centre of the Atlas mountains

The region is the result of an Arab-Berber melting pot which has influenced its crafts,cuisine and architecture. An enlightening example of this architecture is the circular fortified clay storage area in the village of Sidi Moussa. These ancient grain stores characterize the rural life of the surroundings. The inhabitants, shepherds and farmers, launched themselves into honey, nut oil and cheese production. Women's associations and cooperatives grouping together several villages are open to the public. Feel free to step into one of the tighermts, the old tribal leaders' castles. Although the walls are made from adobe or stone, the internal decoration in wood is often skillfully painted with a variety of patterns. And you will understand why the hospitality of the region's inhabitants is so famous.

The area around Azilal and more generally the central Upper Atlas lends itself to ecotourism due to its well-preserved and impressive nature. Some examples: 36km west of Azilal are the crashing waterfalls of Ouzoud, an exceptional site. A 100m drop cuts through the middle of a luxuriant chasm. The watercourse flows on for 2km to the deep gorges of El Abid wadi (400m). Other fantastic natural sights include the pretty Arous gorges near Agouti at the entrance to the Aït Bouguemez valley, and the Imi-n-Ifri bridge, near Demnate. A gigantic stone arch carved out by the Mahseur wadi from which hundreds of stalactites hang.