Things To Do
in El Khemis des Beni Chegdal
El Khemis des Beni Chegdal is a small town in the Casablanca-Settat region of Morocco, set amid olive groves and farmland. Its slow-paced streets, traditional souks, and mosques offer a glimpse of everyday life on the Chaouia plain. The town serves as a tranquil base for exploring nearby towns, beaches, and historic cities within a short drive.
Visitors are welcomed by warm hospitality, colorful doors, and a reminder of Morocco's enduring rural charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey with a warm welcome from the locals as you arrive in El Khemis des Beni Chegdal. Take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets, soaking in the vibrant colors and unique architecture of traditional Moroccan homes. Enjoy a light breakfast at a local café, savoring mint tea and fresh pastries.
Spend the afternoon visiting the bustling souks, where you can find handmade crafts, spices, and textiles. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and engage with friendly vendors who are eager to share their stories. As you wander, indulge in a delicious traditional lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling iconic Moroccan dishes.
As the sun sets, gather with locals in the main square to experience the evening ambiance filled with laughter and music. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, featuring tagines and couscous, prepared with love and care. Round off the day with a stroll under the stars, taking in the serene surroundings.
Delve into the rich culture of El Khemis des Beni Chegdal by visiting local heritage sites and museums. Begin your day with a guided tour that offers insights into the history and traditions of the region. Engage with local artisans who passionately share their crafts and techniques.
After lunch, participate in a traditional Moroccan cooking class, learning how to create authentic dishes. This hands-on experience allows you to gather ingredients from local markets and understand the significance of each component in Moroccan cuisine. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with a communal meal prepared by you and your fellow participants.
As twilight approaches, attend a cultural performance featuring traditional music and dance. Head to a local theater or outdoor venue to enjoy the rhythm and storytelling unique to Moroccan heritage. Reflect on the day's experiences over a warm cup of mint tea, surrounded by your newfound friends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🚖Taxi starting fare | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee in café | $1-2 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Moroccan experience
- Warm hospitality and across-the-board friendliness
- Very affordable prices for food, lodging, and transport
- Great base for day trips to larger towns and coastal areas
- Limited nightlife and fewer English speakers in daily life
- Smaller selection of modern amenities compared to big cities
- Very hot summers; plan accordingly
- Public transportation options are more limited locally
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Kif dayr?" - How are you?
- "Labas?" - Are you well?
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afak" - Please
- "Bghit hadshi" - I want this
Places to Visit in El Khemis des Beni Chegdal
Visit one of these nice places.
A quintessential frame with sunlit walls and vibrant blue doors that captures the town’s rustic charm.
Colorful stalls, spices piled high, and early-morning hustle make for rich texture and color in photos.
Panoramic views over agricultural fields, distant hills, and golden sunsets.
Reflections in calm water, reed beds, and silhouettes of farmers and palm trees.
Food in El Khemis des Beni Chegdal
El Khemis des Beni Chegdal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked, sweet-savory classic often served with couscous; a staple of rural Moroccan dining.
Must-Try!
Steamed semolina grains with seasonal vegetables and chickpeas; a common lunch option.
Crispy pastries filled with meat or cheese, popular as a snack or starter.
Tomato-lentil soup that’s warming in cooler weather and a Ramadan staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market featuring spices, olives, dates, bread, and fresh produce; a great place to observe daily life and sample snacks.
Seasonal vendors along main streets offering locally pressed olives, figs, nuts, and dried fruit.
Small kiosks and cafés where you can try fried potato cakes (maakouda) and flatbread pancakes (msemen) with honey or butter.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Lightweight, modest clothing is respectful, especially in markets and religious sites.
Ask before photographing people; some may decline lightheartedly but politely.
Greet elders first; a handshake is common. Use the right hand for social interactions and sharing food or tea.
If invited for tea, accept if possible; offering a small token when visiting a home is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in El Khemis des Beni Chegdal
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, 5-10% is common if service isn’t included; small tips for guides and café staff are appreciated.
Cash in Moroccan dirhams is widely used. Cards are accepted in larger establishments near towns like Settat or Casablanca; ATMs are common in larger towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with strong sun. Pack light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. Plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Warm days with cooler evenings. A pleasant time for outdoor walking and photography; occasional light showers are possible.
Mild to cool temperatures, especially at night. Layered clothing is handy; rain is uncommon but possible in the mountains.
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. Ideal for walking, hiking, and small-town festivals.
El Khemis des Beni Chegdal at Night
Hiking in El Khemis des Beni Chegdal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hikes offering farmland views and distant hills; ideal for half-day excursions.
Short climbs that yield panoramic sunset photos over the plains.
Seasonal routes along irrigation channels and groves, good for birdwatching and photography.
Airports
How to reach El Khemis des Beni Chegdal by plane.
Casablanca’s major international hub; about a 1.5–2 hour drive from El Khemis des Beni Chegdal with connections worldwide.
Rabat’s airport serving domestic and regional flights; convenient for trips to the capital and connections to interior routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Moroccan families in rural and semi-urban settings with strong community ties.
Many residents participate in olive groves, cereals, and small-scale farming around the town.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with informal matches and community leagues across towns.
Common in schools and community centers; local courts are often open to visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting El Khemis des Beni Chegdal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In rural areas, vegetarian options include couscous with vegetables, lentil or chickpea stews, and tagines made with seasonal produce; communicate preferences politely and confirm no meat stock or bones.