25-Sep-2003 -- On the 25th of September, the 5th day in Morocco, I planned a confluence hunt. The trip should begin in the early morning in Tinerhir driving through the Gorges du Todra, passing Tamtattoucht, Ait Hani and Assoul, and then getting to Amellago with its characteristic water tower. But in Tinerhir a friendly local offered a tour around Tinerhir, which ended with carpet selling activities. It took a while to make them understand that a carpet is neither in the budget nor on the shopping list. But the tour was absolutely interesting.
Leaving Tinerhir at around noon, it became clear that no long breaks could be spent anymore, if Amellago should ever be reached before sunset. The way to Amellago is very interesting. The landscape changes from canyon-like areas to green valleys and bold brown, red, or almost yellow plains. At 5:30 pm Amellago was reached - just before sunset. It was even possible to drive with the car off the road right to the spot, which is only 200 m northeast of the village. It didn't take a long time to get the camera ready, but it was long enough to be surrounded by a bunch of children - screaming for pens, candies and money. Extreme caution was necessary to not leave the car open and unattended. The more children were coming, the louder the place got and it started to be uncomfortable. But since it was just before sunset, the taking of the picture looking west was impossible for the digital camera. The only solution was to wait until the sun disappeared behind the hill.
After this visit I had the idea to head on a dirt road south to Goulmima. But it quickly became dark and some locals told me that the road was destroyed after heavy rainfalls 2 days ago. The only way leading out of Amellago was the road to Rich, which had been paved recently. This was very good, since it would reduce the time needed to get to Rich or al-Rachidia to stay overnight. Driving at night in Morocco is a dangerous and tiring experience, since some of the cars do not have lights on and pedestrians and donkeys are walking in the middle of the street.
Continued at 32N 4W.