There are not a lot of places that surprised me as Figuig did during my Slow Travel Itinerary in Morocco. Originally not planning to go there, the idea sprouted in my mind after an unexpected exchange with an old lady in Chefchaouen. She was talking about a city called Figuig in Morocco, an ancient warrior tribe and an authentic Morocco lifestyle, away from mass tourism.
This was enough to convince me, and a week later, I was there. Every day was a surprise when I was staying at the Figuig Oasis. I was discovering or learning something new, listening to old forgotten stories, or meeting with locals. No destination has been unique like Figuig nor genuinely off the beaten path. This isn’t the easiest place to reach, but the rewards are worth every step. Are you coming?
There are not a lot of places that surprised me as Figuig did during my Slow Travel Itinerary in Morocco. Originally not planning to go there, the idea sprouted in my mind after an unexpected exchange with an old lady in Chefchaouen.
She was talking about a city called Figuig in Morocco, an ancient warrior tribe and an authentic Morocco lifestyle, away from mass tourism.
This was enough to convince me, and a week later, I was there. Every day was a surprise when I was staying at the Figuig Oasis. I was discovering or learning something new, listening to old forgotten stories, or meeting with locals.
No destination has been unique like Figuig nor genuinely off the beaten path. This isn’t the easiest place to reach, but the rewards are worth every step. Are you coming?
The best time to visit Figuig
Figuig in Morocco is located at the border with Algeria and close to the Sahara desert. Therefore, the best time to visit Figuig is from October to the end of April. During this time, the temperatures are cooler and provide enjoyable weather to wander around. Then, if you want to avoid the few tourists coming, do not go during December and February when most Europeans come due to public holidays.
Note that December, January, and February are the months where dates are harvested. If you have never tried fresh dates, this will blow your mind. It is tasty and has nothing to do with the one you can buy at home.
The months from May to August are too hot due to the proximity to the Sahara in eastern Morocco. Although the Figuig Oasis offers shadows and wind, it is not bearable weather for foreigners.
Best months to visit Figuig: October – end of April
Figuig in Morocco is located at the border with Algeria and close to the Sahara desert. Therefore, the best time to visit Figuig is from October to the end of April.
During this time, the temperatures are cooler and provide enjoyable weather to wander around. Then, if you want to avoid the few tourists coming, do not go during December and February when most Europeans come due to public holidays.
Note that December, January, and February are the months where dates are harvested. If you have never tried fresh dates, this will blow your mind. It is tasty and has nothing to do with the one you can buy at home.
The months from May to August are too hot due to the proximity to the Sahara in eastern Morocco. Although the Figuig Oasis offers shadows and wind, it is not bearable weather for foreigners.
Best months to visit Figuig: October – end of April
How long do you need to explore Figuig in Morocco?
Some people will say there is nothing to do in this small village, and I will highly disagree with them. Being off the beaten path, don’t expect to see many tourist attractions. Figuig in Morocco is made by locals for locals. So, why not bend to this rule and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere?
I will advise you to stay at least 3 days in the Figuig Oasis. During this time, you will have things to do, and time seems to flow differently. Less than this amount, I feel that the journey is too long for the stay, and longer, you might start to get a little bored.
Ideal length of stay in Figuig: 3-5 days
Some people will say there is nothing to do in this small village, and I will highly disagree with them. Being off the beaten path, don’t expect to see many tourist attractions.
Figuig in Morocco is made by locals for locals. So, why not bend to this rule and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere?
I will advise you to stay at least 3 days in the Figuig Oasis. During this time, you will have things to do, and time seems to flow differently. Less than this amount, I feel that the journey is too long for the stay, and longer, you might start to get a little bored.
Ideal length of stay in Figuig: 3-5 days
A Local and Slow Travel Guide to Figuig
Best things to do in Figuig Oasis
How do you spend time in one of the most intriguing Moroccan villages? 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 time in one of the most intriguing Moroccan villages? 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.
Explore Figuig’s historical sites
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.
Lose yourself in the palm grove
Next, lose yourself in the enchanting palm grove. Wander through this natural maze of sustainable walls and captivating landscapes. This peaceful environment within countless palm trees 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 witness the ingenious irrigation system and the pools that maintain a refreshing temperature, even in the desert heat surrounding Figuig in Morocco.
Next, lose yourself in the enchanting palm grove. Wander through this natural maze of sustainable walls and captivating landscapes. This peaceful environment within countless palm trees 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 witness the ingenious irrigation system and the pools that maintain a refreshing temperature, even in the desert heat surrounding Figuig in Morocco.
Go to the public bath
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, offering 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, offering a great opportunity to relax and connect with locals in a stress-free, convivial setting.
Hike the mountains
Nature is king in Figuig. Although it seems all desert and flat, there are still a few hikes. One is the plateau kechtine, a one-hour walk from Figuig Zenaga, giving you a splendid view of the surroundings.
Nature is king in Figuig. Although it seems all desert and flat, there are still a few hikes. One is the plateau kechtine, a one-hour walk from Figuig Zenaga, giving you a splendid view of the surroundings.
Embrace the local culture
Lastly, embrace the local culture of Figuig in Morocco by chatting with the residents, learning about Figuig’s heritage, or simply enjoying a coffee while playing rami at a café.
The opportunities for exploration and learning are endless. Figuig’s inhabitants are welcoming and eager to share their knowledge and history, especially with curious visitors. So, arm yourself with a bright smile, a sprinkle of curiosity, and a genuine desire to understand this hidden Moroccan gem.
Lastly, embrace the local culture of Figuig in Morocco by chatting with the residents, learning about Figuig’s heritage, or simply enjoying a coffee while playing rami at a café.
The opportunities for exploration and learning are endless. Figuig’s inhabitants are welcoming and eager to share their knowledge and history, especially with curious visitors. So, arm yourself with a bright smile, a sprinkle of curiosity, and a genuine desire to understand this hidden Moroccan gem.
The Slow Travel fact about Figuig: Water Distribution
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.
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.
Where to stay in Figuig?
During my stay in Figuig Morocco, I stayed at Auberge Oasis, a locally run property. It seemed like this was almost the only available choice in April in the Zenaga neighbourhood. But, for around 150 MAD per night, I had a private room and bathroom.
It was a comfortable and affordable choice. The whole Dar was surprising, full of decorations and memories from the owners. I felt like entering a traditional Moroccan house where I was more than welcome. They cook meals directly at the Auberge, delicious and worth the price.
There, I met Ibrahim, a generous and kind local who showed me around and introduced me to his friends. We spent hours playing Rami at a café, and his genuine hospitality and kindness left a lasting impression on me.
Where to stay in Figuig: Auberge Oasis
During my stay in Figuig Morocco, I stayed at Auberge Oasis, a locally run property. It seemed like this was almost the only available choice in April in the Zenaga neighbourhood. But, for around 150 MAD per night, I had a private room and bathroom.
It was a comfortable and affordable choice. The whole Dar was surprising, full of decorations and memories from the owners. I felt like entering a traditional Moroccan house where I was more than welcome. They cook meals directly at the Auberge, delicious and worth the price.
There, I met Ibrahim, a generous and kind local who showed me around and introduced me to his friends. We spent hours playing Rami at a café, and his genuine hospitality and kindness left a lasting impression on me.
Where to stay in Figuig: Auberge Oasis
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 Slow Travel destinations. There are two main ways to reach Figuig, young Slow Traveller. However, I’ll focus on the more detailed and complex option.
Getting to Figuig might not be the easiest task, but trust me, it’s worth the effort, making it one of the best Slow Travel destinations.
There are two main ways to reach Figuig, young Slow Traveller. However, I’ll focus on the more detailed and complex 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.
Fés to Figuig duration by bus: 17-20 hours
Fés to Figuig cost by bus: 300-350 MAD
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.
Fés to Figuig duration by bus: 17-20 hours
Fés to Figuig cost by bus: 300-350 MAD
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, there’s no need to fly. Exploring Morocco by train or bus 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, there’s no need to fly. Exploring Morocco by train or bus is highly feasible and budget-friendly.
The Fascinating History of Figuig
Lost in the middle of desert landscapes that look like Mars, Figuig has a captivating history to share. In this curious place, it is like time has paused. 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.
Lost in the middle of desert landscapes that look like Mars, Figuig has a captivating history to share. In this curious place, it is like time has paused.
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.
Figuig: A central destination in Morocco
Once a vital stop for travellers and traders, Figuig in Morocco has a rich history intertwined with the Saharan trade route. Nestled next to an oasis of countless date palms trees 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, Figuig in Morocco has a rich history intertwined with the Saharan trade route. Nestled next to an oasis of countless date palms trees 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. Nevertheless, 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
Conflicts and battles became common, particularly in the ksar Zenaga neighbourhood. This large and beautiful area, 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.
Conflicts and battles became common, particularly in the ksar Zenaga neighbourhood. This large and beautiful area, 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 Figuig in Morocco
Therefore, to protect themselves, the inhabitants, mostly warriors and farmers, built strong defensive walls around their ksour or ksar (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).
But, the early 20th century brought dramatic changes for the inhabitants of Figuig in Morocco. In 1903, French colonial forces 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.
Therefore, to protect themselves, the inhabitants, mostly warriors and farmers, built strong defensive walls around their ksour or ksar (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).
But, the early 20th century brought dramatic changes for the inhabitants of Figuig in Morocco. In 1903, French colonial forces 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.
The province of Figuig today
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 stand still today with resilience and legacy.
But, the Figuig Oasis is fighting again, against a different opponent. Check out how a small community in Figuig is fighting for water control over corporations.
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 stand still today with resilience and legacy. But, the Figuig Oasis is fighting again, against a different opponent. Check out how a small community in Figuig is fighting for water control over corporations.
Figuig in Morocco - FAQs
Is the province of Figuig safe?
The province of Figuig is safe. Its inhabitants are peaceful and genuinely good, with no bad intentions, especially in the Zenaga neighbourhood.
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.
What’s an interesting slow travel fact about Figuig?
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 destination located in northeastern Morocco, known for its large oasis of date palms, rich history, and traditional crafts.
Figuig is an enchanting oasis and Slow Travel destination 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?
When visiting Figuig in Morocco, 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.
How to get around Figuig?
The Figuig Oasis is a small village. You won’t need anything else than your legs to get around.
Is travelling slowly in Figuig expensive?
Life isn’t expensive in the Figuig Oasis. Prices are made for locals by locals, not for tourists.
What makes Figuig a great destination 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 in Morocco 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 in Morocco 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.
Where should I go after Figuig?
After having explored the Figuig Oasis, I would recommend you to go to Ouarzazate to explore an underrated destination and keep travelling slowly in Morocco.
After having explored the Figuig Oasis, I would recommend you to go to Ouarzazate to explore an underrated destination and keep travelling slowly in Morocco.
Enjoy the underrated province of Figuig
I hope you enjoyed this glimpse into the hidden gem of Figuig in Morocco. Over there, traditions stay alive, stories are shared, and landscapes captivate the soul. This traditional Moroccan village calls slow travellers to step off the beaten path and immerse in its unique charm. Wander around the infinite date palm trees field, get to know the inhabitants of the Figuig province, their history, and you will create unforgettable memories.
So, what’s next on your journey in Morocco? Will you venture to the underrated Ouarzazate or explore the buzzing itinerary in Fès? 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 and let the adventure continue.
Bon voyage!
Wander with Purpose – Connect with Heart.
I hope you enjoyed this glimpse into the hidden gem of Figuig in Morocco. Over there, traditions stay alive, stories are shared, and landscapes captivate the soul.
This traditional Moroccan village calls slow travellers to step off the beaten path and immerse in its unique charm. Wander around the infinite date palm trees field, get to know the inhabitants of the Figuig province, their history, and you will create unforgettable memories.
So, what’s next on your journey in Morocco? Will you venture to the underrated Ouarzazate or explore the buzzing itinerary in Fès? 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 and let the adventure continue.
Bon voyage!
Wander with Purpose – Connect with Heart.
