Things To Do
in Selouane

Slow-cooked stews served in a clay pot — common variations include chicken with lemon and olives, lamb with prunes, and vegetable tagine; find them at local family-run restaurants and cafés.

Must-Try!

Traditional Friday or weekend dish of steamed semolina with vegetables and occasional meat; available at local homes, cafés and during market days.

In nearby Beni Ansar and Nador, you can find grilled fish, sardines and calamari freshly caught — best at the fish market stalls or simple seaside restaurants.

Hearty soups commonly eaten in cooler months or during Ramadan; found at cafés and homemade kitchens.

Dress modestly in public — especially in villages and religious areas; shoulders and knees covered for both men and women is respectful. Beachwear is fine at beaches but change when returning to town.

Greeting with a handshake and the word “Salam” (hello) is common; accept invitations to tea if offered — it’s a sign of hospitality. Use your right hand for eating and passing items.

Be mindful during prayer times and Ramadan: avoid eating/drinking in public during daylight hours in Ramadan out of respect. Enter mosques only if invited and follow local guidance.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially women and elders; locals are often hospitable but may decline photos.

Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory: round up small bills for cafés, leave 5–10 MAD for simple services, and 10% in restaurants if service is good. Tip drivers and guides modestly for good service. In rural areas, small cash gestures go a long way.

The Moroccan dirham (MAD) is the local currency and cash is king in Selouane; ATMs and banks are available in nearby Nador. Credit cards are accepted in larger restaurants and hotels but not in small shops or souks, so carry cash for markets and taxis. Euros may be accepted informally in border areas but it’s best to use dirhams.

Hot and dry with temperatures often in the high 20s–30s°C (80s–90s°F) during the day; coastal breezes can help but inland areas get warm. Beaches are pleasant early morning or late afternoon; avoid strenuous midday hikes and carry sun protection and water.

Mild temperatures and decreasing summer heat make this a comfortable time to visit; good for outdoor activities and exploring markets. Occasional rain can begin later in the season.

Mild on the coast with cooler, wetter weather and daytime temperatures often in the teens °C (50s–60s°F); nights can be chilly. Higher elevations in the Rif receive colder weather and more rain — bring layers and a waterproof jacket.

One of the best times to visit: warm days, blooming wildflowers and green landscapes in the foothills. Ideal for hiking, photography and outdoor exploration.

Accessible hikes in the nearby Gourougou area offering panoramic views of the plain, agricultural terraces and the sea on clear days; best undertaken with local guidance.

Numerous informal tracks through olive groves and terraced fields suitable for half-day hikes and village-to-village exploration.

Coastal cliff routes with dramatic sea views and rugged terrain — ideal for photographers and experienced walkers; check local safety conditions and tides if exploring coves.

Gentle walks along parts of the lagoon for birdwatching and flat terrain; good for relaxed exploration and sunrise photography.

Vegetarians can manage well on vegetable tagines, salads, eggs, legumes and bread. Ask for dishes without meat or use the phrase “bla l-lahm” (without meat). Some restaurants may not have extensive vegetarian menus, so specify ingredients clearly.

Vegan options are more limited but possible: salads, beans, lentils and vegetable tagines (verify butter or honey). Carry snacks if you have strict requirements.

Halal meat is standard and pork is rarely served in local eateries; alcohol is not widely available in Selouane but is sold in larger towns and certain licensed venues.

Communicate allergies clearly and use simple Arabic or French phrases; cross-contamination can happen in busy kitchens. Carry essential medications if you have severe allergies.