Beni Snassen Mountains: Majestic Peaks and Rich History

Looking for a destination in Morocco that’s way off the usual tourist trail? The Beni Snassen Mountains might just surprise you. Tucked away in the northeastern corner of the country, they’re raw, peaceful, and wildly underrated. You won’t find tour buses here, just silence, fresh air, and views that go on forever.

This is where you slow down, breathe deep, and let Morocco’s lesser-known side win you over.

Where are the Beni Snassen mountains located?

You’ll find them nestled between the cities of Berkane and Oujda, not far from the Algerian border. They stretch across a beautiful patch of land in the Oriental region, around 40 minutes’ drive from Oujda airport. So no, they’re not in the Sahara, or the High Atlas, or wherever you expected.

If you’re staying in Oujda, you’re basically next door. Coming from Fez? It’s a bit of a road trip, but with playlists and roadside tagines, it’s doable.

What makes the Beni-Snassen mountains special?

This range doesn’t scream for attention. It whispers. And that’s kind of the charm.

You’ll find yourself surrounded by green valleys, jagged cliffs, and strange rock formations that look like nature started sculpting, then wandered off to do something else. The Zegzel Valley slices through the landscape like a green ribbon, lush and quiet, while the Grotte du Chameau (Camel Cave) perches on the cliffs with an air of mystery. It feels like a place where ancient stories might still be hiding.

There are no flashy resorts, no queues for camel selfies, and no all-inclusive menus. Just raw, untouched beauty, winding trails, and the occasional goat standing in the middle of the road like it owns the place. And honestly, it kind of does.

Things to do in the region

Bring your hiking shoes, you’ll need them. Trails wind up hillsides, through orchards, and into pine forests that smell like calm. The scenery feels almost unreal, like something off a postcard, if postcards ever thought to feature this hidden corner of Morocco.

Take a dip in natural springs, sip mint tea with locals, or head to the Ras El Ma spring for a splash of cold, fresh mountain water on a hot day. If birdwatching’s your thing, keep those binoculars handy. You’d be surprised by how many colourful birds call this place home.

And make sure you don’t miss the Grotte du Chameau. Yes, it really does look like a sitting camel. Proof that Morocco never loses its playful side, even in the middle of the mountains.

Not sure how to organise your trip around the Beni Snassen Mountains? No worries, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re here for a quick escape or a slower adventure, these sample routes give you a taste of the region without the stress of planning every detail.

Sample Itineraries

Itinerary 1: Nature & Villages in 2 Days

Day 1: Leave Berkane in the morning and make your way up toward Tafoughalt. If it happens to be market day, take the time to stop and wander through the stalls. It’s lively, local, and full of little surprises you didn’t know you were looking for. Once you’ve soaked that in, head into the nearby forest for a peaceful walk. The trees offer shade, quiet, and that kind of calm you only find away from screens and schedules.

In the afternoon, set off toward the Grotte du Chameau. It’s an easy hike, and yes, the rock really does look like a sitting camel. It’s quirky, a bit surreal, and totally worth the stop. For the night, settle into a cosy guesthouse or stay with a local family. Nothing fancy, just the kind of warmth and welcome that sticks with you.

Day 2: Start your morning with a short hike to a viewpoint over the valley. The fresh air and soft morning light are a far better way to wake up than any alarm clock. After that, grab lunch at a small roadside place. The kind of spot where the tagine takes its time and the mint tea keeps flowing.

In the afternoon, drive back to Berkane. Or if you feel like stretching the adventure, head to Saïdia and wind down your day with your feet in the sand, watching the sun drop over the sea.

Itinerary 2: Mountains & Culture in 3 Days

Day 1: Set off from Oujda in the morning and make your way toward Tafoughalt. No need to rush. Plan a break around Zegzel Valley, which is perfect for a picnic or a short walk on one of the nearby trails. The landscape changes fast, shifting from rocky outcrops to lush greenery. It feels like Morocco showing off a different side of itself. Spend the night in Tafoughalt and enjoy the slower rhythm of the mountains.

Day 2: Take the whole day to explore the Beni Snassen Mountains on foot. Pick a trail that matches your mood. Some are steep and wild, while others feel more like a peaceful stroll through nature. If you’re curious, you can take a small detour to an Amazigh village nearby and get a glimpse of daily life in the hills.

Day 3: In the morning, drive toward Berkane. Feel free to take your time and stop along the way. There are quiet little corners in the hills that are perfect for photos, a nap in the sun, or simply enjoying the stillness. Head back to Oujda in the late afternoon. Let the hum of the city, the lively cafés and maybe one last couscous mark the end of your trip.

Culture & History

The Beni Snassen people are Berber, or Amazigh, with deep roots, ancient traditions, and a strong sense of identity. In the villages, you’ll often hear Tamazight being spoken. It’s melodic, rhythmic, and sounds completely different from Arabic or French. You might also spot Amazigh symbols painted on doors or walls, usually in bold colours. They’re not just decorative, they carry meaning.

Hospitality here isn’t a concept, it’s just how people live. Don’t be surprised if someone offers you mint tea just because you walked past their house. You might be invited to sit down, share some bread, chat for a moment. No fuss, no ceremony, just kindness.

This region has a long history of resilience. The Beni Snassen have always been known for their independent spirit, especially during colonial times. People won’t brag about it, but there’s a quiet strength in the way they move through the world. You’ll feel it without anyone needing to explain.

Practical tips for visitors

How to get there: The easiest way to get to the Beni Snassen Mountains? Just rent a car. Whether you’re coming from Oujda airport or Saïdia, the roads are quiet, smooth enough, and signposted well enough to keep you on track. Your GPS will do most of the work anyway.

If you’re up for a bit more adventure, you can try the shared taxi option. But fair warning: timetables are more like suggestions, and comfort? Let’s just say it’s not guaranteed.

Best time to visit:

• Spring is the sweet spot: rolling green hills, blooming wildflowers, and gentle temperatures. Autumn also puts on a show with golden light and crisp air.

• Winter? Expect it to be cold, sometimes surprisingly so. But if you’re into raw, quiet nature and don’t mind layering up, it’s still a great time to explore.

What to pack: Bring comfy walking shoes, a windbreaker, and a reusable water bottle. And don’t forget a power bank if you’re planning on snapping lots of photos.

Dress modestly: this is a traditional area, so long trousers and covered shoulders will help you blend in and feel more comfortable. And pack layers: mornings and evenings can get chilly, even outside winter.

Where to stay: Tafoughalt has a few small inns and guesthouses, simple, charming, nothing too flashy. Alternatively, you can base yourself in Berkane or Oujda and explore the mountains during the day. There are also some family-run places in the villages. A bit rustic, yes, but the hospitality more than makes up for it.

Do you need a guide? Not really, you can get by on your own just fine. But if you’re the curious type or don’t fancy getting turned around in the middle of nowhere, a local guide can add a lot: stories, shortcuts, and context.

Phone signal: Yes and no. You’ll have coverage in towns and villages. But once you’re on the trails… forget 5G, let go of social media, and just be in the moment.

Cash is king: Don’t expect to pay by card in villages or small cafés. Stock up cash before heading into the hills.

What to do around the Beni Snassen Mountains?

Berkane, the Citrus Capital: Just a short drive from the Beni Snassen range, Berkane is a lively town known for its endless orange groves. If you’re here during harvest season, the scent of citrus fills the air is like walking through a giant, sun-kissed fruit basket. The town itself is modest, but the markets are colourful, and it makes a perfect base for exploring the area.

Zegzel Valley: Technically part of the mountain area, but deserves its own shoutout. The Zegzel Valley is a lush, winding stretch of land, dotted with fig trees, springs, and small villages where time moves slowly. It’s great for slow drives, nature walks, and random roadside tagine stops. If peace had a postcode, it might be here.

Saïdia: Craving a beach break after the mountains? Saïdia, about an hour’s drive away, is where locals go for sun, sea, and summer vibes. With its long stretch of sandy beach and a Mediterranean breeze, it’s a popular spot in July and August. Outside peak season, it’s quieter, calmer, and great for coastal walks.

Oujda: Oujda is the region’s capital and the closest big city. It’s not touristy in the typical sense, which is exactly what makes it interesting. Stroll through the medina, visit the Dar Sebti palace, or just people-watch in the lively cafés. It’s also a practical stop for transport, shopping, and city comforts before or after your rural adventure.

The Beni Snassen Mountains may not be on every travel guide’s front page, but maybe that’s the whole point. Here, you’ll find silence where others find crowds, landscapes that shift from wild to gentle, and a slice of Morocco that’s still living its own rhythm. Whether you’re here for the hikes, the hidden valleys, or just the joy of discovering somewhere most tourists miss, you’ll leave with more than just pretty photos.