Ouirgane, Ijoukak and Tinmel Mosque

per person

As of September 9th 2023 following a catastrophic earthquake with the epicenter being in this area, Tinmal mosque was severely damaged. It’s not possible to visit the mosque until further notice. The area itself is very beautiful with almond trees in full blossom in the spring. If you would like to help, there is a GoFundMe campaign where we are currently raising money for sapling trees to replant some of the lost fruit and nut orchards that sustain so many of the affected villages.

earthquake damage ijoukak region Morocco earthquake numbers morocco earthquake villages Each dot represents one of the approx 7000 villages damaged or destroyed.

This is a fabulous day trip from Marrakech deep into the heart of the birthplace of the Almohad dynasty.

Leaving the red city, you drive up towards the foothills of the High atlas mountains through market towns and villages to reach Ouirgane in the red valley of Azzaden. Here the Nfiss River flows into a dammed lake and continues down to fill another lake below with a hydroelectric station.

From Ouirgane in its own National Park, we take the riverside road as it winds up deep into the region of Ijoukak where the descendants of the Almohad dynasty live and work the land. Adobe and stone Berber villages are at every turn with fruit trees and fertile fields of crops at their feet. This is rural Morocco at its best in spring when almond blossom fills the valleys. Much is unchanged for centuries. In the village of Ijoukak, pottery is made from the rich red clay and you may be able to stop and visit one of the pottery workshops.

Further up into this ancient landscape we take the road to Tinmel. This 12th century brick built Mosque has stood the test of time well, it is being restored and a roof added so that it may once again be used for prayer. Tinmal Mosque is one of only two mosques in Morocco that can be visited inside by non-Muslims. It still has some of the original features and is quite beautiful in its design. You will be given a guided tour with an explanation about the mosque and its history.

If you have an interest in the ancient history of Marrakech and the region, then this is a worthwhile day excursion. You can also stay overnight in Ouirgane and explore the region further, perhaps a few days hiking in the Ouirgane National Park with its green forests and fertile farmlands.

Day Tours

Destination

Valleys of Morocco
Included

Bottled water

Personal guide

Private transport
Not Included

Accommondation

Airport transfers

Flights

Insurance

Meals as per tour description

Soft drinks

Tips for staff and guides

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Ouirgane, Ijoukak and Tinmel Mosque

At the crossroads of Europe and Africa, surrounded by Mediterranean waters and opening onto the vastness of the Atlantic ocean, Morocco is a wonderland for nature lovers. It is the "land of the distant sunset", a destination rich in contrasts, with a two thousand year-old history, that will stimulate your curiosity. In these lands where several dynasties succeeded one another, you will discover remains of the greatest Mediterranean civilizations. In the north of the country, the Roman ruins of Volubilis stand. In Rabat, pieces of architecture are evidence of the ancient French presence. Everywhere else, there are several treasures tracing the Muslim civilizations: the Kasbah of the Oudayas, the green expanses of the Menara gardens. Between sea and mountains, desert sands and green plains, eye-popping panoramas are displayed to shower you with tranquility and natural beauty; enchanting vivid pictures with the richness of a brawling culture transport you into a most raw nature.

Morocco, a melting pot of dynasties and cultures:

Each country has its own history: historical facts, events and important milestones that gave the country its true historical value. The history of a country is one of the events considered worthy of remembrance, which perfectly applies to Morocco. With several dynasties that have succeeded one another over the years: the Idrisside dynasty, the Almoravid dynasty, the Almohad dynasty, the Merinid dynasty, the Saadian dynasty and the Alaouite dynasty, Morocco has gained international consideration as a multicultural country, with several types of heritage recognized as World Heritage by UNESCO. Morocco is one of the go-to destinations for discovery lovers, the most fascinated by nature, history, the art of living and Moroccan hospitality. The experience gained during their journeys in Morocco leave them pleasantly satisfied with their stay.

Gastronomic journey with Moroccan flavours

Morocco's culinary heritage embraces the deep-rooted traditions and cultural variety of the country. Couscous, Tajine, Pastilla, Mrouzia, and R'fissa, are some of the emblematic dishes of the country that you can’t resist. Subtly composed of a wide variety of striking flavours and scents, Moroccan cuisine draws its originality from a combination between Berber, Arab-Andalusian, and Jewish culinary traditions. Thanks to its rich cultural heritage specific to each region, Morocco has built an undisputed reputation worldwide.

Authentic stay

A warm welcome, magnificent landscapes, a secular culture, everything was thought to offer you an unforgettable stay. Whatever solution you choose, the charm of Moroccan art of living will not fail to surprise you! You may lose all our bearings when travelling, especially when it comes to communicate with local people, but in Morocco you’ll feel at home. Moroccan unparalleled hospitality will make your trip a lot more easier! Without even asking, you’ll be given advises but also places to stay in. Inside of the famous medinas, the Riads and guest houses will shower you with warm reception and affection.You won’t fail to find authenticity in the mountains or in the valleys neither, if you decided to stay at the inhabitant's, in a lodging, an inn or in Kashbah made of mud-brick. And for those who dream of deserts and oases, a bivouac in the Sahara is tailor made for you.

Morocco : Long-standing traditions blend seamlessly with modernity

Morocco is undoubtedly been able to preserve its traditions and make its cultural heritage prosper through generations, using them as levers for development. In Marrakech, the Medina and its magnetic souks shower you with its traditionnal side, while Guéliz and Hivernage offer the most modern facilities and infrastructure. Far from being antagonistic, the combination of modernity and tradition embodies the true strength of Morocco. Leaving the old medina where the history of Marrakech takes hold of all the architectural details, you’ll discover modern districts. Grand boulevards, European-style buildings in ochre color charm its visitors. In a notable contrast with the old medina, the districts of Gueliz and the Hivernage give the city another level of fascination : a more modern, lively and revolutionary aspect. Gueliz, which is the beating heart of the city, is the business district. As you walk along its boulevards, you will find a Western-style setting: the headquarters of banks and companies.

Ecological tourism in Morocco

Nowadays, many tourists tick-off "Eco-Friendly" stays harking back for nature, relaxation, mediation and a total break with the routine. Looking for inner peace and zen moment goes hand-in-hand with nature preservation, for nature being the source of our hapiness. We are always looking for inner peace and this cannot be achieved without the preservation of nature: nature that does us good and protects us! Morocco, in this same context, also seeks to avoid the shortcomings of modernity, particularly in environmental matters, by promoting responsible tourism that impacts the land and the local populations. SOURCE: VISIT MOROCCO

Ouirgane, Ijoukak and Tinmel Mosque