Top 5 Day Trips from Oujda With Your Rental Car
Oujda is the vibrant capital of Morocco’s Oriental region, a city brimming with history, a bustling medina, and authentic culture. But its real secret is its location: it’s the perfect hub for exploring a side of Morocco that many tourists miss.
While the city itself is fascinating, the true adventure lies just beyond its limits. Renting a car in Oujda unlocks a world of diverse landscapes, from pristine Mediterranean beaches and lush mountains to historic towns and stunning natural gorges—all within a two-hour drive.
Forget waiting for buses or haggling with taxis. Grab your keys, hit the road, and discover these five incredible day trips from Oujda.
1. Saïdia: The “Blue Pearl” of Morocco
Drive Time: Approx. 1 hour (60 km)
Why Go: If you need a perfect beach day, this is it. Saïdia is Morocco’s premier northeast coastal resort, famous for its 14-kilometer-long stretch of pristine golden sand and calm, turquoise Mediterranean water. The modern marina is lined with stylish cafés, restaurants, and shops—an effortless and relaxing escape from the city buzz.
With Your Car: Having a car means you’re not just limited to the main resort. You can drive along the coast to find quieter, more secluded beach spots. It also makes it easy to pack a cooler, beach chairs, and everything you need for a full day of sun and sea.
2. Tafoughalt & The Zegzel Gorge
Drive Time: Approx. 1 hour 15 minutes (75 km)
Why Go: Ready to trade the city plains for cool mountain air? Head into the beautiful Beni-Snassen Mountains to the village of Tafoughalt. This area is a green oasis, offering a stunning contrast to the coast. It’s the gateway to the dramatic Zegzel Gorge and the famous “Grotte du Chameau” (Cave of the Camel). Perfect for a scenic drive, a short hike, and a picnic in nature.
With Your Car: A rental car is essential for this trip. The mountain roads are beautiful, and you’ll want to stop frequently for photos. Your car gives you the freedom to explore the winding gorge at your own pace and easily reach the trailheads for the caves.
3. Nador & The Mar Chica Lagoon
Drive Time: Approx. 2 hours (135 km)
Why Go: For a total change of scenery, drive to the bustling port city of Nador. Its defining feature is the Mar Chica, a massive, calm saltwater lagoon separated from the Mediterranean by a thin strip of land. You can explore Nador’s corniche, enjoy fresh seafood, or even take the stunning coastal drive up to the Cap des Trois Fourches (Cape Three Forks) for some of the most dramatic cliffside views in all of Morocco.
With Your Car: The 2-hour drive is straightforward. A car is non-negotiable if you plan to visit Cape Three Forks, which is a scenic adventure in itself. You can also easily visit the Spanish enclave of Melilla for a quick taste of Europe (remember your passport!).
4. Debdou: A Historic Mountain Hideaway
Drive Time: Approx. 1 hour 45 minutes (110 km)
Why Go: If you’re looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience, Debdou is your destination. This historic mountain town, nestled in the surrounding hills, has a rich Jewish heritage. You can explore the ruins of its ancient mellah (Jewish quarter) and synagogues, wander through quiet alleys, and enjoy panoramic views. This is not a tourist hotspot—it’s a genuine slice of Moroccan history and local life.
With Your Car: Debdou is not easily reached by public transport. The drive itself is beautiful, taking you south from Oujda into a more rugged, remote landscape. This is a trip for the curious traveler seeking history and authenticity.
5. Taza & The Friouato Caves
Drive Time: Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes (220 km)
Why Go: This is the longest trip on the list, but it’s for the true adventurers. The city of Taza has a formidable old medina, but the real prize is just outside the city: the Gouffre de Friouato. This is one of the largest and deepest cave systems in North Africa. You can descend a series of stairs deep into the cavern’s mouth for a spectacular view, or (with a guide) embark on a full-on caving expedition into the deep network.
With Your Car: Start early for this one. The drive is mostly on the motorway (A2), making it fast and easy. Your car is the only way to get from Taza up the mountain to the caves themselves. It’s an unforgettable adventure for the physically fit.
Your Gateway to Eastern Morocco
Oujda is more than just a city—it’s a launchpad. With the keys to your rental car, you can experience the incredible diversity of Eastern Morocco—from blue-water beaches to green mountains and historic villages—all in a single day.
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