Things To Do
in El Hajeb

Slow-cooked stew (meat or vegetables) served in a conical clay pot; try lamb with prunes or vegetable tagine at small family restaurants around town.

Must-Try!

Steamed semolina with vegetables and often meat, typically served as a Friday or weekend specialty at local eateries or family homes.

A thick fava bean soup often eaten for breakfast or as a warming dish in cooler months; available at humble cafés and street vendors.

Flatbreads and semolina pancakes sold at street stalls and markets—great for breakfast with honey or cheese.

The weekly souk is where farmers sell fruit, vegetables, olive oil and local cheeses; it’s the best place to taste seasonal apples and buy homemade preserves.

Simple grilled meats (brochettes), fresh bread, msemen and beghrir are sold at stalls and cafés—perfect for a quick, affordable snack.

Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory. Leave small change for café servers and street vendors (a few dirhams), 5–10% in casual restaurants if service is good, and a small tip for taxi drivers or guides. For hotel porters, 5–20 MAD per bag is common.

Moroccan dirham (MAD) is the local currency and cash is widely used, especially in small shops and markets. ATMs are available in town but carry cash for rural excursions. Major cards are accepted at larger hotels and some restaurants, but smaller businesses may be cash-only.

Mild temperatures, blooming orchards and good hiking conditions—ideal time to visit for wildflowers and pleasant daytime weather. Expect occasional rain early in the season.

Warm to hot days in town but often cooler than lowland cities thanks to elevation; ideal for outdoor activities, though mid-afternoon sun can be strong—carry water and sun protection.

Cooler temperatures and harvest time for apples and olives; vivid colors in the countryside make this a scenic season for photography and farm visits.

Cold with possible frost and nearby snow in higher elevations (Ifrane, Azrou); days can be crisp and clear—pack warm clothing and check road conditions if driving to higher passes.

Well-known for giant cedars and opportunities to see Barbary macaques—suitable for half-day hikes and nature photography.

Diverse trails with alpine-like scenery and higher elevation viewpoints; can be snowy in winter and excellent for spring and autumn hikes.

Gentle routes through terraced orchards and agricultural land—good for relaxed afternoon walks and visits to working farms.

Longer day hikes that explore ridgelines and remote villages; best done with local guidance or a map due to limited signage.

Vegetarian options are generally available—vegetable tagines, couscous and salads. Always ask for ‘bila l’hamm’ (without meat) or specify vegetables. Street food may offer fried or bread-based items suitable for vegetarians.

Vegan choices are possible but less obvious; stick to vegetable dishes, salads, lentil or chickpea-based foods and request no butter or animal stocks. Communicate clearly, as dairy is common.

Traditional breads and semolina dishes contain gluten; rice, many tagines and salads can be gluten-free but verify preparation. Travelers with severe gluten intolerance should carry snacks and communicate needs carefully.

Most meat in El Hajeb is halal; eating out generally aligns with local Muslim practices.