Why Oujda Is the Perfect Gateway for Your Eastern Morocco Road Trip
When most people plan a Moroccan road trip, their minds immediately jump to Marrakech, Fes, or the drive south to the Sahara. They imagine battling the crowds in Jemaa el-Fna or navigating the winding alleys of the Fes medina.
But what if you want something different—an adventure that feels more authentic, less crowded, and offers just as much (if not more) stunning diversity?
Enter Oujda.
As the capital of the Oriental region, Oujda is Morocco’s vibrant, beating heart in the northeast. Served by its own international airport (Oujda-Angads) and a modern network of highways, it’s the most practical, strategic, and inspiring gateway for an unforgettable road trip.
Here’s why you should start your next Moroccan adventure here.
1. The Ultimate Strategic Location
Oujda’s location is its superpower. From your driver’s seat, you’re perfectly positioned to experience three completely different worlds—all within an easy drive.
- North (1 Hour): The Mediterranean. Drive 60 km to reach the pristine golden beaches of Saïdia, the “Blue Pearl.”
- West (2 Hours): The Rif Coast. Take the spectacular N16 coastal road to Nador and the dramatic cliffs of Cape Three Forks.
- East (1 Hour): The Mountains. Explore the cool, green Beni-Snassen Mountains, the Zegzel Gorge, and hidden caves.
- South (Longer Drive): The Desert. For adventurers, the legendary N17 road leads all the way to Figuig, a palm oasis on the edge of the Sahara.
No other Moroccan city offers such easy access to beaches, mountains, and desert routes—all from one base.
2. An Authentic, Unfiltered Moroccan Experience
Oujda isn’t a city designed for tourists—it’s a city made by and for Moroccans. This is where you find authenticity. The medina serves locals, the cuisine is genuine, and the rhythms of daily life are unchanged. It’s also the birthplace of the melancholic yet beautiful Gharnati music.
Starting your trip here immerses you in the real culture of Eastern Morocco before you even hit the open road. You’ll be one of the few travelers exploring this side of the country, making every moment feel personal and unique.
3. The “Oriental Loop”: A Perfect Road Trip Itinerary
A rental car isn’t just for day trips—it’s for the grand tour. Oujda is the perfect start and end point for what’s known as the “Oriental Loop,” one of Morocco’s most rewarding road trip routes.
Here’s a sample 7-day itinerary:
- Day 1–2: Arrive in Oujda (OUD), pick up your car, and explore the city.
- Day 3: Drive to Saïdia for a relaxing beach day.
- Day 4: Take the scenic coastal road (N16) to Nador.
- Day 5: Explore Nador and the wild Cape Three Forks.
- Day 6: Drive south through the mountains to Taza and explore the Friouato Caves.
- Day 7: Take the A2 motorway back to Oujda for your flight home.
This loop blends beaches, mountains, and authentic towns—an adventure few travelers experience.
4. Modern Infrastructure Makes Driving a Pleasure
Let’s be practical: a road trip is only enjoyable if the driving itself is good. Oujda shines here.
- Oujda-Angads Airport (OUD): A modern international hub where you can pick up your rental car easily (especially with Ouailcar).
- Motorway (A2): Oujda is connected to Fes and Rabat by a world-class highway, making long-distance travel fast and safe.
- N-Roads: The coastal (N16) and national roads are generally well-paved, modern, and clearly marked—driving here is a genuine pleasure.
Conclusion
Forget following the same itinerary as everyone else. If you want a road trip that combines world-class beaches, dramatic mountains, authentic culture, and the freedom of the open road—start in Oujda.
It’s the perfect, hassle-free gateway to the other side of Morocco—the side you’ll be glad you were smart enough to explore.
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