more laid back; well hidden in the Souss Valley and surrounded by fragrant orange trees with the snow-capped peaks of the High Atlas beckoning beyond.

In the streets, lamb tripe dry in the open air, and horse carts take locals around town as a cheap alternative to taxis. Taroudant has that traditional Moroccan feel, that’s for sure.

Visit Taroudant from Agadir

You can explore Taroudant in a day, so there’s no reason to stay for much longer.

From Agadir, you can take a day trip to Taroudant and experience all the highlights.

Book here – Taroudant + Tiout with homestay lunch

Things to do in Taroudant

There are plenty of things to do in Taroudant and around the city, like these:

1. Explore the ancient city walls

The sole noteworthy monument in the town is the medieval city walls. They’re 7,5 kilometers long, set with 130 towers, 19 bastions, and punctuated by 9 gates that are still in use.

Walls and towers were built in the 16th and 17th centuries and kept in good shape.

The triple-arched Bab el-Kasbah is the main gate from where you access the walls. It’s the only place in town where you can walk on them.

2. Visit the Arab souk

Aside from the city walls, souks are a fun attraction in Taroudant. The souks sell all kinds of things: from traditional tagine pots and crafts to vibrant spices, wriggling lizards, and Moroccan Argan oil.

Taroudant has two main markets: a Berber market, called Jnane al-Jaami, that sells clothes, spices, and dried fruits, and the larger Arab souk that specializes in jewelry, antiques, and leather, but also has fish and meat. They’re very close (5 minutes walk from each other).

In the noisy alleys, women sell henna used for temporary tattoos during weddings or they give a henna tattoo on the spot. There’s a surprise around every corner.

All souk vendors have the best quality and the best price. Or so they want you to believe. But the Taroudant sellers are known to be friendlier and less aggressive than their counterparts in Marrakech.

I never felt hassled or pestered in Taroudant. On the contrary, actually.

Locals were eager to help when I asked for directions and several of them walked with us to make sure we got to the right place. In general, the souk vendors were very chatty and friendly.

At one of the shops, this vendor tried to buy me for 100 camels. I never did manage to work him up to 1,000 camels, but then again where would Thomas put them in Denmark? 

3. Jnane al-Jaami berber market

The thing I love most about Moroccan souks is the tantalizing smell of paprika, cumin, cinnamon, and coriander that fills the air. It’s intoxicating.

On Sundays, there’s also a weekend market just outside the city walls. You can buy a donkey or a goat there. Clothes, food, and handicrafts are also for sale – just remember to bargain.

4. Relax in the Arab Quarter

In the Arab Quarter of Taroudant, you can explore narrow streets filled with history.

Stop at a local cafe to enjoy Moroccan tea and browse shops for handmade crafts. It’s a great way to connect with the city’s culture and lifestyle.

5. See the Palais Salam

I’m a total sucker for Moroccan decor so having lunch at the Palais Salam was a major highlight. This place is an old imperial palace, built into the town walls.

Inside there’s a tiled courtyard with fountains, a lush garden and patios, fruit trees, and colorful hallways. Rooms and interiors are decorated in Moorish style, one part very traditional and the other more modern.

Palais Salam is the only 4-star hotel in Taroudant and it dates back to the 16th century. Once the former residence of the pasha of Taroudant, it’s now open to guests and it’s a lovely place to relax in the shade and see real Moroccan architectural style.

Another thing I was drooling over at Palais Salam was the doors, which made this even more of a Moroccan paradise.

6. Enjoy a day trip to the Tiout Oasis

At the Tiout Oasis, you can experience the Moroccan countryside.

Here, you can ride donkeys through palm groves, explore a traditional kasbah, and enjoy the serene landscapes. It will give you a glimpse into rural Moroccan life.

7. Experience a Moroccan hammam

Visiting a Moroccan hammam is a chance to treat yourself to an amazing spa experience. You’ll enjoy a steam bath followed by a soothing exfoliating scrub.

8. Go horseback riding

Going horseback riding is a fun way to explore the scenic landscapes around Taroudant.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, you’ll find trails that suit your level.

9. Visit a nearby traditional Berber village

Visiting a nearby traditional Berber village lets you see a different side of Morocco.

You’ll get to learn about the Berber way of life, and their traditions, and maybe even try some local food.

10. Look for beautiful Moroccan doors

Moroccan doors are unique, and the amount of precision and detail make them an attraction in themselves. Most of them have arches, domes, decorative tile work, and bold colors.

Some doors are more than a hundred years old.

There’s just something about Moroccan style that’s magical and captivating. Maybe it’s because the decor is so exotic and warm.

Vibrant colors, jewel tones, detailed tile works – entering a Moroccan home or traditional town is like being transported to another world.

A word about photographing locals

Just so you know, most Moroccans don’t feel comfortable having their picture taken for religious reasons.

So be aware of the local culture and ask permission before taking a picture if it’s a close-up.

Sometimes locals, especially street performers, will ask for or expect a tip, but never give more than 10 Dirhams ($1 US).

A thousand thanks to the Moroccan National Tourist Office and Marokko Eksperten for hosting me. I was a guest on this press trip, but all opinions are my own as always.

More posts from Morocco you might like

• 14 amazing things to do in Agadir
• Day trip to High Atlas Mountains – finding an oasis in Morocco
• 10 amazing Moroccan dishes you should try
• 17 best souvenirs from Morocco

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