Things To Do
in Oulad Driss

Oulad Driss is a charming village located in the southern region of Morocco, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. Surrounded by the picturesque Saharan dunes, it offers a unique glimpse into traditional Berber life. The village serves as a gateway to explore the vast desert and experience the warm hospitality of its residents.

Visitors can immerse themselves in local traditions, crafts, and cuisine while enjoying breathtaking sunsets over the dunes.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Oulad Driss
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional Moroccan breakfast at a local café, featuring mint tea, bread, and jam. After breakfast, explore the village on foot, visiting artisan shops and learning about local crafts.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the nearby sand dunes, where you can try camel riding and enjoy the stunning desert landscapes. Capture photographs of the unique rock formations and desert flora.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner at a local restaurant, followed by an evening stroll under the stars, experiencing the serenity of the desert night.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Culture
morning
:

Embark on an early morning hike in the surrounding hills, where you can witness the sunrise over the desert. Return to the village for breakfast.

afternoon
:

Visit a nearby oasis, where you can relax and enjoy a picnic lunch while surrounded by lush greenery. Take time to interact with local farmers and learn about their agricultural practices.

evening
:

Attend a cultural performance showcasing traditional music and dance, followed by dinner at a local eatery that specializes in tagine dishes.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5-10
Coffee at a café$1-2
🚌Bus fare$2
🏨Budget hotel per night$20-30
🛒Groceries (weekly)$30-50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experience and warm hospitality.
  • Stunning desert landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable travel options and local food.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • High summer temperatures can be uncomfortable.
  • Public transportation may be limited in rural areas.
  • "As-salamu alaykum" - Peace be upon you
  • "Shukran" - Thank you
  • "Min fadlak" - Please
  • "Ayna...?" - Where is...?
  • "Ma'a as-salama" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Oulad Driss

Visit one of these nice places.

Sand Dunes

The majestic dunes provide stunning sunset and sunrise views, perfect for capturing the beauty of the desert.

Oasis

Lush greenery surrounding water sources creates a beautiful contrast against the arid desert landscape.

Village Architecture

Traditional mud-brick houses and local markets offer unique architectural photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Oulad Driss

Oulad Driss offers a delightful array of traditional Moroccan cuisine, reflecting the rich flavors and spices of the region. Must-try dishes include tagine, couscous, and harira soup, all prepared with local ingredients and spices.

Oulad Driss Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tagine

A slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices, often served with bread.

Must-Try!

Couscous

Steamed semolina wheat served with various toppings, usually accompanied by vegetables and meat.

Harira

A hearty soup made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and spices, often enjoyed during Ramadan.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Oulad Driss Market

A bustling local market where vendors sell fresh produce, spices, and street food options like kebabs and pastries.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls offering local snacks such as b'stilla (savory pastry) and grilled meats, perfect for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Oulad Driss is characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F), while winter nights can get quite chilly, often dropping to near freezing. Spring and autumn offer more moderate temperatures, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common, and it's polite to ask about someone's health and family.

Dress Modestly

Dress conservatively, especially in rural areas, to respect local customs.

Dining Etiquette

Eat with your right hand and wait for the host to start before you begin eating.

Safety Guide

Safety

Oulad Driss is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it's advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas, and keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. Additionally, drinking bottled water is recommended to avoid any stomach issues.

Tipping in Oulad Driss

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping in Restaurants

It's customary to leave a tip of about 10-15% for good service.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, and ATMs are available; credit cards may not be accepted everywhere.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March-May)

Mild temperatures make it ideal for outdoor exploration and hiking.

Summer (June-August)

Hot weather can reach above 40°C (104°F); plan activities for early morning or late afternoon.

Autumn (September-November)

Cooler temperatures and clear skies are great for photography and outdoor adventures.

Winter (December-February)

Chilly nights can drop to near freezing; pack warm clothing for evenings and consider indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Oulad Driss at Night

Oulad Driss has a modest nightlife scene, primarily centered around local cafes and family-run restaurants. In the evenings, locals often gather to socialize, enjoy music, and share stories. While there are no nightclubs, cultural performances or traditional music events might take place in community spaces, providing a glimpse into local culture.

Hiking in Oulad Driss

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tizi n'Tichka Pass

A scenic hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains and valleys, suitable for experienced hikers.

Dunes of Erg Chegaga

A popular hiking destination where visitors can trek through vast sand dunes and experience stunning sunsets.

Airports

How to reach Oulad Driss by plane.

Ouarzazate Airport (OZZ)

Located approximately 70 km from Oulad Driss, this airport serves as the nearest major airport, offering domestic flights and some international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Oulad Driss is a small village, making it highly walkable. Most attractions, shops, and eateries are within walking distance, allowing visitors to explore at a leisurely pace. The compact layout makes it easy to navigate without the need for a vehicle.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Berber Community

The majority of the population is of Berber descent, known for their rich cultural traditions and hospitality.

Arab Influence

There is a significant Arab influence in the area, contributing to the cultural diversity and traditions of Oulad Driss.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a widely popular sport in the region, with many local teams and community matches.

Traditional Berber Wrestling

A cultural sport often showcased during festivals, reflecting the region's heritage and community spirit.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Oulad Driss is minimal, with mostly local traffic and occasional tourist vehicles. Public transportation options include shared taxis and buses that connect to nearby cities, but schedules may be irregular. Walking or biking is often the best way to navigate the village.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Oulad Driss.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian tagine and couscous dishes, but it's advisable to confirm with the chef.

Halal Food

Most food in Oulad Driss is halal, but it's recommended to check labels and ask when dining out.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Oulad Driss is limited, with basic medical facilities available in the village. For more serious health issues, the nearest larger city with better medical services is several hours away. Travelers should consider having travel insurance and carry necessary medications.

Discover Morocco

Read more in our Morocco 2025 Travel Guide.

Morocco Travel Guide