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The Best Hikes in Morocco For Trekkers

Toubkal Morocco - The Best Hikes in Morocco For Trekkers

Moroccan Tourism

The Best Hikes in Morocco For Trekkers

The Best Hikes in Morocco For Trekkers

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The best Mountain treks that will take your breath away in Morocco

Everywhere blue, everywhere beautiful, with in places clouds as big as balloons and just below fields of wriggling wheat, rolling dunes and sunsets to redraw sheep.

In the Moroccan Atlas Mountains which cross the country on a south-west / north-east axis, there is no souk, no imperial cities or endless haggling. Rather melee with a dominating nature of insolent beauty. A great desire to live, in a wonderful land of hiking!

1. Toubkal, the highest point in North Africa

 “There exists, at the limits of the known world, a fabulous mountain, narrow, perfectly round and so high, it is said, that its summit, always in the clouds, remains invisible: the people of the country say that it is the column of the Sky » Herodotus of Halicarnassus (5th century BC), the father of history, called this mountain the Atlas.

Atlas, the eponymous mythological titan who, defeated by the gods, was condemned to carry the celestial vault on his shoulders after Perseus, having presented him with the head of Medusa, had changed it into a rock… thus giving rise to the mountain range which crosses the Maghreb.

And it’s true that when climbing Toubkal, the highest point in North Africa with 4,167 m, there is something to be dumbfounded! However, if the ascent of this “4000” is not the most technical, it is nonetheless subject to the risks inherent in the weather conditions characteristic of the high mountains.

Toubkal Best Hikes in Morocco For Trekkers

Imlil (1,740 m), a Berber village located about sixty kilometers south of Marrakech (departure by grand taxi from Bab Agnaou), is the starting point for the hike. This is where you find guides and muleteers. The village also has several hostels and homestays. You can find the additional equipment you need from local guides: shoes, snowshoes (if necessary), jackets, “fleece” type sleeping bag, etc.

Landing in Imlil a day before the ascent to ask your innkeeper about a good guide and renting equipment in good condition is not a luxury and often guarantees the success of the expedition.

The ascent starts from the refuge built by the French Alpine Club of Casablanca in 1938, which is reached after a 6-hour walk from Imlil. A gîte (to be booked in advance) that you reach from Imlil after a good half-day hike. On the spot it is often the effervescence, between mountain cracks and tourists impatient to do battle with Sidi Chamharouch, the king of the jinns who watches over the Toubkal.

You don’t sleep much there, you might as well know it, the main thing being to be there to start the ascent from potron-twink the next day. From there, allow about 12 hours to complete the ascent and return to Imlil before dark… if the weather conditions are good, of course.

Short of breath, wind stinging the face, the column of walkers sets off “at the front” in the dark, with just above a veritable carpet of stars. After 4 hours of effort, the summit is reached.

The high mountains are never quite a walk in the park. An experienced and qualified guide, therefore attention is necessary. Always take the trouble to ask about your guide. Otherwise go through an agency and remember that in Morocco no one will pick you up by helicopter if you are in difficulty.

2. The crossing of the central High Atlas

The western High Atlas which dominates the plain of Haouz where the city of Marrakesh is nestled, succeeds to the east the central High Atlas.

If the first is richer in “4000” and also more tortuous, with its deep valleys and steep walls of intense black, the second is mainly limestone, offering longer valleys, desolate high plateaus cut by deep gorges and many passes offering clear horizons.

Many trekking agencies organize the crossing from north to south (or vice versa), at the height of Mount Mgoun (4,068 m) in 5 or 6 days (depending on whether you climb Mgoun or not). Most of them depart from the famous Aït Bougmez valley, which tourist agencies have dubbed “the happy valley” on their glossy brochures. The latter provide you with a guide-cook and a muleteer, as luggage is carried by mules.

High Atlas Mountains in Morocco for Hiking

During this type of crossing, accommodation is basic. The meals (often quite frugal) are concocted with the food taken from the start. The main thing here is to eat the landscape …

During the crossing, no particular difficulty for those who have taken care to “pack” their hiking boots beforehand. However, steep drops are to be expected, so better be in good shape. But rest assured, the panorama and the encounter with the Aït Atta transhumant on their way to the high altitude ilmouten (pastures) in summer largely compensate for the small inconveniences inherent in this kind of expedition.

The arrival is at the village of Boutaghar, planted in the heart of the famous Valley of Roses. The last day takes you through the gorges that the Mgoun wadi has carved into the rock over the centuries. The crossing usually ends with a good meal (mechoui or couscous) in one of the local inns, folklore to boot…

3. Crossing the Jebel Saghro, once upon a time in the wadi…

Jebel Saghro (2,712 m) is the Far West with Berber sauce. A tangle of ghostly rocks severely cut by raging torrents that swell in the blink of an eye on stormy days. The landscape, located in the Anti-Atlas, 150 km east of Ouarzazate, is breathtaking.

It is also one of the last regions of Morocco spared by mass tourism. We meet the Aït Atta nomads there in their biannual migration between the summer pastures of the central High Atlas and their winter quarters in the Draa Valley.

Jebel Saghro Morocco

At first glance, the Saghro seems impenetrable. The paths come and go depending on the weather and, at the bottom of the dry wadis, blocks of volcanic stone, sometimes pink, sometimes green, black and even sometimes white, testify to the mineral richness of the subsoil.

In the Saghro, the geology is bewilderingly complex. We stumble there on soils of the primary era stuffed with fossils a thousand times perforated by the intense volcanic activities which have followed one another over the millennia. On the surface of the rocky soils which gleam in the sun like meteors rise gigantic sugar loaves which throw up immense scree at their feet!

As for the crossing of the Central High Atlas, most trekking agencies provide a guide-cook and a muleteer at the disposal of walkers. Luggage is carried on the back of mules.

Unlike the Central High Atlas, the elevations are generally less important, but the panoramas are not less spectacular, quite the contrary. Sometimes it even feels like walking on the moon…

4. Jebel Siroua, the other side of the desert

The western Anti-Atlas, in the southwest of Morocco, is already a Saharan mountain. Bare and dry, harsh and slashed by deep gorges in which lush green oases have nestled, it offers hikers multiple possibilities for excursions.

The vegetation has been able to adopt a strong power of resilience here, it is mainly succulents: prickly pears, euphorbia, forming an unattractive carpet to the touch of which the frail silhouette of the almond trees stands out.

The Berber women of Jebel Siroua are renowned throughout Morocco for their creativity in weaving. Every Wednesday, it’s the hustle and bustle in the Taznakht souk when the Bedfords arrive with “gatherers” filled with produce from the surrounding villages.

Jebel Siroua Hiking in Morocco

There is no doubt that the women who live in the region draw their inspiration from the beauty of the landscape, itself made up of a patchwork of colors where the shades of green of the oases mingle with the mauve of the vast arid plateaus pierced from time to time by amazing spurs of black basalt.

At the heart of this landscape of sky and rock, trekking agencies offer breathtaking hikes (literally and figuratively) to the Maous plateau, inviting you to climb Jebel Siroua without difficulty (3 305m).

From the summit, it’s downright ecstasy, with the Toubkal chain on one side and the Saghro chain on the other, extended to the south by that of Jebel Bani which accompanies the Drâa valley, once the point of convergence for caravans. from the Sahara.

5. Souss-Massa, the refuge of the bald ibis

In Morocco, the Atlantic coast stretches its deserted beaches over considerable distances, drawing vast bays where the powerful wadis that descend from the mountains end their course. They form astonishing lagoons rich in flora and fauna that contrasts with the harshness of the desert areas on which they are backed.

The Souss-Massa Park is one of those protected areas where hikers can easily set off (accompanied by a naturalist-guide) to discover the biodiversity characteristic of these latitudes. It is most often a question of going to observe the migratory birds which find here material to make an invigorating stopover in their long peregrination between the north of Europe and the south of Africa.

Souss-Massa Mountains

Within this biodiversity, the bald ibis (Geronticus eremita), an ugly bird like a louse, attracts the attention of ornithologists around the world. This big, stocky wading bird, about 70 cm high, with a completely bare red head (hence its name), curved beak and black plumage, had the good idea to reappear in the eyes of the world community of ornithologists after having disappeared since the 16th century! So remember that today, the feathered is the subject of all attention!

The Souss-Massa park also conceals a sort of animal park where a few survivors of the Saharan fauna – gazelles, addax and ostriches – roam peacefully without the risk of ending up in the frichti of a squadron of soldiers.

Some naturalist guides offer to explore the park and its animals on hikes lasting a few hours or even a day.

6. Erg Chebbi, as long as there are dunes…

We tell you right away, a camel ride in Erg Chebbi, a large pile of sand 27 km by 6 km located south of Erfouz, is more like a weekend at Disneyland than a real experience. Saharan.

However, there remains the magic of the dunes of Merzouga and the contact with the camels (dromedaries more precisely) even if these are more akin – given their size – to common pack animals than to the noble vessels of the desert that are the méhara (méhari in the singular) drawn up by the Tuareg.

Erg Chebbi

On the western flank of Erg Chebbi, between Dar Kaoua and Khemlia, the hostels are practically on top of each other (with an increase in them around the small town of Merzouga). It is from there that at the end of the day the small caravans of tourists leave in the direction of the bivouacs installed in the nearby erg.

Depending on the price, several formulas. Camel trek for 2, tight on the bump, quarter chicken tagine shared for 6, night on a soft mattress on the floor wrapped in a panther skin blanket (or Spiderman, or Tom & Jerry, it depends…) with the luxury formula, with scented dromedary just for yourself, cozy bed in a caidal tent, dry toilets, hot shower, refined cuisine and oriental folklore…

7. Jdaïd or the desert for oneself

About twenty kilometers west of Taouz, a slab of purplish sandstone located around the small village of Jdaïd conceals some rock engravings in the Libyco-Berber style. You will see a profusion of geometric signs as well as some tanks typical of Saharan representations.

Not far from there is a small isolated inn in the heart of the desert: Kasbah Itrane Sahara. This charming address born from the meeting between Mohamed (a native of Jdaïd) and Joël, both lovers of the desert, turns out to be an excellent base for exploring the region on foot or by camel. Because here, nothing to do with the traffic jams of Merzouga, the desert belongs to you!

taouz morocco desert

If the dunes are perhaps a little less spectacular, the impression of the desert on the other hand is really very significant, in a fairly limited perimeter, all the components of the desert itself: the reg, the erg , the mountain and the wadis. Add to that some (real) nomads and their herds of camels and the image of Épinal is almost perfect.

A few thousand years ago, when this northern part of the Sahara was still well watered and green, rhinos, giraffes, elephants, ostriches and big cats frolicked here. A potential game hunted by a semi-nomadic population who had established their villages of huts on the heights, well back from the flooding of the wadis.

From this bygone era there remain today some vestiges, tombs and traces of camp concealing here and there some stone tools, engravings, but above all the indelible mark of the past, of this “before” now gone where man lived exclusively from gathering and hunting. Moving.

The millennial kingdom of Morocco seems to know it all, and is calling you to be wiser enough to let him guide you, to one of the best days and memories that we all seek atleast once in our lifetime.

Fez

Meknes

Guelmim

DarDif.com

A team of ambitious people write about the Moroccan tourism and share the
knowledge about the beauty of Morocco.

DarDif.com

A team of ambitious people write about the Moroccan tourism and share the knowledge about the beauty of Morocco.

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Moroccan Tourism

Morocco’s Remarkable Post-COVID Tourism Triumph (2023 Statistics)

Visit Fez Souk

Moroccan Tourism

Morocco's Remarkable Post-COVID Tourism Triumph (2023 Statistics)

Morocco's Remarkable Post-COVID Tourism Triumph (2023 Statistics)

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Tourism in Morocco: a post-COVID success story

According to the Ministry of Tourism, Handicrafts, and Economy, visitor arrivals totaled 6.5 million persons in the first six months of this year, a 21% increase over the same period last year. “The figures for June confirm the upward trajectory that tourism has been on since January 2023.”

The number of arrivals is expected to reach 6.5 million by the end of June 2023, a 21% increase over the previous year, according to a ministry brief on tourist arrivals.

According to the same source, the volume of arrivals at border checkpoints reached approximately 1.4 million visitors in June, a +25% increase over 2019.

Several markets contributed to this achievement, including Spain (+79% vs. 2019), the United States, Canada, the Israeli market (+96% vs. 2019), the United Kingdom (+23% vs. 2019), and Portugal (+16% vs. 2019)

The ministry explains that numerous partnerships have been signed with Tour Operators and online travel agencies in order to secure 2.8 million customers for the 2023 summer season, which is double the volume secured for the 2019 summer season.

According to the press release, Fatim-Zahra Ammor, Minister of Tourism, Crafts, and the Social and Solidarity Economy, stated that “the indicators of the sector testify to the very good health of our tourism.”

And to add: “Our ambitions are obviously more important within the framework of the roadmap, and we will continue to work with the entire industry and deploy the necessary means to achieve our quantitative and qualitative objectives”

Tourism, a key foreign exchange earner, produced 41 billion dirhams (MMDH) in foreign currency receipts by the end of May 2023, representing a 42% increase over the same time in 2019.

Fez

Meknes

Guelmim

DarDif.com

A team of ambitious people write about the Moroccan tourism and share the
knowledge about the beauty of Morocco.

DarDif.com

A team of ambitious people write about the Moroccan tourism and share the knowledge about the beauty of Morocco.

Join to our mailing list to get Updates and Special Deals only available via Email

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 From Private Desert Odysseys to Hidden Medina Retreats

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Ready to Write Your Morocco
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always imagined –
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what you’re curious
about, what you
absolutely want
(or want to avoid).

We’ll take it from there.
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always imagined –
designed around you. 

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Historic Sites Moroccan Tourism Sea & Beaches

Visit Oujda : Top 11 Places To See (Beach, Nature & Monuments)

Visit Oujda City in Morocco

Moroccan Tourism

Visit Oujda : Top 11 Places To See (Beach, Nature & Monuments)

Visit Oujda : Top 11 Places To See (Beach, Nature & Monuments)

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Located in the Oriental, which corresponds to the region in the north-east of the kingdom, Oujda is the only Moroccan city to be able, during a single day, to offer the visitor a hike in the mountains to the north of the city.

On the Béni-Snassen mountains, to make a circuit in the desert or to bask on the Mediterranean coast, the sea is barely sixty kilometers away.

The town is also 100 kilometers from Nador and 115 kilometers from Mellilia. A brand new highway, also connects since the end of July 2011 Oujda to Fez in barely 2 hours and 40 minutes by car.

Born in 994, according to historians, Oujda, a city of commerce and cultures, displays more than a thousand years of existence and presents a past charged with a particularly rich history.

A visit to the old medina, now the souk, allows you to take stock of it. It was in the 11th century that the city took off as a stopover town on the trade route between West and East Africa, with caravans bringing back gold dust and feathers. Ostriches, ivory and slaves from present-day Sudan.

Visit Oujda Morocco

Today, the city and its surroundings provide a very tangible insight into the charms of living in an oasis.

And who says oasis, says water. Largely thanks to its mountain ranges, Oujda and its neighboring towns are fed by springs, some of hot water.

A liquid so rare elsewhere that has allowed here to raise an important vegetation and create pleasant shaded areas. But the Moroccan city is also a cultural center with, in particular, an international raï festival which takes place every year in July.

Located very close to the border with Algeria, the city of Oujda – or “capital of the Orient” is not the first one that comes to mind when talking about Morocco. However, there are a number of things to do and see in Oujda that make it a city as dynamic as it is atypical.

It is also a unique city from which it is easy to escape to the sea or the desert… in the same day. Here is our top 10 things to do in Oujda :

1. Go for a walk in the Medina and the Souk of Oujda

You only have one day in Oujda? Go to the Medina and the Souk! This is perhaps the first thing to do in any city in the Middle East… The medina – or old town – and the souk are indeed a pleasant way to establish a first contact with the local population.

Oujda Medina Souk
Oujda Medina Souk

However, be careful what you buy there because counterfeiting remains present.

Oujda is no exception to the mix of flavors and scents that can often be found in a souk! By the way, do not hesitate to discover the “Souk El Ma” or “water market”: in the past, we sold … rainwater! This was used for the surrounding gardens. Atypical, right?

You will not fail to appreciate the arcades and ramparts of the medina as well as the charm of the stones marked by the sun. Clearly a must if you spend a day in Oujda.

2. Maison Dar Sebti

This “mini-palace” is little known and yet it is worth the detour! This residence was offered to the city by a merchant from Fez, Abdellatif Senti, at the end of the 1940s.

Today, it is a village hall in which weddings and events take place, but it is also the seat of the Center for Studies and Research on Gharnati music.

An authentic and colorful place that you will not miss to visit in Oujda!

3. Lalla Meryem Park

Just opposite the Maison Dar Sebti, the Lalla Meryem park is one of those essential places to visit in Oujda. After a day of walking under the Oujda sun, you will enjoy a walk in the shade of its palm trees! You will also discover a lively place, imbued with culture with an open-air theatre, the Museum of Traditional Weapons.

In summer, it is also home to many music festivals.
Among the best known in the city of Oujda, you will also find the Lalla Aïcha park, a park of about twenty hectares with everything you need to let off steam: playground, horse riding or tennis club, swimming pool… If you spend a day in Oujda, don’t miss a trip to one of these parks.

3. Bab Sidi Abdelwahad

Bab Sidi Abdelwahad Oujda Morocco
Bab Sidi Abdelwahad

This is the old city gate, located east of Oujda. Very beautiful with its amber color, this door offers many architectural details to admire.

Enhanced by the large esplanade on which it overlooks, it is also a very important crossing point in the city. The other city gates are: Bab El Gharbi, Bab Ouled Amran, Bab Sidi Aïssa and Bab Al Jamai.

5. The Al Kabir Mosque and its three fountains

Oujda Mosque
Oujda Mosque

There are several mosques in Oujda… Also nicknamed “The Great Mosque”, the Al Kabir Mosque is definitely one of the things to see in Oujda because it is the oldest monument in its Medina.

Built in 1298, the Mosque has since been renovated several times in order to retain none of its splendour. Good to know: to the right of the entrance, take the alley that will lead you to Médersa mérinide, a school whose architecture and tranquility will mark your visit to Oujda.

6. Make a hammam in Oujda

Discovering the Moorish baths of Oujda is one of the activities to do in Oujda… even if many of them have unfortunately been destroyed.

Among those which remain, the Hammam El-Bali which means “old hammam” – sometimes also nicknamed hammam of Sidi Yahya (from the name of the patron saint of the city) bears its name well, because it is the oldest in Oujda.

It is therefore of real historical interest even if some prefer the “Ajjarda” or “Jarda” hammam not far away, and its very beautiful architecture with its dome and its fountains.

7. The oasis of Sidi Yahya

A few kilometers from the Medina of Oujda, Sidi Yahya has something to soothe you, with its palm trees and its stream. It is also a crossroads of inter-religious encounters, Muslims, Christians and Jews rub shoulders there. You can see the mausoleum of Sidi Yahya who is the patron saint of the city.

Around Oujda:

Due to its location, Oujda allows you to go in turn to the sea, in the forest or in the middle of the desert, and all that during the day.

8. Sidi Maâfa Forest:

a few kilometers from Oujda, this forest is an ideal place to relax in Oujda and have a beautiful view of the city by climbing a little.


9. Saidia beach:

Saidia Beach
Saidia Beach

About sixty kilometers from Oujda, Saidia is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in northern Morocco. With its magnificent beach, but also its many festivals and events, Saïdia is very popular and shines internationally.

10. The Marchica lagoon:

The lagoon of Nador is a unique natural site! Its unique flora and fauna (even threatened for certain marine species) makes this lagoon a site of particular interest around Oujda.

11. The Zegzel Valley:

there are two prehistoric caves which are among the top things to see in Oujda and around, the “Camel Cave” and the “Pigeon Cave”.

So, ready for your trip to Oujda?

Fez

Meknes

Guelmim

DarDif.com

A team of ambitious people write about the Moroccan tourism and share the
knowledge about the beauty of Morocco.

DarDif.com

A team of ambitious people write about the Moroccan tourism and share the knowledge about the beauty of Morocco.

Join to our mailing list to get Updates and Special Deals only available via Email

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 From Private Desert Odysseys to Hidden Medina Retreats

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Ready to Write Your Morocco
Story?

The Morocco you’ve
always imagined –
designed around you. 

Tell us what you love,
what you’re curious
about, what you
absolutely want
(or want to avoid).

We’ll take it from there.
No templates. No stress.
Just a journey that fits you.

 From Private Desert Odysseys to Hidden Medina Retreats

Ready to Write Your Morocco Story?

The Morocco you’ve
always imagined –
designed around you. 

Tell us what you love,
what you’re curious
about, what you
absolutely want
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Categories
Historic Sites Moroccan Tourism Nature & Mountains

Visit Beni Mellal To Discover The Underrated Beauty Of The Atlas

Visit beni mellal - bin el ouidane sunset

Moroccan Tourism

Visit Beni Mellal To Discover The Underrated Beauty Of The Atlas

Visit Beni Mellal To Discover The Underrated Beauty Of The Atlas

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Beni mellal the heart of the Moroccan history :

Morocco is the land of a thousand contrasts. With its diversity of landscapes, exceptional cuisine, and breathtaking nature, coupled with an extraordinary cultural and human heritage, Morocco is enticing.

In Morocco, nature has given free rein to its imagination. From the Atlas to the Rif Mountains, from the Atlantic coast to the Mediterranean shores, from the wide sandy bays to small isolated rocky coves, from the southern large golden dunes to green oasis, the charm is boundless.

Called in the middle Ages by Hisn Day, then by Dai, Beni mellal is today considered one of the most important cities in central Morocco, it is also a historic city, rich in monuments from the Ismaelite period (17th century) and Almoravid empire.

Visit Beni Mellal
Beni Mellal

Beni Mellal is a city located in the heart of Morocco, between the plain of Tadla and the Middle Atlas on the road axis of the imperial cities of Fez and Marrakech.

It enjoys a continental climate with a population of 500,000, and benefits from a pleasant landscape at the foot of the Mont-Blanc de Tassemit, crossed by a small river of Dai which gave it this name in the past.

Nature lovers will appreciate the views of the surrounding mountains, the magnificent forests of cedars and oaks,

Adventurers or hikers can trek through mountains such as the Middle Atlas. Béni Mellal is the starting point to discover the mountains, the forest and the wild life in its pure state.

It offers mountain and adventure tourism enthusiasts the most beautiful reliefs of the High and Middle Atlas in the Kingdom.

It also has many caves and chasms that delight speleologists and archaeologists.

Without forgetting that it is also a very famous tourist destination, this fortified city is dominated by a very famous castle, the Berber kasbah of the tighremt type, in adobe like that of Borj Ras El Ain, a small fortress, marvelously located at the top of the mountain, it dominates the whole site of Ain Asserdoun.

From there we discover a panoramic view of Beni Mellal in the middle of the orchards of olive trees and orange trees which follow one another until the horizon as well as on the valley of Tadla.

It is a historical monument from which the whole city of Beni Mellal becomes a kind of geographical map.

Places to visit:

Zaouiat Ahansal

azilal zaouiat ahansal
Zaouiat Ahansal

Zaouiat Ahansal reveals an old charming little village. Composed of a remarkable set of fortified Berber houses, this village hides a rich past, both religious and political.

Gorges Oued El Abid

The wadi el Abid, active torrent and main tributary of the Oum er-Rbia, dug in the western part of the Middle Atlas deep gorges of 400 to 600 m, whose wall stands on the left, red and steep, but whose bottom cannot be seen.

The narrow paved road (P 3105), traced in a cornice above the vertical walls, descends abruptly in impressive laces towards the wadi, which it crosses on a metal bridge from where one can see the entrance to the canyon. .

Bin el Ouidane Dam

A dam was built on the Bin-el-Ouidane wadi, forming a 3,755 ha reservoir which brightens up the surrounding mountainous landscape. The impressive work, 133 m high and 285 m long at the crest, allows both the production of electricity and the irrigation of the Tadla plain.

The road affords beautiful views of the dam and the lake waters, which are calm and of an astonishing blue. Continuing it, you will reach the waterfalls of Ouzoud then the gorges drawn by the wadi el Abid.

Ouzoud waterfalls

Ouzoud waterfalls
Ouzoud waterfalls

The Ouzoud waterfalls are considered one of the most beautiful sites in the region. The visitor will be seduced by a walk, in a peaceful setting, along the waterfalls.

Kasba Tadla: Kasbah of Beni Mellal

An important city in central Morocco, halfway between Fez and Marrakech, Beni Mellal has become a pleasant stopover for tourists wishing to reach southern Morocco. To see: its casbah, built in the 17th century under Moulay Ismaïl.

The Imsfrane Cathedral

The Imsfrane Cathedral
The Imsfrane Cathedral

The Cathedral of rocks of Mastfrane culminates at more than 1500 meters. The visitor will discover a landscape shared between the high plateaus of the Altlas and red earth.

To conclude if you are an extreme sport lover, a peacefull environement seeker, or just a normal old fashion tourist, you will definitly be fascinated about what Beni mellal can offer in terms of geological landscape, you are more than welcome to visit and pay yourself an amazing life experience.

Fez

Meknes

Guelmim

DarDif.com

A team of ambitious people write about the Moroccan tourism and share the
knowledge about the beauty of Morocco.

DarDif.com

A team of ambitious people write about the Moroccan tourism and share the knowledge about the beauty of Morocco.

Join to our mailing list to get Updates and Special Deals only available via Email

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 From Private Desert Odysseys to Hidden Medina Retreats

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 From Private Desert Odysseys to Hidden Medina Retreats

Ready to Write Your Morocco
Story?

The Morocco you’ve
always imagined –
designed around you. 

Tell us what you love,
what you’re curious
about, what you
absolutely want
(or want to avoid).

We’ll take it from there.
No templates. No stress.
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 From Private Desert Odysseys to Hidden Medina Retreats

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Moroccan Tourism

easyJet to increase its flights offer in Morocco starting this winter

easyJet low-cost airline to increase its flights in Morocco

The low-cost airline easyJet has signed initial agreements with the ONMT to increase its frequencies to Morocco this winter, including on flight-hotel packages, before committing soon to the opening of new routes.

The CEO of the British budget flight specialist Johan Lundgren, accompanied by that of EasyJet Holidays Gary Wilson, signed on October 5, 2022 in Marrakech with the Moroccan National Tourist Office (ONMT) two partnerships for the winter season 2022- 2023 which begins at the end of the month.

On the program: a reinforcement of frequencies during the winter season, and the growth of low cost in the country in particular as a tour operator.

EasyJet offers three destinations in Morocco, to the airports of Agadir (7 connections), Essaouira (only one, Bordeaux) and Marrakech (15); No more line is displayed in Tangier, which nevertheless remains quoted on its booking site. Since arriving in the Kingdom in 2006, it has transported more than 18 million passengers there.

“We are discussing with the Moroccan authorities how we can consolidate and develop our presence in Morocco, no longer as an airline only, but also as a TO which will be able to fill a large part of its air seats to Morocco with its own customers in packages”, Mr. Lundgren told reporters.

Morocco is “a fantastic and extremely popular destination with our customers”, added the leader of easyJet Holidays; “We are a new company, but we have huge ambitions and we fully intend to be one of the biggest tour operators in Europe and bring large numbers of tourists to Marrakech and Morocco in the coming years” .

Moroccan Minister of Tourism Fatim Zahra Ammor stressed that this meeting “offered the opportunity to share with the leaders of the British airline easyJet Morocco’s ambition to double the number of arrivals by 2030, and how said company can be part of this ambition”.

The ONMT and easyJet should announce “in the coming weeks” a more global and multi-year partnership, focusing in particular on “the significant increase in capacity and the opening of new airlines to several Moroccan destinations.

The general manager of the ONMT Adel El Fakir specified: “the objective of this future partnership will be to consolidate the presence of Easyjet on Agadir and Marrakech, but also to imagine the common strategic partnership which will allow EasyJet to develop to other Moroccan destinations and to connect the Kingdom to the 34 European markets from which it already operates”.

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Desert & Sahara Historic Sites Moroccan Tourism Nature & Mountains

8 Must-Have Experiences in The Desert : Morocco Desert Magic Tours

Morocco Desert Tours

Moroccan Tourism

8 Must-Have Experiences in The Desert : Morocco Desert Magic Tours

8 Must-Have Experiences in The Desert : Morocco Desert Magic Tours

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Get a memorable desert trip and an outstanding experience in the desert of Morocco

Have you chosen to visit Morocco for your next vacation?

With its beautiful desert landscapes, Morocco is one of the essential destinations for a change of scenery.

Its idyllic setting is conducive to all kinds of tourist activities that stand out.

Best activities to do in the Moroccan desert.

  • Camp or bivouac in the Moroccan desert

A trip to Morocco is an opportunity to escape from the daily routine and live an unforgettable experience. Among the best tourist activities suitable for this purpose, there is the bivouac in the heart of the Moroccan desert.

 bivouac in the Moroccan desert
Bivouac in the Moroccan desert

Like the nomadic peoples of the Saharan desert, camp for several days in Berber tents. Nothing like sleeping under the stars, around the fire, to immerse yourself in Moroccan culture.

Spending the night in the desert also allows you to admire a beautiful sunset and sunrise. Thus, the bivouac in the Sahara desert is therefore perfect for discovering Morocco differently and living a unique experience.

  • Sandboarding in the desert of Morocco

Are you a board sports enthusiast? “Sandboarding” or “sandboarding” is the activity you absolutely have to try. If you are familiar with snowboarding, this activity, also known as “Berber snowboarding”, will not leave you indifferent.

Indeed, the two disciplines share the same principles and the same equipment.

Only the playing field changes from the mountain of snow to the great dunes of the Sahara. This tourist activity specific to the Moroccan desert is ideal for thrill seekers.

Also, do not wait any longer and come and enjoy the benefits of sand boarding with a stay in Morocco.

  • Walks on the dunes of the Sahara

A walk in the middle of the Moroccan desert will do you the greatest good. It is the ideal activity to commune with nature while admiring the beautiful desert landscapes. Among the must-see spots are the film studios at Ouarzazate, the imperial cities and the valley of roses.

Desert Sahara Walk
Walks on the dunes of the Sahara

But for a stay in Morocco, the tourist site not to be missed is the dunes of Merzouga or Erg Chebbi. The latter offers a breathtaking spectacle with these plays of light that change with the sun. Come and admire this spectacle during a camel or camel ride.

Note that for a circuit in Morocco, you can also take a quad, mountain bike or 4×4 ride.

  • Hiking or trekking in the Moroccan desert

For a road trip that challenges your body and your mind, opt for hiking in the Moroccan desert. The desert setting of the Sahara is ideal for venturing off the beaten track.

On a spiritual level, this trip to the desert is an opportunity to release your stress and forget your daily worries. This adventure is the perfect opportunity to recharge your batteries and learn more about yourself.

A hike in Morocco also allows you to meet new people like the Berber tribes. The latter live in the heart of the desert and in the Atlas Mountains. So, don’t wait any longer to test your limits with trekking in Morocco.

The desert is an extreme place and only the most seasoned and experienced travelers can explore it on their own. The warm daytime temperatures plummet at night and if you don’t have the right equipment, you’ll get very cold.

Also, if you were to have a mishap with your vehicle, communicating the exact position and rescuing your 4×4 would be very difficult.

Traveling in the desert is no joke and it is highly recommended that you rely on the experience of the locals by taking a tour guide.

In general, the Sahara is best visited during the winter. Between November and February, the climate is more pleasant, while during the rest of the year, temperatures can easily reach 55 degrees Celsius.

If you’re traveling in the warmer months and don’t want to forgo a ride through the dunes, it is recommended to take a night camel ride. This way, you will avoid melting in the middle of the day.

Trekking Morocco's Scorching Desert
Trekking Morocco Desert

Best Desert Excursions in Morocco

  • Quad biking through the palm grove

For a taste of the desert experience, you won’t have to stray far from Marrakech. The Red City Palm Grove is an arid landscape dotted with palm, olive and fruit trees. This natural area borders one of Marrakesh’s wealthiest neighborhoods. Even so, it has retained much of its charm and is cross-crossed by a myriad of unpaved tracks.

  • Stargazing in the desert of Agafay

This excursion will take you to the nearby Agafay Desert, which is about 30 kilometers from the Red City. Get the typical picture of the dunes out of your mind: this natural landscape is characterized by arid terrain covered with stones and pebbles and almost no vegetation.

  • Day and night excursion in the Zagora Desert

Zagora is about 360 km from Marrakech and is very popular with tourists who only have a short time available. In fact, two days and one night are enough to visit it, while other destinations require at least one more night.

  • The Desert of Merzouga

This safari will take you through Boumalne Dades, a village of 2,000 inhabitants. Here live the Imazighen, the descendants of the original inhabitants of North Africa, Tinghir, the Todra Gorges, a corridor of rock reminiscent of the Grand Canyon in the United States.

These mountains are the result of centuries and centuries of erosion; the Todra River has shaped the cliffs to give us this breathtaking scenery, the dunes of Erg Chebbi, in this fairy tale landscape, you can end the day with an unmissable activity: a camel ride at sunset.

camel ride in the Moroccan desert
Camel ride

The road back to Marrakech will take you to Ouarzazate for the opportunity to admire the Kasbahs of Taourirt and Tifoultoute.

There is no doubt that those excursions are very complete excursion, and if you feel like traveling with all the comforts, you can opt for superior quality rooms or tents for your stays available on all the spots in the Moroccan Desert.

Check out all the private Morocco tours from Marrakech, Fez, Casablanca …

 

Fez

Meknes

Guelmim

DarDif.com

A team of ambitious people write about the Moroccan tourism and share the
knowledge about the beauty of Morocco.

DarDif.com

A team of ambitious people write about the Moroccan tourism and share the knowledge about the beauty of Morocco.

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 From Private Desert Odysseys to Hidden Medina Retreats

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Moroccan Tourism Nature & Mountains

The development works of the Aïn Asserdoune tourist site on a good track

the development of Ain Asserdoune in Beni Mellal

Moroccan Tourism

The development works of the Aïn Asserdoune tourist site on a good track

The development works of the Aïn Asserdoune tourist site on a good track

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The development and rehabilitation works of the Aïn Asserdoune tourist site, launched a year ago with funding of around 33 million dirhams, are progressing well.

The Wali of the Béni Mellal-Khénifra region, accompanied in particular by the president of the Provincial Council of Béni Mellal and the president of the Commune of Béni Mellal, paid a visit to this site on Tuesday evening to inquire about the state of progress of the development and rehabilitation works of this tourist site, classified as national heritage since 1947.

The work focused in particular on the development and electrification of two pedestrian routes linking the Aïn Asserdoune site to Sidi Bouyacoub and Tamgnount as well as the construction of a cultural heritage museum, a reception center and information, a reading area and a prayer room.

The Palace of Aïn Asserdoune has also been the subject of development work to be able to host artistic performances, in addition to the construction of a panoramic café, the redevelopment of the site’s courtyards and water basins and the creation of a play area for children.

Ain Asserdoune, Beni Mellal

The Aïn Asserdoune tourist site development project is part of the implementation of the partnership agreement signed between the Ministry of Tourism, Handicrafts, Air Transport and Social Economy, the of the Beni Mellal-Khénifra region, the OCP and the Moroccan Society of Tourism Engineering (SMIT).

Endowed with nearly 172 million dirhams, this agreement aims to promote several important tourist sites in the region in order to improve their attractiveness.

The development plan of the Aïn Asserdoune tourist site also provides for the planting of trees and plants of various types, the rehabilitation of the large park which covers an area of ​​20 hectares, the design of new spaces dedicated to families, as well as food outlets.

Fez

Meknes

Guelmim

DarDif.com

A team of ambitious people write about the Moroccan tourism and share the
knowledge about the beauty of Morocco.

DarDif.com

A team of ambitious people write about the Moroccan tourism and share the knowledge about the beauty of Morocco.

Join to our mailing list to get Updates and Special Deals only available via Email

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 From Private Desert Odysseys to Hidden Medina Retreats

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 From Private Desert Odysseys to Hidden Medina Retreats

Ready to Write Your Morocco
Story?

The Morocco you’ve
always imagined –
designed around you. 

Tell us what you love,
what you’re curious
about, what you
absolutely want
(or want to avoid).

We’ll take it from there.
No templates. No stress.
Just a journey that fits you.

 From Private Desert Odysseys to Hidden Medina Retreats

Ready to Write Your Morocco Story?

The Morocco you’ve
always imagined –
designed around you. 

Tell us what you love,
what you’re curious
about, what you
absolutely want
(or want to avoid).

We’ll take it from there.
No templates. No stress.
Just a journey that fits you.

Categories
Historic Sites Moroccan Tourism Sea & Beaches

Visit Tetouan : Top 10 Must-see Places in Tetouan

The Best things to see in Tetouan

Moroccan Tourism

Visit Tetouan : Top 10 Must-see Places in Tetouan

Visit Tetouan : Top 10 Must-see Places in Tetouan

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Tetoutan tourism guide : the white bride of the kingdom’s north

Nestled on the side of the Rif mountain and overlooking the waters of the Mediterranean, Tetouan, a Hispano-Moorish city, plays on the mixture of cultures and remains the guardian of its most beautiful traditions to offer an exceptional setting to tourists looking for good -being and authenticity.

Mysterious, sometimes distant, Tetouan, referred to as “the white dove” or “the daughter of Granada” by Arab poets, is a place steeped in history. How to remain insensitive to the charm of its superb and moving streets and alleys, testimonies of Andalusian and Mediterranean civilization?

Here the memories of a rich history are written in each wall and on each facade and are told to passers-by. Its mild and temperate climate throughout the year and its heavenly beaches make it a very popular tourist destination.

Want sun, idleness? Near Tetouan, the seaside resort of Tamuda Bay will offer you stays combining the softness of the Mediterranean beaches with the voluptuousness of the Andalusian way of life. As for nature and adventure enthusiasts, the Rif mountains will reveal fantastic landscapes where wild nature dominates.

Medina of Tetouen

Must-see in Tetouan:

60 km from Tangier, the city of Tetouan is characterized by districts with Andalusian architecture imported from Seville and Granada.

With its green and white houses, crenellated ramparts and shaded squares, the Medina of Tetouan has been listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 1997.

  • Medina

Surrounded by five kilometers of ramparts, access to the interior of the medina is through its seven magnificent carved doors Bab El Oqla, Bab Saaida (towards the East), Bab Mqabare and Bab Ejjyafe (towards the North), Bab Nouader (towards the West), Bab Tout, Bab Remouz (towards the South).

The seven gates that punctuate the fortifications of the medina tell the story of the city’s past and its successive waves of immigration, the arrival of the Andalusians in the 15th century, then that of the Moors in the early 17th century, the movement of the Mellah district to 1808, and the opening of the walls in the 20th century to link the medina to the new Spanish quarter (Ensanche).

The medina of Tetouan is the liveliest place in the city. Here, the souks are well separated, each trade occupying a precise perimeter.

Its important mellah (Jewish quarter) was called little Jerusalem. Rue Tarafin, lined with jewelry stores, leads to Place Hassan II and the Royal Palace, a fine example of Hispano-Mauresque architecture.

The medina retains its dynamism of yesteryear, the craftsmen perpetuate their know-how there and the houses are well preserved by the descendant owners. These old residences built around a patio reflect the degree of refinement of domestic architecture.

The medina has benefited from a rehabilitation program funded by the Junta de Andalucia. Its particularity lies in the development in the 15th century of a network of pipes from the sources of the city.

In Berber, “Titaouin” means “sources”. They are the ones that supply the houses and the many fountains thanks to the Skoundou (from the Spanish segundo), an underground network of pipes.

This network provides drinking water to houses and buildings and public fountains, mosques, hammams, along a line of springs originating at the foot of Jbel Dersa.

This device resembles that developed by the Romans in Volubilis, and seems to have been adopted by the Andalusians. Even today, some houses keep fountains of this water from the past.

The succession of 20th century Spanish architecture and the abundance of singular buildings give the modern city a prestigious cachet, in particular the European district with its colonial architecture where Baroque and Art Deco influences mingle. Gardens, public spaces and wide avenues have been created to highlight this rich urban heritage.

Tetouan City: Medina
  • Avenue Mohammed V

From the Place du Palais begins the Avenue Mohammed V where you can admire Dar Taïr known for its statue on the top floor. On this avenue, there is the old Spanish casino dating from the 1920s, and the General Library and Archives of Tetouan from the 1930s. Its wealth of documents has made it a space for reading and research in the field of the history of Morocco.

This avenue also crosses Place Moulay El Mehdi where the Notre Dame de la Victoire church, built in 1919, is located. Place Al Adl, is the courthouse and the Avenida cinema, a mythical place in the city.

As for the Spanish theater built in the 1930s, it has just been restored. Near Bab Okla stands the school of traditional arts and crafts “Dar Sana” in neo-Arab style. It highlights the different artistic expressions that flourished in Tetouan over several centuries. The craftsmen work there on painting on wood, embroidery, zellige, copper, leather, stucco or marquetry with the same know-how as their ancestors four centuries ago.

  • The Archaeological Museum

The two key places of Tetouan remain the Archaeological Museum where lies the ancient history of the city, luxury mosaics, Roman bronze figurines, collections of coins from the Punic period and the Ethnological Museum Moroccan Arts of Tetouan, created in 1929.

  • The latter

The latter is a Tetouanese masterpiece. From the entrance, you can admire a garden with a pond in the center and a wall fountain decorated with zellige, a design similar to those found in the Andalusian palaces of Granada. Today, this museum presents, through a permanent exhibition, traditional costumes and musical instruments, the traditions, habits and customs of the city of Tetouan and its region.

Tetouan, the artistic capital of northern Morocco Visitors find it Andalusian, Ottoman, European. Tetouan is a bit of all of this. From this effervescence was born a true art of living which continues today thanks to its craftsmen and its artists. Land of the arts, from music to the visual arts, the city is home to artistic movements, which have an influence far beyond the region.

Like any artistic capital, Tetouan had to have its School of Fine Arts, created in 1947 by Don Mariano Bertucci, Spanish orientalist painter and great lover of Moroccan art. Having become the National Institute of Fine Arts since 1993, this school has had a comic strip teaching section since 2000 and has hosted the International Comic Strip Festival every year since 2004.

Tetouan is distinguished by many festivals, the most important of which is the International Festival of Mediterranean Cinema created in 1985, the International Festival of Lute, the International Festival of Comic Strips and the Festival Voix de femmes, a tribute to all those who have worked tirelessly to lead their city into the 21st century, while preserving its authenticity and plural identity.

The specialties of the region

The work of zellige is one of the most characteristic artistic professions of the city of Tetouan. It is defined by its shaping technique, its colors and its surface aspects which give it a particular singularity and authenticity.

Tetouan is also known for the mastery of painting on wood. Artisans specializing in this type of craft generally work with mineral paint powders. The achievements are very varied and very beautiful.

Leatherworking is very old in this city, as evidenced by its tanneries. But the tanners’ souk is also the fabric and clothing market, “Guersa El Kébira” where all types of multicolored, plain or embroidered fabrics are sold and where “Jebliates” (women of the Rif), dressed in their traditional costume , sell their “mendils”, pieces of red, white and blue striped fabric.

Tetouanese embroidery is certainly one of the most original in Morocco. It owes its success to its multiple origins, both local and Ottoman and Arab-Andalusian influences.

Tetouanese culinary art, resulting from the combination of many recipes (Andalusian, Rif, Jewish, etc.), is one of the most famous in Morocco. The Tetouan dishes, especially the savory ones, chicken with caramelized raisins for example, are pure delights.

Other typical dishes: pastilla with chicken and eggs without almonds, tahliya, serrated gazelle horns, ktayefs, and of course Jben, a fresh and creamy white cheese, wrapped in palm leaves and prepared within the cooperatives of women.

  • Riad Al Ochak

Located below the old medina, Riad Al Ochak extends over approximately two hectares. Created in 1929, the garden, a perfect replica of the famous gardens of the Alhambra palace in Granada, has been extensively restored and today offers its multicolored flowerbeds, majestic trees and numerous ponds and fountains.

The garden is an integral part of the city’s heritage and most of the inhabitants have the habit of coming there at the end of the day for sweet moments of relaxation.

  • Tamuda Bay

From the Garden of the Hesperides of Tetouan to the beaches of Tamuda Bay Less than five kilometers from the center of Tetouan, on the edge of the Oued Martil, is the archaeological site of Tamuda, concealing Roman remains. Homer considered Jebala country a land of legend.

It is in this region that the famous gardens of the Hesperides would be located. Hercules even went there to “steal the golden apples”.

The Hispano-Moorish character of the Tetouan region is illustrated right down to the beaches where several houses with ceramic-covered walls are located along the coast. Renowned for its paradisiacal beaches of golden sand, relaxation, well-being and the sweetness of life are there.

Tamuda Bay is characterized by its hilly landscape, covered with green forests, overlooking translucent blue water. This new seaside resort, located on the M’diq-Fnideq coast, covers an area of ​​fifty hectares with a quality hotel infrastructure designed to offer luxury and relaxation. It includes an eighteen-hole golf course, a lakeside city, the Smir Lagoon where it is possible to observe many species of migratory birds.

It also has a water park that appeals to young and old alike, shops, restaurants, very lively pubs especially during the summer period, and two marinas Kabila and Smir.

Tamuda Bay also has thalassotherapy centers where everything is done to ensure that relaxation is your best accomplice throughout the stay. Fitness with sauna and steam room, personalized treatments, high-level equipment, professional staff, swimming pool and private beach, everything is designed for your well-being.

  • Mdiq

Mdiq is a very popular seaside resort, where life flows at a peaceful pace. Seaside, pedestrian streets, wide seafront promenade, everything has been refurbished to the delight of visitors. At the entrance to the town, at the end of a road on the right, you will reach its authentic and endearing fishing port. Very popular on summer evenings, people meet there to eat grilled sardines, freshly caught, accompanied by mint tea.

Tetouen Mdiq Beach

M’Diq is renowned for the quality of its restaurants where you can taste many fish and seafood specialties at more than competitive prices. Fishing ports and marinas

Perched at the top of the hill, Cabo Negro is an ideal destination for a relaxing holiday on the shores of the Mediterranean. Pretty whitewashed buildings, flower gardens, the resort attracts tourists especially with its fine sandy beaches and horseback riding. The Royal Golf, designed in the purest British tradition, is one of the jewels of Morocco’s golfing heritage with an eighteen-hole course nestled in a forest of Mediterranean species.

  • Martil

Martil is famous for its fishing port, once a haunt of pirates. Its proximity to Tetouan makes Martil and its blue and white whitewashed houses a very pleasant seaside resort. Many restaurants and cafes line the corniche where families like to stroll.

  • Marine Smir

Marina Smir, a luxurious ultra-modern marina located in the heart of a privileged site facing the Mediterranean, welcomes the largest yachts and has more than 450 berths. Near the Marina Smir complex are other popular seaside resorts such as Kabila, Ksar Rimal, Restinga, …

Hesitate between chilling and activities

The Tetouan coast offers many activities combining rest and discovery. These beaches will enchant anyone looking for peace and quiet. Here you can admire the natural beauty of the Mediterranean, far from the hustle and bustle of the city and the frenetic pace of the big seaside resorts.

For the more athletic, you will have the choice between jet-skiing, water-skiing, windsurfing, towed banana, deep-sea or traditional fishing, sea kayaking, surfing or sailing.

For the more adventurous, the Strait is a real paradise for scuba diving as the fauna and flora are generous there (coral, gorgonians, sponges, groupers, barracudas, trevallies, moon fish, rays, moray eels…). Two diving centers located in Marina Smir will accompany you to make your vacation unforgettable.

To conclude

Tetouan and its region is a must, capable of bringing to our dear reader the experiences that we “adventure seekers” seeks,  a solid lifetime experience, DARDIF highly recommend the destination as it can bring the missing touch in the kingdoms roots to conquer your hearts forever.

Fez

Meknes

Guelmim

DarDif.com

A team of ambitious people write about the Moroccan tourism and share the
knowledge about the beauty of Morocco.

DarDif.com

A team of ambitious people write about the Moroccan tourism and share the knowledge about the beauty of Morocco.

Join to our mailing list to get Updates and Special Deals only available via Email

Join to our mailing list to get Updates and Special Deals only available via Email

 From Private Desert Odysseys to Hidden Medina Retreats

Other articles

 From Private Desert Odysseys to Hidden Medina Retreats

Ready to Write Your Morocco
Story?

The Morocco you’ve
always imagined –
designed around you. 

Tell us what you love,
what you’re curious
about, what you
absolutely want
(or want to avoid).

We’ll take it from there.
No templates. No stress.
Just a journey that fits you.

 From Private Desert Odysseys to Hidden Medina Retreats

Ready to Write Your Morocco Story?

The Morocco you’ve
always imagined –
designed around you. 

Tell us what you love,
what you’re curious
about, what you
absolutely want
(or want to avoid).

We’ll take it from there.
No templates. No stress.
Just a journey that fits you.

Categories
Historic Sites Moroccan Tourism Sea & Beaches

El Jadida : Visit The Multicultural Atlantic City of Morocco

Visit el jadida Morocco

Moroccan Tourism

El Jadida : Visit The Multicultural Atlantic City of Morocco

El Jadida : Visit The Multicultural Atlantic City of Morocco

Discover Morocco’s finest natural hot springs and thermal baths: your ultimate tourism guide

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El Jadida Tourism Guide : best things to eat, best things to see, when to come to the city …

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, El Jadida is an unparalleled tourist address in Morocco. Coastal and historic city, it is located about 96 km from Casablanca, on the seafront.

This place is home to beautiful beaches adapted to the expectations of lovers of idleness and water sports. Every year, the territory thus welcomes a crowd of holidaymakers in search of authentic places for an exceptional seaside stay.

El Jadida, or “The New” in Arabic, was restored at the time of Moulay Abd ar-Rahman, a descendant of the Alaouite dynasty who, in 1822, was proclaimed sultan.

Since that year, a large number of European traders (English from Gibraltar) and Jews have decided to settle there.

El Jadida then became one of the most touristic and famous destinations in Morocco.

El Jadida stands out above all for its incredible “fortifications” erected for centuries. The city is, in fact, famous for its fortified city, built by the Portuguese at the beginning of the 16th century.

Its ancient ramparts, its bastions, and its Portuguese military architecture dating from the Renaissance, are all vestiges that allow you to dive into wonderful stories.

To discover this historical jewel of Morocco, a stay in El Jadida or in the neighboring towns is a must.

Read also : 19 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Safi

Why visit El Jadida ?

With its thousand and one wonders, El Jadida is sure to seduce all types of visitors.

Admire its incomparable wealth of heritage

For lovers of architectural discoveries, El Jadida is undoubtedly a world apart with its unique heritage and beauty. It is, in fact, the Portuguese city, a huge site listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004. In the fortifications of El Jadida, the bastions of Saint Sebastian, Saint Anthony, and the Angel and of the Holy Spirit are still intact.

The old fort has also preserved its walls to impress its visitors who will surely be delighted to take the walkway. The latter is carefully preserved. It leads to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the sea and the landscapes of the city.

To make sure you don’t miss a thing on a hike in the Portuguese city, a visit to the Church of the Assumption is a must. This religious building is characterized by a Manueline style architecture, which will certainly fascinate hikers.

Enjoy a good time on its attractive and sunny beach

This Moroccan city is not just about its authentic architectural destinations. In addition to the impressive fortifications from which it benefits, a magnificent beach with sandy stretches is also available to all. A place of unparalleled relaxation, this seaside resort of El Jadida faces the Atlantic Ocean.

It is accessible from the north and south of the city. This tourist area is conducive to a variety of activities, including fishing, sailing and other interesting water sports.

Many holidaymakers also go near El Jadida beach to play golf in a huge, ideally preserved area. It should be noted that the oceanic climate of this part of Morocco is ideal for living all these entertaining experiences. In winter, the city is particularly pleasant with its mild and humid climate.

Stroll around the port of El Jadida to get away from it all

Open on El Jadida, the port of the city is another tourist site to discover absolutely during a circuit in Morocco. In the morning, the place is imbued with a remarkably warm atmosphere that will surprise foreigners. In order to fully appreciate this exotic atmosphere of the port of El Jadida, it is best to stroll there at dawn. This is the perfect time to observe all kinds of marine activity.

While the fishermen are busy selling their baskets of deep-sea fish (sardines, smelt, tuna, herring, etc.), tourists can take the opportunity to enjoy a good frying. Attending this bewitching spectacle will thus mark their stay in El Jadida, before joining the other popular cities of Morocco.

The local port is also a perfect place to learn or practice water sports. Those who wish to indulge in aquatic leisure will find a Nautical Club for beginners and professionals. Finally, the port is home to a large square particularly dedicated to the best festivals in the city.

What to see in El Jadida?

The city of El Jadida is dotted with fascinating places that are absolutely worth a visit.

The “Mellah” district

Just like in the tourist and popular cities of Morocco, El Jadida has a district also called Mellah. This address designates the place where Jews, Muslims and Europeans have resided since their arrival in the territory, and until today. The Mellah district of El Jadida is framed by walls.

These were built with the aim of demarcating the district from the rest of the city. A tourist stroll in this part of El Jadida is an opportunity to learn everything about ancient Mazagan, its glorious past and its inexhaustible cultural gems.

The Portuguese Cistern

El Jadida is full of historical wonders, but the Portuguese Cistern is a particularly unusual site. Located in the heart of the city, precisely on the main artery, this center of interest welcomes you in a completely exotic atmosphere with its underground space marked by medieval vaults.

The Portuguese Cistern of El Jadida is steeped in history. It was built in 1541 and served as a weapons room. In 1717, a Jewish merchant, tearing down the wall of his shop, discovered this underground reservoir for the first time. Since then, the Portuguese Cistern has become one of the unmissable sites of El Jadida. In addition to being an incomparable tourist spot, it is also very popular with local and international directors.

Fascinating, the Portuguese Cistern is embellished with a Gothic vault, imposing stone columns and a circular opening measuring 3.5m in diameter. Once in this place, travelers will experience breathtaking natural lighting. Like diamonds, the radiation reflecting off the floor of the place produces a spectacular effect.

Tazotas

In the hinterland of El Jadida, about 90 km from Casablanca, there are several dry stone huts, known as “tazotas”. Unique in their kind, these buildings are devoid of mortar and delimited on a well-defined space. They belong to the population of the Doukkala-Abda region and are marked by lithic landscapes. The tazotas of El Jadida testify to the great know-how of the peasants of this region of Morocco.

According to the story, these small constructions with their original architecture were built during the off-season of agricultural activities in this countryside. These traditional refuges protected the inhabitants from the heat or wild animals.

Other tazotas were also used as granaries or warehouses for hay, straw or cattle fattening. Visiting this part of El Jadida will allow backpackers to better understand the past of the city and the cultural riches of its former residents.

The lagoon of Sidi Moussa

Listed in the Ramsar site since 2005, the lagoon of Sidi Moussa is a must in the region of El Jadida. This coastal wetland is the natural home of different marine species, such as fish, crustaceans and molluscs. It is also the habitat of many migratory and sedentary waterbirds, which makes this place a protected site.

The lagoon of Sidi Moussa is one of the most popular nature reserves in Morocco. Open to all tourists, this conservation area can be visited all year round. To get there, just take the El Jadida-Safi highway. Moreover, this resort is a camping destination of choice in Morocco. It is home to places suitable for nature camping, which will undoubtedly delight holidaymakers when the spring and summer seasons come.

In order to embellish the excursions of each family or couple in this site, the lagoon of Sidi Moussa gives access to idyllic beaches which deserve to be explored. Added to this is an immense lagoon complex which extends over about forty kilometres. Lovers of relaxation in the sun will see a cove of fine sand ideal for recharging their batteries during the summer.

How to visit El Jadida ?

To better admire the beauty of the sights of El Jadida, backpackers can choose one of the following transport options:

The train

El Jadida is an easily accessible Moroccan city. Indeed, only a hundred kilometers separate this wonderful destination from the city of Casablanca. From the latter, backpackers can then take the train and reach the most beautiful destinations of El Jadida during the day. This transport is available every day and the trip usually takes 1 hour 20 minutes.

Car rental at the best price

Travelers who plan to spend a long stay in Morocco can rent a car suitable for their type of trip. They will then enjoy maximum comfort on each trip. In addition, this means of transport is the best option for a road trip in Morocco. From Casablanca, it is very easy to get to El Jadida, as these two destinations are connected by a highway.

Small or large taxis to explore the city

Compared to other Moroccan cities, El Jadida is a less popular city for mass tourism. It is therefore easier to discover its historical attractions during a stay on its territory. To do this, just take one of the small or large taxis that are available throughout the city. However, it is always wise to be accompanied by a guide, or to know the district of destination, before taking these transports.

Coach or bus to visit El Jadida and its surroundings

To better admire the landscapes of El Jadida, it is also possible to take a bus or coach trip. These are modes of transport widely used in this locality. That said, backpackers can go by bus if they want to reach places like Azemmour or Sidi Bouzid. You should know that the coaches from El Jadida serve destinations that are a little inaccessible or far away.

Read also : 21 Best Places To Visit in Morocco

When to travel to El Jadida?

El Jadida is a tourist place that can be visited all year round, because the weather is pleasant almost in all seasons. In reality, this is explained by its excellent geographical location (on the Atlantic coast) which gives it the benefit of a pleasant oceanic climate.

Before leaving for El Jadida, it is still preferable to study its travel formula, its type of stay, but especially the sites to discover on the territory. For example, for a successful summer vacation in El Jadida, the ideal would be to go there during the hottest months of the year (July, August, September and October). Moreover, the summers of El Jadida are not marked by extreme temperatures, which will surely satisfy backpackers.

As for the winters of the city of El Jadida, they are rather mild, and are almost similar to the winters of the Canary Islands. During the winter seasons, El Jadida enjoys a warm morning atmosphere and more or less hot afternoons. Tourists will easily find accommodation adapted to their holiday needs.

It should be noted that the city of El Jadida undergoes periods of drought during the months of June, July, August and September. The beaches and seaside resorts of El Jadida are therefore not recommended for swimming between June and October.

However, travelers can always organize a circuit or a road trip there, if they wish to go on an adventure or discover the emblematic sites of the destination.

Fez

Meknes

Guelmim

DarDif.com

A team of ambitious people write about the Moroccan tourism and share the
knowledge about the beauty of Morocco.

DarDif.com

A team of ambitious people write about the Moroccan tourism and share the knowledge about the beauty of Morocco.

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Moroccan Tourism

Morocco to lunch a new electronic visa “eVisa”

eVisa Morocco

Moroccan Tourism

Morocco to lunch a new electronic visa "eVisa"

Morocco to lunch a new electronic visa "eVisa"

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Morocco has lunched an electronic via : details and procedures

The Kingdom of Morocco has launched, as of July 10, 2022, the procedure for granting the “eVisa” electronic visa via the platform www.acces-maroc.ma, to facilitate the granting of visas to foreign nationals subject to this formality.

This new measure has been put in place in accordance with the Very High Guidelines of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, aimed at improving, simplifying and modernizing consular services, said a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday.

It is part of the continuity of the efforts made by Morocco, both at national and international level, for the digitization of the services provided by the public administration, specifies the same source, adding that it devotes the modernization of consular work at the level of the Diplomatic Missions and Consular Posts of the Kingdom, as recommended by the strategy of the Ministry concerning the reform of this area.

The electronic visa is a one-person authorization, valid for a maximum of 180 days from the date of issue. It will allow access to Moroccan territory for a maximum stay of 30 days.

Read also: The Best Places To Visit in Morocco

Three categories of foreign nationals will benefit from the “eVisa”, namely nationals of certain countries, the list of which is defined by the competent Moroccan authorities (Thailand and Israel as a first step), foreign nationals with a residence or residence permit valid for at least 180 days on the date of submission of the electronic visa application and residing in one of the countries of the European Union, the United States, Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, from Norway, New Zealand and Switzerland as well as foreign nationals holding one of the non-electronic visas from Schengen countries, the United States, Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and from New Zealand, multiple entries and valid for at least 90 days from the date of submission of the electronic visa application, the statement said.

Applications submitted online by the nationals concerned, via www.acces-maroc.ma, and relating to “Tourism” or “Business” visas, will be processed within 24 hours (Visa Express) and 72 hours (Visa Standard) , says the same source.

For the launch of the “eVisa”, the ministry established, in coordination with the departments concerned, a legal framework establishing the electronic visa and the means of data exchange in this area.

The processing of “eVisa” requests, within the set deadlines, will be carried out by managers, trained for this purpose, via the platform www.acces-maroc.ma, developed by the engineers and technicians of this Department, the press release concludes.

Fez

Meknes

Guelmim

DarDif.com

A team of ambitious people write about the Moroccan tourism and share the
knowledge about the beauty of Morocco.

DarDif.com

A team of ambitious people write about the Moroccan tourism and share the knowledge about the beauty of Morocco.

Join to our mailing list to get Updates and Special Deals only available via Email

Join to our mailing list to get Updates and Special Deals only available via Email

 From Private Desert Odysseys to Hidden Medina Retreats

Other articles

 From Private Desert Odysseys to Hidden Medina Retreats

Ready to Write Your Morocco
Story?

The Morocco you’ve
always imagined –
designed around you. 

Tell us what you love,
what you’re curious
about, what you
absolutely want
(or want to avoid).

We’ll take it from there.
No templates. No stress.
Just a journey that fits you.

 From Private Desert Odysseys to Hidden Medina Retreats

Ready to Write Your Morocco Story?

The Morocco you’ve
always imagined –
designed around you. 

Tell us what you love,
what you’re curious
about, what you
absolutely want
(or want to avoid).

We’ll take it from there.
No templates. No stress.
Just a journey that fits you.