Park Sidi M’aafa: an oasis of tranquility in Fès

Sidi Mâafa Park: a quiet green retreat in the hills near Oujda

Just beyond the lively rhythms of Oujda, Sidi Mâafa Park unfolds across gentle hills and clusters of pine forest. Unassuming and largely untouched by heavy landscaping, the park offers something increasingly rare, a sense of openness and quiet that allows visitors to disconnect from the urban pace and reconnect with nature.

This is not a manicured city garden with sculpted flowerbeds and ornate fountains. Sidi Mâafa retains a wilder character. Its paths weave through natural vegetation, offering a more authentic and immersive outdoor experience. Locals come to walk, cycle, and run, especially in the early hours or late afternoon, when the light softens and panoramic views stretch across the Beni Snassen mountains. The atmosphere is peaceful, interrupted only by birdsong or the soft crunch of gravel underfoot.

Unlike the refined elegance of Rabat’s formal parks or the misty pine trails of Ifrane, Sidi Mâafa is subtle in its charm. There’s no elaborate design or curated spectacle. Instead, the appeal lies in its simplicity: a place without noise, pressure, or schedule. Just clean air, open paths, and the quiet satisfaction of being surrounded by nature.

Fresh air and open space just minutes from the city

You don’t have to go far. The park sits just south of Oujda, and once you step in, the city slips away almost instantly. It’s where families bring kids to burn off energy, couples take slow walks, and cyclists test their stamina on the long, winding paths.

The terrain is mixed, with flat stretches, hilly climbs, and viewpoints that reward your effort. The light changes beautifully throughout the day, casting long shadows in the morning and bathing the landscape in warm gold come evening. It’s ideal for photography, sketching, or simply doing nothing in particular.

A park designed for walking, relaxing, and scenic views

There are no loud attractions or flashy signs here. Sidi Mâafa is made for movement, walking, running, biking. Several trails loop through the forested hills, offering panoramic views across the countryside and towards the Algerian border.

Benches are scattered at just the right intervals. There’s space to rest, breathe, and maybe pull out a book. On weekends, expect to see families unloading snacks and rugs, setting up under trees, laughing without rushing. It’s a local ritual, and you’re welcome to join.

A protected area with growing ecological significance

Sidi Mâafa isn’t just a leisure spot. It’s part of a broader effort to preserve local biodiversity and green space near the city. Pines, shrubs, and native plants cover much of the terrain, while birds and small wildlife still make quiet appearances if you’re paying attention.

The park plays a role in local conservation efforts, even if not everything is signposted or translated. It’s the kind of place that’s appreciated more with each visit, the kind that’s still figuring itself out, like many protected areas in North Africa.

Practical information – What to know before visiting Sidi Mâafa

How to get there: Sidi Mâafa Park is located just outside the city of Oujda, around 15 minutes by car from the centre. Taxis are the most convenient option: inexpensive and widely available. If you prefer more flexibility, a rental car will let you explore the surrounding hills and villages at your own pace. There’s no direct public transport to the park entrance, so plan accordingly.

Opening hours and entrance fee: The park is open daily, typically from early morning until sunset. Since it’s not a ticketed site, entry is completely free. This makes it a great budget-friendly option, especially for families, hikers, or anyone looking to spend a relaxed day outdoors.

On-site amenities: Sidi Mâafa is a natural park rather than a developed attraction, so don’t expect cafés, shops, or organised activities. There are no official facilities on-site: no bathrooms, no food stalls, no souvenir stands. Bring what you need: water, snacks, sun protection, and good walking shoes. It’s also a good idea to carry a small bag for your trash as bins are scarce, and keeping the park clean is a shared effort.

Accessibility: Paths are mostly unpaved and can be uneven or rocky in places. It’s not suitable for strollers or visitors with limited mobility. For those who can walk comfortably, the trails are manageable and the slopes gentle.

Safety and comfort: The area is generally safe, but it’s wise to avoid visiting alone at dusk or after dark. Mobile signal is patchy in some areas, so let someone know if you’re venturing far from the main paths. Wear closed shoes as some trails are dusty or lined with small stones. In summer, temperatures can rise quickly, so come early or later in the afternoon for a cooler experience.

What to explore around Sidi Mâafa Park

Once you’ve had your fill of greenery and open skies, the area surrounding Sidi Mâafa offers a handful of rewarding detour, each with its own flavour, rhythm, and pace. Here’s where to head next:

Oujda Medina: Just a few kilometres north, Oujda’s medina is compact and understated, but full of character. Less chaotic than those of Fez or Marrakech, it offers a gentler, more local feel. You’ll wander through quiet alleyways, pass small stalls selling spices, olives, and woven goods, and catch the scent of grilled meats drifting from hidden courtyards.

Sidi Yahya Oasis: This peaceful, slightly mysterious site is tied to local legends and spiritual tradition. Nestled among olive trees and wild shrubs, the shrine of Sidi Yahya is said to be the resting place of John the Baptist, according to some interpretations.

Beni Snassen Mountains: Visible from the park itself, the Beni Snassen range offers rugged landscapes and fresh air in abundance. Think dramatic cliffs, limestone ridges, and small rural villages tucked between the valleys. For hikers and nature lovers, it’s a fantastic destination just an hour away by car.

Ahfir: This small border town sits east of Oujda, near Algeria. It may not look like much at first glance, but it has a frontier atmosphere that makes it worth a short visit. Wander through its modest centre, observe the subtle cultural blend, and soak in the slower pace of life.

Tafoughalt Caves (Grotte du Chameau): About an hour’s drive from the park, these caves are part of a prehistoric site nestled in the Beni Snassen foothills. Tafoughalt is known for its archaeological significance, with remains dating back tens of thousands of years. While access to the caves is limited, the surrounding landscapes are worth the trip alone: dramatic cliffs, panoramic viewpoints, and a touch of timeless wilderness.

Oujda’s Railway Station and Art Deco Avenue: Before heading out, don’t miss the city centre itself. Oujda’s railway station is surprisingly beautiful, with traditional Moroccan tilework blending into a modern, functional space. Nearby, Avenue Mohammed V offers a surprising dose of early 20th-century architecture, a trace of colonial history set against palm trees and cafés.

Sidi Mâafa Park may not be on every travel guide’s front page, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s the kind of place where locals go to breathe, where the horizon stretches wide, and where nature still feels untouched. Whether you’re after a quiet walk, a scenic picnic, or just a moment to pause, this green corner of Oujda delivers. And with so many nearby sites worth exploring, it’s the perfect starting point for a slower, deeper look at Morocco’s eastern charm.