Agadir Morocco: Your Ultimate Guide To The City

The South of Morocco has become a major tourist destination over the past couple of decades. From the flourishing Atlantic coastal cities to the beguiling, eroded towns and villages, the lush oases, and the arid deserts, the southern region of the Atlas Mountains offers a diverse landscape that is bound to appeal to any traveler.

Given the title “The Miami of Morocco,” modern-day Agadir is characterized by its vibrant nightlife, exquisite restaurants, pristine beaches, and enchanting kasbah views. Named after a 16th-century fortress, the city of Agadir has become one of Morocco’s top thriving tourist destinations.

With its beautiful ocean climate, great bursts of sunshine, diverse landscape, and warm atmosphere, this city promises a memorable and busy holiday!

Rich in Moroccan history and premium amenities, Agadir has something for everyone.

A Quick Look At Agadir City

In this 101 guide about Agadir, I am going to talk to you about some of the basic information about Agadir city including weather, location, some of its history, and what makes it so special.

What is special about Agadir?

Agadir is a major city in Morocco, on the shore of the Atlantic Ocean near the foot of the Atlas Mountains, just north of the point where the Souss River flows into the ocean, and 509 kilometers (316 mi) south of Casablanca.

Agadir is the capital of the Agadir Ida-U-Tanan Prefecture and the Souss-Massa economic region. Most of its inhabitants speak Berber, one of Morocco’s two official languages.

Agadir is one of the major urban centers of Morocco. The municipality of Agadir recorded a population of 924,000 in the 2014 Moroccan census.

According to the 2004 census, there were 346,106 inhabitants in that year, and the population of the Prefecture of Agadir-Ida Outanane was 487,954 inhabitants. Three languages are spoken in the city: Tashelhit (the first language of the majority), Moroccan Arabic, and French.

It was the site of the 1911 Agadir Crisis that exposed tensions between France and Germany, foreshadowing World War I. The city was destroyed by an earthquake in 1960; it has been rebuilt with mandatory seismic standards.

It is now the largest seaside resort in Morocco, where an unusually mild year-round climate attracts foreign tourists and many residents. Since 2010 it has been well-served by low-cost flights and a motorway from Tangier.

The mild winter climate (January average midday temperature is 20.5 °C/69 °F) and good beaches have made it a major “winter sun” destination for northern Europeans.

Today, Agadir is a vital center for tourism to Morocco, and the city is the most important fishing port in the country.  It has long been known as a tourist destination for Europe’s rich and famous. Nowadays, it is still brimming with luxurious beach resorts, cafés and restaurants, first-class golf courses, health and beauty spas, and any facilities a vacation-goer might want.

How is the weather in Agadir city?

Agadir has around 300 days of sunshine a year. Its subtropical desert climate means summers are hot and dry, and winters are warm. It is warmer in Agadir in the winter than in Marrakesh city, which is why it is a popular winter-sun holiday destination.

The highest temperatures occur between June and August. August has an average daily maximum temperature of 31°C and a low of 20°C. The coolest month to visit is February which has an average daily maximum of 20°C and an average low of 9°C.

Where is Agadir city located?

Agadir is a major city in Morocco, on the shore of the Atlantic Ocean near the foot of the Atlas Mountains, just north of the point where the Souss River flows into the ocean, and 509 kilometers (316 mi) south of Casablanca.

Exploring Agadir: The Full Travel Guide

In this section, I am going to reveal everything you need to know when planning your trip to Agadir city including safety tips, what to wear and pack, and also the amazing things to do and see while visiting the city. Let’s dive in!

Is Agadir safe?

Morocco is generally safe, and violent crime against visitors is rare. Most cities in America and European capital cities have far more crime than here in Morocco.

Agadir, in particular, is very safe both during the day and at night.

Within the city of Agadir, you will notice uniformed police throughout the tourist areas and around the Royal Palaces. More reassuring are the numbers of plain clothes police who work to keep you safe. The police checkpoints between towns are becoming rarer, but occasionally there will be a road checkpoint.

Tourists are usually waved through unless traveling with Moroccans, when they may ask for ID. There is no need to carry your passport; a photocopy or driver’s license is enough.

Is Agadir Safe For Solo Travelers?

Every year, thousands of solo travelers head to Morocco alone to soak in the desert and culture of this amazing country. With a great variety of hostels and cheap guesthouses, meeting other solo travelers is very easy.

But that doesn’t mean that traveling solo in Morocco is a cakewalk, and it is important to remember that crime can happen anywhere. Always carry yourself confidently, use common sense, and be aware of your surroundings when traveling to ensure your safety.

Safety Tips While Agadir City

As we’ve already established about Agadir’s safety, Agadir is generally a very safe city to travel to as a tourist. It is still important to practice general caution while out on busy streets and beware of petty crimes.

Pickpocketing is a common crime in crowded open-air marketplaces and souks of Agadir. It is important to stay vigilant about your belongings and avoid using bags that might give easy access to your belongings.

If you’re carrying your backpack, consider wearing it frontways instead of your back, so your belongings never leave your sight. Also, remember to leave important belongings and documents in your hotel room and only go around with what is necessary.

Do not leave all your cash in one place, keep it distributed in small amounts across your luggage, so you always have some emergency cash ready should things go south.

How To Get To Agadir?

Agadir is located on the southwestern coast of Morocco but is easily accessible.

By Plane:

There are regular flights to Agadir from several different airports and airlines, including:

• TUI from the UK
• Easyjet from UK
• Air Arabia from the UK
• Ryanair from UK
• Brussels Airlines from Belgium
• LUX air
• Royal Air Maroc

By Bus:

Within Morocco, it’s easy to use the bus to reach Agadir. There are connections from major Moroccan cities on Supratours and CTM buses. Marrakech and Casablanca are two popular starting points. This is an affordable option, and these bus lines offer comfortable service.

By Private Car:

Agadir is connected via the Moroccan National Tollway, making travel faster than ever. It is possible to rent a car and self-drive or hire a driver to bring you to Agadir.

Note: There is no train service to Agadir. The train line ends in Marrakech.

How To Get Around?

Agadir is a cosmopolitan city with an international airport – Agadir Al Massira. Most tour operators include transfers as part of the Agadir holidays so getting to your resort is easy. If you’d prefer to make your way to your resort, airport taxis run all day and night from just outside the terminal.

The city’s center is easy to get around on foot, with avenues and boulevards making it a nice option for days out. A frequent bus service is also handy for reaching nearby beaches. Buses are cheap, but it’s worth ensuring you have the correct money.

If you’re considering visiting areas further afield, you can catch a bus from Agadir bus station or from the region’s bus hub Inezgane, which is only 10 kilometers away.

Another option is to jump in an orange Petit Taxi, which normally charges 10 to 20 Dirhams around the town center. The Grand Taxi is larger, but both may take more than one fare at a time, so you’ll need to negotiate with them if you prefer to travel without other passengers.

How many days in Agadir is enough?

Well, it depends on what you are interested in. Agadir is ideally situated for exploring Southern Morocco, and three days leave enough time to see the city sights, enjoy the beaches, and venture farther afield.

During your 3 days in this city, you will have the chance to the old kasbah on the hilltop, explore and get lost in the old medina. stop at famous landmarks including the Royal Palace and the Mohammed V Mosque, or learn about Berber culture at the Museum of Amazigh Culture.

Some of the things, you shouldn’t miss are trying the delicious Moroccan food, hopping on the back of a camel, and getting to experience the amazing sunset in addition to getting some souvenirs at the Souk El Had d’Agadir.

Last but not least, don’t forget to spend some time swimming and sunbathing at Agadir’s beaches or some fun activities like Jet skiing, ATV quad biking, or even set sail on a boat cruise and stop to swim or fish along the way if you are an adventurous traveler.

On the last day in the city, I recommend that you plan a day trip to the nearby cities like Essaouira city where you get to enjoy surfing and a completely new vibe. Afterward, You could even head to Marrakech and spend a day discovering the royal palaces and historic souks.

What’s The Best Time To Visit Agadir?

Agadir benefits from a subtropical climate with just two seasons, so temperatures are pleasant all year round. The summer months are between May and November. May is the coolest summer month, with temperatures averaging 20°C, rising to their height during July and August when you can expect temperatures around the 27°C mark.

Because of the sea breeze, sitting in the sun is usually very comfortable, while the nighttime is also pleasantly cooler. The winters are mild, with very little rainfall and daytime temperatures averaging 14°C, dropping to around 9°C at night. Even so, the milder climate makes cheap Agadir holidays easy to find during the winter.

The best time to travel to Agadir begins with the rising temperatures in May and ends with the slowly returning humidity towards the end of October. You can consider Agadir a year-round destination without any problems, as it can also be combined wonderfully with other amazing cities in Morocco.

What To Pack When Traveling To Agadir?

You’ll wonder what to take with you if you’re jetting off on holiday to Morocco soon. Hence, you have the best time and can easily cope with the heat, desert conditions, coastal environments, towering mountain regions, bustling cities, and just about everything else in this exciting destination with everything.

It’s not like spending time in a typical holiday hotspot where you only need some beachwear and something smart for going out at night. In Morocco, you have to be ready and properly attired for the many conditions and environments you find yourself in — it’s true not only for the many people who visit this vibrant North African country but the people who live there too.

So, to help you pack the right things, we’ve put together this essential holiday packing list to make the trip memorable:

For Women Travelers:

• 3–4 long-sleeved shirts for layering
• Cotton or other natural fiber shirts or t-shirts, with cotton trousers or an ankle-length skirt, are good choices and protect you from the sun. Do cover your shoulders, or you will be looked at.
• 2–3 sweaters and sweater dresses
• 1 pair of jeans or thick pants
• 2–3 pairs of leggings for layering
• 1 set of sleepwear
• Sufficient underwear to last you at least a week; I suggest 7 pairs of panties, 2 bras, and 2 sports bras
• 7 pairs of thick socks
• 1 pair of snow boots
• 1 heavy coat
• 1 pair of gloves
• 1 scarf (Particularly remember to cover your shoulders, stomach, and bare legs if you visit any religious sites – a sarong or pashmina will come in handy)
• 1 beanie or winter hat
• 1 hanging toiletry bag
• Refillable travel bottles (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, face soap)
• Facial moisturizer
• Razor refills
• Extra contacts
• Birth control for the length of your trip (if you take it, or consider monitoring your cycle with a free app like Period and using condoms, which are available almost worldwide)
• A travel first aid kit
• A toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
• At least one deodorant
• Sunscreen
• A travel line for drying clothing
• A microfiber towel (plenty of hostels and camping sites in Agadir might not have towels, regardless of where in the world they are, so bring your quick-drying one to save money and hassle).
• A sleeping bag liner, in case you encounter a less clean hotel.
• A headlamp for camping and as a personal flashlight at night.

For Men Travelers:

• Lightweight clothing that can be layered
• Long-sleeved shirts
• Sweaters or fleece jacket
• T-shirts and tank tops
• Pants and shorts
• Belt
• Socks (wool socks are best for hiking and camping)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Rain jacket, windbreaker, or umbrella
• Pajamas/sleepwear
• Underwear
• Sunglasses and glasses case
• Dresses and skirts
• Hat or sun visor
• Scarf or bandana
• Swimsuit or swim trunks (consider a clean/dirty organizer)
• Cell phone and charger
• Travel speakers
• Travel pillow, eye mask, and earplugs
• Electric converters, adapters, and organizers
• Travel apps that will help with language, directions, money conversion, and digital journaling
• Packing Cubes: Using packing cubes makes staying organized on the road easier than ever. Instead of putting clothes directly into your bag, where they’ll inevitably get unfolded and mixed up, pack them into different colorful cubes.
• Jet Lag Relief: For travelers coming from far and wide, you’re likely to experience the effects of jet lag after a long flight to Agadir.
• Comfortable, Breathable Walking Shoes: If you plan to do a lot of sightseeing in Agadir, there’s no doubt you’ll need a great pair of comfortable, breathable walking shoes.
• Cologne/perfume
• Personal mini mirror
• Hair products like hairspray, hair gel, and beard oil
• Clothesline and detergent
• Shaving kit and extra razors
• Sewing kit/clothing care kit, stain remover
• First aid kit (bandages, gauze, adhesives, etc.)
• Personal prescriptions (copies of scripts)
• Pain and fever relievers (also children’s strength if you are traveling with kids)
• Camera

For Children:

• spare clothes in case of spills, accidents, or delays
• disposable or cloth wipes
• disposable bags – handy for rubbish, vomit, or soiled clothes
• refillable water or drink bottles
• healthy snacks
• books, toys, and games – ask your child to help you choose
• medicine if your child needs it
• hand sanitizer
• a first aid kit.

There’s no need to dread the sight of your empty suitcase—creating a travel checklist while you plan your vacation makes the process a breeze.

Hopefully, with this useful travel list, you’ll feel more relaxed about packing your luggage for your next holiday. And do not forget to leave some extra space for all the exciting gifts you’ll bring back!

Also remember, taking out travel insurance is always a good idea to cover you for any eventualities.

14 Amazing Things To Do in Agadir (Explained)

Where the western ridge of the High Atlas Mountains drops to the Atlantic, Agadir is a port and beach resort with year-round sun. The town has several restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and a vibrant nightlife. Agadir is a great place to visit if you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday.

For ideas on the best places to visit, please read the list of the top attractions and things to do in Agadir:

1. Visit Souk El Had (Local Market)

Agadir’s central market is jaw-dropping, covering more than 13 hectares and employing 10,000 people, making it one of the largest in Morocco.

It was built like a fortress following the city’s destructive earthquake in 1960 and has been updated over the last couple of decades with a roof and new flooring.

Souk El Had is open every day except Monday, and its name comes from the Arabic word for Sunday (Ahad), harking back to when this was just a one-day market.

Argan Oil is one of the unique things you can buy in Agadir. This oil is believed to have miraculous health benefits, especially for the skin and hair. And if you didn’t know, Argan trees can only be found in Morocco!

2. Explore Agadir Oufella

With picturesque views of the city and a remarkable history of its own, Agadir Oufella – historically known as Kasbah – is one of the most beautiful places to see.

The fortress was built in 1540 and updated in 1752; thanks to the 1960 earthquake, only part of the original building remains. As you enjoy panoramic vistas of the town below, you can also learn more about Kasbah’s distinguished past as a stronghold for the city.

It’s often one of the first stops on city tours for these exact reasons, and a visit to this beautiful monument is one of the best things to do in Agadir if you want to understand the area’s rich history in greater depth.

With picturesque views of the city and a remarkable history of its own, Agadir Oufella – historically known as Kasbah – is one of the most beautiful places to see.

The fortress was built in 1540 and updated in 1752; thanks to the 1960 earthquake, only part of the original building remains. As you enjoy panoramic vistas of the town below, you can also learn more about Kasbah’s distinguished past as a stronghold for the city.

It’s often one of the first stops on city tours for these exact reasons, and a visit to this beautiful monument is one of the best things to do in Agadir if you want to understand the area’s rich history in greater depth.

3. Visit Olhão Garden

Also known as the Portugal Garden, the Olhao Garden is one of the most beautiful gardens in Agadir, Morocco. It has an architecture inspired by the Amazigh constructions of the Souss Massa region.

It has delightful green alleys, vertically suspended passages, and several fountains and water features that give it a fresh and pleasant atmosphere.

4. Discover The Paradise Valley

This pretty gorge, about 60 kilometers north of Agadir, is a great destination to taste Moroccan rural life.

Day hikes along marked hiking trails pass by orchards of almond trees, olive trees, and small villages along the way, all backed by views of the western edge of the Atlas Mountains peaks rising in the distance.

Locals come here on weekends to picnic, so for a quieter experience, head to the valley during the weekdays.

It’s also a great place to pick up local produce. Plenty of small stalls in villages along the way sell local honey and argan oil.

5. Explore Birds Valley Park

Geese, ducks, parakeets and parrots, flamingos, llamas, deer, and mouflons can be observed there. Well-shaded, there is the possibility of eating and refreshments around the main door.

The Valley of the Birds is a nice park in the city center of Agadir. Ideal for a family outing, a playground, and many animals are present.

6. Thrill in Crocodile’s Park

Want to get up close and personal with some rad reptiles?

Then stop by Crocodile’s Park and meet their delightful cold-blooded residents. Along with roughly 300 crocs, this wildlife facility is home to anacondas, tortoises, lizards, and thousands of plant species.

Stroll through a giant crocodilian mouth – fake, of course – and take some time to admire the various creatures, then enjoy some other exciting activities available, from henna tattooing sessions to peaceful walks through the beautiful gardens.

If your timing’s right, you can watch the animals getting fed!

7. Walk in The Stunning Beach

Agadir is all about the beach. This is one of Morocco’s prime beach areas, and holidaymakers from across Europe flock here throughout the year to top up their tans.

Summer is high season, as domestic tourists decamp to the Atlantic Coast on holiday to escape the soaring temperatures inland. Many European package tourists also head here in spring and fall when there are still great blue skies and sunny days.

The long strip of Agadir’s beach is rimmed by some of Morocco’s best beach resorts and a host of facilities, including plenty of cafés and restaurants, sunshades, and deckchairs for hire. Many beachfront hotels offer private strips of sand for guests.

8. Discover Tafraoute (The mountain village)

Amid stunning mountain scenery of pink and orange rocks, Tafroute is the quintessential Moroccan mountain village and a haven for walkers, hikers, climbers, and nature lovers.

This peaceful town is about 166 kilometers southeast of Agadir, in the Ameln Valley of the Anti-Atlas region, surrounded by a landscape of orchards and palm groves bordered by rugged cliffs and mountains.

A visit here makes a great foil to bustling and modern Agadir and allows you to capture a sense of rural Moroccan life. You can kick back and enjoy the scenery, or there are endless trekking opportunities for more active travelers. Take advantage of the Gorges of Ait Mansour and the prehistoric rock art near Annameur.

9. Visit Souss-Massa National Park

About 65 kilometers south of Agadir, this national park is one of the country’s prime bird-watching areas, with plenty of wildlife for keen spotters. The landscape of Souss-Massa National Park consists of a mix of dunes, beaches, and wetlands that trail along the Atlantic coast, stretching across 330 square kilometers.

Some birds common to the parking area and regularly spotted include pink flamingos, ibis, ducks, doves, herons, cormorants, and sandgrouse.

Most nature lovers, though, come here specifically to try and spot the rare and endangered bald ibis, which is endemic here. The best period to head here for bird spotting is spring and fall.

10. Wandering in The Old Medina

In Ben Sergao, a few kilometers from the center of Agadir, you can step inside a replica of a typical Berber medina. This open-air museum is deceptively large, at more than five hectares, and was built in the early-1990s using local materials and traditional methods by the Italian artist Coco Polizzi.

In the arcades are workshops for handicrafts, homes, a museum, a little hotel, and a restaurant. A small fee (40 MAD) is charged at the gate, but the entrance is free if you plan to dine here.

11. Try Camel & Horse Riding

Come on, and you can’t come to the desert and not ride a camel or a horse!

This classic activity is a great way to explore the surrounding area. You’ll also get a feel for the local culture, using the hearty creatures that have been transportation fixtures for centuries.

You can head out on a daytime tour to hit as many sites as possible or book a sunset trip to enjoy incredible views of the vivid evening sky and the shifting hues of the sand.

And for a little extra flair, try booking a dinner to celebrate your exciting ride with an authentic Moroccan meal. Whether you want to travel between towns or roam through the wide-open spaces, you’ll love your time in the saddle with these iconic animals!

12. Enjoy Legzira Beach

Admire the stone arches of Legzira, one of the most beautiful beaches in Morocco, and explore the old walled city of Tiznit. Enjoy some time away from the city on this day trip from Agadir. Being on the Atlantic, the water can be chilly, waves can be tall, and there’s a handful of surf schools for newbies.

If you are someone who likes sitting in front of a beach and watching the sunset then I invite you to read my previous on the best beaches in Morocco.

13. Surfing in Taghazout

Morocco’s main surfer hangout, Taghazout, is all about the sea, surf, swimming, and sand. The beach here is very popular with Moroccan tourists during the summer and can get cramped. Surfing is a year-round activity here but is at its best from October to March.

Dedicated surf operators offer dedicated surf holiday packages, lessons, and surfboard hire, so Taghazout has become a major destination for beginners wanting to learn how to surf. The town is a small, laid-back place, 23 kilometers north of Agadir, so it is easily visited as a half-day or full-day trip from town.

If you are a traveler looking for a great surfing experience then I recommend you read our previous article about surfing in Morocco guide to find out the best surfing spots in Morocco.

14. Visit Museums

At this small but well-presented municipal museum, you’ll discover the Berber traditions and crafts of the surrounding Soussa-Massa region.

The Museum of Amazigh Culture is on Passage Aït Souss, a pedestrian street connecting to the arterial Avenue Mohammed V. On show are Berber architectural elements, examples of woodcarving, boucherouite rugs, historical manuscripts, and pottery.

Most exquisite is the silverwork of the bracelets, brooches, and implausibly complex necklaces and earrings in the jewelry collection. You’ll also get to see the tools used by these craftsmen, and there are always temporary exhibitions, often showing contemporary Berber crafts.

Whether you want to lay on the beach, dive deep into history, or enjoy an entertainment scene that rivals many big cities, you’ll never run out of cool things to do in Agadir.

Things To Avoid When Visiting Agadir City

A great tourist destination, Agadir is full of traditions and customs that are worth being aware of and respecting so as not to offend anyone and have the nicest trip ever, having a good idea of what to expect and how to behave will help you before you leave.

So, here are some points to avoid for a safe and unforgettable trip to Agadir city:

1. Going out alone and late times

Be mindful of your surroundings when going out at night or during the day. Choose busy places at night rather than the medinas’ back alleys. Being alone at any moment is not always a smart idea for women.

Going out alone may draw unnecessary attention from males, whether in the form of looks, flirting, or, in some situations, being followed. If you go out at night, only bring what you need and leave the rest of your wallet in your accommodation.

If you want to go hiking in the mountains, for example, don’t go alone. Many Western authorities alert travelers about the risk of abduction in these isolated regions. Each country’s guidance varies, so it’s important to check your government’s website before you travel.

2. Inappropriate clothing

Morocco is a Muslim country, meaning Agadir city is also full of Muslims, hence the concept of clothing is rather traditional. Because Islam places a high value on modesty, you will not see locals wandering around in swimming suits or short skirts, no matter how hot it is.

Women should avoid exposing their legs or shoulders since it attracts unwanted attention from males and indicates that they do not respect local customs. So plan on wearing long pants, dresses, or jeans, as well as regular shirts that cover the shoulders.

3. Getting in a car without negotiating the price

This is a critical point, especially if you are traveling on a tight budget, always discuss the trip’s price before you get into a cab. You can ask your hotel for an approximation of the average cab fare for your destination.

Even if the driver tells you not to worry about the price and get in, DON’T, because they will charge you extra once you arrive at your destination.

4. Heading out into the desert without enough research

The Agadir Sahara Desert is just wonderful. Why miss out on this stunning scenery with one of the world’s most spectacular sunrises and sunsets and golden sand that spreads as far as the eye can see?

A guided tour, on the other hand, is the finest option. Guides with enough experience in leading Morocco desert tours will show you the greatest spots while guaranteeing your safety.

They will know which places to avoid and which ones not to miss. Youth hostels and official tour guides will connect you with the right people for the best tours and unforgettable times!

5. Drinking alcohol outdoors

Alcohol drinking is allowed in Morocco. Alcohol can only be bought and consumed at licensed hotels, bars, and tourist areas.

Supermarkets also have a dedicated place for alcoholic drinks, and the alcohol area is normally located in a separate room from the rest of the supermarket.

Any attempt to buy or drink alcohol outside of authorized zones may cause you serious problems with the police, and keep in mind the legal drinking age in morocco is 18.

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The Bottom Line

To summarize, Agadir feels more like a resort town than other cities around Morocco. The beachfront is lined with hotels, and boutique shops within the Marina are a big change from haggling in the souk. It is a friendly and welcoming city, and the people are used to tourists from all over the world.

This lovely city’s natural beauty is only matched by its cultural charms, and whether it’s your first visit to Morocco or your tenth, you’re bound to have a great time exploring its streets, hiking trails, and utterly stunning coast.

So what are you waiting for? This friendly port is ready to welcome you!

Thanks for taking the time to read this article all the way to the end.

Cheers!

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