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Kasbah of the Udayas, Maroc ⵍⵎⵖⵔⵉⴱ المغرب - Things to Do in Kasbah of the Udayas

Things to Do in Kasbah of the Udayas

Kasbah of the Udayas, Maroc ⵍⵎⵖⵔⵉⴱ المغرب - Complete Travel Guide

The Kasbah of the Udayas stands as one of Morocco's most magnificent historical treasures, perched dramatically on cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the Bou Regreg River in Rabat, the nation's capital. This UNESCO World Heritage site dates back to the 12th century when it served as a fortified citadel for the Almohad dynasty, representing a masterpiece of Moorish architecture and urban planning that has remained remarkably well-preserved through the centuries. Today, the Kasbah enchants visitors with its distinctive blue and white painted houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and stunning Andalusian gardens. The fortress walls enclose a living neighborhood where traditional Moroccan life continues alongside historical monuments, creating an authentic atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. From its elevated position, the Kasbah offers breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean, making it not only a cultural gem but also one of Morocco's most photogenic destinations.

Top Things to Do in Kasbah of the Udayas

Explore the Andalusian Gardens

Wander through the exquisite Andalusian Gardens within the Kasbah, featuring geometric patterns, fragrant orange trees, and traditional Islamic garden design. The peaceful oasis provides a stark contrast to the bustling streets outside and offers perfect spots for photography and contemplation.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around 10 MAD ($1). Visit early morning (8-10 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) for the best lighting and fewer crowds. No advance booking needed, but bring sun protection as shade is limited in some areas.

Visit the Museum of Oudaya

Discover Moroccan arts and crafts at this charming museum housed in a 17th-century palace within the Kasbah. The museum showcases traditional costumes, jewelry, carpets, and musical instruments, providing insight into Morocco's rich cultural heritage.

Booking Tip: Admission is 10 MAD ($1) and it's open Wednesday to Monday, closed Tuesdays. Best visited in the afternoon after exploring the gardens. Allow 1-2 hours for a thorough visit and consider hiring a local guide for 100-150 MAD for deeper historical context.

Walk Along the Fortress Walls

Stroll along the ancient ramparts that encircle the Kasbah, offering spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Salé medina across the river. The walk provides excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the fortress's strategic military position.

Booking Tip: Free activity accessible during daylight hours. Best time is 1 hour before sunset for golden hour photography. Wear comfortable walking shoes as surfaces can be uneven. Consider combining with a guided walking tour of the entire Kasbah for 200-300 MAD.

Browse the Traditional Craft Shops

Explore the narrow streets lined with artisan workshops and boutiques selling authentic Moroccan handicrafts, including pottery, textiles, and jewelry. Many items are created by local craftspeople, making it an ideal place to purchase genuine souvenirs while supporting the community.

Booking Tip: Bargaining is expected and prices typically start 2-3 times higher than final price. Visit multiple shops to compare quality and prices. Thursday and Friday mornings offer the best selection as artisans restock for weekend visitors.

Experience Café Culture with Ocean Views

Relax at one of the cliff-side cafés within the Kasbah, sipping traditional mint tea while enjoying panoramic ocean views. These atmospheric venues offer a perfect break from sightseeing and provide authentic Moroccan hospitality in a stunning setting.

Booking Tip: Mint tea costs 15-25 MAD ($1.50-2.50) per glass. Café Maure is the most famous but can be crowded; try smaller local cafés for a more intimate experience. Best enjoyed during late afternoon when the ocean breeze provides natural cooling.

Getting There

The Kasbah of the Udayas is located in Rabat, Morocco's capital city, easily accessible by various transportation methods. Rabat-Salé Airport is just 10km away with regular flights from European cities and domestic connections, while the city is well-connected by train to major Moroccan cities including Casablanca (1 hour), Fez (2.5 hours), and Marrakech (4 hours). From within Rabat, the Kasbah is walking distance from the city center and medina, or reachable by taxi (20-30 MAD from most hotels) or bus lines 3, 17, or 30.

Getting Around

The Kasbah itself is best explored on foot as its narrow, cobblestone streets and staircases are inaccessible to vehicles. Within Rabat, taxis are plentiful and affordable (starting at 7 MAD), while the city's bus system provides economical transportation at 4 MAD per ride. For longer stays, consider renting a car to explore surrounding areas, though parking near the Kasbah is limited. The tram system connects major districts but doesn't directly serve the Kasbah area, making walking or taxis the most practical options for visitors.

Where to Stay

Rabat City Center
Hassan District
Agdal
Souissi
Océan
Medina Area

Food & Dining

The Kasbah and surrounding Rabat offer excellent dining experiences ranging from traditional Moroccan cuisine to international fare. Within the Kasbah, small restaurants serve authentic tagines, couscous, and fresh seafood with ocean views, typically costing 80-150 MAD per meal. The nearby medina features numerous local eateries and street food vendors offering pastilla, harira soup, and grilled meats at budget-friendly prices. For upscale dining, Rabat's Hassan and Agdal districts host sophisticated restaurants serving modern Moroccan and French cuisine, while the coastal areas specialize in fresh Atlantic seafood prepared in traditional styles.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Rabat

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Restaurant Dar Larsa

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Dar Rbatia

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Restaurant Marea

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Kasr al Assil

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When to Visit

The ideal time to visit the Kasbah of the Udayas is during spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures range from 20-25°C and rainfall is minimal. Summer months can be hot and humid due to the coastal location, though ocean breezes provide relief, while winter brings cooler temperatures and occasional rain but fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices. For the best experience, plan visits during weekday mornings when the site is less crowded and lighting is optimal for photography, avoiding Friday afternoons when locals gather for prayers and family time.

Insider Tips

Visit during the blue hour just after sunset when the white and blue buildings are beautifully illuminated against the darkening sky
Bring layers as the ocean breeze can make it feel cooler than the actual temperature, especially in the evening
Learn a few basic Arabic or French phrases as English is less commonly spoken here compared to other major Moroccan tourist sites

Explore Activities in Kasbah of the Udayas