Beni Mellal-Khenifra
Khouribga
Morocco's phosphate capital.
Khouribga at a glance
- Region
- Beni Mellal-Khenifra
- Province or prefecture
- Khouribga (province)
- Status
- Province capital
- Population
- 196,196 (2014 census)
- Area
- Not available
- Elevation
- 780 m
- Coordinates
- 32.881, -6.906
- Postal code
- 25000
- Phone area code
- +212 523
- Time zone
- Africa/Casablanca (see note on Ramadan)
- Local names
- Khouribga (French) · خريبكة (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 Khouribga
Khouribga is the centre of the Ouled Abdoun phosphate basin, one of the main sources of Morocco's phosphate exports.
History
Phosphate mining began here in 1921 and shaped the city's growth.
Things to see in Khouribga
- Phosphate mining landscapes (guided visits via OCP)
- Oued Zem and surrounding plateau
- Local souks
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 Khouribga
- By air
- Casablanca Mohammed V (CMN) is about 120 km away.
- By train
- Khouribga station on the phosphate and passenger line to Casablanca.
- 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
Phosphate extraction and processing by OCP, plus agriculture and trade.
Food and drink
Plateau-style grills and home cooking.
Festivals and events
Khouribga hosts an African cinema festival; check dates.
Where to stay
Options are mostly mid-range hotels and family-run guesthouses. In peak season and holidays it is wise to reserve in advance.