Useful information for your trip
Location: Souss Massa region
Classical Arabic is the official language. But Dialectal Arabic, Darija (Moroccan dialect) is the most widely used language.
In the backcountry of Souss Massa, people mainly speak Tachelhit.
French is mastered by the majority of the population. English, German and Spanish are practiced by tour guides and by people working in Hotels and Restaurants.
The closer you get to the coast (Agadir -Taghazout), more dining options will become numerous.
Further north and further south (Tifnit / Imsouane / …), take advantage of the possibilities to buy fresh fish and seafood, the restaurant can grill them and accompany them with a good salad.
Fish tagines, Sweet and savory tagines, Skewers, Salads, Pastries, you will be in for a treat!
Don’t be surprised, food options may be lacking in some areas. But this is also the adventure of a road trip! A day in the Souss Massa hinterland is often 3 meals that should be anticipated:
- A hearty breakfast in your hotel / hostel / bivouac.
- A Lunch Break at an inn or snack / grocery store in your area. Sometimes, it may be better to prepare a picnic (remember to buy your provisions and your water in the city of departure) if the distances between each municipality are important.
- A dinner to reserve (by phone in the establishments where you will stay).
Provide cash as few restaurants / hotels accept payment by card. In the backcountry, there are few ATMs outside the large urban areas. If you see an ATM, this is your opportunity to take stock of what you have left in cash.
Regarding exchange offices, do not hesitate to challenge the exchange rates applied. Withdrawal from an ATM is limited to 2000 / 3000dh at a time, with fixed costs of up to 35dh depending on the bank.
At the airport, do not keep your dirhams until the last moment for duty free because you can only pay in foreign currency (euros, dollars, etc.).
There are many interesting organic food and cosmetic products of very good quality. Argan Oil (cosmetic or food) is, of course, essential with all other local products (Amlou, Honey , Olive Oil). The spices are delicious, in particular the saffron from Taliouine .
Handicrafts (basketwork, pottery, silver jewelry, carpets, crockery, …) are wonders. The Souss Massa is the ideal place to decorate your home. You can negotiate transport to Europe, if your purchases are too large otherwise a large luggage / and the airline’s agreement will do.
Police: 19
Firemen: 15
Royal Gendarmerie: 177
Ambulance / Firemen: 150