I’ve lived in Morocco for over 10 years and often travel beyond the usual tourist routes. In this post, I’m sharing 10 off-the-beaten-path villages to discover in Morocco — places where you can experience local life, slow travel, and a different side of the country that most visitors miss.
1. Sidi Kaouki
Located along the Atlantic coast, about 30 minutes south of Essaouira, Sidi Kaouki is a laid-back fishing village known for its wild beaches and strong winds. It’s a favourite spot for surfers and kite surfers looking to escape the crowds. The village offers a relaxed vibe with local cafés and fresh, simple seafood restaurants right by the ocean. If you are in Essaouira, it is definitely worth visiting or even spending a few nights (check Mellow beach house or eat best fish soup and sea food at Cafe Al Vent).
2. Moulay Idriss Zerhoune
This small spiritual town sits on the hills near the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, next to Meknes and roughly an hour drive from Fez. Named after Moulay Idris I, the founder of the Idrisid dynasty, it’s one of Morocco’s holiest sites. Interestingly, until 2005 non-Muslims were not allowed to stay overnight in Moulay Idriss, which helped preserve its peaceful, traditional atmosphere. Narrow alleys and white-and-blue painted houses make it a beautiful place to explore, offering insight into Morocco’s religious history. So many donkeys in this little town, not much to do, but I love the peaceful atmosphere there. My tip – stay at Dar Zerhoune and must book their local women life tour. For me this one is one of the most peaceful Morocco villages.
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3. Tamnougalt village
Morocco villages – perfect to visit if you drive toward the Sahara desert (check/book my curated private Sahara desert tour here). Tamnougalt, close to Agdz in southern Morocco, is famous for its impressive kasbah and surrounding palm groves along the Draa Valley. This site is home to the Kasbah des Caïds, a 17th-century mudbrick fortress that once served as the residence of local rulers and a key centre of power in the Draa Valley. Unlike the more famous Aït Ben Haddou, Tamnougalt remains largely untouched by mass tourism, preserving its authentic feel. The kasbah complex is still inhabited and stretches across a surprisingly large area—though many of its buildings are now crumbling. The main kasbah is being carefully restored by its owner, Hassan, who has opened a small on-site museum (entrance fee is 20 MAD). His Instagram account and even stay in his Airbnb – beautiful authentic experience.
4. Imlil (1,5h drive from Marrakech)
Set in the High Atlas Mountains about 1.5 hours from Marrakech, Imlil village is best known as the base for climb Toubkal, Morocco’s highest peak. But it’s also fantastic for day hikes of varying difficulty, surrounded by terraced fields and Berber villages. The fresh mountain air and stunning views make Imlil a perfect spot for anyone wanting to explore Atlas life beyond the city. Also, so many nice little hotels to stay, so can even spend there few nights. Hiking in Morocco for me is always in Imlil!
5. Moulay Bousselham
Located on Morocco’s Atlantic coast about 1.5 hours from Tangier, Moulay Bousselham is a small town in the Kénitra Province, famous for its lagoon and the wetland area called Merja Zerga. The resort is popular almost entirely with Moroccans and the birdwatching community. The wetland is home to over 100 bird species like the flamingo, grey herons, storks, black-winged stilts, African marsh owls, marbled teals, Red-knobbed coots, etc. If you want a birdwatching tour, ask around in the port. You can read more about my visit to Moulay Bousselham in the post Chasing flamingos in Morocco.
6. Tameslohte
Tameslohte, also known as “Tameslouht,” village is situated approximately 40 kilometres from Marrakesh, on the edge of the Agafay Desert. It’s a perfect stop if you’re heading to one of the camps in the Agafay Desert. Tameslohte is a tranquil Berber village surrounded by olive groves and orchards. It offers a peaceful rural setting where you can enjoy quiet walks, local crafts, and a slower pace compared to the nearby city bustle. Some years ago, this town hosted a graffiti festival, so you can now discover a wealth of graffiti art there. Read more about it in my post Off the beaten path in Morocco. Graffiti in Tameslohte.
7. Tafedna
About an hour and a half south of Essaouira on the Atlantic coast, Tafedna is a small fishing village with calm beaches and fresh seafood. The village is known for its relaxed atmosphere, few simple beachside restaurants, and friendly locals. Because of the lagoon, it reminded me bit of Asia feeling. Perfect if you really want something off beaten path on the coast – check Airbnb for beautiful little beach houses.
8. Tafraoute
Nestled deep in the Anti-Atlas Mountains, Tafraoute is famous for its pink granite rock formations and stunning mountain scenery. It’s a hotspot for rock climbing, camping, and canyon exploring. The village is surrounded by almond trees and traditional Berber homes painted in soft colors — a dream for anyone who loves mountains and outdoor adventure. Worth spending at least few nights as it’s so not on the way to anywhere (if you drive from Marrakech, you can even spend a night in Agadir first).
9. Taghazout
Located about 30 minutes north of Agadir (read more about Agadir in my post The Essential Travel Guide to Agadir, Morocco), Taghazout has transformed from a quiet fishing village into a very popular surf destination. The village is packed with cafés, yoga studios, and surf schools, so booking accommodation well in advance is highly recommended. Despite its popularity, Taghazout keeps its friendly, authentic vibe and is great for catching waves or simply relaxing by the sea. Read more about Taghazout in my article A Guide to Taghazout Morocco (not only for surfers). I would say Taghazout recently became one of the most popular beach Morocco villages.
10. Oualidia
Oualidia is a quiet coastal village about 2.5 hours from Casablanca, known as Morocco’s oyster capital. It sits on a peaceful lagoon ideal for water sports and relaxing beach days. Fresh oysters are a highlight here, enjoyed right by the water with beautiful sunsets to round out your visit. Oualidia is a very popular destination for local Moroccan tourists, so summers there are packed. Many hotels restaurants as well.
