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Tan-Tan: Crossroads of Cultures and Gateway to the Desert

A small provincial capital near the Atlantic, in the Sahara, with a population of 50,000, populated by former nomadic shepherds, the Tenkas, who used an oasis near the mouth of the Drâa River.

It is located 285 km south of Agadir, on the N-1 highway that connects Western Sahara to the rest of Morocco. This region is striking for its desolate landscape and rocky hamada plains. Renting a car from AnasCars is the ideal way to travel these distances comfortably and safely.

A Historical and Aerial Heritage

Founded by the Spanish in 1940 as a military post, it was located within the Spanish protectorate of southern Morocco. It has a small airport used by several civilian airlines, including charter flights.

Market day is Sunday.

The Tan-Tan Moussem: An Unmissable UNESCO Event

The Moussem, or cultural festival of Tan-Tan, is celebrated in May-June with the surrounding tribes (the blue men). It has been declared an intangible cultural heritage of UNESCO and is celebrated in jaimas, or tents woven from camel or goat hide, erected for the occasion.

Traditional horse races are held, and local folk groups come to dance – among other dances – the Guedra, a typical desert dance. Camels also race, along with riders from various Arab countries. A captivating spectacle easily accessible with your rental car AnasCars.

Economy, Crafts and Tourism Development

On the coast, we find the commune of El Ouatia, a recently created urbanized area surrounded by dunes which benefits from an important fishing port.

In terms of handicrafts, leather goods, embroidery, and jewelry are noteworthy. Tourism development is gradually beginning due to the nearby oases and beaches.

Where to stay in Tan-Tan?

There is a simple hotel offer, with several small hotels in the city: the Al Medina, the Sables d'Or hotel and MJI.

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The coastal road to Tarfaya, 205 km away, and El Aaiún, 304 km away, starts from this town. The new inland road, however, heads towards Smara, 245 km away in Western Sahara.

Explore the Area Around Tan-Tan

El Ouatia – Tan-Tan Beach

Twenty kilometers west along the coast (towards El Aaiún), we find this rapidly growing city, thanks to its important fishing port and maritime industries. The fishing industry boasts a fleet of over 650 vessels and employs more than 12,400 active seafarers.

The town boasts long beaches surrounded by dunes, in an area also known as "Tan-Tan Beach." There are restaurants and a variety of accommodations. Recommended hotels include Riad Essadía, Hotel Canarias Sahara, La Belle Vue, Kasbah Tan-Tan, Hotel Dubai, and Résidence Daraa.

Oasis of Ouin Madkor and Sidi Medkour

Located 29 km after passing El Ouatia (with 7 km of roads). In this oasis in the Chbika valley, there is a cemetery and remains of nomadic dwellings, alongside a marabout (tomb of a saint).

Wadi Chbika: Between Cliffs and Flamingos

A natural park 50 km away. It can be accessed via the Tarfaya road, passing through El Ouatia. Located at the mouth of the Wadi Chbeika river, it boasts a spectacular landscape of beaches, cliffs and sand dunes.

You'll see migratory birds, flamingos, cormorants, ducks, and more, with the thrill of a safari: mammals like hyenas, wildcats, and jackals are also present! A 4x4 or SUV from AnasCars is highly recommended for these tracks.

Sidi Akhfennir

Located 115 km along the road to Tarfaya, this is a common stop on the national highway, near the coast. The area features fishermen's huts and fishing lodges, as well as a 3-star hotel, the Sahara Beach.

Wild Nature: The Lower Drâa Natural Park

North of the city is one of the largest national parks in the desert and an ideal habitat for a rich and diverse, but unfortunately endangered, fauna (the Barbary sheep, carnivorous animals such as the striped hyena, jackal, red fox, fennec fox,porcupine and birds such as the bustard, falcon or golden eagle, in addition to reptiles).

Other Places of Interest for your Road Trip

  • Tilemzoune Oasis: Accessible via a paved road, 29 km south. Village with a nomadic population who live from livestock farming (dromedaries and goats). Areas with mineral deposits.
  • The Msied Oasis: Located between mountains, it is a crossroads of paths that lead to Aouinet-Goulmine, Assa, Zag, the White Beach, Oued Chebica and Tan-Tan.
  • Oued Jrifia: 69 km to the south lies a forest of trees called Tahl, giving the landscape a savanna-like appearance, alongside dunes inhabited by gazelles and jackals. This area will soon be transformed into a nature reserve. Near the village is Mount Sidi Brahim El Atabi, with its marabout (shrine).
  • Azguerre: Located 50 km south of Msied, in the direction of Es-Smara, Azguerre boasts remarkably rich rock paintings and exceptional prehistoric significance. This could play a significant role in the development of tourism in the province.
  • Elkhloua Caves: Located 78 km south of Tan-Tan, before reaching the town of Abtteh, these caves carved into the rock can be seen. They are a place of prayer and are of great scenic interest.

Contact AnasCars for your trip to Tan-Tan

To fully enjoy these wonders of Southern Morocco, mobility is key. AnasCars offers you the best car rental rates.