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Nestled in the Dades valley of Morocco lies Kalaat M’Gouna, a town renowned for its floral rose paradise and for cultivating the famous Rosa Damascena (Damask Rose). In May, the valley comes alive with traditional dancing, music, and feasting as the town recognizes the end of the harvest season and commences the celebration of the Kelaat M’Gouna festival.
The Historical Roots of Morocco’s Rose Valley
The historical origin of the rose valley is traditionally believed to be traced to the 10th century when returning pilgrims from Mecca brought cuttings of the rose to the region and had them planted in the Dades Valley. Over the years, the climate of the region has provided the right conditions for these flowers to not only thrive but also transform the town into an oasis of beauty.
Exploring Kelaat M’Gouna: Morocco’s Rose Capital
Also known as El-Kelaa, this town is located within the Drâa-Tafilalet region in the province of Tinghir in Morocco. Situated between Morocco’s Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert, the city is the largest producer of the country’s rose water and oil. Visitors to the city can purchase several beauty products, perfumes, rose-scented products, and rose water, as well as enjoy the rich traditional cuisine the city has to offer.
Immersing Yourself in the Valley of Roses
Beginning from the city and moving northwards towards the M’Gouna valley, tourists are introduced to the beautiful display of the valley of roses and the distinctive fragrance from the long rows of rose petals.
The Annual Rose Harvest in Kelaat M’Gouna
Rose farming in the city occurs around the year, but the most anticipated time for harvesting begins from late April to mid-May when the roses are in full bloom. Harvesting often commences in the early hours of the morning and is frequently done by women who skillfully gather them by hand.
The Economic Significance of Rose Production
Producing up to three or four thousand tons of rose petals annually, the delicate petals are used to produce various skincare products and ingredients for perfumes. The rose water from the M’Gouna also makes up part of the essential elements used in making soaps, lotions, and creams sold within the region.
Shopping for Rose Products at the Rose Moussem
For tourists looking to get the best prices for products, the Kelaat M’Gouna annual Rose Moussem provides a very good avenue to purchase products at reasonable prices while enjoying the rose festival.
Celebrating the Vibrant Kelaat M’Gouna Rose Festival
The event, which usually takes place in the early weeks of May, occurs in Kalaat M’Gouna, with the village of Bou Thrarar also benefiting from the activities around the festivities. The three-day activities typically commence with cultural singing and dancing that can last long into the night.
Experiencing the Cultural Performances
Women dressed in Amazigh attire (the local dress of the people) flood the street singing and dancing while having rose petals flung their way as a way to emphasize the joyous nature of the event.
The Crowning of the Rose Queen
As part of the activities around the event, a young woman is selected as the Rose Queen to lead the parade as a symbol of beauty, grace, and pride in the cultural history of the people. Tourists are also treated to the very best of cuisines, traditional music, and an extravagant display of rose collections.
Planning Your Journey to Kelaat M’Gouna
From Marrakech, which is an estimated 300-320 km journey to Kelaat M’Gouna, tourists can rent a car for easier travel and take the N9 road which leads from Marrakech to Ouarzazate. The journey to Ouarzazate is approximately 200 km.
Traveling from Marrakech to Kelaat M’Gouna by Car
Leaving Ouarzazate, the vehicle is required to travel on the N10 road towards Kalaat M’Gouna and Boumalne Dadès. The journey from Ouarzazate to Kelaat M’Gouna is roughly 120-130 kilometers, making the total drive from Marrakech approximately 5 hours, depending on stops.
The Benefit of Hiring a Local Guide
Most importantly, it is advisable that any booking with your preferred agency should also make provisions for a guide to guarantee a stress-free visit to the Valley of Roses. (https://www.pinyourfootsteps.com/rose-valley-a-visit-to-moroccos-floral-paradise/)
Okechukwu Nzeribe works with the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, in Anambra State, Nigeria, and loves unveiling the richness of African cultures. okechukwu.onicima@gmail.com
