unveilingmorocco

If you’ve ever dreamed of the “Edge of the World,” you’ll find it in Zagora. Located in the southeastern reach of the Draâ Valley, this region is famous for the iconic sign that reads “Tombouctou 52 jours” (Timbuktu 52 days by camel).

Zagora isn’t just a town; it’s a rugged, sun-drenched region that serves as the ultimate launchpad for desert soul-seekers and cultural adventurers.

🌟 Tourism Qualifications: Why Zagora?

Zagora stands out from other Moroccan destinations due to its unique “Desert-Frontier” qualifications:

• The Saharan Launchpad: It is the primary base for expeditions to Erg Chigaga, the largest and wildest sand dunes in Morocco.
• Spiritual Heritage: Home to some of the most important Sufi libraries and historical religious centers in North Africa.
• Authenticity: Unlike more commercialized desert hubs, Zagora retains a raw, frontier atmosphere with deep Berber and Sahrawi roots.

📍 What to Explore & Do

1. Tamegroute: The Underground Village

Just 18km from Zagora city, this village is a must-see.

• The Green Pottery: Tamegroute is world-famous for its unique emerald-green glaze pottery. You can watch artisans work in ancient outdoor kilns.
• The Quranic Library: Visit the Zaouia Nassiria, home to 13th-century manuscripts written on gazelle skin, covering everything from astronomy to medicine.

2. Jbel Zagora: The Panoramic View

For the best view of the Draâ Valley Oasis, hike or drive up Jbel Zagora. At the top, you’ll find the ruins of an 11th-century Almoravid fortress and a bird’s-eye view of the palm groves snaking through the desert.

3. Erg Chigaga: The Wild Dunes

While Merzouga is famous for height, Erg Chigaga is famous for vastness.

• The Adventure: It requires a 2-hour 4×4 drive from the Zagora region to reach these dunes. It is the perfect place for “Wild Camping” under the Milky Way, away from all light pollution.

4. Amzrou: The Jewish Mellah

Explore the old mud-brick village of Amzrou. It was once a major center for Jewish silver-smiths. Today, you can still visit the old synagogue and see the intricate silver jewelry craftsmanship passed down through generations.

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