Family Adventure Through the Majestic Todra Gorge

Saturday's Serene Scenes in Tinghir

Today was a day of gentle exploration and cultural immersion here in Tinghir. After several days of more strenuous activity, it was wonderful to simply wander and soak in the local atmosphere with Aisha and the kids. The beauty of travel, for me, lies not just in seeing famous landmarks, but also in experiencing the everyday rhythms of a place. Today was a perfect example of that, as we embraced the simple joys of Moroccan life.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Family el mabrouk. It’s a charming guesthouse that offers a personal touch you just can’t find in larger hotels. The staff was incredibly welcoming, and the breakfast was a delicious spread of local breads, olives, and mint tea. Tunde especially enjoyed the mint tea, declaring it the best he’s had so far on the trip – a high compliment coming from him! Aisha and I enjoyed some coffee as well. The atmosphere was so relaxed and friendly that it felt like we were starting the day with family.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Family El Mabrouk in Tinghir, where every meal is a celebration of flavor amidst stunning landscapes.

After breakfast, we decided to take a stroll through Toudgha Tinghir, eager to see what the local Saturday market had to offer. The market was a riot of colors, sounds, and smells. Vendors were selling everything from fresh produce and spices to handcrafted goods and clothing. The energy was infectious, and we found ourselves caught up in the lively atmosphere. Funke was particularly fascinated by the vibrant textiles, while Tunde haggled for some spices to bring back home. Aisha, ever the practical one, found some beautifully woven baskets for our home in Ottawa. I managed to capture some great shots with my camera, trying to freeze the vibrant scenes in time. It’s moments like these that make me appreciate photography as more than just a hobby; it's a way to preserve memories and share them with others.


Explore the breathtaking Toudgha Gorge in Tinghir, a mesmerizing natural wonder offering stunning landscapes and authentic Moroccan culture.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you never thought to ask.

For lunch, we chose Auberge restaurant fatihi freres, enticed by its reputation for authentic Moroccan cuisine and stunning views. We were not disappointed. The restaurant is ideally located, offering fabulous views of the gorge. The staff were incredibly kind and welcoming, making us feel right at home. We started with a selection of Moroccan salads, followed by a tagine with chicken, potatoes, and vegetables – a true Berber delight. The flavors were rich and complex, a testament to the skillful use of local spices. Even Funke, who can be a picky eater, cleaned her plate. The warmth of the tagine was especially welcome, given the cooler December air.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Auberge Restaurant Fatihi Freres in Tinghir—where every dish is a celebration of local flavors.

After such a hearty lunch, a bit of relaxation was in order. We spent the afternoon at LES JARDINS DE TODGHA, a tranquil oasis of greenery and calm. The gardens offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the town, with lush vegetation and peaceful pathways. We strolled through the gardens, admiring the diverse plant life and enjoying the quiet atmosphere. It was the perfect place to unwind and recharge before the evening’s activities. The gardens were especially beautiful in the afternoon light, and I took advantage of the opportunity to capture some more photos.


Experience the serene beauty of Les Jardins de Todgha, a tranquil hotel nestled in the stunning Gorges of Todgha, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

As evening approached, we decided to experience a different side of Tinghir’s culinary scene. For dinner, we opted for Restaurant SIMPLE, a fast-food restaurant known for its casual atmosphere and tasty meals. It was a fun and relaxed setting, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. I decided to try the pizza which was cooked in a wood fired oven, and it was delicious! The kids enjoyed the tacos and pasticcio, and Aisha went for a panini. The staff were friendly and efficient, making it an enjoyable experience. It was a nice change of pace from the more traditional Moroccan fare we had been indulging in.


Savor authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant SIMPLE in Tinghir - a must-visit for food lovers seeking local flavors.

To cap off the day, we ventured to Venice café for a taste of Tinghir’s nightlife. The café is known for its great cocktails and trendy atmosphere. While Aisha and I enjoyed some cocktails, the kids sipped on refreshing mint tea. The café had a lively vibe, and it was a great spot to people-watch and soak in the local energy. I couldn’t help but think of my early days exploring bars in St. Louis, a world away from Tinghir but connected by the universal desire for a good time and good company.


Discover the exquisite flavors of brunch and chocolate at Venice Café in Tinghir, a must-visit spot for every traveler.

As we walked back to our guesthouse under the starlit Moroccan sky, I reflected on the day’s experiences. It wasn’t about ticking off famous sights or rushing from one activity to another. It was about slowing down, connecting with the local culture, and appreciating the simple pleasures of life. It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel, and why I’m so grateful to share these experiences with my family.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the viewpoint and the Bridge on Todgha River, hoping to capture more of Todra Gorge's stunning vistas. I'm also looking forward to visiting the Noor boutique. It will be another day of adventure, but for now, I’m content to savor the memories of today’s serene scenes in Tinghir.

The weather in December has been pleasant, with daytime highs hovering around 18-20°C, ideal for exploring. Evenings can get chilly, so we've been sure to pack layers. We did forget our portable phone charger and first aid kit, but we've managed to find alternatives here in Tinghir.

As I sit here writing, I can hear the faint sounds of the town winding down for the night. The air is cool and crisp, and the stars are shining brightly above. It’s a peaceful end to a perfect day, and I’m already looking forward to what tomorrow will bring.

I am so glad that I was able to share this experience with Aisha, Funke and Tunde. It is important to me that they are exposed to different cultures and ways of life, and I believe that this trip is doing just that.