Why Amridil stands out
Many kasbahs in the region are slowly returning to earth. Amridil is different: it is well preserved and still run by the grandchildren of the man who built it, Mhamed Naciri El Haskouri. That family continuity gives the visit a lived-in feel that museums rarely have.
The building has another claim to fame. It appeared on the old 50 dirham banknote, which is why many Moroccans recognise its towers at first glance.
A school before a fortress
Amridil was built in the seventeenth century as a zaouia, a religious school where the Quran was taught. Its builder was the son of Ahmed Bennacer, founder of the Zaouia Naciria in Tamegroute, so the kasbah links Skoura to one of the best known religious centres of the Draa Valley.
Guided visits walk you through the arcaded courtyard and the rooms where traditional tools of daily life are displayed, down to the old bread oven.
Getting to Amridil (Kasbah Amridil, Skoura)
The kasbah is 38 km east of Ouarzazate on national road N10. Watch for the Amridil sign, turn left and drive about 1 km to a dry riverbed; the kasbah stands on the far side, on the Oued El Hejjaj.
- By grand taxi: about 15 DH per seat from Ouarzazate.
- By bus: services toward Tinghir stop in Skoura for about 10 DH.
- By car: around 40 minutes from Ouarzazate, depending on stops.
When to go and how long to stay
The kasbah is listed as open every day from 9 am to 7 pm, and 45 minutes to an hour is enough for the visit. Morning light is softer on the towers and the palms behind them. Hours and fees can change, so call ahead or check on arrival.
If you are heading east toward the desert, Amridil makes a natural first stop. If you have a full day, stay on in Skoura and walk into the palm grove.
Visiting with Ouarzazate Tours
Amridil is the first stop of our 1000 Kasbahs Road and Todra Gorges day trip, and of both Erg Chebbi desert tours (2 days and 3 days), which leave Ouarzazate through Skoura on the first morning.
Questions and answers
How far is Kasbah Amridil from Ouarzazate?
38 km east on the N10, in the Skoura palm grove. A grand taxi seat costs about 15 DH and buses toward Tinghir about 10 DH.
What are the opening hours?
The kasbah is listed as open daily from 9 am to 7 pm. Hours can change, so check by phone on +212 6 61 70 38 86 or on arrival.
Which Ouarzazate Tours trips stop at Amridil?
The 1000 Kasbahs Road and Todra Gorges day trip, and the 2 day and 3 day Erg Chebbi desert tours.
Read before you go
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Taourirt Kasbah
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