Things To Do
in Assa

Slow-cooked stews with lamb, chicken or vegetables; in the south you may find versions with dried fruits and spices — available at local family restaurants and cafés.

Must-Try!

Traditional steamed semolina served with vegetables and meat on Fridays or market days; ask at guesthouses or larger eateries for a local preparation.

A warming meat-and-vegetable broth popular in colder months and often served at dawn or evening meals.

Local dates from oases and freshly baked khobz (bread) are staples, sold in the souk and at bakeries.

Small, everyday market where you can buy dates, spices, legumes, fresh bread and snacks; best visited in the morning when vendors set up stalls.

Simple stands offering mint tea, fried snacks, and seasonal fruits — perfect for a quick, authentic bite and people-watching.

Dress conservatively — especially women — by covering shoulders and knees to respect local customs and avoid unwanted attention.

Use a polite greeting (salam) and accept tea if offered; hospitality is valued and refusing repeatedly can be impolite.

Always ask permission before photographing people, particularly women, and be mindful at markets and religious sites.

Respect prayer times and Ramadan practices: avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours in Ramadan out of courtesy.

Tipping is appreciated but not always required — small tips (10–20 MAD / ~ $1–2) for helpful guides, drivers or good service in cafés are common; round up at markets if a vendor helps you.

Cash (Moroccan dirham, MAD) is king in Assa; ATMs may be limited, so withdraw in larger towns before arrival and carry enough cash for market purchases and transport. Credit cards are accepted at fewer establishments, so don’t rely on them.

Very hot daytime temperatures are common, often exceeding 38–43°C (100–110°F); plan activities for early morning and evening, carry water, sun protection and limit strenuous outdoor exertion.

Warm days and cooler nights make it one of the best times to visit; landscapes are pleasant and travel conditions are comfortable.

Days are mild to cool and nights can be chilly, sometimes near freezing; bring warm layers for evenings and early mornings — occasional rain can make tracks muddy.

Comfortable temperatures and spring blossoms in irrigated pockets; late spring starts to warm up and is a good time for outdoor exploration before peak heat.

The most popular sport locally, with informal matches played in town open spaces and on flat desert stretches.

Camel culture is regionally significant; camel treks for tourists and, in some areas, traditional events or friendly contests feature camels and horses.

Vegetarian choices exist but are limited; couscous and vegetable tajines are common — always confirm that broths are vegetable-based and watch for hidden meat or chicken stock.

Vegan options are narrower; lean on salads, bread, dates and vegetable stews, and communicate restrictions clearly; carrying snacks is recommended.

Traditional Moroccan diet relies on wheat-based breads and couscous; naturally gluten-free options include rice-based dishes and some stews, but cross-contamination is likely.

Most meat is halal by default in this region; if you require certified halal practices, ask local hosts or restaurants for reassurance.