PARK ENTRANCE IN SIDI BENZARNE
Taking the National Road from Agadir towards Tiznit, following the signs for the Park, you will arrive in Massa, continuing to the gates of Sidi Benzarne, the main entrance to the Park, where the companions are waiting for you.
The Souss-Massa National Park is located along the coast in the southwestern part of Morocco and covers an area of approximately 338 sq km.
The estuaries of Oued Souss and Oued Massa are located at opposite ends of the park. Together they serve as the source for the name of the national park. Along with these two vital water sources, the park includes grassland steppes, sand dunes, sandy beaches, and wetlands. The southern side of the park appears to be the preferred habitat of the endemic northern bald ibis.
These same grasslands, wetlands, estuaries, and grassy dunes create a renowned habitat for a significant variety of nesting and migratory birds in the park. In addition to the wide range of bird species, the park is also home to a variety of other wildlife.
The most popular include the African wildcat, red fox, hedgehog, leopard lizard, and weasel.
The national park was established to protect the habitat of the hermit ibis and other wild species that inhabit the wetlands and grasslands of the steppe.
The northern bald ibis is also known as the hermit ibis. The species differs from other ibis species in that it is not a wading species. Where most ibises are found wading in the water and looking for water fish, frogs and insects, this ibis scours the rugged landscape for lizards, bugs and other potential prey.
The national park is actively seeking to reintroduce and develop species from the area that are either endangered or previously extinct in the area. The North African ostrich was previously extinct and is currently the heart of reintroduction efforts.
Addax, dame gazelle, Dorcas gazelle, and scimitar oryx are four threatened ungulate species that are receiving special attention from the park. Having the chance to see these creatures is a rare experience.
For trekking lovers there are several TRAILS that I indicate below:
JEBEL LEKST TRAIL – This is a moderate level loop trail covering a distance of 12.80km offering an elevation gain of 1,089m. The main purpose of the excursion is the rugged landscapes and panoramic views.
JEBEL EL KEST TRAIL – This trail is classified as moderate with an elevation gain of 1,061m over a distance of 7.16km. The trail offers views along the way with panoramic views of the surrounding area. Rocky landscapes are one of the highlights of the route.
PAINTED ROCKS TRAIL – This is a moderately rated loop trail ascending 281.9m for a distance of 14.04km. The rock formations and the multicolored boulder field are the highlights of this effort. The rugged landscape is quite stunning.
JEBEL AKLIM TRAIL – This is a round trip trail that climbs 833m as it traverses over 10.06km of rugged terrain. Capturing the views of the rocky landscapes and the panoramic view is the splendor of this adventure.
EXTRA ACTIVITIES
Birdwatching – Path between the wetlands, the river, the mouth of the Massa river, the cliffs and the breeding and nesting areas of migrant and sedentary species.
Berber villages tours – the 7 Berber villages, within the Park, each with its own characteristics, agriculture, livestock, fishing and above all, the common denominator among all, the traditions of the past still present: the market (souk); the ritual of tea (atey); bread (citrus) baked in four different types of oven (ntakad, afarran, tafarnut, makala); the grinding of the argan; parties and weddings with traditional Berber and Gnawa music and hand painting with hénne for women.
Marocco Che Passione 