7 Days Birding Adventure from Agadir

We begin our 7 Days Birding Adventure from Agadir along Morocco’s wild Atlantic coast. The rocky cliffs and estuary at Tamri provide our first major target: the critically endangered Northern Bald Ibis. These birds are often seen feeding close to the estuary or soaring overhead.

Other species include Moussier’s Redstart, Barbary Falcon, and Thekla Lark.We also explore coastal scrub and sandbanks that host Audouin’s Gull, Spoonbill, and migrating waders. The scenery and birdlife combine for an exciting first field day before returning to Agadir for the evening.

We head south toward the lush Oued Massa river valley, one of Morocco’s top wetland sites. The reeds, farmland, and tamarisk groves hold Black-crowned Tchagra, Marbled Duck, Plain Martin, and Little Bittern.

We move slowly through the fields and irrigation channels, scanning for warblers, shrikes, and herons.In the afternoon, we visit Oued Souss, just outside Agadir, where tidal mudflats attract Greater Flamingo, Grey Plover, and Caspian Tern. These wetlands are particularly vibrant during migration periods, making it a rewarding end to the day.

Today we enjoy a full day in Sous Massa National Park, home to both desert-edge species and coastal birds. Open plains may yield Cream-coloured Courser, Desert Wheatear, Spectacled Warbler, and Stone-curlew, while scattered wetlands attract Purple Heron, Glossy Ibis, and Common Kingfisher.

The park’s arid zones and dry riverbeds also host Southern Grey Shrike, Hoopoe, and possibly Thick-billed Lark. With time to thoroughly explore the reserve’s mosaic of habitats, this is one of the most productive days for bird variety.

Leaving the coast behind, we travel inland through the Atlas foothills toward Oukaïmeden, Morocco’s premier high-altitude birding site. As the elevation rises, so does the bird list: we may encounter Levaillant’s Woodpecker, African Blue Tit, and Barbary Partridge in oak and juniper forests en route.

Once in Oukaïmeden, nestled in an alpine valley, we are surrounded by rugged peaks, snow patches, and rocky scree. It’s a beautiful and cool contrast to the dry lowlands, perfect for spotting the region’s alpine endemics the next day.

We spend the day exploring the alpine trails, boulder slopes, and snowmelt streams around Oukaïmeden. Target species include the striking Crimson-winged Finch, Horned Lark, Seebohm’s Wheatear, and Alpine Accentor. Rock Sparrow and Red-billed Chough are also common.

Patience and careful scanning are rewarded in this stunning environment. Between panoramic views and unique mountain species, Oukaïmeden offers a birding experience like nowhere else in Morocco

Today we cross the High Atlas and descend into the dry valleys and gorges leading to Boumalne Dades. Along the way, we make birding stops for Black Wheatear, Tristram’s Warbler, and Thekla Lark.

The terrain becomes increasingly arid, signaling the approach to the semi-desert region.By late afternoon, we arrive near the Tagdilt Track, a famed birding area known for its stony plains. We settle in for the night and may take a short pre-sunset outing for Red-rumped Wheatear or a passing Short-toed Eagle.

We dedicate the morning to birding the Tagdilt Track, one of Morocco’s premier locations for desert steppe species. The area supports Temminck’s Lark, Bar-tailed Lark, Desert Lark, and Thick-billed Lark.

Sandgrouse (especially Crowned and Spotted) may be seen flying overhead or at water sources.After a productive morning, we begin the return journey, either west toward Agadir or north to Marrakech, depending on your departure plans. It’s a satisfying end to a compact, immersive birding week filled with Morocco’s diverse avian wonders.