Places to visit in Agadir

Agadir

Agadir, in the foothills of the Anti-Atlas Mountains, is a city on Morocco’s southern Atlantic coast. This resort destination is known for its golf courses, beaches, cafés, restaurants, and bars along the seaside promenade. There are many places to visit in Agadir. The optimum time to visit Agadir is between May and September but the climate is pleasant all the year round. The city is a great place to spend a winter break by the sea while experiencing some Moroccan culture at the same time.

Hotels

There are plenty of hotels in Agadir, we stayed at the Rui Tikida Dunas which is right on the beach front. It is an all inclusive resort with spacious rooms and lots of facilities, evening entertainment and pools. There is also a spa and hairdressers on site and a gift shop too selling souvenirs and also basic essentials.

We were in Agadir for 1 week , there was plenty of time to do some sightseeing together with relaxing. Some of the places to visit are:

The Corniche of Agadir and Marina d’Agadir

The Corniche of Agadir is a 5 km promenade which leads to a picturesque Marina d’Agadir at one end. The promenade is lined with palm trees, bars and restaurants. It is very lively in the evening.

Marina d’Agadir is located at one end of the city’s large bay. Tourists flock here to see the luxury yachts and boats of Morocco’s upper class moored here. There are many luxury apartment buildings surrounding the marina. This area is also filled with designer shops, landscaped gardens, restaurants, bars, and leisure areas.

Agadir Kasbah

An earthquake in 1960 destroyed most of the Agadir Kasbah (fort), leaving only the Kasbah (fort) standing. To reach the Kashbah you can take a cable car known as Danialand Telepherique, walk up the hill or drive. The walk is not suitable for anyone with walking difficulties.

At the moment the access to the ruins is restricted as the Kasbah is currently being restored. There are a number of information boards on the surrounding walls that provide detailed information about the Kasbah’s history.

In addition to the history you can also enjoy camel rides and purchase Moroccan souvenirs at the fort. There are stunning views from the top, which are the highlight. From here, you can see the entire city and the harbour.

Museum of folk art

The municipal park in the center of town has a small museum of folk art. Morocco was a home to ancient civilisations for thousands of years before Islam arrived. In the museum there is a beautiful collection of Berber art and culture.

Crocoparc

Over 300 Nile crocodiles roam the Crocoparc zoological park in Agadir, the only one of its kind in Morocco. The park is not only home to crocodiles, but also to giant tortoises and green iguanas. A total of five botanical gardens are located in the park. Among them are the Exotic Garden, the Tropical Garden, the Aquatic Garden, and the Cactus Garden. There are beautiful tropical plants in the gardens, as well as aquatic plants and a forest of Nile papaya trees. With an adult entrance fee of £8.00 and a child ticket at £4.50 the entrance fee is reasonable. In order to fully enjoy the Crocoparc, I would recommend that you allow about three hours.

Photo by Matthew Essman on Unsplash

Atlas Mountains

In Morocco, there are two main mountain ranges. Those are the High Atlas mountains and Anti-Atlas mountains. We thoroughly enjoyed our Jeep excursion to the Paradise Valley and the Atlas mountains. We enjoyed a traditional Berber breakfast and a Moroccan tagine lunch. The itinerary included these meals, making the experience even more enjoyable.

A Jeep safari is the best way to view the countryside, snow-capped mountains, waterfalls, and palm groves. We drove through many Berber villages along the route with Berber houses, which were fascinating.

Morocco had limited rainfall in February, because of this we were unable to see the full splendour of the Paradise Valley waterfall.

Souk El Had (Sunday Market)

Souk El Had in Agadir is one of the biggest souks (markets) in Morocco. You should definitely visit this place when visiting Agadir, regardless of whether you plan to buy anything or not. A truly eye-opening experience, you shouldn’t miss it. There are 6000 stalls in the Souk and it is open six days a week, except Mondays. It is possible to enter the souk through 15 numbered gates.

The products you can purchase include spices, fresh produce, electronics, homewares, clothing, bedding, and furniture. It is possible to purchase almost anything in the souk. In Morocco, it is common practice to haggle for the best price. A great way to experience a true Moroccan vibe is to visit a food stall or eatery in the souk. It’s a lovely way to enjoy some Moroccan tea and watch the locals going about their business.

Some tips for Morocco

Haggling

Haggling is a must and you have to haggle in shops, souks. Always offer 50% off the asking price that gives you and shop keeper plenty of scope to haggle. Don’t be afraid to walk away if you feel if you are not getting a good price, most shop keepers will call you back. Always agree a price before starting a taxi journey otherwise you will end up with a huge bill at the end.

Food to try in Agadir Morocco

Moroccan tea- A sweet mint flavoured green tea

Tagine A stew made in a special clay pot

Amlou– A spread made from argan oil and almonds a little bit like nutella

Argan Oil – there is an edible version and also a cosmetic version used for the body

Couscous- Grains of couscous steamed and served with a vegetable stew

Harira – A tomato based chick pea and tomato soup

Zaalouk- A smoked aubergine dip

Dress Code in Agadir Morocco

Agadir is pretty liberal when it comes to dress code but it is still wise to dress modestly in public places. Westerners are not allowed to enter mosques so be respectful of that.

Currency in Agadir Morocco

Currency in Morocco is the MAD Moroccan Dirham, it is a closed currency so you cannot take it with you. The best place to change it is in town to get the best rate. Only change a minimum amount at the airport as the exchange rate will be poor.

Language

The languages spoken in Morocco is French, Arabic and Berber. Lastly learn a few words in the local language like please and thankyou and hello.

Hello- Salam in Arabic

Thankyou – Shukranin Arabic

Please- Law samaht in Arabic

I loved my trip to Agadir Morocco, I immediately fell in love with the vibrant colours, the lifestyle ,the food and the hospitality. Have you been to Agadir or any other Moroccan city? Please do share your tips in the comments below.

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