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Oum Er-Rbia

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River
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Oum Er-Rbia (Morocco)

Weather…

The Oum Er-Rbia is Morocco's second-longest river, stretching approximately 555 kilometers from its source in the Middle Atlas Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean. Originating near M'Rirt at an elevation of about 1,240 meters, it flows northwest through the fertile Tadla Plain before reaching the sea at the historic town of Azemmour. Its name literally translates to "Mother of Spring Grass," a testament to the lush vegetation and high agricultural productivity it supports along its banks. The river is a cornerstone of Morocco's water management system, powering several hydroelectric dams, including the massive Al Massira Dam. Historically, the river has functioned as a natural boundary between various tribal territories and remains vital for irrigation in central Morocco's heartland. Its discharge is highly seasonal, yet it remains one of the few permanent watercourses in the country capable of supporting large-scale farming and urban water needs throughout the year.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Oct.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C141516171921232423211816
Rain mm524552332155440469258

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
To access Oum Er-Rbia, you typically use regional roads or dirt paths branching from main routes. Hiring a reliable local driver is highly recommended.
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Best season
The best time to visit Oum Er-Rbia is during cooler months from autumn to early spring. An important river with many dams. A post-rainy season trip has the best water levels.
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Terrain & paths
The landscape of Oum Er-Rbia features uneven, rocky ground and sandy banks needing careful walking. Paths are quite often unmarked, requiring balance.
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What to bring
Essential gear for Oum Er-Rbia includes closed-toe walking shoes for rough terrain, plus sun protection. Always bring plenty of extra drinking water.
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Parking
Parking near Oum Er-Rbia generally involves leaving your vehicle at informal dirt spots or rural villages. Always secure belongings and check spot safety.
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Safety
At Oum Er-Rbia, be cautious of sudden water changes and unstable banks posing slipping hazards. The area is extremely remote, so stay highly alert.
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Time needed
A typical visit to Oum Er-Rbia takes one to three full hours, depending on your planned walking pace. Include local travel time and dedicate at least a half-day.

Geography

Coordinates
33.30000, -8.20000

Facts

  • Total length of approximately 555 km.
  • Source located in the Middle Atlas near M'Rirt.
  • Mouth at the Atlantic Ocean near Azemmour.
  • Feeds the Al Massira Dam, Morocco's second largest.
  • Name means 'Mother of Spring Grass' in Arabic.
  • Primary irrigation source for the Tadla Plain.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

AzemmourAzemmour13 km · WExplore →
Lamharza EssahelLamharza Essahel14 km · NEExplore →
Douar ZhihifDouar Zhihif19 km · WExplore →
El JadidaEl Jadida29 km · WExplore →
Sidi Rahal ChataiSidi Rahal Chatai30 km · NEExplore →
New Luika Gold MineNew Luika Gold Mine33 km · SExplore →
ChunyaChunya34 km · NWExplore →
OCP Jorf Lasfar Industrial ComplexOCP Jorf Lasfar Industrial Complex43 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is the Oum Er-Rbia important?
It is one of the most water-rich rivers in Morocco, crucial for agriculture and power generation.
Where can the river's springs be seen?
Near the town of Khenifra are the famous '40 springs', a beautiful excursion destination.
Can you fish in the Oum Er-Rbia?
Yes, the river is known for trout in the upper regions and other freshwater fish.
Are there waterfalls on this river?
Yes, there are several smaller cascades, especially near the springs in the Middle Atlas.
Is the river navigable?
Not for large ships, but small fishing boats and canoes can operate on certain sections.
Oum Er-Rbia: where is it located?
Oum Er-Rbia is located in Morocco.
Oum Er-Rbia: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Oct.
Oum Er-Rbia: why is it worth visiting?
The Oum Er-Rbia is Morocco's second-longest river, stretching approximately 555 kilometers from its source in the Middle Atlas Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean.
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Nearby cities

Casablanca — Oum Er-Rbia (Morocco)
Casablanca
The largest city in Morocco and its economic hub.
Mohammedia — Oum Er-Rbia (Morocco)
Mohammedia
A coastal city near Casablanca, known for its refineries.
El Jadida — Oum Er-Rbia (Morocco)
El Jadida
A coastal city with a well-preserved Portuguese citadel.
Settat — Oum Er-Rbia (Morocco)
Settat
A growing university and industrial city on the Chaouia plain.
Berrechid — Oum Er-Rbia (Morocco)
Berrechid
A rapidly developing industrial city in the greater Casablanca area.
Benslimane — Oum Er-Rbia (Morocco)
Benslimane
Known as the 'Green Lung' due to the surrounding oak forest.
Sidi Bennour — Oum Er-Rbia (Morocco)
Sidi Bennour
The agricultural center of the wealthy Doukkala plain.
Azemmour — Oum Er-Rbia (Morocco)
Azemmour
An ancient city on the banks of the Oum er-Rbia with a Portuguese past.

More places

OCP Jorf Lasfar Industrial Complex — Oum Er-Rbia (Morocco)
OCP Jorf Lasfar Industrial Complex
The world's largest hub for the production of phosphate fertilizers and phosphoric acid.
Jorf Lasfar Port — Oum Er-Rbia (Morocco)
Jorf Lasfar Port
A major industrial port, specialized in the export of phosphates and fertilizers.
Midparc Casablanca Free Zone — Oum Er-Rbia (Morocco)
Midparc Casablanca Free Zone
An industrial hub focusing on aerospace and electronics, close to the airport.
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LafargeHolcim Settat Cement Plant
One of the most modern cement plants in Africa, supporting the construction boom in the Casablanca region.
Port of Casablanca — Oum Er-Rbia (Morocco)
Port of Casablanca
The historically most important and largest artificial port in Morocco, a hub for trade.
SOMACA Automotive Plant — Oum Er-Rbia (Morocco)
SOMACA Automotive Plant
The oldest automotive factory in Morocco, which has long assembled models for Renault and Dacia.
SAMIR Oil Refinery — Oum Er-Rbia (Morocco)
SAMIR Oil Refinery
Morocco's only refinery facility in Mohammedia, historically crucial for energy supply.
Middle Atlas — Oum Er-Rbia (Morocco)
Middle Atlas
Mountain region known for cedar forests.