Spent a very low activity four night break in Agadir, Morocco.
If you are more of an activity style holiday maker, then check out our other Marrakech, Morocco holiday blog.
Link to a (Short) video montage of our Agadir, Morocco, North west Africa visit (Overview):-
To view the video select:- https://www.instagram.com/reel/ChAundaAFRD/?igshid=MDJmNzVkMjY=
Link to a (Full) video montage of our Agadir, Morocco, North west Africa visit:-
To view the video select:- https://youtu.be/QOl6oVHjcF8
There are three possible holiday types that a visitor can have in Agadir.
the activity holiday, visiting all of the tourist destinations that the city and its environs has to offer;
The laid-back, in-active holiday type of Sleep, Food, Sun & Entertainment ;
A holiday that is a mixture of both holiday options (1) and (2), above.
Agadir, Morocco 2022
As this is a blog from the perspective of a type (2) holiday above, possibly the beach walk and the walk to the old town will be the height of your ambition, especially if you are based in an all inclusive hotel, as we were.
A walk along the promenade at either sunrise or sunset will possibly be the height of your ambition. For those more adventurous, hike from the city up to the Agadir Oufella ruin, an architectural Landmark situated high above the city. That will probably suffice as enough over-exertion for your entire stay.
Agadir, Morocco, North West Africa
Following a Sunway Travel promotion of resorts in Agadir, we took one of their 4 night package tours.
Sunway Travel provide a raft of optional tour offerings. One of these is a full day trip to Marrakech. So if you are an activity bunny, you can tick off two locations in the one trip.
Our 4 night five star hotel holiday break in the Riu Palace Tikita, Agadir was relaxing and it gave us an insight into a very different culture.
Why is it foggy in Agadir ?
Apparently, because of its location on the coast of Africa, Agadir catches the cold air off the Atlantic and when it meets the warm Moroccan air, it creates a lot of sea fog and cloudy conditions. So those expecting extremely hot temperatures will be sadly disappointed. The temperatures during our visit remained in a balmy range of 20 - 28 degrees centigrade, with a sea temperature of 19 degrees centigrade.
This year 2022, even wealthy Moroccan citizens could not get their European visas in time to visit their properties in France and Spain. However, Europe’s loss is Morocco’s gain, as this 2022 summer season, they are all vacationing at home, along with all the Moroccan that have returned home from abroad.
Our observations on the North African fly versus the Irish house fly. When an Irish fly lands on you, one swish of your hand and it is gone to greener pastures. An North African fly on the other hand is battle hardened. They have an arrogance and a tenacity to return to the scene of the irritation over and over again. Until, they can crawl into all of your aural and visual receptors, unhindered.
Things to do in Agadir
Go to the beach
As Morocco’s favourite beach.
Agadir has a long stretch of honey-coloured sand perfect for basking. Unlike the beach at nearby Essaouira, which is battered by Atlantic winds almost year-round, this one is sheltered, with waves that break far out to sea. Expect pristine sands and lifeguard patrols in the peak summer months. Arrange a boat trip along the coast, book surf lessons and enjoy a meal accompanied by sea views on the buzzing promenade.
Shop in the Souk El Had d’Agadir
Soak up the colours, smells and sights of Souk El Had, which is open every day but Monday. With about 6,000 stalls, it’s one of the largest markets in Morocco, sprawling over more than 13ha (32 acres). Enter through one of 12 gates and browse stores laden with everything from fragrant spices to piles of colourful produce, clay tagines, handmade rugs and homeware. While some sellers advertise set prices, you’re mostly free to haggle.
Shopping in Agadir is very colourful and varied. You can spend endless time wandering around the souks buying clothes, argan oil, perfumes, spices, scarves etc, but be mindful of your return baggage allowance.
Relax in a Hammam
Savour a slice of Moroccan culture with a hammam trip. It’s a sacred ritual for locals, who usually visit once a week for a deep clean and to socialise. Steam opens your pores, then prepare for an intense body scrub with black-olive-oil soap, which will leave you feeling thoroughly cleansed. If you’re after a more luxurious experience, head to the Argan Palace, where you can opt for a private hammam followed by a soothing massage.
Agadir Oufella
An architectural Landmark situated high above the city.
Hike up to the atmospheric Agadir Oufella ruins, also known as the Kasbah, sitting on a hilltop overlooking the city’s fishing port and beach. Explore the remains of this ancient fortress, built in 1540 to protect Agadir from Portuguese invasions and later destroyed by an earthquake in 1960. Although only the crumbling walls and entry portal of the site remain, it offers views over Agadir, which are especially majestic at sunset.
A sense of Agadir, Morocco
We choose the option of staying at the 5 star Rui Palace Tikita Hotel as it is situated on the beach and only 30 minutes drive from the airport. With its Italian, Moroccan, European fusion restaurants and all that you would expect from a modern hotel, albeit, totally Moroccan in its styling, we considered it the safest and most comfortable option for us. With its all inclusive food & drink package, it made a perfect base for our four night stay in Agadir.
For the more price sensitive, staying at an available Riad is a cheaper option.
A riad is a traditional Moroccan house with a garden on the inside. While these houses or palaces were originally for the wealthier of society, many have now been turned into guest houses. In contrast to a large hotel, these houses are run more along the lines of a bed & breakfast or a boutique hotel.
The currency used is the Moroccan dirham (€1 = 10D). You should always carry some cash on you for the small transactions as vendors are ill-equipped to handle card transactions.
In direct comparison to other destinations in Europe, you will find Agadir affordable and very good value for your money.
We found Agadir promenade to be eminently walkable, but if you are taking taxis try to agree the price at the outset of your journey.
Part of the joy of travelling is experiencing other cultures and customs different to your own. You have to be open to the experience and particularly in moments where you might feel a little uncomfortable.
Remember, Morocco is an Islamic society, if you dress in a way that is respectful to the local custom and practice, you will likely experience fewer uncomfortable moments.
Be aware of scammers who approach you and offer to show you around or give you directions. These offers are rarely acts of kindness. They are generally attempts to get money from you. Your best defence is to ignore them in the first instance and if they are persistent, firmly say “La La Shukraan”, meaning “No no thank you”. Walk away from the situation if you feel uncomfortable at any time. Be aware of your surroundings, it is even more necessary in Morocco than normal. Walk with confidence, even if you are lost.
Our must see recommendation for a trip to Agadir, Morocco:-
Hire a guide to take you on a walking tour of the city, it will greatly enhance your experience and understanding of this ancient Berber culture.
Visit the Souk El Had, it is a sensory pleasure, with lots of Arabic themed memorabilia to feast your eyes on.
The average cost per person, for a four night stay, is €750 (depending on type of hotel/ accommodation selected), inclusive of flights.
A stay in a Riad is an alternative to a Hotel stay where some savings can be made.
“You should travel away from home, to really appreciate the value of what you have at home, on your return.”
“Happiness is found in the journey and rarely in the destination, alone.”
