Oujda
Introduction
Located in the northeastern corner of Morocco, Oujda serves as the capital of the Oriental region. You will find this major city situated near the Algerian border, nestled in the southern reaches of the Beni Iznassen Mountains and a short distance from the Mediterranean coast.
Before you go
Prepare for your visit by familiarizing yourself with local customs and cultural norms to ensure a respectful experience while navigating the city.
Getting there
You can reach the city by air at Oujda Angads Airport, which hosts daily direct flights from several cities including Amsterdam, Paris, Marseille, and Madrid. If you prefer to travel by rail, multiple trains run daily from western Morocco, with some options providing overnight travel. The journey from Fez takes a few hours, while the trip from Casablanca takes significantly longer.
For those traveling by road, Oujda is accessible from the north via Melilla and Nador, from the west through Fes and Taza, and from the south via Figuig and Bouarfa. While the eastern border is closed to land travel, you can navigate the region using grand taxis or local buses to reach destinations such as Taza, Saidia, Berkane, Jerada, and Ain Beni Mathar. Additionally, boat services are available through Nador and Melilla.
Getting around
Information regarding transportation and local transit within the city is not provided.
Where to stay
You can find various budget-friendly hotels situated around the Place du 16 Aout. Hotel Telimcen offers friendly staff and is attached to a women-friendly patisserie and cafe, while Hotel Hanna provides a more economical option with public hallway showers.
For mid-range accommodations, you can choose between Riad DAR AL FASSIA, which features Moroccan style decor and clean rooms, or the pet-friendly hôtel (riad) Cafeteria Lahlou. Located in the medina, the latter provides a rooftop balcony overlooking the souk and includes air conditioning and breakfast. If you prefer to splurge, both the Hotel A ibis and the Atlas Spa and Hotel are located conveniently next to the train station; the former features a pool and bar, while the latter offers a swank, brand-new atmosphere.
Food & drink
The provided information does not contain specific details regarding local cuisine or beverages available in Oujda.
What to see and do
Explore the historic medina at Bab Sidi Abdel Wahab, where you can experience a bustling scene of market booths and shoppers near a grand mosque and clock tower. The area features an Eastern Gate with a medieval castle appearance. For a change of pace, visit Parc Lalla Aicha to enjoy its oasis-like atmosphere, which includes flowering plants, walkways, a swimming pool, and a tennis court. You can also find a garden and cafe at Parc Lalla Meryem on the south side of the medina.
Escape the city limits to explore the Sidi Maafa Forest, a national forest where you can hike among rocky hilltops and take in local flora. This area offers various recreational opportunities and provides a fine overlook of the city.
When to go
You can experience Oujda's distinct seasonal shifts, ranging from cool and wet winters to hot, dry summers. During the winter months, you should prepare for cool conditions and rain, though snow is a rare occurrence.
If you prefer a drier climate, travel during the summer when the weather becomes hot and dry with little to no rainfall.
Three days in Oujda
Day one, you arrive at Oujda Angads Airport and settle into your accommodation. You can choose to stay at Hotel Telimcen, Hotel Hanna, or the Riad DAR AL FASSIA as you begin your exploration of this Moroccan city in the Oriental region.
Day two, you explore the local surroundings. You can visit nearby locations such as Berkane, Nador, or Taza, or travel further to see the scenery near Figuig and Bouarfa.
Day three, you take a break at Cafeteria Lahlou before preparing for your departure from Oujda.