Beni Mellal-Khenifra
Khenifra
Gateway to the Middle Atlas lakes and springs.
Khenifra at a glance
- Region
- Beni Mellal-Khenifra
- Province or prefecture
- Khenifra (province)
- Status
- Province capital
- Population
- Not available
- Area
- Not available
- Elevation
- 830 m
- Coordinates
- 32.934, -5.660
- Postal code
- 54000
- Phone area code
- +212 535
- Time zone
- Africa/Casablanca (see note on Ramadan)
- Local names
- Khénifra (French) · خنيفرة (Arabic)
- Best time to visit
- March to May and September 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 Khenifra
Khenifra sits on the Oum Er-Rbia river and is a base for lakes, springs and cedar forests of the Middle Atlas.
History
It was a stronghold of Moha ou Hammou Zayani, who led resistance against French forces at the battle of El Herri in 1914.
Things to see in Khenifra
- Sources of the Oum Er-Rbia
- Aguelmame Azigza
- Kasbah of Moha ou Hammou
- Cedar forests
Climate and best time to visit
Continental Mediterranean. Hot summers, cool and damp winters and a clear spring and autumn. Frost is possible on winter nights.
Best time to visit: March to May and September to November. Indicative regional profile.
Getting to Khenifra
- By air
- Fes-Saiss (FEZ) or Marrakech Menara (RAK); both are over 200 km away.
- By train
- There is no ONCF station; buses link to Meknes, Fes and Beni Mellal.
- 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
Livestock, farming, forestry and tourism.
Food and drink
Trout, mountain honey and traditional Middle Atlas dishes.
Festivals and events
The Khenifra Horse Fair and regional moussems; 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.