During my recent Slow Travel Itinerary in Morocco, I explored various places. However, one destination surprised me despite my initial low expectations. So, if you ask yourself, “Is Agadir worth visiting?”, you are at the right place. This is an honest and brutal review of this city appearing through various polished travel guides or instagram posts you might have come across.
Yes, fellow adventurer, the reality behind Agadir might not be the one you have imagined. I experienced Agadir differently, in a way where local culture, authentic restaurants, and warm-hearted people take centre stage. So, let me take you on a journey through the real Agadir and Souss-Massa region, as seen through the local eyes, the Slow Traveller Way.
During my recent Slow Travel Itinerary in Morocco, I explored various places. However, one destination surprised me despite my initial low expectations. So, if you ask yourself, “Is Agadir worth visiting?”, you are at the right place.
This is an honest and brutal review of this city appearing through various polished travel guides or instagram posts you might have come across.
Yes, fellow adventurer, the reality behind Agadir might not be the one you have imagined. I experienced Agadir differently, in a way where local culture, authentic restaurants, and warm-hearted people take centre stage.
So, let me take you on a journey through the real Agadir and Souss-Massa region, as seen through the local eyes, the Slow Traveller Way.
Agadir Uniqueness
Is Agadir worth visiting? Honestly, I had my doubts too. In my head, Agadir was just another spot buzzing with surfers and influencers, encroaching on local life without leaving much room for Moroccan culture to breathe.
While there’s some truth, especially concerning Agadir, I was seriously wrong. The region, including its capital, has more to offer than scratching the surface, especially for curious Slow travellers.
From its diverse landscapes to its rich history and unique Moroccan traditions, the answer to “Is Agadir worth visiting?” tends to be a big yes, but only when visiting correctly and avoiding tourist traps. Let’s uncover the potential city’s local hidden gems and create an immersive travel experience.
Is Agadir worth visiting? Honestly, I had my doubts too. In my head, Agadir was just another spot buzzing with surfers and influencers, encroaching on local life without leaving much room for Moroccan culture to breathe.
While there’s some truth, especially concerning Agadir, I was seriously wrong. The region, including its capital, has more to offer than scratching the surface, especially for curious Slow travellers.
From its diverse landscapes to its rich history and unique Moroccan traditions, the answer to “Is Agadir worth visiting?” tends to be a big yes, but only when visiting correctly and avoiding tourist traps.
Let’s uncover the potential city’s local hidden gems and create an immersive travel experience.
The Local and Ultimate Agadir Travel Guide
How to get to Agadir? (the Slow Traveller way)
How do you reach this Slow Travel destination in Morocco? Well, like many other destinations in Morocco, Agadir is easily accessible by land transportation. Once again, there’s no need to fly.
Agadir’s bus station is about 5 km from the beach. To get there or leave, you can hop in a local taxi for around 15-25 MAD from the city centre or any taxi stand. Then, several bus companies like CTM or Supratours operate routes to Agadir from cities like Essaouira, Marrakech, Rabat, and Casablanca.
Nevertheless, If you prefer to take the train, head to the ONCF website to check schedules, or refer to the image below for more details (I did it myself, mom’s proud).
I personally took a bus after having explored the magical city of Ouarzazate which cost me 90 MAD for a 5 hours ride.
How do you reach this Slow Travel destination in Morocco? Well, like many other destinations in Morocco, Agadir is easily accessible by land transportation. Once again, there’s no need to fly.
Agadir’s bus station is about 5 km from the beach. To get there or leave, you can hop in a local taxi for around 15-25 MAD from the city centre or any taxi stand.
Then, several bus companies like CTM or Supratours operate routes to Agadir from cities like Essaouira, Marrakech, Rabat, and Casablanca.
Nevertheless, If you prefer to take the train, head to the ONCF website to check schedules, or refer to the image below for more details (I did it myself, mom’s proud).
I personally took a bus after having explored the magical city of Ouarzazate which cost me 90 MAD for a 5 hours ride.
Best things to do in Agadir
Agadir, meaning “fortified enclosure” in Berber, is Morocco’s sixth-largest city and an important hub for commerce. Strategically positioned at the mouth of the Sous River, this city boasts a history stretching back over 3,000 years.
Interestingly, some scholars even suggest that the city could be the location of the lost city of Atlantis, as described by Plato. While my explorations haven’t revealed any ancient underwater civilisations, I found a few gems worth checking out when visiting Agadir.
Agadir, meaning “fortified enclosure” in Berber, is Morocco’s sixth-largest city and an important hub for commerce. Strategically positioned at the mouth of the Sous River, this city boasts a history stretching back over 3,000 years.
Interestingly, some scholars even suggest that the city could be the location of the lost city of Atlantis, as described by Plato.
While my explorations haven’t revealed any ancient underwater civilisations, I found a few gems worth checking out when visiting Agadir.
“If you are always racing to the next moment, what happens to the one you're in?"
Agadir Oufella: A Glimpse into the Past
In 1969, a devastating earthquake destroyed much of the city and killed a third of its population, becoming the deadliest earthquake in Moroccan history. Thus, only a few visible traces of Agadir’s past exist today since the city was rebuilt from the ground.
However, one historic site survived: Agadir Oufella, the city’s old kasbah perched on a hill over 300 feet above the town. Today, its towering white walls evoke a sense of the past, and from the kasbah’s forecourt, visitors can enjoy sweeping views over modern Agadir and the vast Atlantic Ocean. Probably one of the reasons why agadir is worth visiting.
In 1969, a devastating earthquake destroyed much of the city and killed a third of its population, becoming the deadliest earthquake in Moroccan history.
Thus, only a few visible traces of Agadir’s past exist today since the city was rebuilt from the ground. However, one historic site survived: Agadir Oufella, the city’s old kasbah perched on a hill over 300 feet above the town.
Today, its towering white walls evoke a sense of the past, and from the kasbah’s forecourt, visitors can enjoy sweeping views over modern Agadir and the vast Atlantic Ocean. Probably one of the reasons why agadir is worth visiting.
The Beach & Seaside
Agadir’s beach is beautiful but comes with a few downsides. If you plan to stick around the main beach, you might find the experience a bit of a letdown. Despite its natural aspect, the beach can often feel overcrowded, and many sections are privatised by resorts and restaurants (ugh).
You’ll find that the beachfront cafes and eateries cater almost exclusively to European tourists, and Moroccan options are rare (ugh again).
Prices are based on European standards, and the whole area feels commercialised. Therefore, if you’re after a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience, Agadir’s beach might not be the highlight of your trip.
Agadir’s beach is beautiful but comes with a few downsides. If you plan to stick around the main beach, you might find the experience a bit of a letdown.
Despite its natural aspect, the beach can often feel overcrowded, and many sections are privatised by resorts and restaurants (ugh).
You’ll find that the beachfront cafes and eateries cater almost exclusively to European tourists, and Moroccan options are rare (ugh again).
Prices are based on European standards, and the whole area feels commercialised. Therefore, if you’re after a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience, Agadir’s beach might not be the highlight of your trip.
The Souk and Mosque
Now, let’s talk about the souk and the mosque. In my honest opinion, if you can visit other Slow Travel destinations within the Souss-Massa region or other parts of Morocco, you might not find Agadir’s souk or mosque particularly memorable.
Over time, they’ve lost some of their original charm, likely due to the constant influx of tourists. The authenticity that once marked these places has been overshadowed by a more commercialised design to appeal to visitors rather than preserve the local culture.
However, if Agadir is your only stop in Morocco, then visit the souk and mosque. They still offer a glimpse of Moroccan life, albeit a more tourist-centric version.
Now, let’s talk about the souk and the mosque. In my honest opinion, if you can visit other Slow Travel destinations within the Souss-Massa region or other parts of Morocco, you might not find Agadir’s souk or mosque particularly memorable.
Over time, they’ve lost some of their original charm, likely due to the constant influx of tourists. The authenticity that once marked these places has been overshadowed by a more commercialised design to appeal to visitors rather than preserve the local culture.
However, if Agadir is your only stop in Morocco, then visit the souk and mosque. They still offer a glimpse of Moroccan life, albeit a more tourist-centric version.
The New Medina
After the 1960 earthquake, Agadir’s old Medina was mostly lost, with just a few ruins left at the old Kasbah. In 1992, an Italian architect had the great idea to try pineapple on pizza (no). Instead, he took on the task of rebuilding the Medina using traditional methods and materials. However, don’t expect it to be entirely authentic. Nowadays, you’ll need to pay an entrance fee (30-40 MAD), and only a few locals still live there.
After the 1960 earthquake, Agadir’s old Medina was mostly lost, with just a few ruins left at the old Kasbah. In 1992, an Italian architect had the great idea to try pineapple on pizza (no).
Instead, he took on the task of rebuilding the Medina using traditional methods and materials. However, don’t expect it to be entirely authentic. Nowadays, you’ll need to pay an entrance fee (30-40 MAD), and only a few locals still live there.
My honest opinion on Agadir
Honestly, Agadir didn’t excite me much, but I understand why many European travellers choose it for a sunny winter escape. However, Agadir might not be fully satisfying for Slow Travellers like us. Overall, cafés, resorts, restaurants, and picture-perfect spots made for tourists dominate the place.
That said, the entire Souss-Massa region isn’t represented by its capital. The true gems lie beyond the city. So, is Agadir worth visiting? Yes, but maybe just for a day or two. After that, it’s time to discover the real treasures of the Souss-Massa region, a must for anyone seeking a deeper Moroccan cultural experience on a journey through Morocco.
Honestly, Agadir didn’t excite me much, but I understand why many European travellers choose it for a sunny winter escape. However, Agadir might not be fully satisfying for Slow Travellers like us. Overall, cafés, resorts, restaurants, and picture-perfect spots made for tourists dominate the place.
That said, the entire Souss-Massa region isn’t represented by its capital. The true gems lie beyond the city. So, is Agadir worth visiting?
Yes, but maybe just for a day or two. After that, it’s time to discover the real treasures of the Souss-Massa region, a must for anyone seeking a deeper Moroccan cultural experience on a journey through Morocco.
The Souss-Massa Region Travel Guide
As you understand, the question, “Is Agadir worth visiting?” cannot be answered with Agadir itself. The city with its resort hotels and modern amenities, is often seen as more of a tourist hub than a destination for Slow Travel.
However, the true essence of this region lies not within the city walls, but in the broader Souss-Massa region. This area is a treasure trove of natural beauty, wildlife, and authentic experiences that make it well worth exploring. Let’s start with it.
As you understand, the question, “Is Agadir worth visiting?” cannot be answered with Agadir itself. The city with its resort hotels and modern amenities, is often seen as more of a tourist hub than a destination for Slow Travel.
However, the true essence of this region lies not within the city walls, but in the broader Souss-Massa region. This area is a treasure trove of natural beauty, wildlife, and authentic experiences that make it well worth exploring. Let’s start with it.
What to do in the Souss-Massa region around Agadir?
The National Park of Souss-Massa: A Natural Wonderland
One of the beauties of this region is the Souss-Massa National Park. Initially, I approached this park with scepticism, fearing it might be little more than a glorified zoo. But my doubts quickly dissipated as I delved deeper into its diverse landscapes and engagements.
Overall, expect to encounter gazelles, various antelope species, ostriches, and an impressive array of birds, including the rare and endangered bald ibis. Prices start at 70 MAD per person for the walking circuit taking 2 to 4 hours. Alternatively, you can opt for a road circuit, which lasts 2 to 3 hours and costs 120 MAD per person.
Passionate rangers watch over and enforce regulations to preserve the park’s natural state. Through conversations with them, I learned that the animals roam freely, untouched by human intervention. For more details about the park experience, how and when to go check out this article about the Souss Massa national park.
One of the beauties of this region is the Souss-Massa National Park. Initially, I approached this park with scepticism, fearing it might be little more than a glorified zoo. But my doubts quickly dissipated as I delved deeper into its diverse landscapes and engagements.
Overall, expect to encounter gazelles, various antelope species, ostriches, and an impressive array of birds, including the rare and endangered bald ibis.
Prices start at 70 MAD per person for the walking circuit taking 2 to 4 hours. Alternatively, you can opt for a road circuit, which lasts 2 to 3 hours and costs 120 MAD per person.
Passionate rangers watch over and enforce regulations to preserve the park’s natural state. Through conversations with them, I learned that the animals roam freely, untouched by human intervention.
For more details about the park experience, how and when to go check out this article about the Souss Massa national park.
Paradise valley
Just 50 kilometres from Agadir, Paradise Valley is a perfect day trip. This small oasis, tucked into the High Atlas Mountains, offers refreshing natural springs surrounded by lush vegetation.
It’s a great spot to unwind in the clear waters. For peaceful visits, avoid weekends and afternoons when it gets busy with locals and tour groups starting at 1 AM.
But, if you enjoy a lively atmosphere, the crowds bring a local flair, with families playing music and cooking tagines over campfires by the river. Plus, local tips, DO NOT eat there, the quality and freshness of the food is quite questionable.
Just 50 kilometres from Agadir, Paradise Valley is a perfect day trip. This small oasis, tucked into the High Atlas Mountains, offers refreshing natural springs surrounded by lush vegetation.
It’s a great spot to unwind in the clear waters. For peaceful visits, avoid weekends and afternoons when it gets busy with locals and tour groups starting at 1 AM.
But, if you enjoy a lively atmosphere, the crowds bring a local flair, with families playing music and cooking tagines over campfires by the river. Plus, local tips, DO NOT eat there, the quality and freshness of the food is quite questionable.
The Dunes of Timlalin
Welcome into a little piece of Sahara by the ocean! Here, rocks and sand meet the salty water of the Atlantic to create breathtaking views.
Located 1 hour from Agadir and 15 minutes from Imsouane, the dunes of Timlaling belong to a natural and protected area.
Whether you want to hike, try sandboarding, or watch a beautiful sunset, Timlalin is a unique spot that shouldn’t be missed on your visit to Agadir.
To get more details about how to go there and tourist traps to avoid check out this article about the Timlalin Dunes.
Welcome into a little piece of Sahara by the ocean! Here, rocks and sand meet the salty water of the Atlantic to create breathtaking views. Located 1 hour from Agadir and 15 minutes from Imsouane, the dunes of Timlaling belong to a natural and protected area.
Whether you want to hike, try sandboarding, or watch a beautiful sunset, Timlalin is a unique spot that shouldn’t be missed on your visit to Agadir. To get more details about how to go there and tourist traps to avoid check out this article about the Timlalin Dunes.
Tamraght: A hidden Moroccan gem
During the last stop of my Travel itinerary in Morocco, I fell in love with Tamraght. Initially, I had planned to stay a few days but it quickly converted into a 10 day stay.
This small village, just outside Agadir, embodies the Slow Travel vibe, making you quickly feel at home.
Although it might seem like there is not much to do, the reality is different. Every day brings new friends, delicious food, waves to catch, and spots to discover.
Sounds pretty splendid, right? Explore the underrated Tamraght and enjoy the local Moroccan life and traditions.
During the last stop of my Travel itinerary in Morocco, I fell in love with Tamraght. Initially, I had planned to stay a few days but it quickly converted into a 10 day stay.
This small village, just outside Agadir, embodies the Slow Travel vibe, making you quickly feel at home.
Although it might seem like there is not much to do, the reality is different. Every day brings new friends, delicious food, waves to catch, and spots to discover.
Sounds pretty splendid, right? Explore the underrated Tamraght and enjoy the local Moroccan life and traditions.
Taghazout: From Hippie Haven to Instagram Hotspot
Back in the 1950s, Morocco had its own version of the “Hippie Trail,” attracting free spirits to places like Tangier, Marrakech, and Essaouira. Many stayed behind, blending their Bohemian lifestyle with the local culture. Nowadays, Taghazout has evolved from a sleepy fishing village into a hot spot for the “Instagram generation.”
With plenty of cheap flights connecting Agadir to Europe, it has become a destination for those seeking “off-the-beaten-path” adventures with an alternative lifestyle. Surfing academies now offer week-long retreats, including surf lessons, yoga, and vegan meals. Boutique bed and breakfasts have sprung up, and luxury resorts like Radisson Blu, Hyatt, and Hilton are becoming common sights. Honestly, it feels like this trend is spreading across the whole Agadir area.
But, Taghazout still retains its local charm. The fishing industry is alive and well, with fishermen gathering on the beach to clean their daily catch. It’s also a popular spot for Moroccans looking to unwind by the sea. Plus, if you head to the skatepark at sunset, you can watch young Moroccans show off their skills in a lively, laid-back atmosphere.
Back in the 1950s, Morocco had its own version of the “Hippie Trail,” attracting free spirits to places like Tangier, Marrakech, and Essaouira. Many stayed behind, blending their Bohemian lifestyle with the local culture. Nowadays, Taghazout has evolved from a sleepy fishing village into a hot spot for the “Instagram generation.”
With plenty of cheap flights connecting Agadir to Europe, it has become a destination for those seeking “off-the-beaten-path” adventures with an alternative lifestyle. Surfing academies now offer week-long retreats, including surf lessons, yoga, and vegan meals. Boutique bed and breakfasts have sprung up, and luxury resorts like Radisson Blu, Hyatt, and Hilton are becoming common sights. Honestly, it feels like this trend is spreading across the whole Agadir area.
But, Taghazout still retains its local charm. The fishing industry is alive and well, with fishermen gathering on the beach to clean their daily catch. It’s also a popular spot for Moroccans looking to unwind by the sea. Plus, if you head to the skatepark at sunset, you can watch young Moroccans show off their skills in a lively, laid-back atmosphere.
Waterfall Imouzzer
If you’re visiting Paradise Valley and have some extra time, take a short drive to the Imouzzer waterfall. Just 30 minutes from Paradise Valley, Imouzzer is a small Berber village nestled in the Atlas Mountains. The waterfall is well worth the visit, but do check beforehand to make sure there’s enough water—it can be underwhelming when the flow is low.
If you’re visiting Paradise Valley and have some extra time, take a short drive to the Imouzzer waterfall. Just 30 minutes from Paradise Valley, Imouzzer is a small Berber village nestled in the Atlas Mountains. The waterfall is well worth the visit, but do check beforehand to make sure there’s enough water—it can be underwhelming when the flow is low.
Are Souss-Massa and Agadir worth visiting - FAQ
How many days do you need in Agadir?
To make your journey in Agadir worth visiting, one day or two are enough. I advise you to stay in Tamraght to explore the surroundings.
To make your journey in Agadir worth visiting, one day or two are enough. I advise you to stay in Tamraght to explore the surroundings.
When to go to Agadir?
Agadir is worth visiting all year long being one of the places in Morocco with the most sunny days in a year.
Agadir is worth visiting all year long being one of the places in Morocco with the most sunny days in a year.
Where is Agadir located?
Agadir is in the middle of the Souss-Massa region on the Atlantic coast of Morocco.
Agadir is in the middle of the Souss-Massa region on the Atlantic coast of Morocco.
Is Agadir safe?
When asking yourself is Agadir worth visiting, safety is a crucial concern. Overall, this isn’t the safest place in the souss-massa region at night. Tamraght or Taghazout are way better.
When asking yourself is Agadir worth visiting, safety is a crucial concern. Overall, this isn’t the safest place in the souss-massa region at night. Tamraght or Taghazout are way better.
Is Agadir expensive?
Agadir is expensive when sticking to the seaside where most tourist infrastructure and services are.
Agadir is expensive when sticking to the seaside where most tourist infrastructure and services are.
Do they speak French or English in Agadir?
One of the reasons why Agadir worth visiting is that local people speak French and English due to the influx of international tourists.
One of the reasons why Agadir worth visiting is that local people speak French and English due to the influx of international tourists.
Are the Souss-Massa Region & Agadir worth visiting?
Agadir and the Souss-Massa region are more than just another stop on the Moroccan tourist trail. You’ve glimpsed beyond the city’s glossy exterior to uncover the hidden gems that make this region special for Slow Travellers. Now, the real question isn’t just “Is Agadir worth visiting?” but how will you embrace the adventure by learning how to travel around Morocco like a local?
Will you dare to fall into the bright and diverse Moroccan culture hidden into this Fès itinerary? Or are you eager to reach more destinations along the coast such as the city of Tangier? Whatever path you choose, remember that the magic lies in slowing down, connecting with the local culture, and letting the journey surprise you.
Bon voyage!
Wander with Purpose – Connect with heart.
Agadir and the Souss-Massa region are more than just another stop on the Moroccan tourist trail. You’ve glimpsed beyond the city’s glossy exterior to uncover the hidden gems that make this region special for Slow Travellers.
Now, the real question isn’t just “Is Agadir worth visiting?” but how will you embrace the adventure by learning how to travel around Morocco like a local?
Will you dare to fall into the bright and diverse Moroccan culture hidden into this Fès itinerary? Or are you eager to reach more destinations along the coast such as the city of Tangier?
Whatever path you choose, remember that the magic lies in slowing down, connecting with the local culture, and letting the journey surprise you.
Bon voyage!
Wander with Purpose – Connect with heart.
