Things To Do
in El Jadid
El Jadid is a coastal city located in western Morocco, known for its beautiful beaches and historic attractions. The city features a well-preserved Portuguese cistern, a popular tourist spot with a mysterious and enchanting atmosphere. El Jadid's medina boasts traditional Moroccan architecture, vibrant markets, and ancient city walls.
Visitors to El Jadid can also enjoy fresh seafood, cultural events, and a relaxing seaside atmosphere.
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "La shukran aala wajib" - No thanks, it's my duty
- "Bslama" - Goodbye
- "Kif halak?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Portuguese city walls and the magnificent Cistern. Enjoy the views of the Atlantic Ocean and capture some stunning photos.
Explore the vibrant local markets to experience the culture and try some traditional Moroccan dishes. Take a leisurely stroll through the Medina and admire the architecture.
Dine at a seaside restaurant where you can savor fresh seafood while watching the sunset. End the day with a walk along the beach, listening to the waves.
Spend the morning soaking up the sun at the beautiful Plage de El Jadida. Engage in some water sports or simply relax on the sandy beach.
Enjoy a beachside lunch at a local café and continue your relaxation. If you're up for it, try paddle boarding or kayaking.
Watch the sunset from the beach and enjoy a light dinner at a beachfront bar. Take a stroll along the promenade, enjoying the cool evening breeze.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and culture, featuring historic sites like the Medina and the Portuguese City.
- Beautiful coastline with stunning beaches and a pleasant climate.
- Diverse local cuisine offering unique Moroccan flavors and dishes.
- A vibrant local community that enhances the experience of visitors.
- Affordable travel destination compared to many Western countries.
- Limited public transport options which may make it challenging to explore surrounding areas.
- Tourist infrastructure can be underdeveloped in certain areas.
- Language barrier, as not everyone speaks English fluently, which may pose challenges for some travelers.
- The summer heat can be intense, making outdoor activities uncomfortable during peak hours.
- Some areas may have cleanliness issues, particularly in lesser-visited locales.
Best Activities in El Jadid
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
El Jadid is known for its strong winds, making it a popular destination for windsurfing and kiteboarding enthusiasts.
The beautiful coastal area around El Jadid offers opportunities for beach camping and enjoying the natural surroundings.
El Jadid is surrounded by natural reserves and rugged landscapes, providing ample opportunities for hiking and exploration.
The coastal location of El Jadid makes it a great place for fishing and boating activities.
El Jadid has a rich history, and visitors can explore historical sites such as the Portuguese Cistern and the Old City.
Tours
Uncover the best of El Jadid with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in El Jadid
Visit one of these nice places.
An underground water reservoir with dramatic lighting and atmospheric arches, perfect for photography.
Offers stunning ocean views and picturesque sunsets, ideal for capturing beautiful coastal scenes.
A luxurious resort area that provides excellent panoramic views of the coastline and the Atlantic Ocean for photography enthusiasts.
Food in El Jadid
El Jadid Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory seafood pie made with layers of thin pastry filled with a mixture of shrimp, squid, and white fish, seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs. A must-try dish that showcases the city's coastal culinary heritage. Recommended place: La Sultana restaurant on the seafront.
Must-Try!
A classic Moroccan dish prepared in a conical clay pot, featuring tender chicken simmered with preserved lemon, briny olives, and a harmonious blend of spices. The richness of flavors and tender texture make it a favorite. Try it at Restaurant Le Mazagan for an authentic taste.
A sweet and savory pie made with flaky layers of pastry filled with pigeon meat or chicken, almonds, and a dusting of powdered sugar and cinnamon. Find this delightful dish at local eateries like Chez Choukri for a traditional experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know El Jadid better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and local delicacies. Don't miss out on trying freshly squeezed orange juice and sampling traditional Moroccan sweets like chebakia and sellou.
In the heart of the city, this vibrant square comes to life with an array of street food vendors offering delicious snacks such as grilled kefta, merguez sausages, and maakouda (potato fritters). It's a perfect spot to experience authentic Moroccan street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In El Jadid, it is important to greet others with a handshake and a warm smile. Handshakes should be gentle and not too firm, and it is customary to use the right hand for greetings.
Showing respect for elders is highly valued in Moroccan culture. It is important to address elders with respect and deference, using titles such as 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' when appropriate.
Hospitality is a significant cultural norm in El Jadid. Invitations to someone's home should be accepted if extended, and guests are often offered tea or refreshments as a sign of hospitality and friendship.
Safety
Tipping in El Jadid
Ensure a smooth experience
In El Jadid, Morocco, tipping is commonly practiced in restaurants, cafes, and for various services. It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% of the total bill as a sign of appreciation for good service. However, tipping is not mandatory and is often based on the quality of service received.
In El Jadid, Morocco, cash is the primary mode of payment, especially in smaller establishments and markets. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, and some shops, but it's always best to have some cash on hand. It's also important to note that bargaining is a common practice in markets and souks when making purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit El Jadid is during the spring (March to May) when the weather is mild and pleasant. The city comes alive with blooming flowers and festivals, and you can enjoy outdoor activities without the intense heat of summer.
Summer (June to August) is hot and dry in El Jadid. Expect crowded beaches as both locals and tourists seek the cooling relief of the ocean. It's a great time for water sports and beach activities, but be prepared for high temperatures.
Autumn (September to November) brings milder temperatures, making it another good time to visit El Jadid. The sea is still warm, and the city is less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience.
Winter (December to February) can be cool and rainy in El Jadid. While it's not ideal beach weather, it's a good time for exploring historical sites and enjoying the city's local culture and cuisine without the summer crowds.
El Jadid at Night
Hiking in El Jadid
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic coastal trail offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
A beautiful valley located near El Jadid, perfect for exploring nature and enjoying peaceful hikes along the river.
A popular beach destination with hiking trails along the coast and nearby hills, suitable for all experience levels.
Featuring hills and cliffs, this area offers challenging hikes with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
A historical town with access to trails that explore the nearby countryside and the banks of the Oum Er-Rbia River.
Aiports
How to reach El Jadid by plane.
Located in Casablanca, approximately 120 kilometers from El Jadid, this is the busiest airport in Morocco, serving a wide range of international and domestic flights.
Situated about 170 kilometers from El Jadid, this airport serves as a gateway for travelers to Marrakech and the surrounding areas, offering numerous international connections.
Located roughly 250 kilometers from El Jadid, this airport caters to both domestic and international flights, primarily for tourists visiting Agadir and the southwestern coast of Morocco.
About 250 kilometers from El Jadid, this airport provides access to Fes and the surrounding region, with various international flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous people of North Africa, including a significant population in El Jadid with a rich cultural heritage.
A large demographic group resulting from the historical Arab conquests and cultural assimilation over centuries.
Though significantly reduced in numbers, the Jewish community historically has been an integral part of the cultural landscape.
An increasing demographic group in El Jadid due to migration patterns, contributing to the social diversity.
A smaller group comprising mainly retired individuals and professionals living in the city for work or lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in El Jadid, with a strong local following and numerous clubs and teams in the area.
Basketball has gained popularity among the youth in El Jadid, with various community courts and school teams participating in local competitions.
El Jadid's coastal location makes it a great spot for surfing, attracting both local enthusiasts and tourists to its beaches.
Athletics, including track and field events, is popular in El Jadid, with local clubs training athletes for competitions.
Handball is practiced in schools and clubs around El Jadid, with a dedicated following and organized tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting El Jadid.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Moroccan cuisine traditionally includes meat, many restaurants in El Jadida offer delicious vegetarian tagines, couscous, and mezze platters. For vegan options, try dishes like vegetable tagine and hearty lentil soups.
For those with gluten sensitivities, opt for naturally gluten-free dishes such as grilled meats, fresh seafood, and vibrant salads. Additionally, many establishments offer gluten-free bread or couscous made from alternative grains like corn or rice.