Tamri and the Northern Bald Ibis: Nature on the Timlalin Coast
The village beside the dunes is home to one of the world's rarest birds. What makes this coast special, and how to visit responsibly.
Published · 2 min read
Tamri is a small village on the N1, just north of the Timlalin Dunes. Most travellers drive straight through, but this stretch of coast is remarkable for nature lovers: together with the nearby Souss-Massa National Park, it is one of the last places on Earth where the northern bald ibis still lives in the wild.
Meet the northern bald ibis
The northern bald ibis is a striking bird with glossy black plumage, a bare red face and a long curved bill. Once widespread across North Africa, the Middle East and parts of Europe, it has disappeared from almost all of its former range. Today the great majority of the remaining wild birds live on Morocco's Atlantic coast between Agadir and Tamri.
The species is classified as endangered, and conservation work in the region has helped the population recover in recent decades. The birds nest on sea cliffs and feed on insects and small animals in the open, steppe-like ground near the coast.
A landscape of dunes, cliffs and canyons
The coast around Tamri brings together very different landscapes in a small area: the golden Timlalin Dunes, rocky sea cliffs, sandstone formations and dry valleys. A guided canyon tour is a good way to discover the stone side of this coast, with its layered walls shaped by water and wind.
How to visit responsibly
- Keep a respectful distance from any birds you see and never approach nesting cliffs
- Stay on the routes recommended by your guide
- Take all of your rubbish home with you
- Avoid loud music and drones near cliffs and wildlife
- Support local businesses in Tamri and the surrounding villages
Combine nature and adventure
Nature and activity go well together here. A camel ride is quiet and unhurried, and the canyon walk suits photographers. Our dune photography guide has tips for capturing the landscape, and our packing list covers what to bring.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I see the northern bald ibis in Morocco?
Most of the world's wild northern bald ibises live on the Atlantic coast between Agadir and Tamri, including Souss-Massa National Park. Sightings are never guaranteed, and birds should always be observed from a distance.
How far is Tamri from the Timlalin Dunes?
Tamri is just north of the Timlalin Dunes on the N1 coastal road, a few minutes' drive away.
