Just an hour and a half from Agadir, nestled at the foot of Morocco’s Anti-Atlas mountains, lies Taroudant—a quiet, under-the-radar gem that’s recently caught the attention of CNN. Often dubbed the “little Marrakech,” the town offers a calmer, more laid-back alternative to its bustling northern counterpart, inviting travelers into a world where tradition still holds sway and time seems to slow down.
In a feature by journalist Carlotta Dotto, CNN praised Taroudant’s authentic charm, especially the character of its medina and lively souks. But what sets this town apart isn’t just its heritage—it’s the pace of life. Shielded by ochre-red ramparts recognized as part of Morocco’s national cultural heritage, Taroudant feels less like a tourist destination and more like a place still deeply in touch with its roots. The article highlights the region’s rich Amazigh cuisine, often served in beautifully preserved riads, and a community spirit that remains untouched by the pressures of modern tourism.
Taroudant also serves as a strategic base for exploring southern Morocco’s dramatic landscapes. Whether you’re looking to trek into the rugged Anti-Atlas, camp near the edge of the Sahara, or reach the surf-friendly shores of the Atlantic, this quiet town offers access to all of it. Its surroundings only enhance the appeal: unlike Morocco’s more famous destinations, Taroudant has largely avoided the crush of mass tourism.
One of the standout nearby sites mentioned in CNN’s piece is the oasis of Tioute, located about 30 kilometers southeast of the town. Here, ancient kasbah ruins overlook a network of irrigated gardens fed by traditional khettara channels. These timeworn water systems sustain a lush tapestry of date palms, prickly pears, fragrant herbs, and citrus trees, all thriving beneath the protective shade of centuries-old farming practices.
Farther south, the foothills of the Anti-Atlas reveal a scattering of remote villages, where clay-brick houses and slender minarets cluster around verdant oases. These timeless hamlets, perched along the rocky hillsides, seem barely touched by the modern world, preserving a way of life that has endured for generations.
Morocco drew a record-breaking 17.4 million visitors in 2024, overtaking Egypt as the continent’s top destination. With more flight routes opening, new hotel developments underway, and the Africa Cup of Nations set to bring in even more international attention later this year, the country’s tourism surge shows no signs of slowing down.
In this broader boom, CNN suggests that Taroudant represents a possible blueprint for sustainable tourism—one that embraces growth while staying true to its identity. Rather than becoming another overrun hotspot, the town stands as a reminder that progress and preservation don’t have to be at odds.
