Searching for a hidden gem in Morocco away from the well-trodden paths? Make your way to the Palmeraie de Skoura! This breathtaking oasis of palm trees is perfectly situated on a scenic route that stretches from Marrakech in the west to the vast Sahara Desert in the east. Despite the popularity of this route among travelers, surprisingly few include a stop at Skoura in their itinerary—a truly missed opportunity!
Skoura is, without exaggeration, a place straight out of a fairy tale. Picture yourself amidst an endless expanse of palm trees, woven through with meticulously tended fields, dotted with traditional clay villages, and surrounded by an impressive array of ancient desert fortresses. Dive into this blog to explore the enchanting world of Skoura, complete with handy tips and the top activities to enjoy.
Where is Skoura in Morocco?
An Oasis Under the Watchful Eye of the Atlas Mountains
In the heart of Morocco, within its southern territories, lies Skoura. This palm oasis cradles in a vast river oasis area within the province of Ouarzazate. Positioned about 1150 meters above sea level, it’s enveloped by the stunning palm oases typical for this region, against the dramatic backdrop of the High Atlas mountains. During spring and winter, the mountain peaks are often snow-capped, offering a striking contrast to the warm hues of the palm trees below.
Visiting Skoura offers a perfect opportunity to explore other nearby destinations. On the journey between Marrakech and Skoura, you’ll encounter Aït Ben Haddou—a must-see Moroccan landmark with UNESCO World Heritage status, celebrated for its iconic architecture. Ouarzazate, known as the Hollywood of Africa, is another notable stop where visitors can explore film studios famous for blockbuster movies and TV series. Further east, the gateway to the Sahara Desert beckons, with its overnight desert camps nestled among the sprawling sand dunes of Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga.
Getting to Skoura
From the likes of Marrakech, Skoura is accessible via a picturesque drive over the Tizi n’Tichka pass, winding its way through the majestic High Atlas. This route offers a visual feast of towering peaks and quaint Berber villages. Beyond the Atlas, the road unfolds towards Ouarzazate, with Skoura located just a short eastward drive away, about 40 kilometers.
Embarking on the journey from Marrakech to Skoura by rental car comes highly recommended, based on our firsthand experience. Renting a car in Marrakech allowed us the freedom to embark on a captivating road trip through the Atlas Mountains—a memorable adventure indeed!
For those leaning towards public transportation, daily buses ply the route from Marrakech to Ouarzazate. From there, options to reach Skoura include hiring a private taxi or opting for a shared taxi—the latter being more budget-friendly, though it requires a bit of patience until the taxi fills up.
What Palmeraie de Skoura Is Known For
Skoura stands out as a dreamlike oasis cradled at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, offering visions of an unending sea of palm trees interspersed with artisanally cultivated fields, occasional clay villages, and an abundance of stately desert castles—a true fairy tale setting!
A River Oasis with Date Palms
This oasis owes its lushness to the meltwater rivers. During spring, they carry snowmelt from the Atlas Mountains to Skoura, though they lie dormant the remainder of the year. The oasis thrives thanks to a traditional irrigation system known as ‘khettaras’—underground channels that direct riverwater from the mountains to nourish the oasis and its farmlands.
Within this verdant expanse, amidst the famous date palms of Skoura, lie numerous small farms cultivating pomegranates, figs, olives, and almonds. These not only provide sustenance for the local community but also offer much-needed shade for the crops below.
Kasbahs and Desert Castles
Yet, it’s the myriad desert castles that truly capture the imagination. These enchanting kasbahs, constructed from compacted earth, blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. While such structures are a common sight across Morocco, Skoura boasts the densest concentration of these historical edifices.
More accurately referred to as ‘tighremt’, these Berber residential castles, predominantly found in Morocco’s south, are architectural marvels designed for optimal insulation against the daytime heat and nocturnal cold. Typically featuring three floors and corner towers, these castles differ from kasbahs, which are often larger, fortified complexes with a military aspect.
Whether kasbah or tighremt, these castles present an awe-inspiring vista. Some have succumbed to time, standing as picturesque ruins, while others have been meticulously preserved. The most exquisite kasbahs have recently been revived by private investors, transforming some into unique dwellings, though many now serve as distinctive hotels, inviting visitors to step into a storybook setting.
The 5 Best Things to Do in Skoura
#1 Wander Amidst the Palm Trees
Wandering through Skoura’s sprawling landscape on foot is among the most magical experiences you can have. We ventured several times from our hotel into the oasis, without any fixed plan, immersing ourselves in the beauty of the area. With vast stretches of date palms creating a breathtaking scene, it’s an idyllic setting for leisurely explorations.
Your stroll will take you past traditional clay villages, abandoned homes, quaint fields, and lush gardens filled with almond, fig, olive, and date palm trees. Friendly locals will offer warm greetings, and curious children might join you for a part of your adventure. We encountered no other tourists, confirming that this spot remains a well-kept secret from the usual tourist trails. The serenity and overwhelming presence of palm trees in Skoura are simply captivating.
#2 Discover Kasbah Amerhidil
Kasbah Amerhidil is Skoura’s crown jewel, not just the largest kasbah in this oasis but in all of Morocco. Parts of it still serve as a home, while other sections welcome visitors keen to explore.
Originating from the 17th century, Kasbah Amerhidil began its history as a ksar (a fortified city), akin to the famous Ait Ben Haddou. The late 19th century saw the addition of a residential palace for the Nasiri family, who continue to own and reside in a portion of it.
Today, much of the ksar lies in ruins, with the kasbah itself preserved as a testament to Morocco’s grandeur. As the largest kasbah in the nation, it now serves as a museum, inviting visitors to step back in time and wander through its ancient halls. The kasbah’s fame in movies like ‘Lawrence of Arabia’ and its feature on the old 50 dirham note are proudly displayed.
It’s worth noting that the kasbah is divided into two parts, each requiring a separate entrance fee. Both claim to be the ‘oldest’ and ‘most authentic’. The general recommendation, which we followed, is to explore the right-hand side.
#3 Embark on a Bicycle Adventure
The expanse of Skoura, roughly 4500 hectares, makes it a vast playground for exploration. While a short walk can capture the essence of its tranquility and natural beauty, a bicycle tour adds an exhilarating dimension to the adventure!
Many local accommodations offer complimentary bicycles, allowing guests to discover the oasis at their own pace. We took advantage of the free bikes at our kasbah hotel, spending hours meandering among the palm trees and navigating through the oasis. The absence of crowds on Skoura’s narrow paths means that every encounter with the locals, greeted with smiles and waves from excited children, feels like a genuine connection.
Should your accommodation lack bicycles, inquire about rental options in Skoura or consider booking an organized cycling tour for an unforgettable experience.
#4 Inspect the Kasbah Ruins
Skoura is famed for its many kasbahs. Throughout the oasis, visitors will find dozens of desert castles from various centuries, each with its own story. A truly enjoyable activity in Skoura is to closely inspect the kasbahs you come across during your explorations.
Notable castles worth visiting include Amerhidil, Aït Ben Moro from the 18th century, Ait Abou featuring six stories, and Dar Ait Sidi el-Mati with its intricately designed towers. Yet, there are countless more to admire. Some have succumbed to time, offering a hauntingly beautiful sight. However, it’s advisable to prioritize safety and admire these structures from a distance.
#5 Experience a Unique Stay
For a memorable Moroccan night, Skoura is the go-to destination for unique accommodations. The oasis’s ancient kasbahs, renowned for their historical and architectural significance, now host some of the most exquisite hotels. Whether you’re looking for luxury or budget-friendly options, Skoura’s desert castles offer unparalleled hospitality. Plus, nearly all of them are set within breathtaking gardens and often feature a cooling outdoor pool.
Booking.comThe best places to stay in Skoura:
#1 Les Jardins de Skoura stands as the ultimate luxury retreat within the Skoura oasis. Set in an authentic kasbah and surrounded by vibrant gardens, it boasts an outdoor pool, cozy nooks, and a children’s play area. The rooftop terrace, perfect for unwinding, also serves as the picturesque setting for a delightful breakfast. Elegantly adorned with Moroccan touches, every detail here is crafted with care..
#2 L’Ma Lodge is a boutique hotel that encapsulates the essence of authenticity with its stunning decor and breathtaking gardens. Encased in a verdant oasis, a heated outdoor pool and inviting garden seating await guests. Its exceptional review scores are a testament to the lodge’s serene atmosphere, beautiful castle setting, exquisite dining, and friendly staff.
#3 Auberge Chez Talout offers charming hotel rooms adorned in traditional Berber style, set within a splendid kasbah. Guests rave about the lovely outdoor pool, the enchanting gardens, and the cozy sitting areas in glowing reviews. The hotel also organizes guided bike tours, a perfect way to explore the oasis!
#4 Chez Laila provides a budget-friendly yet equally magical kasbah experience, complete with castle garden pools. Rooms feature traditional Moroccan decor. Guests are warmly welcomed by Laila and her family upon arrival. Known for delicious meals and breakfasts, Laila’s culinary skills are not to be missed.
#5 Sawadi Ecolodge is celebrated for its eco-friendly approach. It is set on a 4-hectare farm with a seawater-heated outdoor pool and a hammam. Its traditionally decorated, colorful rooms offer views of the Atlas Mountains or exotic gardens, earning it the reputation of a paradise among guests!
#6 Auberge Kasbah Tiriguioute, a highly popular and affordable castle hotel, invites guests to stay in a beautiful kasbah surrounded by gardens and an outdoor pool. The authentic atmosphere, lush gardens, warm hospitality, and cozy sitting areas contribute to its high review scores.
#7 Dar Es Salam might not dazzle in its online photos, but we found it to be an absolutely magical place in person. This budget-friendly hotel is based in an authentic kasbah and is cradled by gorgeous gardens with a pool and tranquil relaxation spots. We had the opportunity to borrow mountain bikes from the kasbah, which was ideal for exploring.
