Tamnougalt is situated in the Draa Valley. The Draa Valley was formed by the Draa River, the longest river…
Tamnougalt
Tamnougalt
Tamnougalt is a 16th century fortified village situated in the beautiful Draa Valley. Once a thriving hub for Saharan trade, it functioned as an important meeting point as the caravans moved through the valley. It was said that Tamnougalt was the last stop before entering the desert, and the first stop after leaving the desert. Its name in Berber means, “meeting point.” After Morocco gained its independence in 1956, the caravans soon faded into history. It wasn’t long after that Tamnougalt itself also became a relic of the past. While some restoration has been completed in recent years, the majority of the village lies in ruins, which incidentally adds to its charm. The higher points of the town offer exceptional views of the Draa Valley and the palm groves below.
The village’s Berber population is friendly and hospitable.
Recommended Length of Stay: 2 days
To visit Morocco is still like turning the pages of some illuminated Persian manuscript all embroidered with bright shapes and subtle lines.Edith Wharton
Places to visit while here
Draa Valley
Tamnougalt is situated in the Draa Valley. The Draa Valley was formed by the Draa River, the longest river in Morocco. The valley was conquered by the Almoravids in the year 1053. It was at this time that the Draa Valley was integrated into the whole of Morocco. There are still groups in the Draa that claim to be descendants of the Almoravids.
Today the valley is a lush green oasis home to Berber farmers. Traveling through the valley, it’s not unusual to see women working the fields by hand, especially early in the morning. By early afternoon, you’ll meet them on the road as they head home with donkeys laden with alfalfa for animals or sticks for cooking fires.
Jbel Kisanne
The Arabic word “jbel” means mountain. Mountain Kissane forms a beautiful backdrop for the ruins in Tamnougalt. Depending on…
Jbel Kisanne
The Arabic word “jbel” means mountain. Mountain Kissane forms a beautiful backdrop for the ruins in Tamnougalt. Depending on the lighting and time of day, the mountain takes on various hues such as pink, salmon, and violet. Trekkers enjoy climbing Kissane and the panoramic view that rewards them.
Kasbah des Caids
Kasbah des Caids was established in the 16th Century, in Tamnougalt. The leaders of the Mezguita tribe originally built…
Kasbah des Caids
Kasbah des Caids was established in the 16th Century, in Tamnougalt. The leaders of the Mezguita tribe originally built the kasbah for administrative and residential purposes. The caid living in the residence was the caid for the region. His job was similar to a judge. He was often called upon to settle legal disputes between traders.
Like other buildings in the village, Kasbah des Caids was built using rammed earth and mud bricks. Wood from the Tamarisk and Date Palm was used to support floors, and to create doors and other elements. The ceilings are made from locally grown woven bamboo reeds.
Tours can be easily arranged for those wanting to step back into the past. You will be amazed at the innovation of the 16th Century Berbers.
Palm Groves and Gardens
Lush palm groves and small gardens surround the village of Tamnougalt. The beauty of the orange ruins and green…
Palm Groves and Gardens
Lush palm groves and small gardens surround the village of Tamnougalt. The beauty of the orange ruins and green palms is uncomparable. Many of the walls partitioning the family plots are as old as the village. Walking through the gardens at twilight is a peaceful and serene experience.
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