Taroudant is one of the most authentic towns in southern Morocco. Surrounded by orange groves and olive trees in the fertile Souss valley, with the snow-capped High Atlas on the horizon, it is enclosed by some of the best-preserved earthen ramparts in the country. Locals sometimes call it “little Marrakech”, but Taroudant is calmer, more traditional and much less touristy.
Where is Taroudant?
Taroudant is about 85 km east of Agadir, roughly an hour and a half by road. The drive crosses the Souss plain, one of Morocco’s most important farming regions, with citrus orchards, greenhouses and argan trees.
A little history
Taroudant has been an important town for centuries, thanks to its position on trade routes between the coast, the mountains and the Sahara. In the 16th century it briefly served as a capital of the Saadian dynasty, before the rulers moved to Marrakech. Much of the town’s character, including its ramparts, dates from this time and later periods.
What to see in Taroudant
The ramparts
Taroudant’s ochre walls run for several kilometres around the old town, with towers and grand gateways. The best way to see them is to travel around the outside, ideally in the late afternoon when the walls glow in the sun. Traditionally, visitors take a horse-drawn carriage (calèche) for the tour.
The souks
Taroudant has two main market areas. The Arab souk sells crafts, jewellery, carpets, leather and spices, while the Berber souk (souk Jdid) is more focused on everyday goods, fresh produce, herbs and household items. Both are pleasant to browse with less pressure than in larger cities.
The main squares
The town’s two central squares, Place Assarag and Place Talmoklate, are the heart of daily life, surrounded by cafés where you can sit with a mint tea and watch the town go by.
The tanneries
Just outside the walls, Taroudant’s traditional tanneries still use age-old methods to treat leather. The smell is strong, but it is fascinating to see the process, and the nearby shops sell leather goods made locally.
Silver and crafts
The region is known for traditional Berber jewellery and silverwork, as well as pottery and copper items. Taroudant is a good place to look for authentic souvenirs.
The Tiout oasis
About 35 km south-east of Taroudant, the palm oasis of Tiout lies at the foot of the Anti-Atlas. The ruins of an old kasbah on the hilltop overlook a sea of palm trees, irrigated by traditional channels. Many day trips combine Taroudant with a walk in the palm grove, a visit to the village and a traditional lunch.
Tips for visiting
- Weather: Taroudant is inland and much hotter than Agadir in summer. Spring, autumn and winter are the most comfortable seasons.
- Dress: it is a conservative town, so cover shoulders and knees.
- Photos: always ask before photographing people.
- Prices: bargaining is normal for crafts, but prices are generally fair.
How to visit Taroudant from Agadir
Taroudant is easy to visit on a day trip. Choose a half-day Taroudant tour if you only want to see the town, or a full-day Taroudant and Tiout oasis day trip to add the palm oasis and kasbah. Both include pickup from your hotel in Agadir.
Want to explore more of the south? Read about our Tafraoute and Tiznit day trip, or contact us to plan a private tour.
