The Sirwa mountains are a range known for their dramatic changes in climate. The vast rocky valleys making up the valleys appear somewhat inhabitable and general infrastructure is limited. Once a volcanic plateau, the soil underneath all the rocks and shrubbery is incredibly fertile and when farmed with the right techniques and knowledge, is amazingly plentiful. Quality of farming in this part of the world lends itself not to the sophistication of farm machinery or chemicals, but to the skill and determination of the farmers themselves. The regions high altitude, distinct weather patterns and high mineral content creates the perfect setting for saffron farming. Worth is weight in gold, saffron is one of the most expensive ingredients in the world and Morocco is the worlds fourth largest producer. While saffron is also farmed in the High Atlas & the Middle Atlas regions of Morocco, over 90% of this cultivation occurs in the Taliouine region, which is known to be the home of Morocco's red gold.