Bin El Ouidane is a large reservoir in the Atlas Mountains, in the province of Azilal, between Marrakech and Fes. A dam built in the 1950s flooded a valley between red and ochre hills, creating a lake whose color shifts from turquoise to deep blue. It is a favorite weekend spot for Moroccans and still little known to foreign visitors. This Bin El Ouidane travel guide covers what to do and how to plan a stay.
Bin El Ouidane at a Glance
- Where: between Beni Mellal and Azilal, about three hours from Marrakech.
- Best for: rest, water activities and mountain scenery.
- How long: one or two nights.
- Best time: April to June and September to October.
On the Water
- Boat trips: local boatmen and hotels offer tours of the lake and its inlets, the best way to appreciate its size.
- Kayaking and paddleboarding: the water is usually calm, especially in the morning.
- Jet skiing: available in summer from the main hotels and bases.
- Swimming: possible from several small beaches and from hotel pontoons. There are no lifeguards, and the bottom drops away quickly.
- Fishing: the lake is known for carp and black bass. A permit is required; ask your accommodation.
Around the Lake
Tracks and paths climb the hills above the shore, through olive and almond trees, to viewpoints over the water. The dam itself can be seen from the road that crosses it; photography of the structure may be restricted, so follow the signs and the guards’ instructions.
Ouzoud Waterfalls
About an hour’s drive away, the Ouzoud falls are the highest in Morocco, dropping roughly 110 meters in several tiers into a green gorge. A path leads down to the base, where small boats take visitors close to the spray, and Barbary macaques live in the trees along the way. The falls are a very popular day trip from Marrakech, so go early or late in the day.
Into the High Atlas
From Azilal, a mountain road continues to the valley of Ait Bouguemez, one of the most beautiful in the central High Atlas, which combines well with a night at the lake.
Where to Stay and Eat
Accommodation is spread around the shore: a few upscale hotels with pools and lake views, family guesthouses and simple campsites. Most serve meals, and grilled freshwater fish is the local specialty. There is no real town on the lake, so eat where you stay or in the small roadside restaurants.
How to Get There
A car is by far the easiest way. From Marrakech, the drive takes about three hours, by the road to Azilal or via Beni Mellal. From Fes, allow five to six hours through the Middle Atlas. Buses serve Beni Mellal and Azilal, from where you continue by taxi.
Practical Tips
- The water level depends on rainfall and can be very low after dry years, exposing wide bands of bare shore.
- Summer weekends and holidays are busy; book ahead.
- Bring cash and fill your tank in Beni Mellal or Azilal.
- Wear a life jacket for any boat or paddle activity.
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