Agadir was rebuilt after an earthquake in 1961 and is now a thriving port full of restaurants, bars and cafes. With its year round climate it offers a perfect winter haven for swimming, sailing or lounging on one of the many beautiful beaches.
Agadir and Inzegane: Agadir, a Berber word used in spoken Arabic, means "a fortified granary or village". Agadirs are a dominant feature of many villages in the south and the Atlas Mountains. The city of Agadir, with a population of almost 100,000, is a regional capital. It is also the main market for the abundant agricultural produce of the Souss Valley and a processing center for the fishing and agricultural industry. Its beach enjoys at least 300 days of sunshine per year making it an extremely popular tourist resort. You will drive from the port to the Kasbah, the citadel atop a hill 775 feet high looking down on the city and out over the Atlantic Ocean. It was built in 1540 as a base from which to lay siege to Agadir and was later used as a defense against attacks from the Portuguese. Then you will continue your drive to the Berber village of Inezgane where you will visit the souk and its traditional shops. Taroudant - 'Little Marrakech': Drive directly to Taroudant, perhaps making a photo stop en route if you see goats climbing the Argan trees. Tarodant, which stands at the entrance to Souss Valley and the High Atlas, is off the main tourist routes. With its red ramparts the town is very picturesque and is surrounded by gardens, olive, eucalyptus, pomegranate and palm trees. Although it is known as "Little Marrakesh", the pace of everyday life here is far removed from the bustle of the real Marrakesh. Upon arrival, you will visit the fortress ramparts, the souk and the handicrafts shopping area. Your tour ends with a refreshment stop before returning to the ship.