Beni Mellal-Khenifra
Beni Mellal
Springs and fertile plains at the foot of the Atlas.
Beni Mellal at a glance
- Region
- Beni Mellal-Khenifra
- Province or prefecture
- Beni Mellal (province)
- Status
- Regional capital
- Population
- 192,676 (2014 census)
- Area
- Not available
- Elevation
- 500 m
- Coordinates
- 32.337, -6.350
- Postal code
- 23000
- Phone area code
- +212 523
- Time zone
- Africa/Casablanca (see note on Ramadan)
- Local names
- Béni Mellal (French) · بني ملال (Arabic)
- Best time to visit
- March to May and October to November
Population is from the 2014 census (HCP) and is being updated. Climate figures are indicative regional profiles. Confirm details with official sources before relying on them.
About Beni Mellal
Beni Mellal is the capital of the Tadla plain, with the Ain Asserdoun spring, a historic kasbah and easy access to Bin el Ouidane lake and Ouzoud Falls.
History
The city developed around the Kasbah of Ras el-Ain and grew as an agricultural centre in the 20th century.
Things to see in Beni Mellal
- Ain Asserdoun spring
- Kasbah Ras el-Ain
- Bin el Ouidane lake
- Ouzoud Falls (day trip)
Climate and best time to visit
Hot semi-arid. Hot, dry summers and mild winters with cool nights. Rain is light and falls mostly between November and April.
Best time to visit: March to May and October to November. Indicative regional profile.
Getting to Beni Mellal
- By air
- Beni Mellal Airport (BEM) has limited service; Marrakech Menara is the main alternative.
- By train
- Check ONCF for current services; buses connect to Casablanca, Marrakech and Fes.
- By bus
- CTM, Supratours and regional bus companies serve most routes; grand taxis cover shorter hops. Check current schedules.
- By road
- Reached by national roads and, on many routes, the motorway network. Check road conditions in winter, especially in mountain areas.
Economy
Irrigated agriculture (citrus, olives, sugar), agri-food industry and services.
Food and drink
Oranges and olives from the Tadla plain.
Festivals and events
Agricultural fairs and local cultural events; check listings.
Where to stay
Beni Mellal has a full range of accommodation, from international hotels to guesthouses and, in historic quarters, traditional riads and dars. Staying inside or near the old town makes it easier to explore on foot.