Finnt Oasis, Finnt, Souss-Massa, Morocco
If the Moroccan town of Ouarzazate is the “Door of the Desert,” then the Fint Oasis, located 10 kilometers south, might well be the desert’s garden.
It is nearly impossible to imagine, departing from Ouarzazate and traversing the dry, desolate terrain of the Anti-Atlas Mountains, that any place so green, lush and full of life can be on the horizon. But suddenly you spot it: a massive, verdant palm grove, teeming with plant, animal and village life.
Composed of four traditional villages which blend Sub-Saharan, Moroccan and Berber culture, the Fint Oasis is a laid-back place where donkeys and other beasts of burden still roam the streets and women still wash clothes in the river. Though largely unknown outside of Morocco, the Fint Oasis has served as the setting for a number of Hollywood films, including Babel, Prince of Persia and Kingdom of Heaven.
As a visitor, you will likely enjoy the opportunity to dine or sip mint tea with a local family. Also be sure to attend one of the nightly musical performances which showcase the unique combination of Berber, Arab and African rhythms. A number of other activities, from donkey excursions to swimming to four-wheeling, are readily available.
Epic Morocco Culture & Adventure Route © Monika Newbound
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