Béni Mellal-Khénifra

RegionMorocco, Africa

Béni Mellal-Khénifra is a STATE in Morocco, Africa.

Nestled in the heart of Morocco, Béni Mellal-Khénifra is a region of breathtaking contrasts, where the Middle Atlas Mountains meet fertile plains and cascading waterfalls. Known for its agricultural richness, the region is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Explore the stunning Ouzoud Waterfalls, one of Morocco's most iconic natural wonders, or hike through the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas, home to the endangered Barbary macaque. The region's vibrant souks, such as those in Béni Mellal and Khénifra, offer a glimpse into traditional Moroccan life, with handcrafted goods and local delicacies. Don't miss the chance to savor regional specialties like honey from Béni Mellal, renowned for its unique flavor. With its warm hospitality and stunning landscapes, Béni Mellal-Khénifra is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Best time to visit Béni Mellal-Khénifra

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal, with mild temperatures perfect for outdoor activities. Summers can be hot, while winters bring cooler weather and occasional snow in the mountains.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather
Mild 16-27°C (61-81°F)

Travel notes

Crowds
Moderate
Prices
Moderate

Golden light for photographers; harvest season

Know before you go

Getting there

BEM

Beni Mellal Airport

Domestic

10 km away

CMN

Mohammed V International Airport (Casablanca)

International

210 km away

RAK

Marrakech Menara Airport

International

200 km away

FEZ

Fès–Saïs Airport

International

300 km away

OZZ

Ouarzazate Airport

Domestic

220 km away

Getting around

"Taxis (both petit and grand) are the most common way to get around cities. For longer distances, buses and shared grand taxis connect major towns. Renting a car is recommended for exploring remote areas like the Ouzoud Waterfalls."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

15 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in most hotels, cafes, and riads in towns; limited in rural villages

Local SIM

Local SIM cards from Maroc Telecom, Orange, or Inwi available at city kiosks and airports from $2, with data packages

Stay safe

Overall

7/10

Low violent crime. Petty theft can occur in crowded markets. Road safety is moderate due to mountain conditions and occasional reckless driving. Tourist scams are rare but present around major sites like Ouzoud.

Night safety

6/10

Low violent crime. Petty theft can occur in crowded markets. Road safety is moderate due to mountain conditions and occasional reckless driving. Tourist scams are rare but present around major sites like Ouzoud.

Transport

7/10

Scam risk

5/10

"The region is generally safe, but be cautious when hiking in remote areas. Always inform someone of your plans and avoid traveling alone at night in rural areas."

Entry and health

Health information

"Tap water is not recommended for drinking. Stick to bottled water and ensure food is freshly cooked. Carry a basic first-aid kit for minor injuries during hikes."

Culture

Local customs

"Hospitality is central to the culture here. It's customary to accept offers of mint tea, a symbol of friendship. Dress modestly, especially in rural areas, and always ask for permission before photographing locals."
ArabicBerber (Tamazight)French

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$2-4 | A cheap local meal (e.g., tagine or sandwich) costs around $2-4

Hotels

$15-30 | Budget hotels and riads range $15-30/night

Local transport

$0.50 | Local bus ride ~$0.50, short petit taxi ~$1-2

Cost notes

Entrance fees to waterfalls and parks are minimal. Guided hikes and private transport add to costs but remain affordable by international standards.

Timezone

Africa/Casablanca +01:00 (WEST) or Africa/Casablanca +01:00 (WET)

More facts

Population

2,520,776

Area

28,374 km²

ISO code

MA-05

Type

Region

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Бені-Меллаль — Хеніфра, Бени Меллаль-Хенифра, بني ملال-خنيفرة, ⴰⵢⵜ ⵎⵍⵍⴰⵍ-ⵅⵏⵉⴼⵕⴰ, 5, Bani Mallal-Chunajfira, Béni Mellal-Khénifra ⴰⵢⵜ ⵎⵍⵍⴰⵍ - ⵅⵏⵉⴼⵕⴰ بني ملال خنيفرة, بنی‌ملال-خنیفره, بني ملال خنيفرة, MA-05, Béni Mellal-Khénifra ⴰⵢⵜ ⵎⵍⵍⴰⵍ-ⵅⵏⵉⴼⵕⴰ بني ملال-خنيفرة, Béni Mellal-Khénifra, Beni Melal-Jenifra, Бени-Меллаль — Хенифра, Ayt Mellal, BEM, Bani Mallal, Beni Melal, Beni Melalis, Beni Mellal, Beni-Mellal, Beni-Mellal', Beni-Mellal-Centre, Beni-Millal', Béni Mellal, Béni-Mellal, bei ni mai la lei, beni melala, beni melaል, benimellal, beni・merraru, bny mlal, bny mll, Бени-Меллаль, Бени-Миллаль, בני מלל, بني ملال, بنی ملال, بنی‌ملال, बेनी मेलाल, বেনি মেলাল, ਬੇਨੀ ਮੇਲਾਲ, ቤኒ ሜላል, ベニ・メッラル, 貝尼邁拉勒, 베니멜랄

Capital CityMajor HubNatureHikingWaterfallsCulturalOff-the-Beaten-PathMountainsLakesBerber Villages