MileHacker Logo
Things to Do in Oujda

Things to Do in Oujda

Oujda Oriental, Morocco Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures Around Oujda

Explore the rugged beauty of the Beni Snassen mountains and discover activities by the coast nearby.

Hiking & Trekking Routes

Beni Snassen Mountains

The main opportunities for hiking. Tafoughalt area is a popular starting point for various trails.

Difficulty Levels

Easy to Moderate: Shorter trails around Tafoughalt, through olive groves. Moderate to Difficult: Longer walks, may call for a local guide.

Grotte des Pigeons

Near Tafoughalt, offers a short, accessible walk. Cave exploration itself may call for specific equipment.

Water Sports & Adventure

  • Water Sports: Not available directly in inland Oujda.
  • Coastal Opportunities: Saïdia (SIXTY kilometers north) and Nador (100 km north-west).
  • Saïdia: Offers swimming, jet-skiing, paddleboarding during summer.
  • Adventure Sports: Limited direct options. Mountain biking in Beni Snassen mountains.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Not a main attraction. Birdwatching at Oued Moulouya estuary.

Hiking Preparation

  • Carry sufficient water.
  • Wear appropriate footwear.
  • Inform someone of your planned route.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for safety.

Mountain Biking

  • Trails in Beni Snassen mountains.
  • Suitable for experienced riders.
  • Bring your own bike or arrange rental.
  • Local rentals are scarce.

Cave Exploration

  • Grotte des Pigeons near Tafoughalt.
  • Other smaller caves in the region.
  • Requires specialized gear.
  • Professional guidance is advisable.

Safety Warning for Outdoor Activities

Always prioritize safety. Weather conditions can change rapidly in mountain areas. Ensure you are adequately prepared and informed before embarking on any adventure sport or extensive trek.

Deep Cultural Connections

Oujda offers many channels for cultural immersion, allowing you to connect deeply with Moroccan traditions and everyday life.

Workshops & Classes

  • Limited formal tourist workshops (e.g., calligraphy, music).
  • Private arrangements may exist for cooking or crafts with local hosts.
  • Visit artisan workshops in the Medina or Pottery Village (Oulad Ziane).
  • Language Learning: Informal learning by interacting with locals in Darija or French.

Cultural Performances

Local Music & Dance

The Oriental region is known for distinct musical styles like Reggada (lively folk dance) and Gharnati (classical Arab-Andalusian music).

Where to Find Performances

Most often during local festivals, private celebrations, or cultural events at Dar Sebti (Palace of Dar Sebti). Inquire locally.

Traditional Ceremonies

Observe elements like tea ceremonies in cafes or guesthouses. Not typically open to casual tourists.

Spa & Wellness

Authentic Moroccan hammams offer a deep cleansing ritual with steam and scrubbing. A unique cultural and wellness experience.

Hot Springs

No well-known public geothermal springs or natural therapy centers directly in Oujda. Local remedies might be found in souks.

Yoga Retreats

Oujda is not a hub for yoga or meditation retreats. These are more prevalent in specific coastal or desert locations in Morocco.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Oujda provides a more subdued nightlife compared to larger Moroccan cities, reflecting its conservative nature. Evening entertainment mainly revolves around cafes and restaurants.

Live Music & Dancing

  • Live Music Venues: Limited dedicated venues for tourists.
  • Occasional Performances: Certain cafes, restaurants, or hotels feature traditional music during events.
  • Nightlife AND Dancing: Very limited, typically within licensed tourist hotels.
  • Bar Districts: Oujda lacks specific bar districts or a pub crawl culture.

Late-Night Entertainment

Cafes

The most popular late-night option. Many cafes in the New City and around the Medina stay open late, serving coffee, tea, and snacks.

Restaurants

Many restaurants, especially in the The New town, remain open until late, offering dinner.

Local Social Life

Cafes are great places to observe neighborhood social life in a relaxed setting.

Tips for Evening Enjoyment

Embrace Cafe Culture

Join locals in a lively cafe for a cup of mint tea or coffee. It's the heart of Oujda's social evenings.

Check Local Listings

Inquire at your hotel or Dar Sebti for any cultural performances or special events happening during your stay.

Respect Local Customs

Dress modestly and be mindful of the conservative nature of the city, especially in public spaces at night.

Shopping & Markets

Discover local treasures and artisan crafts in Oujda's bustling markets plus sessions.

Traditional Markets

  • Souk El Ma (Medina): Main traditional market, a bustling labyrinth.
  • Crafts: Leather goods, wooden items, traditional pottery, metalwork.
  • Food: Fresh produce, olives, nuts, and dried fruits.
  • Souk Al Joutiya: Large flea a market on city outskirts, unique finds, antiques.

Artisan Workshops & Crafts

Medina Workshops

Many small workshops nestled within the Medina, where it's possible to often see artisans at work.

Oulad Ziane Pottery Village

A short drive from Oujda, renowned for its traditional pottery. Purchase directly from artisans.

Traditional Crafts

Crafting leather goods, metal items, or traditional clothing happens here.

Leather Goods

Slippers (babouches), bags, wallets. A traditional Moroccan souvenir, available in various colors and styles.

Spices & Oils

High-quality saffron, cumin, paprika, Ras el Hanout. Argan oil for culinary or cosmetic use is available.

Ceramics

  • Pottery from Oulad Ziane.
  • Tagine pots for cooking.
  • Decorative plates for display.
  • Unique handmade pieces.

Ethical Shopping Guidelines

Bargaining & Support
  • Haggling is customary; approach with a friendly attitude.
  • Prioritize purchasing directly from local artisans.
  • This ensures your money directly benefits the community.
Shipping & Customs
  • Inquire if larger shops offer international shipping.
  • Be aware of your home country's customs regulations.
  • Keep receipts for higher-value purchases.

Shopping Etiquette

When shopping in the souks, take your time, browse, and get involved with the vendors. A friendly chat, even if you do not buy anything, forms a piece of the experience.

Activity Planning Summary

Must-Do Experiences

  • Hike in the Beni Snassen Mountains for picturesque scenery.
  • Savor local cuisine from street food to traditional restaurants.
  • Visit the Pottery Village of Oulad Ziane.
  • Experience a traditional Moroccan hammam.

Planning Considerations

  • Book places to stay and popular tours in advance during peak seasons.
  • Learn basic Darija or French phrases for better interaction.
  • Communicate communicate your dietary restrictions clearly, especially for allergies.
  • Dress modestly and be ready for varying weather, especially summer heat.