On the fifth step of our Slow Travel Itinerary in Morocco, we arrive in Figuig. This hidden yet fascinating oasis is brimming with history, traditional knowledge, and stunning landscapes.
Undoubtedly, Figuig is one of the best cities to visit in Morocco for any slow traveller. Time seems to stop here as you immerse yourself in the local culture, making unforgettable discoveries daily. However, reaching Figuig isn’t the easiest or shortest journey, but the reward is well worth it. As proof, the memories of this place remain vivid in my mind months after the visit.
Are you ready to uncover the deepest secrets of this Moroccan gem? Let me guide you to a spot where only a few have ventured, triggering your curiosity at every turn. Jump on board, young explorer!
On the fifth step of our Slow Travel Itinerary in Morocco, we arrive in Figuig. This hidden yet fascinating oasis is brimming with history, traditional knowledge, and stunning landscapes.
Undoubtedly, Figuig is one of the best cities to visit in Morocco for any slow traveller. Time seems to stop here as you immerse yourself in the local culture, making unforgettable discoveries daily.
However, reaching Figuig isn’t the easiest or shortest journey, but the reward is well worth it. As proof, the memories of this place remain vivid in my mind months after the visit.
Are you ready to uncover the deepest secrets of this Moroccan gem? Let me guide you to a spot where only a few have ventured, triggering your curiosity at every turn. Jump on board, young explorer!
What Makes Figuig One of the Best Cities to Visit in Morocco?
Unique Slow Travel Features
Lost in the middle of desert landscapes that look like Mars, Figuig has a captivating history and rich knowledge to share. It is not your typical Moroccan destination for chilling by a swimming pool. No, my friend. Figuig offers a deep dive into an authentic Moroccan place where cultural heritage and traditions are still alive, making it one of the best cities to visit in Morocco for every Slow Traveller.
Are you curious to know more before planning your trip? Well, curiosity isn’t a vice, so listen up, young explorer. In Figuig, it’s as if time has paused. Entering this place feels like stepping into another world. Beyond the relaxing escape from everyday hustle and bustle, there are many hidden gems to uncover.
Unique Slow Travel Features
Lost in the middle of desert landscapes that look like Mars, Figuig has a captivating history and rich knowledge to share. It is not your typical Moroccan destination for chilling by a swimming pool. No, my friend. Figuig offers a deep dive into an authentic Moroccan place where cultural heritage and traditions are still alive, making it one of the best cities to visit in Morocco for every Slow Traveller.
Are you curious to know more before planning your trip? Well, curiosity isn’t a vice, so listen up, young explorer. In Figuig, it’s as if time has paused. Entering this place feels like stepping into another world. Beyond the relaxing escape from everyday hustle and bustle, there are many hidden gems to uncover.
The hidden calakmul ruins in Mexico
The inhabitants of Figuig
One of these gems is its people. Far from the harassment you might encounter in big cities like Fez, Marrakech, or Tangier, Figuig offers a different experience. There are no tricks or scams here. The inhabitants of Figuig live peaceful, slow-paced lives in harmony with nature, making the whole environment perfect for slow travel exploration. However, life in Figuig hasn’t always been easy, and many challenges and battles have shaped this small paradise.
One of these gems is its people. Far from the harassment you might encounter in big cities like Fez, Marrakech, or Tangier, Figuig offers a different experience.
There are no tricks or scams here. The inhabitants of Figuig live peaceful, slow-paced lives in harmony with nature, making the whole environment perfect for slow travel exploration.
However, life in Figuig hasn’t always been easy, and many challenges and battles have shaped this small paradise.
The Fascinating History of Figuig
Figuig: A central destination in Morocco
Once a vital stop for travellers and traders in Morocco, Figuig displays a rich history intertwined with the Saharan trade route. This strategic location turned it into one of the best cities to visit in Morocco back in the day.
Nestled next to a lush oasis of date palms and blessed with an abundant water supply, Figuig quickly became an ideal resting point for traders crossing the harsh desert.
Over time, agriculture flourished here, driving demographic growth. However, the town faced significant economic challenges, especially after the nearby Algerian border closed in 1994, cutting off a major economic lifeline.
Once a vital stop for travellers and traders in Morocco, Figuig displays a rich history intertwined with the Saharan trade route. This strategic location turned it into one of the best cities to visit in Morocco back in the day.
Nestled next to a lush oasis of date palms and blessed with an abundant water supply, Figuig quickly became an ideal resting point for traders crossing the harsh desert.
Over time, agriculture flourished here, driving demographic growth. However, the town faced significant economic challenges, especially after the nearby Algerian border closed in 1994, cutting off a major economic lifeline.
The Zenaga Neighbourhood: A Conflict Zone
Nevertheless, life in Figuig hasn’t always been peaceful. Conflicts and battles were common, particularly in the Zenaga neighbourhood. Zenaga, one of the largest and most beautiful areas, with access to the most water, was frequently targeted.
Indeed, whoever controlled Zenaga was provided with strategic advantages due to its vital gardens, which were primary sources of food and income.
Nevertheless, life in Figuig hasn’t always been peaceful. Conflicts and battles were common, particularly in the Zenaga neighbourhood.
Zenaga, one of the largest and most beautiful areas, with access to the most water, was frequently targeted. Indeed, whoever controlled Zenaga was provided with strategic advantages due to its vital gardens, which were primary sources of food and income.
Protecting one of the best cities to visit in Morocco
Therefore, to protect themselves, the inhabitants, who were mostly warriors and farmers, built strong defensive walls around their ksour (fortified villages). These walls were not just physical barriers but symbols of the community’s resilience and determination to defend their way of life (source: here).
Afterwards, the early 20th century brought dramatic changes when French colonial forces targeted Figuig. In 1903, they bombarded the town as part of their efforts to secure entry into Morocco from Algeria (source: here). This military action severely disrupted local communities, including Zenaga. Overall, the bombardment was a psychological blow, but the residents mustered all their strength to endure and rebuild.
Despite these challenges, the people of Zenaga, representing 50% of Figuig’s inhabitants, showed remarkable resilience. They adapted, rebuilt, and preserved their rich cultural heritage, making Figuig still one of the best cities to visit in Morocco today.
Therefore, to protect themselves, the inhabitants, who were mostly warriors and farmers, built strong defensive walls around their ksour (fortified villages). These walls were not just physical barriers but symbols of the community’s resilience and determination to defend their way of life (source: here).
Afterwards, the early 20th century brought dramatic changes when French colonial forces targeted Figuig. In 1903, they bombarded the town as part of their efforts to secure entry into Morocco from Algeria (source: here).
This military action severely disrupted local communities, including Zenaga. Overall, the bombardment was a psychological blow, but the residents mustered all their strength to endure and rebuild.
Despite these challenges, the people of Zenaga, representing 50% of Figuig’s inhabitants, showed remarkable resilience. They adapted, rebuilt, and preserved their rich cultural heritage, making Figuig still one of the best cities to visit in Morocco today.
One of the Best Cities to Visit in Morocco Thanks to its Water Knowledge
The water knowledge of Figuig’s inhabitants, renowned for its sophistication and sustainability, makes it particularly special. Simply put, this expertise is deeply rooted in their historical and cultural practices, developed over centuries to manage scarce water resources in an arid environment.
Here are some key aspects that highlight the uniqueness of their water knowledge:
The water knowledge of Figuig’s inhabitants, renowned for its sophistication and sustainability, makes it particularly special.
Simply put, this expertise is deeply rooted in their historical and cultural practices, developed over centuries to manage scarce water resources in an arid environment. Here are some key aspects that highlight the uniqueness of their water knowledge:
The use of Foggaras
Figuig’s inhabitants have mastered the foggaras, an ancient irrigation system, also known as qanats. Usually, this technique involves underground tunnels or aqueducts that channel water. Many advantages result from such a system: Efficient Water Use, Sustainability, and Community managed possibilities.
Figuig’s inhabitants have mastered the foggaras, an ancient irrigation system, also known as qanats. Usually, this technique involves underground tunnels or aqueducts that channel water.
Many advantages result from such a system: Efficient Water Use, Sustainability, and Community managed possibilities.
“A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions.”
Water Distribution
Furthermore, the water distribution in Figuig is highly organised and equitable. To do so, a unique job has emerged in Figuig, the water maker called Assfayrie. With a deep understanding passed down through generations, they meticulously measure and distribute water using a unique unit, “Takhroubt.”
Each family relies on its expertise to fill their pool and divide the available supply, ensuring that 20 to 30 people can sustain their lives amidst the arid conditions.
Overall, the inhabitants of Figuig have developed a water management system that is a testament to their ingenuity and ability to adapt to their environment. Their methods provide a sustainable model for arid regions worldwide, blending traditional knowledge with practical engineering.
This combination of efficiency, sustainability, and cultural integration makes this place a unique Slow Travel destination.
Furthermore, the water distribution in Figuig is highly organised and equitable. To do so, a unique job has emerged in Figuig, the water maker called “Assfayrie”.
With a deep understanding passed down through generations, they meticulously measure and distribute water using a unique unit, “Takhroubt.”
Each family relies on its expertise to fill their pool and divide the available supply, ensuring that 20 to 30 people can sustain their lives amidst the arid conditions.
Overall, the inhabitants of Figuig have developed a water management system that is a testament to their ingenuity and ability to adapt to their environment.
Their methods provide a sustainable model for arid regions worldwide, blending traditional knowledge with practical engineering. This combination of efficiency, sustainability, and cultural integration makes this place a unique Slow Travel destination.
How to Reach Figuig?
Getting to Figuig might not be the easiest task, but trust me, it’s worth the effort, making it one of the best cities to visit in Morocco present in this Slow Travel blog. There are two main ways to reach Figuig, young Slow Traveller. However, I’ll focus on the more detailed option.
Getting to Figuig might not be the easiest task, but trust me, it’s worth the effort, making it one of the best cities to visit in Morocco present in this Slow Travel blog. There are two main ways to reach Figuig, young Slow Traveller. However, I’ll focus on the more detailed option.
From Fès to Figuig
The journey from Fès to Figuig takes 17-20 hours, depending on your connections and luck. First, book a bus to Errachidia. Regardless of your starting point, Errachidia is a mandatory stop if you ever want to reach Figuig.
I booked a bus with CTM for €18, an 8-hour ride. Arriving in Errachidia at 4 AM (ouch!), I luckily found a quick connection to Bouarfa for €7 and another 5 hours.
After witnessing a beautiful sunrise on the road, our driver dropped us in Bouarfa, where buses head to Figuig for €7 and a 3-hour ride. Overall, it was a 17-hour journey from Fès to Figuig, costing €31.
The journey from Fès to Figuig takes 17-20 hours, depending on your connections and luck. First, book a bus to Errachidia. Regardless of your starting point, Errachidia is a mandatory stop if you ever want to reach Figuig.
I booked a bus with CTM for €18, an 8-hour ride. Arriving in Errachidia at 4 AM (ouch!), I luckily found a quick connection to Bouarfa for €7 and another 5 hours.
After witnessing a beautiful sunrise on the road, our driver dropped us in Bouarfa, where buses head to Figuig for €7 and a 3-hour ride. Overall, it was a 17-hour journey from Fès to Figuig, costing €31.
Driving from Oujda
The second option is driving from Oujda, one of the main cities in northern Morocco, to Figuig. Unfortunately, I don’t have details on the cost or duration as I didn’t take this route.
However, rest assured, young Slow Travellers, as once again there’s no need to fly. Travelling in Morocco by train or other land transportation is highly feasible and budget-friendly.
The second option is driving from Oujda, one of the main cities in northern Morocco, to Figuig. Unfortunately, I don’t have details on the cost or duration as I didn’t take this route.
However, rest assured, young Slow Travellers, as once again there’s no need to fly. Travelling in Morocco by train or other land transportation is highly feasible and budget-friendly.
What to do in Figuig?
How do you spend your time in one of the best cities to visit in Morocco? In Figuig, the words discovery and exploration take on their full meaning. This unique oasis setting is a haven for slow travellers eager to wander and immerse themselves in its charm.
How do you spend your time in one of the best cities to visit in Morocco? In Figuig, the words discovery and exploration take on their full meaning.
This unique oasis setting is a haven for slow travellers eager to wander and immerse themselves in its charm.
Dive Into History
First, dive into the rich history of Figuig by visiting its many historical sites. Start by exploring Qsr aljwabr, Qsr awlad mhrz, Qsr l bydat ayt alnj, and Bhbwht. Each site tells a story, showcasing the mysteries of history, architecture, and the cultural tapestry of this Moroccan oasis town through its ruins and historical landmarks.
First, dive into the rich history of Figuig by visiting its many historical sites. Start by exploring Qsr aljwabr, Qsr awlad mhrz, Qsr l bydat ayt alnj, and Bhbwht.
Each site tells a story, showcasing the mysteries of history, architecture, and the cultural tapestry of this Moroccan oasis town through its ruins and historical landmarks.
Discover Enchanting Landscapes
Next, lose yourself in the enchanting palm grove. Wander through this natural maze of sustainable walls and captivating landscapes. This serene environment is perfect for enjoying the present moment and finding peace of mind. But be cautious, it is vast, and you wouldn’t want to get lost.
Moreover, the palm grove also offers a chance to marvel at the ingenious irrigation system and the pools that maintain a refreshing temperature, even in the desert heat.
Next, lose yourself in the enchanting palm grove. Wander through this natural maze of sustainable walls and captivating landscapes. This serene environment is perfect for enjoying the present moment and finding peace of mind.
But be cautious, it is vast, and you wouldn’t want to get lost. Moreover, the palm grove also offers a chance to marvel at the ingenious irrigation system and the pools that maintain a refreshing temperature, even in the desert heat.
Bath in the Culture
After your exploration, head to one of the public baths to freshen up. But warning here! There are separate baths for men and women, so be sure to go to the correct one! These baths are free and open to locals and visitors, providing a great opportunity to relax and connect with locals in a stress-free, convivial setting.
After your exploration, head to one of the public baths to freshen up. But warning here! There are separate baths for men and women, so be sure to go to the correct one!
These baths are free and open to locals and visitors, providing a great opportunity to relax and connect with locals in a stress-free, convivial setting.
Meet & Learn from Locals
Lastly, embrace the local culture and discover Morocco through local eyes by chatting with the residents, climbing nearby mountains, learning about Figuig’s heritage, or simply enjoying a coffee while playing rami at a café. Simply put, the opportunities for exploration and learning are endless.
The people of Figuig are welcoming and eager to share their knowledge and history, especially with visitors. So, arm yourself with a bright smile, a sprinkle of curiosity, and a genuine desire to understand this hidden Moroccan gem. This approach will ensure a memorable stay in one of the best cities to visit in Morocco.
Lastly, embrace the local culture and discover Morocco through local eyes by chatting with the residents, climbing nearby mountains, learning about Figuig’s heritage, or simply enjoying a coffee while playing rami at a café.
Simply put, the opportunities for exploration and learning are endless. The people of Figuig are welcoming and eager to share their knowledge and history, especially with visitors.
So, arm yourself with a bright smile, a sprinkle of curiosity, and a genuine desire to understand this hidden Moroccan gem. This approach will ensure a memorable stay in one of the best cities to visit in Morocco.
Figuig - FAQ
What languages are spoken in Figuig?
Overall, The people of Figuig speak a mixture of Berber and Arabic languages, most people also speak french. However, almost no one speaks English over there.
How does Figuig manage its water resources?
The town employs traditional irrigation systems managed by the Jmāa, a local governing body, ensuring sustainable use and fair distribution of water resources.
What is Figuig / Figig?
Figuig is an enchanting oasis and Slow Travel town located in northeastern Morocco, known for its large oasis of date palms, rich history, and traditional crafts.
Where is Figuig located?
Far away from any main Moroccan cities, Figuig is situated in the Oriental region of Morocco, close to the Sahara Desert and the Atlas Mountains, 3 kilometres from Algeria the Atlas Mountains.
What is the historical importance of Figuig?
Figuig was once a crucial stop for travellers and traders in Morocco. It has a storied past marked by various cultural influences and was known for its resistance during the French colonial era.
What are the main attractions in Figuig?
Key attractions include historical sites like Qsr aljwabr, Qsr awlad mhrz, Qsr l bydat ayt alnj, and Bhbwht. Then, the palm gloves, the public bath and wandering around offer rich insights into Figuig’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Can Figuig be explored on foot?
Yes, exploring Figuig on foot is recommended to fully experience the town’s tranquil ambiance and observe local life closely.
How can one travel to Figuig?
Figuig is accessible via road. You can either drive from Oujda, a major city in the north or take a bus from Fes to go to Errachidia, then Bouarfa and finally Figuig. The journey offers scenic views of the Moroccan landscape, including Figuig’s fortress and palm groves.
What makes Figuig one of the best cities to visit in Morocco for every Slow Traveller?
Figuig’s remote setting, historical significance, and unique oasis environment make it an intriguing choice for slow travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Furthermore, Figuig stands out for its blend of tradition and modernity, scenic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and commitment to sustainable living. It offers a unique glimpse into the life of a traditional Moroccan oasis town while embracing contemporary needs.
Figuig’s remote setting, historical significance, and unique oasis environment make it an intriguing choice for slow travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Furthermore, Figuig stands out for its blend of tradition and modernity, scenic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and commitment to sustainable living. It offers a unique glimpse into the life of a traditional Moroccan oasis town while embracing contemporary needs.
Explore Figuig: One of the Best Cities to Visit in Morocco
So, there you have it, fellow wanderer, a glimpse into the hidden gem of Figuig. Over there, traditions stay alive, stories are shared, and landscapes captivate the soul. As one of the best cities to visit in Morocco, Figuig calls slow travellers to step off the beaten path and immerse in its unique charm.
So, what’s next on your Slow Travel itinerary in Morocco? Will you venture to another hidden oasis or immerse yourself in a bustling Moroccan city?
Up to you! After all, your destination along your Slow Travel journey doesn’t matter. What matters are the connections and memories made along the way. So, pack your curiosity, explore this Slow Travel Blog and let the adventure continue.
Bon voyage!
Wander with Purpose – Connect With Heart.
So, there you have it, fellow wanderer, a glimpse into the hidden gem of Figuig. Over there, traditions stay alive, stories are shared, and landscapes captivate the soul. As one of the best cities to visit in Morocco, Figuig calls slow travellers to step off the beaten path and immerse in its unique charm.
So, what’s next on your Slow Travel itinerary in Morocco? Will you venture to another hidden oasis or immerse yourself in a bustling Moroccan city?
Up to you! After all, your destination along your Slow Travel journey doesn’t matter. What matters are the connections and memories made along the way. So, pack your curiosity, explore this Slow Travel Blog and let the adventure continue.
Bon voyage!
Wander with Purpose – Connect With Heart.
