AGADIR, MOROCCO
Agadir, a bustling port city in southern Morocco, is renowned for its long sandy beaches, modern amenities, and proximity to the Atlas Mountains. Rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1960, Agadir is a blend of contemporary design and traditional Moroccan charm.
KEY INFO
Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
Population: 850,000 (Morocco: 37 million)
Emergency #: 190 (Police), 150 (Ambulance)
Drinking Water: Bottled water recommended
Time Zone: GMT+1
ID Requirements: Passport
ATM and Payment: ATMs are widely available, including near the port. Credit cards are accepted at most establishments, though cash is preferred in smaller shops and markets. USD is not generally accepted.
Languages: Arabic, Berber (Limited English/French)
Drive on the: Right
Pharmacy: Pharmacie Centrale, Avenue Hassan II
Protection: Sun protection, light clothing
Wi-Fi: Not widely available
Post Office: Poste Maroc, Avenue Mohammed V
PORT LOCATION AND FACILITIES
Ships dock at the Port of Agadir, 5 km from the city centre (20-min drive). Shuttle buses drop guests at Amal Square (20-min drive).
Facilities: No facilities.
Port Address: Port of Agadir, Avenue Mohammed V, Agadir, Morocco.
Getting Around: Agadir is relatively easy to navigate, with taxis and public buses being the primary modes of transport. Bus fares are typically 4 MAD, payable in cash.
Taxis: Operate on negotiated fares; fare to the city centre is approximately 20 MAD. Ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Careem are not available in Agadir.
Tourist Bus: There is no Hop-On Hop-Off bus service in Agadir. Private guided tours are available.
For more information: Visit https://www.visitmorocco.com/en
AGADIR HIGHLIGHTS
Souk El Had: One of the largest markets in Morocco, offering everything from spices and textiles to handmade crafts. 9a-9p (Tue-Sun) | Free | 3km (15-min drive) from Amal Square.
Agadir Kasbah: A historic hilltop fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.
10a-7p | 20 MAD | 5.4km (15-min drive) from Amal Square. www.agadir-oufella.ma
Museum of Amazigh Culture: A museum dedicated to the history and art of the Berber people.
10a-6p (Wed-Mon) | Free | 900m (10-min walk) from Amal Square. www.fnm.ma
Marina Agadir: A modern marina with upscale shops, restaurants, and cafes, perfect for waterfront dining and shopping. 10a-10p | Free | 2.2km (30-min walk) from Amal Square.
Agadir Beach Promenade (Corniche): A scenic walkway along the coast, lined with restaurants, shops, and open-air cafes. 24 hours | Free | 750m (10-min walk) from Amal Square.
Agadir Birds Valley: A small zoo and park featuring exotic birds and animals, ideal for families.
11a-6p | Free | 400m (6-min walk) from port.
Great Mosque of Agadir: A beautifully designed modern mosque near the Souk El Had.
Outside only | Free | 3km (15-min drive) from Amal Square.
Agadir Medina: A recreated medina featuring artisan workshops, boutiques, and traditional Moroccan architecture. 9a-6p | 40 MAD | 6km (12-min drive) from Amal Square. medina-agadir.com
BEACHES NEAR AGADIR
Agadir Beach: The city’s main beach, featuring golden sands, calm waters, and plenty of restaurants and cafes. 24 hours | Free | 1.3km (18-min walk) from Amal Square.
Taghazout Beach: A world-renowned surfing destination with a laid-back vibe and stunning views.
24 hours | Free | 20 km (30-min drive) from port.
Imsouane Beach: Known for its long waves, perfect for beginner and advanced surfers alike.
24 hours | Free | 90 km (1.5-hour drive) from port.
Buy
Daniel Edward
a coffee
REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Paradise Valley: A tranquil oasis of palm trees, waterfalls, and natural pools, located in the Atlas Mountains. Best explored on guided tours. 9a-5p | Free | 30 km (45-min drive) from port.
Atlas Mountains: Explore the breathtaking landscapes and traditional Berber villages of the Atlas Mountains on a guided trek. Tours only | From 300 MAD. | 50 km (1-hour drive) from port.
Sous Massa National Park: A protected area offering opportunities to spot rare bird species, gazelles, and other wildlife. 8a-6p | 70 MAD | 30 km (45-min drive) from port. www.soussmassa.ma
Tafraoute: A charming village nestled in a valley of pink granite boulders, famous for its unique scenery and traditional crafts. 24 hours | Free | 140 km (2-hour drive) from port. www.tafraoute.ma
TIPPING CUSTOMS
Optional. A 10% service charge is common in restaurants. Tips for guides and taxi drivers are appreciated.
FOOD & DRINK
Tagine: Traditional Moroccan dish slow-cooked with vegetables, meat, or fish, seasoned with local spices.
Harira Soup: A hearty soup made with lentils, chickpeas, and tomatoes, often served during Ramadan.
Amlou: A spread made from almonds, argan oil, and honey, often served with bread.
Mint Tea: Known as “Moroccan whiskey,” this sweet tea is a staple of Moroccan hospitality.
SOUVENIR TOP TIPS
Take home argan oil, traditional Berber rugs (400-600 MAD depending on size and quality), and handmade pottery. Spices such as saffron and ras el hanout (‘head of the shop’), a Moroccan spice blend of up to 30 spices (such as cinnamon, cumin, coriander, and paprika), also make excellent gifts.
LOCAL LINGO
Hello: Salaam Aleikum
Goodbye: Bslama
Please: Afak
Thank you: Shukran
Toilet: Bit al-Maa
Cruise Ship Port: Port d’Agadir