Guelmim

Guelmim is a city in southern Morocco and the capital of the Guelmim-Oued Noun region, long known as the Gateway to the Desert. Built around an oasis on the Wadi Noun, it marks the transition between the Souss lowlands and the northern Sahara and remains an important crossroads for trade, transport and Saharan culture. The city grew from an old caravan stop on routes linking Morocco with the Sahara and West Africa, and its market traditions still shape local life. The best-known landmark is the Saturday camel market, or Amhayrich, one of Morocco's largest camel trading events, where herders, traders and visitors gather weekly. Beyond the centre, the palm groves of Tighmert oasis lie a short drive away, offering shaded walks, guesthouses and a glimpse of traditional oasis farming. The Atlantic coast is within reach at Plage Blanche, a long white-sand beach, while the coastal town of Sidi Ifni and the region's argan and date-producing countryside add variety. Guelmim is also the region's administrative and service centre, hosting government offices, markets, transport links and a growing role in desert and coastal tourism. Local cuisine features camel dishes, tagines, couscous and dates, with mint tea served throughout the city, while annual camel festivals and nearby moussems draw both leisure and business visitors.