Things To Do
in Laanoussar

Laanoussar is a coastal town in central-west Morocco where white-washed houses sit along narrow lanes and olive groves fringe the outskirts. The town blends Amazigh heritage with Arab influences, reflected in markets, mosques, and family-run cafes that spill onto shaded courtyards. Life moves at a relaxed pace, with mint tea, sun-drenched afternoons, and haggling in the souks as daily rituals.

Visitors can easily combine seaside strolls with visits to nearby hills and traditional crafts workshops, all within a short drive of Casablanca's urban energy.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Orientation
morning
:

Arrive in Laanoussar and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around the village to familiarize yourself with the local culture and surroundings. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh bread and mint tea.

afternoon
:

Visit the vibrant local market to experience the bustling atmosphere and purchase delightful handicrafts. Engage with local artisans and learn about their crafts, everything from pottery to textiles. Capture the lively scenes with your camera as you immerse yourself in the community's daily life.

evening
:

Retreat back to your lodging and enjoy a peaceful evening of reflection. Dine at a rooftop restaurant, where you can sample delicious tagine while overlooking the sunset casting golden hues over the horizon. Share stories with fellow travelers or locals about your day's adventures.

day 2
Exploring Historical Sites
morning
:

Set off early to explore the historical ruins located just outside the village, absorbing the fascinating history of Laanoussar. Guided tours will offer insights into the rich heritage and stories behind the ancient architecture. Take time to sketch or photograph the picturesque landscape.

afternoon
:

Head back to the village for lunch at a family-run eatery, where you'll enjoy home-cooked Moroccan dishes. Explore the narrow winding streets and discover hidden gems like artisan shops and quaint cafes. Engage in friendly conversations with locals to gain deeper insights into their lives.

evening
:

End the day with a night walk under the stars, the clear skies of Laanoussar providing a stunning backdrop. Consider joining a traditional music evening held in a local courtyard, where you can experience the rhythms and melodies of Morocco. Share a fulfilling meal with your hosts, relishing the flavors of Moroccan cuisine.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
🥗Lunch at casual local spot$4-9
Coffee or tea$1-3
🥖Street food snack$2-5
🛏️One night's mid-range hotel$25-60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Friendly locals and easy access to coastal and countryside sites
  • Moderate costs and good value for money
  • Safe and walkable town center
  • Rich cultural heritage and markets
  • Limited nightlife and some services may be basic
  • Occasional language barrier for non-Arabic speakers
  • Seasonal heat in summer can be intense
  • Occasionally limited flight connections depending on season
  • "Salam Alaykum" - Hello / Peace be upon you
  • "Shukran" - Thank you
  • "La shukran" - No, thank you
  • "Min fadlak" - Please (masc.)
  • "Kif halak?" - How are you?
  • "B’khir, alhamdulillah" - Fine, thank you

Places to Visit in Laanoussar

Visit one of these nice places.

Old Medina Walls at Dawn

Low-angle light along sun-warmed stone and whitewashed walls perfect for atmospheric portraits.

Coastal Fishing Harbor

Colorful boats, nets, and reflections at sunrise give vibrant seascape opportunities.

Hilltop Overlook with River Valley

Sweeping views of the town and surrounding olive groves from a hillside perch.

Streets of the Kasbah

Narrow cobblestone passages, blue doors, and brass lanterns for intimate street photography.

Olive Groves and Distant Mountains

Golden hour shots among ancient trees with a distant mountain backdrop.

Culinary Guide

Food in Laanoussar

Moroccan cuisine in Laanoussar emphasizes seasonal produce, seafood from the coast, olives, and aromatic spices; meals are often shared family-style and seasoned with fresh herbs.

Laanoussar Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tajine de poisson

A fragrant fish tagine with preserved lemon, olives, and cilantro, best enjoyed near the coast.

Must-Try!

Couscous aux sept légumes

Steaming couscous served with a colorful medley of vegetables and a light tomato-based sauce.

Harira

A hearty tomato-lentil soup spiced with cinnamon and ginger, perfect for cool evenings.

Tagine d’agneau aux pruneaux

Slow-cooked lamb with prunes and almonds, a sweet-savoury classic.

Pastilla (savory pie)

A delicate pastry layered with chicken, almonds, and spices.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Souk Central Market

A lively covered market where you can sample olives, preserved lemons, spices, and grilled sardines.

Coastal stalls

Seafood grills along the harbor offering freshly caught sardines and calamari.

Climate Guide

Weather

The town experiences a Mediterranean-influenced climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Summers can exceed 30°C (86°F) with sea breezes, while winters hover around 8–15°C (46–59°F). Spring and autumn are pleasant, making them popular travel seasons. Rainfall is heaviest from November to February, often in short tropical storms.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a handshake; with women, use the same; if uncertain, 'Salam Alaikum' is a safe greeting.

Dress and modesty

Modest clothing is appreciated, especially in rural areas; shoulders and knees covered when visiting mosques.

Hospitality

Accepting tea or mint tea is common; refusing can be seen as disrespectful; show appreciation.

Safety Guide

Safety

Standard travel safety applies: watch for petty theft in crowded markets, keep valuables secure, and use licensed taxis. At night, prefer well-lit streets and avoid isolated areas. Tap water is generally safe in cities but check locally; bottled water is widely available. Travel with basic health and travel insurance.

Tipping in Laanoussar

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Small tips (5-10%) for good service in restaurants; round up for taxis or carry light change.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; many places accept cards in larger hotels and restaurants, but some small shops prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Pleasant temperatures, blooming almond trees, and lively markets; carry a light jacket for cooler mornings.

Summer

Hot days with sea breeze; stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan coastal activities in the late afternoon.

Autumn

Mild days and clear skies; ideal for day trips to the coast or hills.

Winter

Milder inland with chilly evenings; expect occasional rain; pack a warm layer.

Nightlife Guide

Laanoussar at Night

Laanoussar has a modest nightlife scene centered around quiet cafes, rooftop lounges, and seaside restaurants; live music and traditional storytelling can be found in some venues, especially on weekends.

Hiking in Laanoussar

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Outlying Hills Trail

Steep but scenic path with panoramic town and coast views; suitable for a half-day hike.

Coastal Cliff Walk

A relatively easy walk along sea cliffs with opportunities for seabird viewing.

Airports

How to reach Laanoussar by plane.

Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport (CMN)

Major international gateway near Casablanca; about 60-90 minutes by car from Laanoussar depending on traffic.

Rabat-Salé Airport (RBA)

Regional airport serving domestic and limited international flights; reachable within 60-90 minutes by road.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with most sights within a 15-20 minute stroll; the old medina lanes can be narrow and uneven, so good footwear is advised. Taxis and motorbikes provide convenient connections to surrounding areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young professionals and students

A growing group of people commuting to Casablanca's universities and job hubs.

Local artisans and farmers

Residents involved in crafts, markets, and agriculture.

Families and retirees

Longstanding residents who value coastal access and community life.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport; local games and informal matches are common in plazas and schools.

Basketball

Well-supported at schools and local clubs; community games are common.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light to moderate, with peak times during morning and late afternoon as people commute to Casablanca. Public buses and road taxis are common, while some towns offer shared taxi networks for regional travel. Roads to coastal destinations can become crowded on weekends and holidays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Laanoussar.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian travelers will find plenty of vegetable tagines and salads; ask for olive oil and chickpea-based dishes; avoid meat-based broths and request vegetable-only versions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Local clinics and a small hospital serve basic healthcare needs; for major treatment or emergencies, Casablanca's larger hospitals or international clinics are accessible by road or rail, and travel insurance is recommended.

Discover Morocco

Read more in our Morocco 2025 Travel Guide.

Morocco Travel Guide