Todra Gorges

Another amazing experience. After the long drive out of the desert, we headed to the mountains and the birthplace of our young tour guide, Aziz. This was a very special experience as we were honoured guests at Aziz's family home, a small village in the low Atlas mountains called Todra Gorges. We got settled into our hotel, a lovely, quiet place nestled at the foot of the rocky mountains, towering majestically above. Again, the friendly hospitality of the Moroccans proved to make our stay more than enjoyable. We were served more of the delicious cuisine, all made with the local produce and spices. After dinner, as is customary, the drums come out and we join our hosts for music and dancing and sometimes Sheesha. I love this about the Moroccans...everyone is welcome no matter where you come from. It is also a way to keep warm as it was very cold and they do not have heating in the rooms so it makes sense to gather together and keep warm. It was a pretty early night as we would be hiking to the top of the mountain the next day. When we awoke, it was to pouring rain. I was pretty determined to carry on with the hike, hoping that the rain would let up. Only half of the group decided to go and I was very glad indeed that I persevered as it turned out to be an amazing experience. It took about 2 hours to get up to the top, the path was rocky and fairly steep with little vegetatn.  Atthe top, we visited a nomadic family who live in caves, subsisting in the harsh environment of the mountains.  They graciously made us tea, this time made from lemon sage which grows in abundance on the rocky mountainside. It is difficult to imagine living this way, but is an example of people who live simply and seem happy in this lifestyle. The family consisted of a father, age 72, with two wives and 12 children. They tend goats and chickens and when they need money, they go into the Market and sell a goat or trade some of their handwork for produce or goods.
We made our way down the steep and rocky path and to the home of Aziz' family to be hosted for lunch. They run a small restaurant with the best food I have had in Morocco! It was squash soup, Moroccan pizza accompanied by about 8 little side dishes of salsa, marinated veggies, lentils, flava beans, and olives. Absolutely incredible. Aziz has one sister and 8 brothers, a loving generous mother and father and we were warmly welcomed and treated with great respect. I was invited to return someday and stay at their home.
The next activity.....a traditional Hammam!