Earth villages
On the slopes.
Thomas Woodtli from Zürich, Switzerland — CC BY-SA 2.0 · Thomas Woodtli from Zürich, Switzerland — CC BY-SA 2.0 · Thomas Woodtli from Zürich, Switzerland — CC BY-SA 2.0 · Thomas Woodtli from Zürich, Switzerland — CC BY-SA 2.0 · Thomas Woodtli from Zürich, Switzerland — CC BY-SA 2.0
Aït Bouguemez is a mountain valley in Morocco's central High Atlas, in the commune of Tabant in Azilal Province, about 36 km in a straight line south of the town of Azilal. It is nicknamed the «Happy Valley» for its green fields and quiet villages among high mountains. Small fields and orchards watered by traditional irrigation channels line the valley floor, and Amazigh villages of earth and stone, the same colour as the land around them, sit on its slopes as if they were part of the mountain. Its colours change with the seasons, from the green of spring to the gold of autumn, while snow covers the surrounding peaks in winter. The valley is also known for dinosaur footprints preserved in the rock, including sites near the village of Ibaqalliwn along the Bou Guemez river. Researchers have dated them to the Early Jurassic, and most were left by huge plant-eating dinosaurs. It is also a well-known starting point for hikes in the High Atlas. A mountain road reaches the valley from Azilal, and small guesthouses in the villages offer places to stay. Spring and early autumn are the best times for walking, and winter is cold. Respect residents' privacy and ask before photographing people.
On the slopes.
Preserved in rock.
In the High Atlas.
Tabant commune, Azilal Province, Morocco
Yes, in small village guesthouses.
Spring and early autumn.