Located in the Drâa Tafilalet region, north of its own eponymous province, you'll find the vast province of Errachidia. Blessed with an exceptional geographical setting, a rich historical heritage, and remarkable cultural and natural diversity, it ranks among the must-see destinations in Morocco.

Tafilalet, a historically renowned region of the country, is situated within this province.

Its History

This province was established in 1956 with a military design, featuring well-laid-out streets. Once known as "Ksar Es-Souk" and "Imetgharen", it only adopted its current name in 1975. The name was given by Moulay Rachid, the youngest son of Hassan II. In 2009, the creation of Tinghir province resulted in the loss of certain rural communes.

Today, Errachidia is the seat of the regional council of Drâa-Tafilalet, the capital of the Tafilalet region, and an administrative, military, commercial, and university center.

A Brief Visit to Errachidia

Where is Errachidia located in Morocco?

Situated in the pre-Saharan Tafilalet region of southeastern Morocco, Errachidia nestles in the Ziz Valley, between the High Atlas mountains and the sand hills of the desert. Its stunning landscape blends rocks and stone fields.

Centrally positioned in the south of the Kingdom, it shares borders with the provinces of Figuig to the east, Beni Mellal and Azilal to the west, Khenifra and Boulmane to the north, and the Moroccan-Algerian borders to the south. It lies at the fringes of southeastern Morocco.

Natural Wonders in Errachidia

As you explore Errachidia, you'll undoubtedly discover the Ziz Valley, which marks the final stage before the vast desert expanse. Traversed by the Ziz wadi and bordered by palm trees and kasbahs, notably the Ifri kasbah, it's a sight to behold.

The blue spring of Meski, meanwhile, is a natural spring used as a swimming pool amid a forest, just steps away from a kasbah perched on a hillside. From there, enjoy a panoramic view of the surroundings.

Discover Tafilalet: A Historically Renowned Region

Located in southern Morocco, Tafilalet is the legendary birthplace of the Berber queen Tin Hinan, considered the ancestor of the Tuareg people. Gold, spices, salt, and enslaved people from the balad es-sûdân once passed through this region. The latter corresponds to the "land of the Blacks", encompassing Mali, Niger, and countries of the Gulf of Guinea.

It also played a central role in Morocco's history as the birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty in 1631, whose founder is King Mohammed VI.

You'll find here the world's largest oasis, spanning approximately 77,000 km².

Explore Architectural Treasures

Its traditional architecture has deep roots in fortification. The kasbahs, or tighremts, are like jewels with multiple stories and towers at each corner. Picture yourself in one of these places, many with welcoming central courtyards.

Continue your exploration toward the alcazar, also called ksar or ighrem, a village surrounded by walls. Watchtowers offer breathtaking views, and monumental gates invite you to thrilling discovery. Inside, prepare to witness homes, a mosque, celebration spaces, and perhaps a warm inn.

What's the Weather Like in Errachidia?

Expect a subtropical desert climate with mild winters and hot, sunny summers. Situated in central Morocco at an altitude of 1,000 meters, it's sheltered from cold fronts by the Atlas mountains to the north. This means snowfall and frost are extremely rare.

What Are the Temperatures in Errachidia?

In January, the coldest month, the average temperature reaches 9.4 °C, while in July, the hottest month, it climbs to 32.8 °C. Annual rainfall is limited to just 140 mm. In August, the driest month, it amounts to only 4 mm, while March and October, the wettest months, record an average of 20 mm of precipitation.

When to Visit?

To fully enjoy the wonders of Errachidia, plan your visit during June, July, August, and September. These periods are known as the most favorable of the year.

Conversely, avoid visiting in December due to intense sunshine and high temperatures.

Must-See Attractions

• Moulay Hassan Eddakhil Pond
• El Kheng Gorges
• Ksar Jdid Lake
• Merzouga Sand Dunes

Where to Eat in Errachidia?

Les Voiles du Désert

This 3-fork establishment offers quality cuisine with Moroccan, Mediterranean, and fish specialties on the menu. The lounge, equipped with VIP lounges on the terrace, private spaces near the pool, sun loungers on the lawn, and hammocks under trees, is surrounded by lush gardens. Around the large swimming pool, featuring two basins including one for younger children, you'll find family areas, a snack corner with grilled specialties, all shaded by large sails. On the garden side, both children and adults can enjoy play areas with swings, slides, rocking chairs, a Berber tent, a tipi for kids, and an illuminated boules court.

L'coin

Savor delicious Moroccan, Mediterranean, and Spanish cuisines.

Berber Food Restaurant

This spot specializes in Moroccan and Mediterranean cuisines. Wholesome dishes are gluten-free. Vegetarians are warmly welcomed.

How to Get to Errachidia?

This destination is easily accessible by road via National Route 10. The bus journey from Casablanca (CMN) to Errachidia takes approximately 12 hours and 31 minutes. Alternatively, you can travel by air, taking a flight from Casablanca Airport (CMN), located 335.9 km away.