Family Adventure in Taroudant, Morocco

Tiout: An Unexpected Slice of Paradise

Today was a day of unexpected beauty and gentle adventures. Leaving the familiar embrace of Taroudant, we ventured into the countryside, seeking a different rhythm, a different landscape. Little did we know, we were about to stumble upon an oasis that would capture our hearts and imaginations.

Our day began, as usual, with breakfast at Café & Hotel Saha Taroudant. The familiar mint tea and fresh bread fortified us for the day ahead. Ama, especially, loves the pastries they offer. It's becoming a comforting ritual. The staff are so warm and welcoming, always making a fuss over her, which she absolutely adores. After our leisurely breakfast, we packed our essentials – sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water – and set off towards Oasis Tiout. The drive itself was captivating. The landscape gradually transformed from the ochre hues of Taroudant to a more verdant palette as we approached the oasis.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.

The Oasis Tiout appeared like a mirage, a splash of green against the arid backdrop. Palm trees swayed gently in the breeze, and the air felt noticeably cooler. It was a welcome respite from the increasingly warm June sun. We decided to start our exploration with a walk through the palm groves. Ama was immediately captivated by the donkeys, their gentle eyes and patient demeanor. We even considered a short ride for her, but she seemed content just watching them graze.


Discover the serene beauty of Oasis Tiout in Morocco, where lush landscapes meet rich culture in a breathtaking natural setting.

Lunchtime found us at Snack Yummy in Tiout. It was a humble little place, but the food was delicious and authentic. I opted for a tagine, while Klaus chose a grilled meat dish. Ama, predictably, devoured her couscous with gusto. It's moments like these, sharing a simple meal in a faraway place, that make our family travels so special. It reminds me of the delicious snacks I used to enjoy back in Kintampo, Ghana.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Snack Yummy in Taroudant - where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.

After lunch, we decided to explore the Kasbah Tiout. Perched atop a rocky outcrop, the Kasbah offered panoramic views of the oasis and the surrounding landscape. The structure itself is steeped in history, and it was fascinating to imagine life here centuries ago. Ama, of course, was more interested in climbing the steps and peering through the windows. Her boundless energy is both exhausting and inspiring.


Experience exquisite Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Kasbah Tiout amidst stunning natural beauty.

As the afternoon wore on, we made a stop at Aladdin Treasure, a shop recommended by a local we met earlier in the day. It was like stepping into Ali Baba’s cave, filled with carpets, Berber jewelry, and handcrafted treasures. I picked up a beautiful, handwoven rug for our living room in Potsdam, a tangible reminder of our Moroccan adventure. Klaus found a striking Berber dagger, and Ama was thrilled with a small, intricately carved wooden camel.


Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Aladdin Treasure in Taroudant, where local culture meets modern retail in a stunning setting.

Our final stop of the day was dinner at Restaurant Kasbah Tiout. The restaurant is known for its traditional Moroccan cuisine and stunning views. We enjoyed a leisurely meal as the sun began to set, casting a warm golden glow over the oasis. The tagine was flavorful, the couscous fluffy, and the ambiance simply magical. Ama, tired but content, fell asleep in my arms as we finished our meal.

Today was a reminder that the most rewarding travel experiences are often the ones you least expect. Tiout wasn't on our original itinerary, but it turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip so far. The tranquility of the oasis, the warmth of the local people, and the simple pleasures of exploring a new place with my family – these are the moments I will cherish forever.

As we head back to Taroudant, I'm already looking forward to tomorrow. Our plan is to explore DarZahia and Roudana Targanet, more hidden gems within this fascinating region. I am also hoping to do some shopping at De Velasco Boutique. Each day here unveils a new layer of Morocco's rich tapestry, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

The journey continues, and I am so glad to be sharing it with my family. It’s experiences like these that truly enrich our lives and broaden our perspectives. As a software developer working on AI for sustainable agriculture, I'm constantly reminded of the importance of preserving the natural world and supporting local communities. Our visit to Tiout, with its lush palm groves and traditional farming practices, underscored that message in a profound way. It's a reminder that technology and tradition can coexist, and that sustainable tourism can play a vital role in preserving cultural heritage.

The thought of returning to Potsdam and diving back into my work is comforting, but I know a part of me will always remain here, in this enchanting corner of Morocco. The vibrant colors, the fragrant spices, the gentle rhythm of life – these are the memories I will carry with me always.

And, of course, the laughter and joy of my family, exploring this new world together. It's a blessing to be able to share these experiences with them, to watch Ama's eyes light up as she discovers something new, to see Klaus's face soften as he connects with the local culture. These are the moments that make our family whole, that bind us together in ways that no amount of technology ever could.

As I sit here, reflecting on our day, I am filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the opportunity to travel, to explore, to learn, and to grow. Gratitude for my family, for their love and support, for their willingness to embark on these adventures with me. And gratitude for the people of Morocco, for their warmth, their hospitality, and their unwavering spirit.

Tomorrow we will explore more of Taroudant, discovering new corners of this ancient city. But for now, I will close my eyes and drift off to sleep, dreaming of palm trees, tagines, and the gentle laughter of my daughter in a desert oasis.

In the morning, after breakfast at Snack El Piacere, we plan to visit DarZahia and Roudana Targanet. I am also hoping to do some shopping at De Velasco Boutique. I can't wait to share more of our adventures with you all.

Until then, goodnight from Taroudant.