The city of roses | Morocco

      Kalaat M’Gouna is renowned for its fragrant Damask roses, which bloom each spring and form the heart of the town’s identity and economy. Grown in the fertile M’Goun Valley, these roses are hand-harvested in April and May, then processed into rose water, essential oils, soaps, and perfumes through traditional distillation methods. It takes thousands of petals to produce just one liter of essential oil, making it a precious commodity. The rose industry supports many local families, particularly women, who run cooperatives producing and selling rose-based cosmetics. Each year, the town celebrates this heritage with the colorful Festival of Roses, honoring the flower’s cultural and economic importance.

Where Is the City of Roses?

Kalaat M’Gouna is part of the Tinghir Province in the Drâa-Tafilalet region. It lies along the famed “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs”*, a scenic route that attracts adventurers and culture seekers alike. The town is approximately halfway between the cities of Ouarzazate and Errachidia, making it a popular stop for travelers exploring Morocco’s southern deserts and valleys.

Why Is It Called the City of Roses?

Each year, the area around Kalaat M’Gouna produces thousands of tons of Damask roses, a fragrant variety introduced by French settlers in the 1930s. These roses are harvested by hand and used to make rose water, perfumes, essential oils, and various cosmetic products. The abundance and cultural importance of the rose have earned the town its poetic nickname.

What Makes the Area Worth Visiting?

1. The Rose Festival: Every May, Kalaat M’Gouna hosts the Festival of Roses, a vibrant, multi-day celebration that draws thousands of visitors. The town is decorated with rose petals, and festivities include music, dancing, a parade, and the crowning of a “Miss Rose.” It’s a joyful way to experience Moroccan hospitality and Berber traditions.
2. Scenic Landscapes: Surrounded by mountains, green valleys, and earthen kasbahs, the region is a dream for photographers and nature lovers. The Dades and M’Goun valleys offer excellent hiking opportunities, particularly during spring when the roses are in full bloom.
3. Authentic Culture: Kalaat M’Gouna is home to Amazigh (Berber) communities who maintain their traditional lifestyles. Visitors can explore local markets, meet artisans making rose-based products, and even stay in family-run guesthouses to experience rural Moroccan life firsthand.
4. *Proximity to Other Attractions: The town serves as a great base for exploring nearby wonders such as the Todra Gorges, Skoura palm grove, and Ouarzazate’s film studios and ancient kasbahs.

       Whether you’re drawn by the scent of roses, the allure of the High Atlas Mountains, or the warmth of Berber culture, Kalaat M’Gouna offers an unforgettable experience. The City of Roses is more than just a name — it’s a celebration of nature, tradition, and beauty in one of Morocco’s most enchanting regions.