Morocco travel diary: Figuig, Morocco’s forgotten oasis town

Earlier this year, I embarked on an exciting new chapter by moving to Tangier. Living in this vibrant city has sparked my curiosity to uncover the hidden gems and breathtaking landscapes Morocco has to offer. I invite you to join on our weekly adventure as we delve into the heart of Morocco.

Our most recent journey took us to Figuig, a hidden oasis town in the far east of Morocco right on the border with Algeria.

Figuig, Morocco’s forgotten oasis town

Nestled near the Algerian border in Morocco’s easternmost reaches, Figuig is a mesmerizing oasis town that feels like a step back in time. Encircled by palm groves and mountains, this remote destination boasts a serene charm that captivates every traveler who ventures here.

Whether it’s your first visit to Morocco or you’ve traveled to this captivating country multiple times, I bet a remote oasis town like Figuig has a place on your bucket list.

What to do in Figuig

Earlier this month, we spent three unforgettable days exploring the oasis, and here are experiences you shouldn’t miss in and around Figuig.

1. Wander through the century old Ksars

Figuig is home to seven historic Ksars. The Ksars of Figuig are ancient, fortified villages made from mudbrick and stone, designed to protect against the harsh desert climate. Their maze-like alleys and traditional homes reflect centuries of Berber and Islamic architectural heritage. Ksar Zenaga is the biggest one and offers the best-preserved architecture. A walk through the labyrinthine streets evokes a sense of mystery and adventure.

2. Explore the palm groves and help during the date harvest

The highlight of your visit to Figuig is a hike through its vast palm groves, which stretch over 12 square kilometers. The town is home to countless date palms, and the best time to visit is during the harvest season, from late summer to early autumn. This is when you can join the locals in the traditional process of harvesting dates from the towering palm trees. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the region’s agricultural culture and experience a truly authentic aspect of life in a remote oasis town.

3. Visit the traditional irrigation systems

The ingenious khattara irrigation system, has sustained Figuig’s agriculture for centuries. This traditional method channels water from underground sources to nourish the oasis, creating a lifeline for the town’s date palms. A visit to the khattara system is one of the unforgettable adventures you’ll have in Figuig.

TIP: Did you know that Figuig is home to a few underground swimming pools, fed by the khattara system? These mythic swimming pools are frequently visited by locals. Some are only open to men, others only to women.

4. Spent the night with a local family

To fully immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions, we recommend spending a night with a local family. Some families have transformed their homes into charming guesthouses, offering you the opportunity to stay in a traditional dwelling made from mudbrick and wood. One of the highlights of staying with a local family is enjoying home-cooked meals, featuring delicious specialties from the region that offer a true taste of Figuig’s culinary heritage.

TIP: We travelled all over Morocco and have friends and family that would like to get to know you wherever you are. Contact us to arrange a night with a local Berber family in Figuig.