Exploring Aourir – a small place with big significance
Travelling through the beautiful seaside of Morocco, every view that “popped out” in our drive was a unique and special experience. Whether it’s the big waves crashing against the infinitely-long shores of the sandy coasts of Morocco, the goats climbing the argan trees and feasting on its vegetation or the desert dunes collapsing on top of each other in the distance, not a single sight feels less peculiar and unique than the other.
Amongst all of these beauties of the Moroccan landscape lies an interesting story about a village that caught the attention of many traversing through the country, including a well-known celebrity. Situated 7km north of Agadir you may find a small, but special place called Aourir, known by its more famous nickname – „Banana village“, named by Jimmy Hendrix himself.
This poses a question, what about this rather small village caught the attention of Mr. Hendrix and many people before him? Located on the southern coast of Morocco between a very tourist-friendly Agadir and the surfer’s haven in Taghazout, Aourir is a lively little village known for its large quantities of pristine and sweet bananas. Fresh bananas hang for sale on the side of the road and paint the town in bright yellow, while the locals wait for passing-by tourists and locals to buy themselves a newly harvested batch.
Aourir is a lively little village known for its large quantities of pristine and sweet bananas
The spring water flowing up through the rocks has been redirected to irrigate the banana trees which have been a main source of barter through the generations. Argan trees can be found growing behind the village as well.
Aourir is situated on the Atlantic Coastline with a stunning mountain backdrop. The long sandy uncrowded beaches and magnificent waves with a constant swell during the winter months (Nov-March) make this an ideal surf spot for surfers and tourists who want to soak up the Moroccan adventure.
Aourir has two main streets where you can purchase most things that you will need whilst on holiday, there are many small shops, several banks with ATM’s and plenty of restaurants for lunch and evening meals.
The highlight of the week in Aourir is on a Wednesday when the weekly Souk arrives. The marketplace becomes alive with the vibrant smells and sounds of the market, an experience you just can’t miss. The souk was recently moved from its traditional place by the main road to Assersif, 4km on the road towards Paradise Valley, but a short local taxi ride will get you there in a few minutes for a few dirhams.
The highlight of the week in Aourir is on a Wednesday when the weekly Souk arrives.
If you find yourself to be passing through the Moroccan seaside be sure to visit Aourir, a small, but significant village that holds an important place in the country’s history and offers a true Moroccan experience.
