Berber culture

A Journey Rich in Encounters

Come and meet the Imazighen (Amazigh in the singular), the people of the mountains and deserts… Wander through the dayets of the Middle Atlas and the villages of the Oukaïmeden, and opt for a bivouac in a Berber tent at the gateway to the Deep South: sensational experiences await you… For those who wish, it may be useful to hire a local guide, who will help you discover all the secrets of Berber culture, history and customs. A totally different trip to Morocco!

The Berber population, which occupies a vast area of northern and Saharan Africa, is made up of a multitude of families.

In Morocco, in addition to the Touaregs and Kabyles, you’ll meet the Masmudas, sedentary people of the Rif and western plains, the Sanhadja, camel-drivers of the Moroccan Sahara and transhumant people of the Atlas, and the Zenata, nomadic people of the deep south.

It was the great Berber dynasties who built Morocco’s first kingdoms and cities. Under Arab influence, the Berbers converted to Islam in the 7th century, but retained a strong spirit of independence. Also, They have also preserved their language, the oldest known in North Africa, although they also speak Arabic and French.

Discover the Berber world – Berber Culture

Explore the Rifian crescent, in the foothills of the hills overlooking the Mediterranean, and awaken the sleeping secrets of Tétouan and Chefchaouen! In a peaceful atmosphere, these blue cities offer the simple charms of artisan towns. From there, head to the Sebou valley, at the gateway to the imperial cities.

The Atlantic coast, a link between the Sahara, southern Africa and the ocean, bears the imprint of the Imazighen people.

When traveling along the Atlantic coast, discover Berber villages, particularly around Essaouira and Agadir. And if you get the chance, don’t miss the Signes et Cultures Festival, held in June in Agadir, which is essentially devoted to Berber poetry and music.

From Agadir, head for the outskirts of Taroudant, to discover Berber culture in the villages of Taliouine, Tagouyamet, Aït Ighmour, Aït Tgga or Idghagh… Also, You’ll fall under the spell of this secret, unspoilt land, with its tiered crops and saffron fields…Then set off to meet the people of the High Atlas, in the Oukaïmeden region and on the road to Tizi N’Tichka. In addition, From there, the Ourika valley takes you to the heart of the traditional Berber mountain world. At the gateway to southern Morocco, discover the Todgha region.

Hike to the heights of the Atlas Mountains, passing through M’Semrir, Tamtetoucht and Imilchil, and meet the shepherds and nomadic tribes of Todgha.

Also, bivouacking in the Deep South is an unforgettable experience… For a few days, you’ll live at the rhythm of the Tuareg nomads, the blue men of the desert, who will share with you the secrets of their culture and traditions. Discover the many Berber camps, especially near M’Hamid and Merzouga.

Berber craftsmanship – Berber Culture

Berber craftsmanship is renowned throughout the country, with pottery in Chefchaouen and Taroudant, jewelry in Tiznit, carpets in Ouarzazate and textiles in Marrakech and Tafraout. The Berber souks of Taza, Azrou and Taroudant are probably the most fascinating.

Berber gastronomy – Berber Culture

Throughout the country, you can sample a variety of Berber specialties, including couscous with 5 vegetables, honey and almonds. From mechoui to grilled meats, Amazigh cuisine is renowned for its harira and, of course, its pastries. As you travel through the Middle Atlas, stop off in Azrou for a taste of its famous tajines.