The Berbers, or Amazigh, are indigenous to North Africa, with a rich history of crafts, music, and agriculture. They provide immersive experiences in the Atlas Mountains and Sahara Desert.

Population

~30 million

Origins

The Berbers, or Amazigh, are indigenous people of North Africa, with their history in Morocco spanning thousands of years. They are believed to be among the earliest inhabitants of the region, with communities living across the Atlas Mountains, the Sahara Desert, and coastal areas. The Berber language, Tamazight, is still spoken by many, and they identify strongly with their cultural heritage.

Customs and Culture

The Berber culture is characterized by its unique language, traditional crafts such as rug weaving, jewelry making, and pottery, and an oral tradition rich with stories, myths, and songs. They are also known for their distinctive architecture, such as the ksars (fortified villages) and kasbahs. Their traditional way of life includes farming in terraced fields in the Atlas Mountains and pastoralism in the desert.

Activity

Visitors can experience the Berber culture by staying in traditional kasbahs, visiting Berber markets (souks), and learning about their craftsmanship. Trekking tours through the Atlas Mountains often include visits to Berber villages, where tourists can enjoy traditional mint tea and participate in local life. The Sahara Desert tours, featuring camel treks, provide a glimpse into Berber nomadic culture.

Other

Easily combined with visits to Marrakech or the Sahara