A camel trek through the Sahara Desert in Morocco captures your imagination? Don't overlook the fact that this country of a hundred landscapes also offers some surprising oases, abundant in vegetation and color, which stand in striking contrast to the aridity of the surrounding plains.

Come refresh yourself, as animals and shepherds do, in these miraculous oases.

The Ziz Oasis

Perhaps one of the most renowned around the world: the Ziz oasis is a true paradise in the heart of the Sahara, the world's largest desert. Fortunately, it's no mirage, but a magnificent water source formed by a nearly dried-up river.

Make your way to the villages of Tafilalet or Aoufous, hidden amid vast palm forests that seem impossible to find in the middle of the desert. The water allows locals to practice agriculture despite the Sahara's arid conditions: abundant fruit and grains are cultivated here.

Historically, this is a place of great significance for Morocco. A spice trading hub, it's also where the Alaouite dynasty was born.

The Ksar Ait Ben Haddou Oasis

Upon arriving near Skoura, you'll experience a sense of déjà-vu. For good reason: the Ksar Ait Ben Haddou complex has served as a filming location for numerous productions, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones. This is where Queen Daenerys freed the slaves of Yunkai, her first conquest.

 This pre-Saharan earthen fortress is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was an important trading hub in the 17th century.

The Skoura region, fed by two seasonal rivers, is known for its palm trees, olive groves, and fig trees. You can also taste local goat cheese and admire the craftsmanship of its residents, who have even appeared in major films.

Spend a day discovering this oasis and this historic center, which houses numerous buildings, and even a dinosaur cemetery.

The Tinghir Oasis

This verdant valley, situated at the crossroads between two mountain ranges, stretches over 30 km in an arid environment with little vegetation. Its cultivated fields and palette of green hues create a striking contrast with the dry red rock surrounding it. 

Home to 44,000 residents, the region is equipped with irrigation channels for farming. You'll also admire beautiful structures built from clay and earth, which only add to this natural charm.

Don't miss the Todra Canyon, with its vertical walls rising up to 160 meters. It's also a world-renowned climbing destination.

The Fint Oasis

Its name, Fint, means "hidden" in Berber, and it certainly lives up to the name. Nestled high in the Atlas Mountains, about 20 kilometers from Ouarzazate, this small oasis is inhabited by an Amazigh farming community. Their homes blend perfectly into the rocky landscape, interrupted by a small water source and towering palms. It's a true haven of peace, modest and serene, where women still do their laundry in the stream. The population has a fascinating culture and music, a blend of Berber, African, and Arab worlds.

The Zagora Oasis

Not far from the Fint oasis, Zagora is known for its thousands of fruit trees. The southwestern frontier of Morocco, it was once the stronghold of the Almoravids. You can discover their history in the Museum of Arts and Traditions.

Also take the opportunity to explore the beautiful Draa Valley, along the river. Zagora is indeed the last city before the Saharan desert, and an excellent base camp for your wilderness adventures.