Best time to visit Morocco

Transhumance with Nomads in Morocco

Have you ever wondered what is it like to drive flocks of sheep through the desert? This is your chance to find out!

Best time: September–November | March–May

Transhumance with Nomads
Transhumance with Nomads
Transhumance with Nomads

The traditional lifestyle of nomads includes lots of desert crossing and sheep walking. Therefore it is not surprising that most of their nights they spend in tents in desert. These are not ordinary hiking tents, but more of houses made of colorful material. Plenty of tourist agencies offer to take a trek with nomads and feel their lifestyle on your own skin. The best time is spring, due to its flowering features, and autumn - due to its clear and beautiful views.

Practical info

When is the ideal season to witness the migration of nomads with their livestock in Morocco?

During the periods of March to May or September to November, Morocco is one of the best places to witness the nomadic herders migration at its fullest. The average temperature during these months is favorable to trekking, neither too hot nor too cold, and the region has magnificent colors and flowers blooming during spring season. In autumn, you can witness the beauty of the clear skies of Morocco. It's an all-around ideal time to observe nomad lifestyles as they migrate from location to location. Show more

Where are the nomadic tents located during the journey?

In the desert, the majority of traditional nomads will live in hand-woven tents. These tents are not like standard hiking tents, but rather houses crafted from vibrant woven materials. Nomads live in the harshest desert environments and place a great emphasis on the comforts and conveniences of their tents. The tents provide a unique and natural camping environment that may be hard to recreate with modernism in built-up urban areas. Show more

How does the lifestyle of local nomads differ from city life in Morocco?

The nomadic lifestyle in Morocco is drastically different from city living. Primarily herders and farmers, nomadic life entails very little wealth and property, and encourages living with minimalism and simplicity, always prioritizing the facts of living against wants. Nomads typically migrate a lot, following changes in seasons and food availability. On the other hand, Moroccan urban lifestyles prioritize materialism and metropolitan living as they immerse themselves within society's developments. Show more

What is unique about the tents used by nomads during migrations?

The tents used by nomads are hand-woven dwellings designed to serve as temporary housing during migrations with their livestock. Local sources, such as wooden poles, wool, and goat hair, are used in creating these tents in a unique and iconic design resembling small houses. Proportionally larger than modern tents, the nomadic tents are spacious, which facilitates communal living. Also, the tents are crafted to blend effortlessly into desert environments while resisting harsh weather conditions. Show more

What activities one can expect on a nomadic trek in Morocco?

Beyond immersing oneself in nomadic life, there are numerous activities to indulge in while in Morocco. The local markets are a must-visit, and the traditional cuisine is unique and delectable. Traditional crafts expose tourists to the artistic culture of Morocco. A variety of activities, such as camel rides in the desert, hot air balloon rides, or excursions to Berber villages, are all available for an unforgettable experience. Nomadic trekking in Morocco is both an enriching and exhilarating experience that provides unique cultural insights and life experiences. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin