Set amidst a spectacular expanse of desert terrain dotted with palm groves, the town of Agdz is located well off Morocco’s beaten tourist track. It lies along an ancient caravan route connecting the bustling city of Marrakech to the far-flung trading hub of Timbuktu and served as a resting place for weary travellers making the arduous journey across the Saharan desert. Serving as a gateway to the Drâa Valley, this riverside town is watched over by the imposing peak of Jebel Kissane, which forms part of Morocco’s Anti-Atlas range.
Most tourists pass straight through Agdz en route to the Sahara, but it’s well worth a stop due to its earthen architecture and authentic atmosphere. For history buffs, it’s a fascinating place to overnight on the Route of 1000 Kasbahs, renowned for its awe-inspiring displays of mud-brick fortifications. Over the years, Agdz has played a crucial role in the exchange of goods, ideas and cultures, making it an interesting destination on a journey through Morocco’s southern reaches.
In this Ultimate Travel Guide to Agdz, discover the top things to see and do in the area, as well as inspiring places to stay and the best time to visit.
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Things to do in Agdz
Explore the Route of 1000 Kasbahs
Agdz is located in a region of Morocco that’s renowned for its kasbahs, with hundreds dotting the surrounding landscape. Taking in the entire Route of 1000 Kasbahs takes at least two days but there is plenty to see within a couple of hours’ drive of Agdz.
Within the town itself is the Kasbah of Caid Ali, a 19th-century mud-brick structure with a maze of rooms and incredible views from its rooftop terrace. Nearby is the town of Tamnougalt, a former residence of caïds (local administrators) with a couple of crumbling old kasbahs to admire. Because of their dilapidated state, it’s best to appreciate them from afar.
From Agdz, you can also visit the town of Aâgoubt and the Kasbah of Oulad Othmane, a beautifully preserved 18th-century fortress where you can spend the night. Further south lies the village of Tamegroute, which was the historical heart of a Sufi order known as the Nasiriyya. It’s particularly renowned for its glazed ceramics and is home to a buried kasbah that’s well worth a look.
For more information about exploring the Route of 1000 Kasbahs, including maps and a suggested itinerary, check out my detailed article here.
Shop at the Thursday market
Taking place each Thursday, this open-air souk is a lively event that draws in villagers from the surrounding communities. They come not only to pick up essential supplies but also to sell their homemade goods and fresh produce. It’s a great place to get a feel for local commerce, as well as photograph stalls with spices, dates and olives piled high. In one corner of the souk, you’ll find the butcher's stalls, where locals gather to select the freshest cuts of lamb, beef and poultry for their evening meals.
Things to do in Agdz
Explore the palmeraie
Backed by the tajine-shaped summit of Jebel Kissane, the Agdz Oasis is a wonderful place to experience local agriculture. It’s irrigated by a network of small canals known as “seguias”, which have been used for centuries in this part of Morocco. With its shady palm trees and welcoming locals, the palmeraie is a captivating spot to escape to on hot summer days. Hire a local guide in Agdz for a more immersive experience and to help translate with the farmers you meet along the way.
Take a dip at the Tizgui Waterfall
Just a few kilometres outside Agdz, the Tizgui Waterfall offers a serene and refreshing respite from the arid desert heat. While not towering in height, this picturesque cascade is a true gem, its gentle flow tumbling over the rocky cliffside to a pool framed by palm and fig trees. On a hot summer day, it’s the perfect spot to cool off. A set of stairs leads down to this hidden oasis, which can be accessed by paying a small tip to the guardian.
Things to do in Agdz
Drive through the Drâa Valley
Agdz serves as a gateway for exploring the Drâa Valley, with one of the most magnificent stretches being the 95-kilometre road connecting to Zagora. Along the way, there are several opportunities to get off the N9 and explore the palm-dotted villages that fringe the banks of the Oued Drâa. In Zagora, you can browse the bustling souks and soak in the laid-back ambiance of this Amazigh community before continuing to M’Hamid, the gateway to the Erg Chigaga dunes.
Watch the sunset over Jebel Kissane
As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, head up the hill towards the government building that stands prominently atop the rise overlooking Agdz. From here, you'll be treated to sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape, with the majestic Jebel Kissane mountain forming a stunning backdrop. It’s the perfect way to end a day in Agdz and appreciate the natural beauty of this hidden corner of Morocco.
Ultimate Travel Guide to Agdz
How to get to Agdz
By car
Agdz is located around 70 kilometres from Ouarzazate and can be reached in just over an hour by car. From Marrakech, it’s around 260 kilometres or 4.5 hours to Agdz. This journey takes you up and over the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass, which offers spectacular views across the Atlas Mountains.
To learn more about driving in Morocco, check out my detailed article here. I recommend you rent a car in Morocco through Discover Cars, which offers free cancellation and 24/7 support. They have everything from compact automatics to manual vans, ensuring there’s something for all travel groups and driving styles.
By bus
Both CTM and Supratours have regular buses from the centre of Ouarzazate to Zagora that pass through Agdz. Share taxis are also available and depart once full.
Ultimate Travel Guide to Agdz
Best places to stay in Agdz
Lovingly renovated and decorated with Amazigh rugs, this authentic kasbah is run by the wonderful Mustafa and his family. The views of the surrounding oasis and the mountains in the distance are nothing short of spectacular.
Featuring air-conditioned rooms and private terraces, this affordable hotel in Agdz includes delicious breakfasts in all of its stays. Bikes can be rented onsite for exploring the town and guided hikes can be arranged on request.
On the northern edge of Agdz, this beautiful hotel offers spacious rooms and an inviting swimming pool. It has been designed to resemble a kasbah but with all the mod-cons, including complimentary Wi-Fi.
Best places to stay in Agdz
Best time to visit Agdz
While Agdz can be visited throughout the year, the most pleasant seasons are typically from October to December and March to June, when the weather is mild and the skies are clear. This is an ideal time for exploring the town and the Route of 1000 Kasbahs while taking in the beautiful desert landscapes nearby. Summers can be brutally hot (so it’s best to avoid July and August) while the nights in January and February can be quite chilly. If possible, coincide your visit with a Thursday when the Agdz Market takes place.
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